Jardin Botanico UNACAR

Imagine a green oasis sprawling across 30 hectares where the city meets protected waters. The UNACAR Botanical Garden is a unique natural and research complex in Ciudad del Carmen, introducing guests to the rich biodiversity for which Mexico is famous.

Most of the garden's territory is an untouched mangrove reserve, spanning 25 hectares. Here, you can witness a rare natural phenomenon: 7 species of mangroves concentrated in one location, making this site critically important for the Laguna de Términos ecosystem. The remaining 5 hectares have been transformed into themed zones featuring collections of cacti, orchids, palms, and ancient cycads that have survived millions of years of evolution.

The garden belongs to the Autonomous University of Carmen and serves not only as a place for recreation but also as an important scientific hub. One of the collection's main treasures is the legendary Palo de Tinte tree, which is historically significant to the state of Campeche. While strolling along the shady paths, visitors may encounter local residents: curious iguanas, squirrels, and exotic birds living in their natural habitat.

To inquire about special events or to book group tours, you can use the organization's official contact details.

Below is the primary contact information for the garden administration:

A visit here is, above all, an opportunity to slow down and connect with nature. You can stroll through the shady alleys of the arboretum and palmetum, studying plant species via detailed information plaques. For wildlife enthusiasts, it is a true paradise: you can easily spot iguanas basking in the sun, nimble squirrels, and turtles, while the variety of birds makes the garden a great spot for birdwatching.

If you want to dive deeper into the region's ecology, it is recommended to book a group tour in advance. Professional guides will take you through the mangrove reserve and explain how this amazing natural system functions. Occasionally, the garden hosts workshops where you can learn to grow ornamental plants or discover the secrets of creating the right compost for a tropical garden.

Families with children will appreciate the spacious green areas, which are perfect for quiet relaxation and small picnics. The proximity to Laguna de Términos occasionally allows visitors to spot dolphins frolicking away from the shore. The main rule for a comfortable visit is to bring mosquito repellent and wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes so that nothing distracts you from exploring the mangrove trails.

The UNACAR Botanical Garden is located on the outskirts of the city, in the Renovación 2da Sección district, right by the picturesque lagoon. The most convenient and fastest way to get here from the center of Ciudad del Carmen is by taxi or rental car. The trip takes very little time, and parking for visitors is provided on-site.

If you are arriving via Ciudad del Carmen International Airport (CME), the garden is approximately 15–20 kilometers away. Depending on traffic, the drive by car or taxi from the terminal will take between 20 and 30 minutes. This is an excellent way to begin your introduction to the region's nature right after landing.

As public transport in this part of the city is limited and routes can be inconsistent, tourists are strongly advised to choose private transport or licensed taxi services. When setting out, don't forget to bring water and repellent, as the proximity to water and dense vegetation attracts insects.

The history of this green oasis is inextricably linked with the educational activities of the Autonomous University of Carmen (UNACAR). Established under the Faculty of Natural Sciences, the garden was originally intended as a living laboratory for students and scientists, but over time, it has evolved into one of the most important conservation centers in the state of Campeche.

One of the garden's most noble missions is the restoration of coastal ecosystems. Over the last few decades, staff and volunteers have planted approximately 1,000 red mangrove seedlings. These efforts are aimed at combating coastline erosion, which has been severely affected by tropical hurricanes over the past 30 years.

A special place in the collection is held by the Palo de Tinte (logwood tree). In the colonial era, this plant was the backbone of the regional economy, as a valuable dye was extracted from its wood. Today, the tree serves as a reminder of the state's historical past and is carefully protected within the arboretum.

Currently, the garden serves as a base for the Regional Center for Environmental Science Research (CICA). It is not just a place where plants are grown, but also a hub for serious scientific work on preserving the biodiversity of the Yucatán Peninsula, making the UNACAR Botanical Garden a key link in the ecological protection of the Laguna de Términos.

A typical visitor will need between 2 and 3 hours to leisurely stroll through the main themed zones and enjoy the tranquility of the mangrove forests. This is plenty of time to study the information signs, watch the iguanas, and take beautiful photos of rare plants.

If you plan to participate in a specialized guided tour or attend one of the ecological workshops (such as those on mangrove restoration), you should allow up to 4 hours in your schedule. The garden encourages contemplative relaxation, so many tourists prefer to spend the first half of the day here, combining their walk with a small picnic in the shade of the trees.

The UNACAR Botanical Garden is open on weekdays, offering guests the chance to enjoy nature during the day. The schedule is as follows: Monday to Friday, 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Please note that the garden is closed to visitors on Saturdays and Sundays.

Before your visit, it is recommended to check the official university website or call for information, as operating hours may change during holidays or scientific events.

Exploring the surrounding area after visiting the garden will help you better feel the atmosphere of this coastal region. Several interesting sites are located nearby, from sports centers to monuments, which will complement your walk around the city.

Below is a list of attractions located within walking distance or a short drive: