Situation et moyens d'accès

The Calakmul Biosphere Reserve is situated in the southern part of the Yucatán Peninsula, near the border with Guatemala, approximately 300 km southeast of Mérida. The reserve is remote, with the nearest major town being Xpujil, Campeche. Access requires careful planning due to limited public transportation.

• By Car: From Mérida, take Federal Highway 180 south to Escárcega, then Highway 186 toward Chetumal. Turn south at Conhuás onto the reserve access road (signposted). The drive from Mérida takes about 6-7 hours.
• By Bus: ADO buses run from Mérida to Xpujil (5-6 hours). From Xpujil, hire a taxi or arrange a tour for the remaining 60 km to the reserve entrance.
• Note: The final 60 km into the reserve is a narrow, unpaved road with limited services. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended.

Heures d'ouverture et billets

• Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 3:00 PM).
• Entrance Fee: Approximately 70 MXN (about $4 USD) for the reserve, plus an additional fee for the archaeological site within the reserve.
• Tickets: Purchased at the entrance gate; no online sales available.

Meilleur moment pour visiter

The dry season (November to April) is ideal, with cooler temperatures and fewer mosquitoes. Early mornings offer the best wildlife sightings and softer light for photography. Weekdays are quieter than weekends.

Durée de la visite

A full day is recommended to explore both the biosphere reserve and the Calakmul archaeological site. Those focusing solely on nature may spend 4-6 hours hiking and wildlife spotting.

Activités

• Wildlife observation (jaguars, howler monkeys, toucans, and more).
• Hiking through pristine tropical forest.
• Exploring the ancient Maya ruins of Calakmul, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Birdwatching (over 350 species recorded).

Installations

• Basic restrooms at the entrance and archaeological site.
• No cafes or shops within the reserve; bring all supplies.
• Limited parking available at the entrance.
• No wheelchair accessibility due to rugged terrain.

Ce qu'il faut apporter/vêtir

• Sturdy hiking shoes, lightweight long sleeves/pants (protection against insects).
• Ample water (at least 2 liters per person), snacks, and a packed lunch.
• Binoculars, camera, insect repellent, and sunscreen.
• Rain gear (during wet season, May-October).

Règles et règlements

• Stay on marked trails to protect wildlife and avoid getting lost.
• No pets allowed.
• No smoking or littering; the reserve is a protected area.
• Les drones nécessitent une autorisation spéciale.

Informations sur le contact

For updates, check the National Commission of Natural Protected Areas (CONANP) website or contact the reserve office in Xpujil (information not always available in English).