Somewhere along the Yucatecan coast, there is a series of crystal-clear water channels surrounded by trees that lead to what appears to be a hidden paradise. Once you arrive at your destination, you'll wonder how such a marvelous experience has remained a well-kept secret for so many years.
Ejido San Crisanto, located on the northern coast of Yucatán, is a treasure that has emerged from adversity and become a shining example of ecological restoration and sustainable tourism.
The History of San Crisanto: Resilience and Restoration
It all began in the 1980s when a group of 35 committed ejidatarios (communal landowners) decided to undertake restoration experiments in the area. Their initial goal was boosting salt production—one of the main sources of income for San Crisanto, along with fishing and coconut cultivation.
However, in October 1995, two hurricanes (Opal and Roxana) hit the region, bringing an immense amount of water that flooded the community. Despite the difficulties, the residents came together and took bold measures: they decided to break the road and build drains to remove the stagnant water.
This action marked the beginning of a comprehensive ecological project to restore the hydrology of the mangrove and protect the community against future floods. With the support of various organizations and the collective effort of locals, channels were opened in the mangrove to improve water flow. In 1999, their dedication was recognized when they received an honorable mention for Ecological Merit by SEMARNAT (Ministry of Environment).
Things to Do in San Crisanto: Eco-Tours and Prices
As they continued to win awards, tourism emerged as a natural result of their hard community work. What started with the sale of just 75 tickets turned into an impressive figure of 25,000 paid visitors a year prior to the pandemic. Today, they are operating at 80% of that capacity and are tirelessly working to fully recover.
If you are planning a visit, these are the main experiences available:
1. Mangrove Boat Ride & Cenote Dzonot-Dzik
Embark on a relaxed and captivating boat ride through channels with pristine waters that seem to stretch into infinity. The tour takes you into the heart of the mangrove to discover the enigmatic, freshwater cenote Dzonot-Dzik.
- Price: $180 pesos per boat (minimum 2 and maximum 5 people).
- Duration: 1.5 hours.
- Wildlife Spotting: If you pay attention, you'll be rewarded with sightings of anteaters, raccoons, margays, alligators, and a colorful symphony of local birds.
2. Zac-Há Beach: Day Passes and Camping
In addition to the mangrove tours, the community offers services at their beautiful local beach, Zac-Há:
- Day Pass: $110 pesos per person (9:00 am – 5:00 pm).
- Night Pass (Camping): $180 pesos per person (includes camping space, bathrooms, and showers).
3. Oceanfront Cabin Lodging
For those craving a longer break from the frenzy of daily life, overnight lodging is a great option. They offer cozy eco-cabins with direct views of the beach, completely surrounded by peaceful coconut plantations.
The Future: Aiming for Zero Environmental Impact
Ejido San Crisanto has big plans to establish itself as a complete tourist attraction. In addition to current upgrades on their docks, piers, and palapas, their main goal remains to promote a deep culture of appreciation for nature.
They aim for the environmental cost of their activities to be zero, carrying out all operations in a manner completely respectful of the natural environment. Furthermore, they strive to carefully manage the area's development process, avoiding uncontrolled real estate growth that could harm the ecosystem and the community's identity.
Plan Your Visit
With a unique combination of initiatives, Ejido San Crisanto has woven a fabric of conservation and sustainability that leaves a lasting impression on every visitor. If you want to experience a destination where community-led ecosystem preservation is the driving force behind its tourism, don't hesitate to visit.
San Crisanto-Sinanché, San Crisanto
Cel. 991 105 3710
FB: San Crisanto - Página oficial
Opening hours: Mon.- Sun. 9 am – 4 pm
Mangrove and Cenote Dzonot-Dzik tour
From 2-5 people
$180 pesos per boat
Zac-Há Beach services
Day pass: $110 pesos per person
Night pass: $180 pesos per person
Lodging in K’anab-Nah cabins
Entry schedule: 2 pm. Departure schedule: 12 pm.
Maximum capacity of 4 people
$1,400 pesos per night
First published in Yucatán Today print and digital magazine no. 426, in June 2023.
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