“Sisal, Sisal, let’s all go to Sisal” is a local expression and an invitation to choose this town as your next destination.

Sisal truly has it all: beach, reefs, even sunken cannons! Also, mangroves, swamps, natural areas with birds, herons, and flamingos wherever you look; a beautiful fresh water spring to swim in, and many adventures ahead. And has been recently named a Pueblo Mágico de México. So you you really have to go to Sisal!

Sisal is a small beach town with just over 1600 inhabitants which is known for welcoming its visitors with open arms. It’s a place with many natural attractions to visit, admire, and protect; plenty of accommodation options; and a variety of restaurants to enjoy fresh fish and seafood. This plant and wildlife paradise is just an hour from Mérida, and is a natural refuge that will make you want to come back time and time again.

Tours in to the Natural Springs inside the Mangroves

I head to the mangroves with my expert guide Enrique Mex. Enrique has been a certified guide for over 16 years and is also a tireless promoter of ecotourism in Sisal. We drive approximately 5 km and lower the barge we’ll use for the tour into the water. This drive can be done easily in a motortaxi, or in a larger vehicle when working with bigger groups; both are also used to transport the barges or kayaks depending on the tour you wish to hire.

What I can only describe as a “bird paradise” appears before my eyes. I am delighted to see red and white mangrove in every direction; there are grey herons, ducks, and other young birds coexisting, some of which are full-time residents and others are migratory visitors, depending on the time of year. If you look down at the water, you will see small fish swimming along as well. The sheer beauty of the flora and fauna will take your breath away. Take as many photos as you can so that you can remember the little details of every bird and every islet: the scenery is just like a painting with a perfect, blue sky, still waters, and birds that seem to pose just for you.

The next stop becomes clear once we reach the entrance of the natural reserve, and we proceed through the canal, experiencing colors and sounds. The different shades of green and the lull of running water forecast the surprise ahead: a natural spring so clear, that it will be impossible for you to not dive in as soon as you see it. This little paradise is great for small groups. Enjoy it and protect it, and make sure the impact you leave behind is minimal. Respect this natural area by not using sunblock or leaving trash behind.

Downtown Sisal

After your tour, go back into town and visit the Santiago fort, the pier, the Casa del Monifato, and the beautiful beach which is perfect for walks or simply to spend the day under an umbrella or palapa. The beach in Sisal is always a place where you can do nothing at all, and still have a great time.

To find out what activities and tours are available, go to the former Customs office. There you can choose between historical tours on bike or mototaxi; diving and snorkeling excursions to the reef or to the sunken cannons, shipwrecks, and lighthouse; sport fishing for all levels of expertise using different techniques; and of course, tours to see the mangrove, the natural spring, the estuary, and more. The activities will depend on what your travel style is: kid-friendly, adventure-seeking, or nature-loving.

When you’re leaving Sisal, carefully stop at the side of the highway; from the lookout point you will be able to see flamingos, birds, and much more.

Everything is better at the beach, so for your next outing be sure to say “Let’s all go to Sisal.”

Editorial by Violeta H. Cantarell
“Meridana,” traveler, animal lover, passionate reader, commentator, and enthusiastic promoter of the natural and human beauty of Yucatán.

Photography by Violeta H. Cantarell and Andrea Mier y Terán for use in Yucatán Today