Komchén de los Pájaros Bird Sanctuary

Tucked away in the lowland jungles of Yucatán, Komchén de los Pájaros is a bird sanctuary and ecological treasure that spans 840 acres of protected forest. Founded in 1991 by Ana María Palos de Foronda, this non-profit initiative is much more than a nature reserve—it is the living legacy of a woman’s devotion to biodiversity, sustainability, and environmental education. Located near Dzemul and not far from Mérida, the sanctuary offers a rare opportunity to witness the region’s thriving flora and fauna in their natural habitat. Here are some tips on Komchén de los Pájaros Bird Sanctuary.

A Forest of Diversity: The Selva Baja Caducifolia

Komchén is part of the Selva Baja Caducifolia, or low deciduous forest, a seasonal jungle that dramatically changes between wet and dry months. During the rainy season (3–4 months), the trees explode with greenery and become a cradle for reproductive cycles. In contrast, the long dry season (up to 8 months) sees most trees shed their leaves, bloom with flowers, and produce fruit and seeds.

Among the tree and plant species you’ll find are Bursera, Ceiba, Beaucarnea, and Ipomea, as well as ancestral varieties of corn and beans. In total, the sanctuary boasts over 1,000 plant species, with around 40% estimated to be endemic to the region.

A Sanctuary for Birds and Beyond

Bird lovers will be delighted by the abundance of species in Komchén. Colorful residents like trogons, parakeets, hummingbirds, mockingbirds, owls, herons, and tanagers fill the air with sound and motion. Migratory birds also make this sanctuary a seasonal home, adding to the ever-changing avian spectacle.

But the wildlife doesn’t stop with birds—ocelots, pumas, coatis, foxes, deer, anteaters, and raccoons roam the forests. Bats, snakes, butterflies, and reptiles such as iguanas and armadillos round out the sanctuary’s impressive biodiversity.

Komchén de los Pájaros Bird Sanctuary. A Vision Born from Passion

The sanctuary is the fulfillment of the vision of Ana María Palos de Foronda, who dedicated her life and resources to protect this corner of Yucatán. Her work established Komchén de los Pájaros A.C. as a pioneering example of private environmental stewardship in Mexico.

Thanks to her efforts, this area now serves not just as a reserve, but also as a model for conservation and education, where research and ecotourism harmonize with habitat preservation.

Visiting Komchén: What to Expect

Komchén is not a typical tourist attraction with large infrastructure. Instead, visitors can expect a peaceful, immersive experience in nature. While guided tours are available by appointment, the emphasis is on quiet observation, photography, and respectful interaction with the environment.

It’s recommended to wear long sleeves, comfortable walking shoes, and bring binoculars if you’re into birdwatching. Educational visits and group excursions can be arranged, making it a fantastic spot for students, naturalists, and eco-minded travelers.

Komchén de los Pájaros Bird Sanctuary. How to Get There

Komchén de los Pájaros is located at:

Libramiento Dzemul-Xtampu KM 1.5
Coordinates: 21°13′N, 89°20′19″W
Municipality: Dzemul, 97404, Yucatán
Nearest City: Mérida

Just a short drive from Mérida, this sanctuary makes for a perfect day trip or weekend excursion into the wild Yucatán jungle.

Komchén de los Pájaros is not just a bird sanctuary—it’s a living museum of nature, a sanctuary of silence, and a home to some of the most endangered and fascinating creatures of the Yucatán Peninsula. If you seek a deeper connection with nature and a chance to support grassroots conservation, Komchén offers an unforgettable experience.