Guide for a Journey to Río Lagartos, Mexico
Río Lagartos, a quiet town perched on the shore of a brackish-water estuary, offers an immersive experience for nature enthusiasts seeking to explore the rich ecological region of the Yucatan Peninsula.
Reaching Río Lagartos is relatively straightforward, with the most flexible option being to rent a car. This allows travellers to stop and explore at their own pace across the Yucatán Peninsula. Alternatively, organised tours or private or collective transportation services can be taken from nearby cities such as Valladolid or Mérida[1].
### Top Attractions in Río Lagartos
The top attraction in Río Lagartos is the Río Lagartos Biosphere Reserve, where guided eco-tours on boats reveal diverse wildlife, including flamingos, crocodiles, pelicans, and other bird species[2]. Flamingo watching is a highlight, with large populations viewable up close during boat tours in the pink lagoons[3].
Birdwatching is also popular, with Río Lagartos recognised as one of the best birdwatching locations in Southeastern Mexico[4]. Nearby, the striking pink salt lakes known as Las Coloradas offer spectacular photography opportunities and unique natural beauty[3]. Some tours combine visits to cenotes, where swimming and experiencing traditional Mayan baths can be enjoyed[3].
### Recommended Tour Providers
Rio Lagartos Adventures is highly rated for nature tours, offering certified eco-guides for birdwatching, crocodile night trips, flamingo tours, and flyfishing[2]. Xentour Mx offers private transport and group tours combining Río Lagartos, Las Coloradas, and cenotes with certified drivers and traveler's insurance for safety[3].
### Accommodation in Río Lagartos
Yuum Ha Boutique Hotel is a highly recommended hotel in Río Lagartos, offering stylish, comfortable rooms with a modern property overlooking the lagoon[5]. Hotel Tabasco Rio is another comfortable and friendly hotel option, though it may be a cheaper alternative compared to Yuum Ha[5].
### Other Attractions Nearby
Itzamkanac Granja de Crocodrilos, a crocodile farm near Río Lagartos, offers visitors the chance to help feed the crocs, go inside cages, and hold babies during a daily tour at feeding time[6]. Las Coloradas, a nearby town, is home to the famous pink lakes, named after their bright pink color caused by microscopic algae[6].
### Practical Information
Río Lagartos is a small town that is easily walkable, but exploring the local area may require renting a bike or hiring a local driver for which hotel recommendations can be sought[7]. There are no ATMs in Río Lagartos, so it's recommended to bring plenty of cash and head to Tizimin for cash or supplies if needed[7].
Río Lagartos is a great day trip from Mérida, or a longer stop for those wanting to get away from it all[8]. The town's name is a double mistake, with Río meaning river but the town being on an estuary (a ria)[9]. The pink lakes at Las Coloradas are man-made salt lakes built by a local salt factory, with huge mountains of white salt visible from a distance[9].
In conclusion, Río Lagartos is an amazing area full of incredible nature, making it a great destination for nature lovers seeking a unique and immersive experience in Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula.
When planning your travel to Río Lagartos, consider renting a car for flexibility and self-pace exploration of the Yucatan Peninsula. Top attractions in Río Lagartos include the Río Lagartos Biosphere Reserve, offering guided eco-tours to spot diverse wildlife, and Las Coloradas, known for its striking pink salt lakes and photographic opportunities. For a comfortable stay, consider the Yuum Ha Boutique Hotel, which offers stylish rooms overlooking the lagoon, or Hotel Tabasco Rio as a cheaper alternative. If you're seeking nature tours, Rio Lagartos Adventures is highly rated, while Xentour Mx offers private transport and group tours combining Río Lagartos, Las Coloradas, and cenotes. Before you travel, keep in mind that Río Lagartos is walkable but exploring the local area may require a bike or local driver, and there are no ATMs in the town.
