We have been on several tours with Zizha Tours, and they have become our go-to ecotourism company for exploring the nature reserve at Sisal. Every experience with them is unique and full of wonder, making each trip an unforgettable adventure into the heart of Yucatán’s natural beauty. Whether we are gliding through mangrove estuaries, snorkeling at a sunken shipwreck, or enjoying the tranquility of a hidden freshwater spring, Zizha Tours never fails to amaze us.
An Unforgettable Journey Through the Mangroves
Our recent adventured spirit brought us on a tour through the mangroves with Zizha Tour Ecoturismo. We set off on a three-hour adventure through the winding estuary, where the water shimmered in seven stunning shades—browns, deep reds, and delicate rose hues—created by the tannins released by the red mangroves, a sign of a thriving ecosystem.
Gliding silently through the water in a motorless boat, we found ourselves surrounded by hundreds of flamingos. Because our boat made no noise, we could get incredibly close to these majestic birds. In those three hours, we only spotted two other boats, each carrying just a couple of people—so for most of the journey, it felt like we had the entire reserve to ourselves.
Our guide, Manuel, was exceptional. A biology graduate specializing in mangrove ecosystems, he originally came from a big city in northern Mexico but moved to Sisal to complete his studies in the reserve. He fell in love with the place and never left. His deep passion for this extraordinary ecosystem was contagious, making our experience even more memorable.
As we navigated through the mangroves, we spotted dozens of migrating bird species, each adding to the beauty of the landscape. Our journey led us to a freshwater spring hidden in the sea—a true natural wonder. Because of the high tide, the spring’s normally crystal-clear waters were tinged with red hues from the sea, creating an ethereal sight.
This tour was an unforgettable glimpse into a fragile, breathtaking world and a powerful reminder of why mangrove conservation is so important.
Fishing & Snorkeling at Sisal’s Coral Reef
We have also been on their fishing and snorkeling trip. We took off in a small boat and first moved around the harbor looking for sardines, which feed at the bottom. It didn’t take long before we had enough bait, and then we headed out to sea.
Did you know that there is a coral reef off the coast of Sisal?
We rode 40 minutes offshore (at about 33 kilometers per hour) toward Los Bajos Arrecifales de Sisal. When we arrived, we saw a few fishing boats and harpoon divers exploring the area. The Sisal Reef is an underwater mountain about 3-4 meters deep, where you can see the bottom from the boat.
20 years ago, the reef was filled with fish and bright coral, but today, due to overfishing, its marine population has diminished. However, it is still an incredible sight, home to sea turtles, barracuda, yellowtail snappers, coronados, starfish, and more. One of the most fascinating sights was a sunken lighthouse over 200 years old and a statue of Christ on a cross lying flat on the seabed.
We fished five different species, and our expert guides fileted the fish right on the boat, preparing a delicious fish and sea snail ceviche for us to enjoy. After fishing and snorkeling for about three hours, we headed back to Sisal. We ended the day by drinking fresh coconut water straight from the coconut, savoring our ceviche, and enjoying the natural beauty around us.
This tour was a perfect combination of adventure, relaxation, and culinary delight—one we would highly recommend to anyone visiting Sisal!
A Guide to Zizha Tours and Prices.
Historic Center & Scenic Viewpoints Tour
Explore the historic buildings of Sisal, learning about the town’s history, customs, and traditions. You can choose to do the tour by moto-taxi or bicycle. The experience ends with a visit to “La Palapa de Zurdo”, offering views of the El Palmar State Reserve, followed by a stop at the Ziz-Ha Marina and fishing refuge to appreciate the natural beauty of the area.
- Includes: Water, fruit, snacks, bicycle or moto-taxi, and a certified guide.
- Price: $500 MXN per person
- Minimum: 2 people
- Season: Available year-round
Mangrove Exploration in El Palmar State Reserve
This tour departs from La Palapa de Zurdo, taking you through El Palmar’s mangroves to another viewpoint, where you can enjoy the surrounding nature. You can do this experience by kayak or chalana. The tour ends back at La Palapa de Zurdo, a relaxing open-air space where you can also enjoy delicious food from the local menu.
- Duration: 1 – 1.5 hours
- Includes: Water, fruit, snacks, kayak or chalana, and a certified guide.
- Price: $500 MXN per person
- Minimum: 2 people
- Season: March to September
Freshwater Spring (Ojo de Agua) Tour
Paddle through the mangroves in kayaks or chalanas to reach a coastal freshwater spring, where you can take a dip in its stunning crystal-clear waters.
- Duration: 2 – 2.5 hours
- Includes: Water, seasonal fruit, snacks, snorkels, life jackets, first-aid kit, and a certified guide.
- Price: $600 MXN per person
- Minimum: 2 people
- Season: Available year-round
Flamingo Watching Tour
This peaceful tour takes you through the mangroves in a chalana or kayak to observe flamingos in their natural habitat without disturbing them. The guide will share fascinating facts about these birds along the way.
- Duration: 2 – 2.5 hours
- Includes: Water, fruit, snacks, binoculars, first-aid kit, and a certified guide.
- Price: $600 MXN per person
- Minimum: 2 people
- Season: Available year-round (best season: spring)
Night Safari: Crocodiles in Their Habitat
A thrilling night tour through the mangroves by chalana, allowing you to observe Morelet’s crocodiles in their natural environment without disturbing them.
- Duration: 2 – 2.5 hours
- Includes: Water, fruit, snacks, flashlights, chalana, and a certified guide.
- Price: $800 MXN per person
- Minimum: 2 people
Birdwatching Tour
Discover three unique ecosystems: beach, dunes, and marshlands, where you’ll observe a variety of bird species depending on the season. This tour is ideal for photographers and birdwatching enthusiasts.
- Duration: 4 – 5 hours
- Includes: Water, fruit, coffee, chalana, first-aid kit, life jackets, and a certified guide.
- Price: $1,250 MXN per person
- Minimum: 2 people
- Season: Available year-round
Fishing & Snorkeling Adventures
Sport Fishing at Cenote Pol Ac
A unique tarpon fishing experience in a cenote hidden within the mangroves. The adventure begins early, between 6:00 – 6:30 AM.
- Duration: 5 hours
- Includes: Water, ceviche, fishing rods, lures, motorized boat, kayak or chalana, captain, and crew.
- Price: $5,000 MXN per boat
- Minimum: 2 people (max 4 people)
- Season: March & April
Reef & Shipwreck Snorkeling Tour
Explore the underwater beauty of Sisal, including a 19th-century shipwreck inhabited by diverse marine life.
- Duration: 2.5 – 3 hours
- Includes: Snorkeling gear, motorized boat, water, fruits, refreshments, and ceviche.
- Price: $1,300 MXN per person
- Minimum: 4 people (max 6 per boat)
- Season: March to September
Luxury Beach Picnics
Basic Picnic
- Includes: Water, juice, fruit, ceviche, tortilla chips, snacks, snorkels, life jackets, binoculars, first-aid kit, and a certified guide.
- Price: $1,350 MXN per person
- Minimum: 3 people
Luxury Picnic
- Includes: Water, juice, fruit, tequila, beer, traditional Yucatecan food (Cochinita Pibil or Panuchos), snacks, ceviche, snorkels, life jackets, binoculars, and a certified guide.
- Price: $1,750 MXN per person
- Minimum: 3 people
Romantic Picnic
- Includes: Flowers, wine, tequila, beer, traditional Yucatecan food, ceviche, shrimp cocktail, fruit, snacks, and a certified guide.
- Price: $3,400 MXN per person
- Minimum: 2 people
What Should You Bring on the Tour?
- Comfortable clothing in neutral colors: Choose lightweight and breathable fabrics, preferably cotton or moisture-wicking materials.
- Comfortable shoes: Ensure they provide good support and can get wet if necessary.
- Cap or hat: Protect yourself from the sun and avoid heatstroke.
- Biodegradable sunscreen: It’s important to protect your skin from UV rays while choosing an eco-friendly option that won’t harm the environment.
- Insect repellent: Especially useful in areas with high mosquito activity.
- Water bottle: Stay hydrated throughout the tour.
- Light backpack: To carry all these essentials while keeping your hands free.
Now you’re ready to enjoy an adventure!
Booking Information
- 50% deposit required via bank transfer.
- No refunds for cancellations made within 24 hours of the reservation.
📧 Email: zizha.sisal@gmail.com
📞 Phone: 999 509 9039 / 999 423 4340
🌍 Location: Sisal, Yucatán, Mexico
Come explore Sisal’s stunning landscapes with Ziz-Ha Tours!
