A Getaway to Río Lagartos in Two Days

Una escapada a Chichén Itzá, saca el máximo provecho a tu visita a Chichén Itzá: nuestro itinerario para uno y dos días te lleva a lugares y momentos inolvidables.

Río Lagartos en dos días

Escape the ordinary and discover the wild beauty of Yucatan's Rio Lagartos! This two-day itinerary is your guide to pink lakes, wildlife encounters, and starlit nights, all just a few hours from Mérida.

Day 1: Pink Lakes, Culinary Delights, and Stargazing

• Morning Magic at Las Coloradas:
  • Rise early and embark on a 2.5-hour journey to Rio Lagartos.
  • Arrive at the surreal Las Coloradas, where vibrant pink lakes create a photographer's dream. Take a tour of the salt flats and capture those iconic shots.

• A Taste of Tradition:
  • A short drive brings you back to Rio Lagartos, where the aromas of authentic Yucatecan cuisine await at Los Negritos.
  • This 40-year-old restaurant, inspired by traditional family recipes, is the perfect spot for a hearty lunch.

• Sunset Serenity:
  • Settle into your chosen accommodation (options abound, some with refreshing pools!).
  • As evening approaches, stroll along the malecon, where the gentle lapping of fishing boats and the colors of the setting sun create a tranquil atmosphere.

• Dinner and Delights:
  • Déjà Vu Restaurant offers a delightful combination of delicious food, refreshing cocktails, and a relaxed ambiance for your evening meal.
  
  
  
• Under a Blanket of Stars:
  • As darkness descends, embark on a magical stargazing tour.
  • The clear night sky reveals a dazzling display of constellations, with knowledgeable guides pointing out those significant to the ancient Maya.
  • Then return to your Hotel for a restful night.

Day 2: Wildlife Encounters and Crystal-Clear Waters

• Ria Lagartos Biosphere Reserve Adventure:
  • Embark on a boat tour through the Ría Lagartos Biosphere Reserve, a haven for diverse wildlife.
  • Navigate through mangrove forests, spot flamingos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species.
  • Experience a “Maya Bath” a local tradition for soft skin.

• Breakfast by the Waterfront:
  • After your wildlife adventure, enjoy a satisfying breakfast at one of the many restaurants lining the malecon, such as Restaurante El Perico Marinero.
• San Felipe's Seaside Escape:
  • Collect your belongings and journey 15 minutes to the pristine shores of San Felipe.
  • Dive into the crystal-clear waters and soak up the sun before your 2.5-hour return trip to Merida.

Happy travels!

Río Lagartos in a Day

Are you in the area, with limited time? This condensed itinerary offers a taste of Río Lagartos' highlights:

• Boat tour through the Ría Lagartos.
• Visit to the pink lakes of Las Coloradas.
• Lunch at Los Negritos.
• Refreshment at San Felipe beach.

More 1 and 2 day getaways

• A quick getaway: Chichén Itzá and its surroundings in two days
• A Getaway to Izamal and its surroundings in two days

Photography by Sharon Cetina for use in Yucatán Today.

First published in Yucatán Today print and digital magazine no. 447, in March 2025.