Unbeatable Views in Río Lagartos

Mangroves, communities of the pinkest flamingos, an enormous number of birds (migratory and native), crocodiles, and much more await you at one of the most gorgeous natural reserves in Yucatán: the Parque Natural Ría Lagartos, located on the north coast of the Peninsula.

It’s a two and a half hours drive from Mérida; as soon as you arrive you’ll be glad you made the trip.

Río Lagartos is a small town without large crowds and with many outdoor activities that make it an ideal destination in times of COVID-19. You’ll find that it has a picturesque boardwalk that brings together fishing boats, lodging, restaurants, and tours. There are boat tours for bird watching and enjoying the mangroves. You’ll be able to enjoy nature and the magnificent sunsets that combine pink and purple tones, creating a unique panorama that will remain in your memory, and in your camera. Also, you can experience a Maya mud bath and stop at the beach to enjoy the view and a refreshing swim. It’s fantastic!

Río Lagartos offers a variety of specialized tours. One of them is focused on bird photography; there are more than 300 species that visit or inhabit the region. It’s necessary to go with expert guides in order to have the best experience, as they can explain the names and habits of each bird.

One of the biggest attractions is getting to know the flamingos in their natural habitat; you’ll be able to get close to entire families of these birds who always amaze everyone: of course, always with respect and taking care not to disturb or touch them. This tour can be done during the day.

Another specialized tour for the more adventurous is the night crocodile tour. You may be able to see one in the daytime if you are lucky, but at night they are more visible. This tour is for those who enjoy adrenaline, and beware! Keep your hands inside the boat. It’s your very own Indiana Jones adventure!

There are options for every budget if you want to make it an overnight stay, from hostels to small boutique hotels. What they all have in common is the warm welcome you will receive as friendliness is a common trait in this town.

If delicious seafood is your thing, then you’re in luck. Ocean delights are a specialty of Río Lagartos.

From Río Lagartos you can also continue your adventure and visit many other coastal destinations: the colorful wooden houses of San Felipe, the now-famous pink salt lakes of Las Coloradas, or even continue your trip towards the heavenly beaches of El Cuyo.

Editorial by Violeta H. Cantarell
“Meridana,” traveler, animal lover, passionate reader, commentator, and enthusiastic promoter of the natural and human beauty of Yucatán.

Photography by Tania López, Alfri Peraza, and Yucatán Today for its use in Yucatán Today.

How to get there:

By car: From Periférico, take Exit 11 to Carretera 176 which goes from Mérida to Tizimín. When you arrive in Tizimín, follow the signs for the exit north towards Río Lagartos.

By bus: The buses of Noreste (Calle 50 x 61, Centro) can take you from Mérida to Tizimín. Then take a Colectivo in Tizimín located on Calle 52 behind the Súper Akí grocery store.