Celestun Guide
Flamingo Paradise: Discover the Beauty of Celestun Biosphere Reserve Guide
Celestun is a charming fishing village located on the western coast of the Yucatán Peninsula, renowned for its stunning natural beauty and, most notably, its large population of flamingos. The Celestun Biosphere Reserve is a protected area that encompasses the lagoon and surrounding mangrove forests, providing a vital habitat for a diverse range of wildlife, including migratory birds, sea turtles, and jaguars. It's a paradise for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. The Celestun Biosphere Reserve was established in 1979 to protect the fragile ecosystem and the thousands of flamingos that migrate to the area each year to breed. The lagoon's unique brackish water, a mix of fresh and saltwater, provides the perfect environment for the flamingos to thrive. The local community plays an active role in the conservation efforts, ensuring the long-term sustainability of the reserve. The main activity in Celestun is taking a boat tour through the lagoon to see the flamingos. These tours typically last 2-3 hours and offer the opportunity to observe the flamingos up close in their natural habitat. You'll also see other wildlife, such as herons, egrets, and crocodiles. After your boat tour, enjoy fresh seafood at one of the many restaurants along the beach. Try the local specialty, pescado frito (fried fish), or shrimp ceviche.
Transportation
You can reach Celestun by bus from Merida. Buses depart regularly from the Noreste bus terminal in Merida. The journey takes approximately 2 hours.