10 Best Sian Kaan Tours in Tulum Mexico for 2024
Ready to book your Sian Kaan Tulum tour?
As one of the best things to do in Tulum, you’re in for a real treat. Also, you’ve come to the right place because the top 10 highest-rated Sian Ka’an tours are highlighted here. How do I know they’re the best?!
I’ve lived in Mexico since 2018, and visit Tulum often. One of my favorite Tulum attractions is the Sian Kaan Biosphere, so I vetted all the tours featured here to make sure they’re highly-rated and well-reviewed — so all you have to do is book and enjoy!
Don’t have time to go through the whole article? Book Sian Ka’an Full Day Tour for Adventure Seekers. It has a perfect Five Star rating, and takes you on a boat to Sian Ka’an — the best way to visit!
Sian Ka’an, meaning “origin of the sky” in Maya, is a 1.3 million-acre natural reserve (5,260 km²), and one of Mexico’s most ecologically diverse regions. The best (and really, the only) way to explore its vastness is on a boat tour.
It is one of the largest ecological reserves in Mexico and home to stunning crystal clear waters ideal for swimming, and diverse animal life. On your tour, get ready to see everything from dolphins and manatees, to sea turtles and various endemic birds.
Ready to discover the top-rated Sian Kaan Tours Tulum has — including the best boat and Sian Kaan Jeep tours in the region? Let’s dive in so you can book your tour and be one step closer to what’s known as the best UNESCO World Heritage Site in Mexico for nature lovers.
Top 3 Picks: Highest Rated Sian Kaan Tours
#1 TOP PICK
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Punta Allen & Sian Ka’an Boat Tour from Tulum
✔️ Hotel pickup & drop-off
✔️ Snorkeling equipment
#2 PICK
Muyil Ruins & Sian Ka’an Private Tour from Tulum
✔️ Professional guide
✔️ Transportation
#3 PICK
Sian Ka’an Float Tour
✔️ Float down the lagoon
✔️ Visit Muyil Ruins
The Top 10 Sian Kaan Tours in Tulum
1. Best Sian Ka’an Boat Tour for Adventure Seekers
⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 10 hours | 🔎 Check Rates & Availability
Take a full-day tour through the unforgettable UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Sian Ka’an on this by booking this Sian Ka’an Boat Tour for Adventure Seekers.
The tour starts bright and early at 7am with a hotel pick-up. From there, you will drive to and through the biosphere before arriving at your boat. The Sian Kaan Jeep tour expedition through the reserve is bumpy, so hang on to your seats.
If you book any one trip in this area of Mexico, you need to book this one!!! We probably saw 30 sea turtles… manatees, a baby dolphin & family, several crocodiles, sting rays, beautiful coral reef… do this one if you love nature and wild animals!! A truly unreal experience!!
jennifer (see more reviews)
Then it’s off on your adventure. Explore the coast and mangrove habitats and keep your eyes open for dolphins, sea turtles, stingrays, and more.
Although not guaranteed, you may have some luck seeing some manatees at Boca Paila Lagoon.
Weather permitting, you’ll also be able to jump off the boat to snorkel, so make sure to bring your swimsuit.
The tour also includes a stop at Punta Allen, a small Mayan fishing village, for a home-cooked lunch. (While not so much a secret anymore, Punta Allen is what some call the Tulum secret beach.)
For an incredibly memorable Sian Kaan day tour in this gorgeous biosphere reserve with knowledgeable and passionate guides, don’t miss out on booking this Sian Ka’an Boat Tour.
Best SIAN KAAN Tours
2. Sian Kaan Private Tour with Muyil Archaeological Site
⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 5 hours | 🔎 Check Rates & Availability
For a personalized experience that includes a hike, a boat trip through the reserve, and a visit to the archaeological site of Muyil, then look no further and book this Private Tour of Sian Kaan Biosphere Reserve.
Want to check out some of the Tulum Mayan Ruins during your visit? You’re in luck because this tour starts at Muyil Archaeological Site in Sian Ka’an.
Muyil Ruins are one of the longest-inhabited ancient Mayan sites on the eastern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula. Occupied between 350 BC to 1500 AD, it was a major maritime trading port. Today, it has three main structural groups you can check out.
The boat ride in the lagoons within Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve and the experience of floating within an ancient Mayan canal were especially wonderful and memorable.
Saad (see more reviews)
Explore Mayan temples like El Castillo, a 57-foot-tall pre-hispanic building (17 m), before embarking on an adventure through the Sian Ka’an boardwalk trails to the tallest observation point in the reserve.
From there, you’ll head to the Muyil Lagoon and board a boat that will take you through multiple canals and lagoons in Sian Ka’an. At one point, you’ll jump off the boat and float down one of the ancient Mayan canals.
Picture blue-green crystal clear waters as the current takes you through shaded mangroves. Keep your eyes peeled for birds, or just close your eyes and enjoy this incredible experience.
This tour is one of the best Sian Kaan Biosphere Reserve tours for anyone looking for a personalized private tour of the area.
Best SIAN KAAN Tours
3. Float Tour Through Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve
⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 5 hours | 🔎 Check Rates & Availability
Explore the archaeological structures of Muyil, hike along the Sian Ka’an trails, and relax while floating down an ancient river on this Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve Tour.
Start the tour with an adventure as you explore a jungle tower and other archaeological structures in Muyil Ruins, a Mayan site found amidst the reserve’s mangroves and jungle fauna.
Fantastic tour! Our guide Paco took excellent care of us. The float through the lagoon, the walk through the jungle and viewing the ruins was an amazing experience.
Amy (see more reviews)
Then it’s off on a walk through the forest. Your knowledgeable guide will stop and point out animals as well as local flora and fauna.
Once you reach the lagoon, you’ll hop on a boat before putting on a special life jacket that will allow you to float down the canals in crystal clear water surrounded by lush vegetation. Is there anything more relaxing?!
The tour ends with a picnic lunch paired perfectly with a gorgeous view. For those visitors wanting to capture some amazing Sian Kaan photos, this is the perfect opportunity.
The tour is run by a locally owned and operated company that provides one-of-a-kind tours in and around the Mayan Riviera. It’s like having local friends who know everything about the local history and the reserve’s ecology.
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4. Kayaking and Snorkeling in Sian Ka’an Biosphere
⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 6 hours | 🔎 Check Rates & Availability
Explore the stunning Sian Ka’an reserve from above and below the surface by booking this Kayaking & Snorkeling Tour in Sian Ka’an Reserve that takes you places even the boats don’t go.
With a marine surface of more than 718-square-miles (1,860 km²), kayaking through winding canals, cenotes, and beautiful lagoons is quite an unforgettable experience.
If you are considering going to Sian Ka’an then I would thoroughly recommend this tour. The groups are small so it feels personal & by the end of the day it was like we were all a group of friends.
Daisy (see more reviews)
Paddle through mangrove mazes and canals too narrow for boats while appreciating the lush vegetation and spotting birds, sea turtles, lizards, and maybe even a manatee.
Make sure you smile for the camera, as the guides are not only knowledgeable, passionate, and enthusiastic, but they also take photos. The photos will be sent to you after the trip—free of charge.
At one point, you’ll also be able to don snorkeling gear and explore an open cenote before stopping for a picnic. The food is all homemade and incredibly delicious.
Then it’s back on the water to enjoy the sunset before paddling in and calling it a day.
For a truly one-of-a-kind experience of the biosphere reserve, make sure to book this Sian Kaan Tours Tulum with Kayaking & Snorkeling.
Best SIAN KAAN Tours
5. Boat Tour of Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve
⭐️ Rating: 4.5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 8-10 hours | 🔎 Check Rates & Availability
Explore the stunning crystal clear blue waters of the Sian Ka’an reserve by booking this Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve boat tour, which includes a local lunch at Punta Allen.
After enduring an adventure on a highly bumpy road into the reserve, you’ll board a boat to begin your exploration of the Sian Ka’an. Tour the lagoon, bird-watch, and spend some time looking for turtles and dolphins.
It was one of the most memorable experiences we have ever had. Sho, our tour guide, full of knowledge and great energy.
Stephanie (see more reviews)
At one point, you’ll also be able to jump off the boat and snorkel in an open cenote before heading off to a natural pool right next to Punta Allen.
Encircled by ridges and rocks, the green-blue crystal clear waters and location make it the perfect background for a gorgeous photo.
The last stop is in the town of Punta Allen, where lunch will be served. Alcohol is extra at the restaurant, so bring some extra pesos.
After lunch, you’ll also have time to explore this Mayan village before heading home.
For one of the best Sian Kaan Biosphere tours that include all the main attractions, plus a local visit to the indigenous village of Punta Allen, book this boat tour of Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve.
Best SIAN KAAN Tours
6. Sian Ka’an Float Tour on the Mayan Canals
⭐️ Rating: 4.89 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 5.5 hours | 🔎 Check Rates & Availability
For a truly magical experience with passionate and knowledgeable guides that will cater to your every need, book this Sian Ka’an Float Tour on the Mayan Canals. (In case you’re wondering, a “float tour” is basically a lazy river-style float.)
The tour is hosted by local and certified guides Bernardo and Arturo, who are both eco-enthusiasts and nature lovers. They are also top-rated hosts and love to venture off the beaten path providing guests with a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
The experience is a must in Tulum. The guide is so nice, generous and [knowledgeable] about the history of the sacred site. One of the best experience I had in Tulum 🙏🏽
sonia (see more reviews)
The tour begins at one of the oldest Mayan cities in the area, the Muyil archaeological site. Here you’ll explore ancient ruins before walking through the jungle to an observation point.
Then it’s time to continue your exploration via boat. Explore ancient commercial routes in the Chuyaxché lagoon before jumping in to enjoy a floating experience down the canal.
At the end of the tour, your guide will take you to a delicious taco stand in Punta Allen. The tacos are so good that they are frequently discussed in customer reviews.
For an immersive adventure with a little bit of everything, including education, gorgeous scenery, a workout, relaxation and food, make sure to book this Sian Ka’an Float Tour — which is hands down one of the best tours Sian Kaan has to offer.
Best SIAN KAAN Tours
7. Sian Kaan and Muyil Ruins Tour from Tulum
⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 5 hours | 🔎 Check Rates & Availability
Learn about the reserve’s ecology and Mayan civilization while exploring all the main attractions on this Sian Kaan & Muyil Tour From Tulum.
The tour’s highlight is the guide, whose knowledge of the reserve and Mayan history is incredible. Each stop will include an in-depth history and cultural lesson, from the Mayan customs to talking about specific flora and fauna.
Like many other tours, this experience starts at the Mayan archaeological site of Muyil, followed by an interpretive nature trail down to the boat dock.
The trip was AMAZING! …The water was crystal clear and it was actually spiritual floating down the river (fresh water)… Overall, this is a must do! What an adventure.
shawn (see more reviews)
From there, you’ll cruise through the lagoons and canals before floating down the Mayan-built canal. The tour ends with a vegetarian picnic with fresh and seasonal products.
Along with a knowledgeable guide, this tour is limited in space, allowing for a more personalized experience.
So if you are looking for a complete yet small group tour with a fantastic and attentive guide, don’t miss this experience and book this Sian Kaan and Muyil Ruins Tulum Tour.
Best SIAN KAAN Tours
8. Half-Day Sian Ka’an Tour with Lunch
⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 6 hours | 🔎 Check Rates & Availability
Explore the Sian Ka’an and take an 8km trip inside the biosphere to the Boca Paila to spot some resident animals and book this Half Day Sian Kaan Tour with Lunch.
Head into the wetlands on a small boat as you navigate the waters and explore the many lagoons and canals within the reserve. Your knowledgeable guide will take you to spots rarely visited by other boats.
Pablo did an amazing job showing us the area and the natural preserve. We saw baby sea turtles, birds, crocodiles, manatees and amazing fish in the coral reef… I would highly recommend this tour…
tamara (see more reviews)
You’ll visit Boca Paila, looking for birdlife, crocodiles and maybe even a manatee or two.
Weather permitting, you’ll be able to snorkel at the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the largest barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere. Then it’s time for lunch on the beach among the coconut groves at a memorable picnic by the beach.
You’ll then get to enjoy some swimming before heading to one of the largest lagoons in the reserve, the Campechen Lagoon. Here, you’ll explore more wildlife and ecosystems before heading back to Tulum.
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9. Tour Sian Ka’an Reserve with a Local Naturalist
⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 6 hours | 🔎 Check Rates & Availability
For a tour of Sian Ka’an with a guide who knows the biosphere reserve like the back of her hand, make sure to book this Sian Ka’an Reserve Tour With a Local Naturalist Guide.
Mercedes, the host, has been living and working in Tulum for the last 14 years. She is also a registered naturalist tour guide. She is incredibly knowledgeable about the ecology of Sian Ka’an and its history and culture.
Visiting Sian Ka’an with Mercedes was the highlight of our trip to Mexico. Sian Ka’an is a magical place and Mercedes’ knowledge, love, and respect for the area is abundantly clear. We could not have asked for a more perfect experience.
newton (see more reviews)
This multifaceted experience begins in the ancient Mayan city of Muyil. Here Mercedes will share stories about how Mayans lived thousands of years ago.
Her vivid storytelling transports you to ancient times, and you’ll feel like you’ve been there. From there, you’ll walk through the wetlands and board a boat to explore the lagoons.
You’ll then experience the ultimate relaxation by floating effortlessly down the ancient Mayan canals before heading back into town.
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10. Ultimate Sian Kaan and Muyil Ruins Experience
⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 6 hours | 🔎 Check Rates & Availability
For a personalized tour of the Sian Kaan that caters to your needs and interests, book this Ultimate Sian Kaan & Muyil Ruins Tour.
Alejandro, a local certified guide, hosts the tour. His passion and knowledge of the area shine through in every experience he hosts. The best part is that the tour is customizable.
Want to kayak or zipline? Or maybe you want to snorkel or spend extra time hiking through the jungle? Are you traveling solo or in a big group with specific needs? Everything is possible with Alejandro — all you need to do is ask!
Best experience of my life. We did a lot of activities while in Tulum but this was the best thing we did. Alex was the best host ever.
Matthew (see more reviews)
The experience begins at Muyil Ruins, where you’ll explore the archaeological sites while looking for howler and spider monkeys, reptiles, mammals and endemic birds.
Then you’ll hike in the jungle, sail through the main lagoons at Sian Kaan Biosphere Reserve, float effortlessly in an ancient canal and visit one of the best Tulum cenotes.
Alejandro’s vast knowledge of the area means he’ll take you to spots often overlooked by regular guides, offering a different perspective. If you’re looking for a true Tulum off the beaten path experience — this is it!
For one of the best, most unique, created-for-you Sian Kaan Mexico tours, look no further than this Ultimate Sian Kaan & Muyil Ruins Experience.
Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve: FAQ
Still unsure about what makes the Sian Kaan Tulum so unique? Have some unanswered questions about this unique place in Mexico?
We’re here to help, so let us answer those for you in this Sian Kaan FAQ.
What is Sian Kaan Reserve?
Sian Ka’an is a massive natural biosphere and wetland. At more than one million acres, it is one of Mexico’s largest protected areas, and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987.
It is known for its flora, fauna and diversity of animal life, including manatees, dolphins, endemic birds and sea turtles.
The reserve is home to tropical forests, marshes, lagoons, mangroves, and a marine area that’s part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef.
Sometimes called the Great Mayan Reef, this is the second largest reef in the world, after the Great Barrier Reef.
It is the largest barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere, and spans about 700 miles (1,125 km) along the coasts of Mexico, Belize, Guatemala, and Honduras.
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Where is Sian Kaan located?
Sian Ka’an is located in the municipality of Tulum, in the state of Quintana Roo Mexico.
📍 Sian Kaan Map
Quintana Roo is one of three states that make up the Yucatan Peninsula, which is located in southeastern Mexico within the Riviera Maya.
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How big is Sian Kaan Reserve?
The entire Sian Kaan Biosphere spans 1.3 million acres (5,260 km²) between its land and water areas.
It is the third-largest ecological reserve in Mexico, after the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve in Campeche state, and Revillagigedo Archipelago, located in Baja Mexico on the west coast.
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Is Sian Kaan a UNESCO World Heritage Site?
Yes — Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve in Tulum was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987.
It is one of the “Natural Sites” on the Mexico UNESCO list, along with places like the Monarch Butterfly Forests in Central Mexico and the Whale Sanctuary of El Vizcaino in Baja California.
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Is Sian Kan Kaan worth it?
If you love nature and natural areas, then YES, visiting Sian Kaan Reserve in Tulum is worth it.
While Tulum is known as one of the biggest and best Mexico party towns, places like Sian Kaan showcase the real Tulum.
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Can you visit Sian Ka’an Tulum on your own?
Technically yes, but it’s not easy. While you can visit Sian Ka’an on your own, you’ll only want to drive in if you have a Jeep, 4X4 or similar rental car vehicle.
The road to Sian Kaan Biosphere is a very bumpy dirt road, and in the Tulum rainy season from about June to October, it can wash out completely. It is very rural, so if you have a tire blow-out or other mechanical issues, you’re going to be waiting a while for help.
For this reason, it’s much easier (and safer) to visit Sian Kaan on a tour, since you must drive through this road to access the boat docks. Once you arrive at the docks, the only way to get out on the water is on a boat tour.
There is another road to Sian Kaan that goes through Punta Allen, however, this drive can take about three hours from Tulum. The direct route takes about one hour when the road is in optimal condition, and there is an entrance fee.
Best SIAN KAAN Tours
What are the best tours to Sian Kaan?
The best tours to Tulum Sian Kaan offer a little bit of everything, including a boat trip, Muyil Mayan Ruins visit, float through the canals and snorkeling — or a tour you can customize like this Best Sian Kaan Private Tour.
In the end, it depends what you want to see, and how much time you want to spend in Sian Kaan. I’d recommend first determining if you plan to do a half day or full day trip, and then choosing from there.
There are half-day tours and full-day tours that include the Mayan archaeological sites and some that skip them altogether, tours that include snorkeling and some where you stay in the boat — so the “best tour” will always depend on your preferences.
Best SIAN KAAN Tours
What is the best Sian Ka’an half-day tour?
One of the best half-day Sian Kaan tours from Tulum is this Half-Day Sian Ka’an Tour with Lunch, which is rated 5 Stars and lasts 6 hours.
While six hours might not seem like a “half day,” this is one of the shortest group tours to Sian Kaan Reserve available. It takes a while to get there from Tulum, so you’ll want a tour of at least this length.
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How much is a tour of Sian Ka’an?
It depends — At the minimum, expect to pay about $150 USD per person for a group tour, and about $500 USD for a full-day private tour.
There are several companies operating tours of Sian Ka’an Reserve, and the price will vary depending on how complex of a tour you want.
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Are there jaguars in Sian Kaan?
Yes — Sian Kaan is home to land animals like spider monkeys, ocelots, coatis and jaguars. However, it is very unlikely you’ll see jaguar in Sian Kaan since they are relatively few in numbers, and tend to want to avoid people.
🐒 Want to experience more Tulum nature?
Don’t miss Punta Laguna Nature Reserve, located about 25 miles (40 km) from Tulum. It is the best place to see howler monkeys, spider monkeys, iguanas, birds — and maybe even a jaguar if you’re lucky.
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What birds are in Sian Kaan?
Sian Ka’an is home to about 350 bird species, including falcons, storks, egrets, heron, vultures, cormorants, pelicans, and hundreds species of exotic birds. It is actually one of the best places in Mexico for birding.
Can you fish in Sian Kaan?
Yes — Sian Kaan is world-renowned among fly fishers thanks to its still saltwater lagoons. This is the most common type of fishing in Sian Kaan Nature Reserve.
Final Thoughts: The 10 Highest-Rated Sian Kaan Tours
As you now know, there are many Sian Kaan tours available for every traveler. Whether you’re flying solo on a private tour, eager to explore with your family, or would rather spend the day kayaking or ziplining through the forests at Sian Kaan — there’s something for you!
Still unsure which tour to pick? I recommend this Sian Ka’an Full Day Tour from Tulum. It has a perfect Five Star rating, and takes you on a boat in Sian Ka’an — the best way to visit!
If that one’s not for you — no worries! Each of the tours featured in this article would make the perfect addition to your Tulum sightseeing agenda.
No matter the tour you choose, one thing’s for certain: If you’re exploring Tulum, then visiting Sian Ka’an is also a must. We hope this article helped you pick the perfect Sian Kaan Tours in Tulum for you.
Note: All of the tours are offered in English, while some are also offered in other languages, like Spanish and French. If you need a tour in an alternate language, please double check with the tour operator before booking.
Oh, and if you are spending more time in Tulum, make sure to read our Ultithimate Travel Guide to Tulum. It covers everything you need to know to have an epic Tulum vacation, and is especially helpful for your first time in Tulum Mexico.
Want to book even more Tulum tours?
Looking to take more tours in Tulum during your visit? Tours are so convenient because you don’t have to worry about planning anything — you just show up and enjoy!
Here are all of my recommendations for the top-rated Tulum tours:
Tulum Travel Planning Guide
1. Should I buy Mexico travel insurance?
100% YES! — With basic coverage averaging just $5-10 USD per day, enjoy peace of mind with a plan from Travel Insurance Master, one of the biggest names in travel insurance. (Read more)
2. Can you drink the water in Tulum?
No — You’ll want to buy this Water-To-Go Bottle, which filters your drinking water so you don’t get sick from drinking water in Mexico, and helps keep you hydrated while traveling Mexico. (Read more)
3. Is it safe to rent a car in Tulum?
Yes — Renting a car in Mexico is one of the best ways to see the country! I always rent with Discover Cars, which checks both international companies and local Mexican companies, so you get the best rates. (Read more)
4. Will my phone work in Tulum?
Maybe — It depends on your company, so check with your provider. If you don’t have free Mexico service, buy this Telcel SIM Card. As Mexico’s largest carrier, Telcel has the best coverage of any Mexico SIM Cards. (Read more)
5. What’s the best way to book my Tulum accommodations?
For Tulum hotels, Booking.com is the best site, but for hostels, use Hostel World. If you’re considering a Mexico Airbnb, don’t forget to also check VRBO, which is often cheaper than Airbnb.
6. What do I pack for Tulum?
Head to the Ultimate Tulum Packing List to get all the info you need on packing for Mexico.
7. What’s the best site to buy Mexico flights?
For finding cheap Mexico flights, I recommend Skyscanner.
8. Do I need a visa for Mexico?
Likely Not — U.S., Canadian and most European Passport holders don’t need a visa for Mexico; but check here to see if you do a Mexico travel visa. The majority of travelers will receive a 180-Day FMM Tourist Visa or passport stamp upon arrival.