In the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve paradise remains unpaved. The beaches are wild and natural, and the lagoons are teeming with life. There are few accommodations to speak of, but now those seeking an interactive experience with nature can stay here, beach front, and enjoy the bounty of the reserve.
A small eco-tourism and education center Centro Ecologico Sian Ka'an (CESiak) serves as a model for sustainable development in sensitive tropical ecosystems. The revenue generated through tours, fishing, accommodations, and various activities is used to fund conservation and education programs within the Sian Ka'an reserve. CESiak operates using ecologically responsible technologies, including wetland systems for waste management, rainwater collection, wind generated power, and solar energy. CESiak's outreach programs educate kids and adults about the Sian Kaan's precious ecology, and their biological research projects provide fresh data for scientific studies. CESiak is an excellent model for future sustainable development projects and a good resource for information about the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve.
A breath of fresh air CESiaK offers comfortable tent accommodations built on elevated wooden deck platforms overlooking the sea and lagoon. All comply with CESiak's strict environmental standards which conform with those of the reserve. The central kitchen and dining area of the education center were designed to maximize comfort while minimizing impact to the surrounding forest. It was built on top of the abandoned ruins of the site's former hotel. The restaurant operates all day, year-round.
The dune ecosystem maintains the boundary between sea and land. It protects the interior species from salt and wind and keeps the sand on the beach where it belongs. CESiak's elevated wooden tent platforms are raised above the ground on stilts, enabling guests to enjoy the sea breeze and stunning sea/lagoon views while eliminating impact on the native vegetation.
From the central building paths wind through the palm forest to the individual tent/cabin accommodations. The sites have spectacular views from their private decks as well as ample shade and sea breezes. The tents are spacious and modestly furnished with some storage, shelving and woven floor mats. Each is atop a raised wooden platform to allow ecological and hydrological processes to continue below. This helps to maintain the sensitive ecological balance so that future generations can enjoy the natural beauty of this site. Bathrooms and showers are nice and clean, however they are shared. None of the tent/cabins have a private bathroom. CESiaK is located on the Caribbean Coast of Mexico in the Sian Kaan Biosphere Reserve, a few kilometers south of the ruins of Tulum.
Revenue generated through tours, fishing, accommodations, and various on-site activities is used to fund conservation and education programs within the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve
