The reserve name, Otoch Ma'ax Yetel Kooh, translates from Maya as 'House of the Spider Monkey and the Puma'.
The sanctuary encompasses over 5,000 hectares of protected tropical forest.
Local Maya families founded and continue to operate the reserve as a cooperative.
The lagoon is one of the few places in the region where spider monkeys are habituated to human presence without artificial feeding.
The site contains ancient Maya archaeological ruins that remain largely unrestored and partially reclaimed by the jungle.
The reserve acts as a vital wildlife corridor connecting various fragmented ecosystems in northern Quintana Roo.
Local guides use traditional knowledge to locate and track monkey troops within the canopy.
The site includes a 'purification' ceremony area where visitors can partake in traditional Maya rituals.
Punta Laguna, also known as Otoch Ma'ax Yetel Kooh, is a protected spider monkey sanctuary managed by a local Maya community. The reserve centers around a large lagoon surrounded by dense tropical forest and archaeological remains. It serves as a primary habitat for the endangered Geoffroy's spider monkey and the black howler monkey. Visitors traverse a network of jungle trails to observe these primates in their natural canopy environment. The site also features a cenote and a zip-line that crosses the water. It is an ecotourism initiative designed to preserve biodiversity while supporting the economic development of the surrounding Maya villages. Archaeological findings, including small pre-Columbian structures, are scattered throughout the site's interior trails. The park emphasizes sustainable interactions and requires the assistance of local guides for most activities.
The elevated observation deck overlooking the lagoon.
Hire a local guide at the entrance to significantly increase your chances of spotting monkeys.
Use strong, biodegradable insect repellent, as the jungle trails are dense with mosquitoes.
Bring a pair of binoculars to observe the canopy dwellers without disrupting their behavior.
Feeding the monkeys or making loud noises, which disturbs their natural foraging behavior.
Wear long-sleeved, breathable clothing to protect against insects; strictly follow guide instructions regarding noise levels and distance from wildlife.
