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11 Available Tour Excursions in Rio Lagartos
This tour is for adventurers and nature lovers. Ria Lagartos offers you the perfect opportunity to enjoy nature. Observe flamingos in the Ria Lizards Biosphere Reserve on a minimum two-hour private tour that includes a boat trip for more than 25 kilometers near the mangroves.watching different types of birds, enjoy the Mayan bath and finish at beautiful beach in the Gulf of Mexico
Price: $77.44
Duration: 2 hours
A unique activity in the entire area. In front of the sea, with the sound of the waves relaxing us. A human experience with an expert environmental interpreter guide. Thought and designed especially for you, regardless of whether you are new or advanced in stargazing. This experience is for you. A tour that you cannot miss on your visit to this little paradise.
Price: $50.58
Duration: 1 hours
What sets us apart is not only fate, but the way we live it with you. This is not another excursion: it is a journey led by a pioneering family of tourism in the region, with more than 15 years sharing adventures with travelers from all over the world. On board comfortable boats, you will explore unique ecosystems, sailing among mangroves, spotting flamingos, crocodiles and other species in their natural habitat, while marveling at the unrivalled pink landscapes of Las Coloradas. At every stop, we share with you knowledge, local stories and secret corners that only the true connoisseurs of the area can show you. Our tours are designed with passion, safety and a strong commitment to conservation. You will not only observe nature: you will live it intensely through activities that encourage direct connection with local fauna. In addition, you can customize the time at each site, adapting the experience to your interests and pace.
Price: $29.79
Duration: 4 hours
Embark on a two-hour boat journey to explore the mangroves, where you will admire a wide variety of birds in their natural habitat. With a bit of luck, we may also spot crocodiles and have the chance to photograph them. We will then continue to the feeding area of the pink flamingos. From a safe distance, you will be able to appreciate the beauty of these unique birds in an unforgettable natural spectacle. (The best season to see flamingos in Celestún is from November to March). After this experience, you will enjoy the traditional and famous “Mayan Bath,” a skin treatment with exfoliating clay that will leave you feeling cleaner and rejuvenated. To end on a high note, we will return to the beach of Río Lagartos, where you can rinse off the clay and relax in the calm waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Don’t miss this adventure in the Ría Lagartos Biosphere Reserve, a true natural sanctuary that will gift you unforgettable moments.
Price: $160.84
Duration: 2 hours
The guides have training in environmental issues, of each system to which it is presented. In addition, each guide has current first aid training and a first aid kit in each guide's kit. The guides are nationally certified. The guides are environmental interpreters and natives of the area, experts in the area. The nautical vehicle used has passenger insurance and is registered with the corresponding government agencies. The safety equipment is in good condition. The planning of the activity is designed to avoid risks.
Price: $63.21
Duration: 3 hours
This tour is designed for people who are interested in learning more about wildlife and the natural environment of the Biosphere Reserve, the activity is focused on the segment of nature tourism and environmental interpretation, it is important to highlight that on the tour the biological characteristics of the flora and fauna are explained to them, the tour is operated by a local nature guide. On this tour you will visit the flamingo feeding area, it is worth mentioning that unique, less crowded and scenically beautiful places have been selected to observe the flamingos. Responsible, fair, conscious, supportive tourism is promoted as a strategy for the conservation of the natural environment and biodiversity, the circular and local economy of the place is also promoted
Price: $77.44
Duration: 2 hours
Travel in a 4x4 vehicle around the pink lagoons of Las Coloradas. Get to know the inside of a sea salt production plant. Tour inside the Río Lagartos biosphere reserve.
Price: $41.70
Duration: 2 hours
Take a beautiful boat ride to see the beautiful “Rio Lagartos” reserve accompanied by a certified guide and with quality and personalized service. During the tour you will be able to observe the fauna and flora of the region, such as the beautiful flamingos and the impressive crocodiles. At the end, we offer you breakfast or lunch at the “Salitre” restaurant located inside the traditional Hotel Rio Lagartos.
Price: $89.36
Duration: 3 hours
An experience that will put you in touch with nature in the Biosphere Reserve of Ria Lizards, you will enjoy the landscape beauty of this place, where you can admire through an ecotourist boat tour the great variety of birds that this place has for you, you could admire the majestic crocodile in its natural habitat, at the same time as you enter among the mangroves. An activity that in company with a guide with extensive knowledge, will get you into this place, at the same time you know about the importance of this. They are certainly an activity for lovers of nature and local traditions.
Price: $77.44
Duration: 2 hours
Visit the Rio Lagarto Natural Reserve by boat and see the best sunset on the Yucatan Peninsula, having a delicious appetizer and a bottle of wine; and then arrive at the terrace of the Río Lagartos Hotel where you can continue enjoying the landscape, where we will offer you a complimentary drink. Our guide will take you by boat to the best place in the Ria to appreciate the sunset, meanwhile you can enjoy a delicious board of cold meats and cheeses, accompanied by a good wine, you will really enjoy seeing the flamingos fly over you and feel surrounded by mangroves.
Price: $71.49
Duration: 2 hours
It begins with dinner on the terrace of the Rio Lagartos hotel, where you will have a unique view of the Ria and the Town of Rio Lagartos, as well as enjoying our live musical group. Finishing dinner, you will go to the hotel's private dock where the guide will pick you up in a boat to enter the estuary where you will visit an island from which you can observe the wonderful world of the stars. The expert astrotourism guide will explain in detail about the constellations, the moon and dairy life. You have to know that being a place with little light pollution, the sky is full of stars and that is what makes this experience unique, feeling surrounded by that whole world of stars. It is an activity that adults and children enjoy, you cannot miss it.
Price: $53.61
Duration: 3 hours
Key Info for Visitors
- Currency: MXN
- Languages: Spanish, English
- Climate: Tropical
- Timezone: America/Merida
- Population: Approximately 2,500 residents
- Best Time to Visit: best time to visit Rio Lagartos is during the dry season from November to April to avoid heavy rains and enjoy pleasant weather.
- Visa Requirements Visitors from the United States, European Union, United Kingdom, Canada, and many other countries do not require a visa for stays up to 180 days. Tourist visas are generally not required for short visits. Travelers should carry a valid passport and may need to fill out a tourist card upon arrival. Visa on arrival and e-visa options are not typically applicable for Rio Lagartos, as it is accessed through Mexico’s standard entry points.
About Rio Lagartos
Rio Lagartos is a small fishing village located on the northern coast of the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico. It is best known for its stunning natural environment, particularly the Rio Lagartos Biosphere Reserve, a protected area famous for its flamingo populations and rich biodiversity. The town offers a tranquil escape from busier tourist destinations, attracting visitors interested in ecotourism, birdwatching, and nature photography. Its unique combination of salt flats, mangroves, and coastal lagoons creates a vibrant ecosystem where hundreds of bird species thrive. Visitors can enjoy boat tours through the reserve to observe flamingos, crocodiles, and other wildlife in their natural habitat. The local community maintains a strong connection to traditional fishing and offers an authentic cultural experience. Rio Lagartos also appeals to travelers seeking a peaceful coastal atmosphere with opportunities for kayaking, swimming, and exploring nearby cenotes. Its relatively undeveloped charm and natural beauty make it a compelling destination for nature lovers and those wanting to experience the quieter side of the Yucatán.
Rio Lagartos Tours & Experiences
- Top Attractions: Highlights of Riviera Maya & the Yucatan
- Duration Range: 2 to 10 hours
- Group Size: Flexible group sizes
- Difficulty Level: All Comfort Levels
- Recommended For: The best time to visit Rio Lagartos is during the dry season from November to April to avoid heavy rains and enjoy pleasant weather. Pack lightweight, breathable clothing, sun protection, insect repellent, and comfortable shoes for walking and boat trips. Respect local customs by dressing modestly in town and asking permission before photographing locals. Safety is generally good, but standard precautions should be taken, especially when exploring natural areas. Carry some Mexican pesos for small purchases as card acceptance is limited. Stay hydrated and be prepared for limited internet connectivity in the area.
Average Tour Price: $65
Lowest Price Tour: $50
Highest Price Tour: $220
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Important Tour Information
- Bring comfortable walking shoes and appropriate clothing
- Check tour cancellation and refund policies
- Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes early
- Carry valid identification and tour booking confirmation
Top Attractions
1. Rio Lagartos Biosphere Reserve – A UNESCO-designated reserve known for flamingos, crocodiles, and diverse bird species. 2. Flamingo Watching Tours – Guided boat trips through the lagoons to see large flocks of pink flamingos up close. 3. Las Coloradas Pink Lakes – Nearby salt lakes famous for their striking pink color caused by microorganisms. 4. Mangrove Forests – Explore dense mangroves by kayak or boat, home to unique flora and fauna. 5. Cenote Yaal Utzil – A beautiful natural sinkhole nearby offering swimming and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters.
Popular Activities
Visitors to Rio Lagartos can enjoy wildlife watching, especially birdwatching and spotting flamingos. Boat tours through the biosphere reserve provide opportunities to see crocodiles and other native animals. Kayaking and paddleboarding in the mangroves offer a peaceful way to explore the ecosystem. Fishing with local guides is available for those interested in traditional methods. Cultural experiences include visiting the town’s small markets and engaging with local fishermen. Swimming and snorkeling in nearby cenotes add adventure to the visit. Photography enthusiasts will find abundant opportunities to capture vibrant landscapes and wildlife.
Frequently Asked Questions
Local Food & Cuisine
Rio Lagartos features traditional Yucatecan and Mexican coastal cuisine, with fresh seafood as the highlight. Signature dishes include ceviche made from local fish and shrimp, grilled fish, and lobster. Other specialties are cochinita pibil (slow-roasted marinated pork) and sopa de lima (lime soup). Dining is often casual, with small family-run restaurants and seafood shacks offering authentic flavors. Noteworthy places include local palapas serving freshly caught seafood and small eateries in the town center where visitors can enjoy traditional dishes paired with tropical fruit juices or local beers.
Getting Around
Rio Lagartos is reachable by car or bus from Mérida, which is about a two-hour drive. The nearest airport is Manuel Crescencio Rejón International Airport in Mérida. Local transportation within Rio Lagartos is limited; walking and bicycles are common for short distances. Boat tours are the primary way to explore the biosphere reserve. Taxi services are available but infrequent. Renting a car is recommended for flexibility and ease of access to surrounding attractions. Transportation costs are generally affordable, with bus fares and boat tours priced reasonably for tourists.
Travel Tips
The best time to visit Rio Lagartos is during the dry season from November to April to avoid heavy rains and enjoy pleasant weather. Pack lightweight, breathable clothing, sun protection, insect repellent, and comfortable shoes for walking and boat trips. Respect local customs by dressing modestly in town and asking permission before photographing locals. Safety is generally good, but standard precautions should be taken, especially when exploring natural areas. Carry some Mexican pesos for small purchases as card acceptance is limited. Stay hydrated and be prepared for limited internet connectivity in the area.
Culture & Customs
Rio Lagartos has a close-knit community with strong ties to fishing and nature conservation. Social customs emphasize friendliness and hospitality. Visitors should greet locals with a polite "Buenos días" or "Buenas tardes." Traditional festivals include celebrations of local patron saints and ecological events promoting the biosphere reserve. It is customary to remove shoes when entering some homes. Bargaining is not common in markets but polite negotiation is acceptable. Respect for nature and wildlife is deeply ingrained, so visitors should avoid disturbing animals and habitats.
About The Author
Calvin has loved travel and adventure since first visiting Los Angeles with a suitcase in 1992 at the age of 20. He ditched the suitcase and got a backpack pretty fast.
He hates leaving after any trip and has to console himself by writing and sharing articles on it. You can find and connect with him on linked in here.
Likes
Travel, Gaming, Scuba Diving, Skiing and anything to do with water.
Dislikes
Exact luggage sizing police and being tired in an airport and many more..