Reserva Ecológica Cuxtal

Reserva Ecológica Cuxtal is a protected area in the southern part of the Mérida municipality in Yucatán, Mexico, reached through the Dzoyaxché hacienda sector off the Mérida-Timucuy road via the Periférico sur. Trailhead access is by car only: the drive from central Mérida takes 30 to 40 minutes, and there is no reliable public transport to the trailheads. Parking is available informally at the hacienda. Entry to the Dzoyaxché hacienda is free, while paid extras include cenote entry and a truck ride through the reserve; no formal permit is required for the marked tracks. The reserve offers marked tracks of 3 to 10 km depending on the sector, and visitors can walk or ride them. Elevation gain is effectively nil, as the terrain sits about 10 m above sea level, and technical difficulty is low, though the distance and heat make the longer circuits tiring. The surface is mostly compacted dirt and limestone through low tropical dry forest, with moderate canopy shade in the forested stretches and open, exposed sections near the clearings. Landmarks include the old Dzoyaxché hacienda buildings and the cenotes found within the reserve, which make natural stopping points and turn-around places for shorter outings. Birdwatching is the main draw, particularly in the early morning, when the forest is active and cooler. Water is not reliably available on the tracks, so visitors should carry about 2 liters per person, and shelter is limited to the hacienda buildings. Closed shoes, a hat, insect repellent and binoculars are the standard equipment, plus a swimsuit for the cenote. Cuxtal is a protected reserve, and deforestation concerns were reported in June 2026, so hikers should stay on marked tracks and check current conditions before going. Cash is useful for the cenote and truck ride fees. Because cell coverage and signage can be patchy, visitors often tell someone their plan before setting out, and many arrange transport back in advance.