Xkopek Bee Park, Valladolid
Jun 02, 2026
Mexico
One of the more unusual visitor attractions in the Yucatan Peninsula, Xkopek Bee Park is located in…
from
£3200
The Punta Laguna Nature Reserve is one of the Yucatan Peninsula’s many, little-known gems, and an enjoyable alternative to the beaches, colonial towns and Maya ruins for which the region is best known.
Where is Punta Laguna located?
Located approximately an hour’s drive from both Tulum on the coast and Valladolid inland, and less than 30 minutes’ drive from the great Maya site of Coba, this tranquil ecological sanctuary offers visitors the opportunity to experience both the incredible biodiversity and rich Maya heritage of the region, as well as a chance to enjoy outdoor adventures.
Why visit the reserve?
Officially known by its Maya name, the Otoch Ma’ax Yetel Kooh Reserve, Punta Laguna is probably best known for its thriving population of spider monkeys and howler monkeys. Guided tours through the reserve allow visitors to observe these fascinating primates in their natural habitat, swinging through the trees and calling across the forest canopy. While the reserve is open from 07.00 to 17.00, the best time to see monkeys is generally in the afternoon, around 15.00.
The reserve is also home to hundreds of bird species, colourful butterflies, and a variety of reptiles and mammals, making it a paradise for nature lovers and photographers.
At the heart of the reserve lies a tranquil lagoon surrounded by dense tropical vegetation. Visitors can paddle across its calm waters by canoe, enjoying the peace and quiet (howler monkeys aside) and spotting wildlife along the shoreline. For those looking to get their adrenaline pumping, Punta Laguna also offers zip-lining through the forest canopy.
Traditional Maya culture
In addition to its obvious nature-based appeal, what also makes Punta Laguna Nature Reserve so special is its strong connection to its local Maya stakeholders and to Maya culture in general.
Back in 2002, the local Maya community, which comprises approximately 30 families, founded the Najil Tucha cooperative in order to operate the Punta Laguna Reserve. The reserve is run on a collective basis, employing local villages as guides and with revenues divided between the various families.
In addition to the monkeys, birdlife and lagoon, the reserve also features a cenote, a natural sinkhole that is considered sacred by the Maya.
Visitors to Punta Laguna also have the opportunity to learn about medicinal plants found within the reserve and, by prior arrangement, participate in a traditional Maya purification ceremony.
How to visit Punta Laguna
Beyond The Ordinary specialise in multi-centre, private tours of the Yucatan Peninsula and, due to its convenient location, including Punta Laguna in one of our itineraries couldn’t be easier.
As an example, having arrived in Mexico and overnighted close to Cancun, clients can begin their tour of the region by first heading south to visit the famous Maya coastal ruins at Tulum before continuing to Coba.
After this double dose of Maya history, and a break for lunch, we suggest heading to Punta Laguna in the afternoon, the best time for spotting monkeys.
Having enjoyed the many attractions of the reserve, it is then a further 1 hour drive to the charming town of Valladolid, your base for the next 2 or 3 nights.
