ECOSAFARI: Explore the mangroves, flamingos and crocodiles.

Explore the Unique Ecosystem of Ria Lagartos with a Private EcoSafari

The ECOSAFARI tour offers a 3-hour adventure exploring the Ria Lagartos Biosphere Reserve in the Gulf of Mexico. For 3000 MXN per private group — which includes a 200 MXN reservation fee — visitors enjoy an intimate experience with nature guides who have over 10 years of experience. This tour is designed for those seeking an educational yet relaxing outing, with the entire experience tailored to your family or friends because it’s exclusively private.

The tour features a 1.5-hour boat ride through the mangroves, where the guides help you spot flamingos, various bird species, crocodiles, and other wildlife. It also includes a Mayans-style clay bath at a scenic beach and time to unwind at a pristine, crystal-clear waters beach of the Gulf of Mexico. This combination of nature exploration with cultural touches makes for a well-rounded and memorable outing.

However, be aware that additional costs of 2800 MXN are required to access the natural sites and enjoy the full experience. The meeting point is at the Ria Maya Restaurant in Río Lagartos, with flexible booking options like free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Private and exclusive tour experience for groups of up to 16 people
• 3-hour guided adventure through the Ria Lagartos Biosphere Reserve
• Boat ride lasting 1.5 hours among mangroves with wildlife observations
• Highlights include flamingos, crocodiles, herons, and other bird species
• Unique Mayan clay bath at a scenic beach for exfoliation
• Relaxation at a virgin beach with crystal waters of the Gulf of Mexico

The Private Tour Experience in Río Lagartos

The tour starts at the Ria Maya Restaurant with coordinates 21.5965, -88.1602. The private nature of the trip ensures no other travelers join your group, providing a personalized experience. The entire duration is approximately 3 hours, making it a perfect option for a morning or early afternoon outing.

The guides lead this experience with a focus on environmental interpretation, sharing insights into the ecosystems and flora and fauna of the mangroves. This makes the tour not only fun but also educational, ideal for those who enjoy learning about nature firsthand.

Transportation is primarily by boat, covering 30 km of the mangrove-lined waterways. The boat ride offers excellent opportunities to observe flamingos, cormorants, herons, pelicans, and the crocodiles — specifically the Moreletii and Acutus species. The guides’ knowledge ensures you see the wildlife in their natural habitat, often answering questions about the ecosystem.

Discover the Flora and Fauna of the Mangroves

During the boat journey, the guides highlight the diverse birdlife that inhabits the mangroves. Expect to see Caribbean Flamingos in their vibrant pink plumage, along with Pink Spatula, Pelicans, and Cormorants. The area is also home to raccoons, iguanas, and crocodiles, with sightings of Moreletii and Acutus crocodiles being common.

The environmental interpretation ensures that each sighting is accompanied by explanations about the animals’ behaviors and the ecosystem’s importance. This approach is appreciated for its educational richness and helps visitors understand the delicate balance within this habitat.

Unique Mayan Clay Bath at a Scenic Beach

One of the tour’s highlights is the opportunity to enjoy a Mayan clay bath at a special beach. The clay bath serves as a natural exfoliant, echoing the practices of Mayan ancestors. Visitors can indulge in this skin treatment while taking in stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico.

This stop adds a cultural touch to the natural adventure, providing a refreshing break and a chance to connect with local traditions. The scenic beach is perfect for photos and relaxing before the final segment of the tour.

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Relaxation at a Virgin Beach with Crystal Clear Waters

Following the clay bath, travelers head to a virgin beach with crystal-clear waters. Here, the focus shifts to relaxation and cooling off in the beautiful sea of the Gulf of Mexico. The calm waters are ideal for swimming or simply lounging on the beach.

The secluded nature of this beach makes it a peaceful spot away from crowded tourist areas. It provides a perfect setting to unwind after the boat ride and the cultural activity, allowing for some personal downtime in a pristine environment.

Logistics and Booking Details

The tour begins at C. 19 28, and the meeting point at the Ria Maya Restaurant makes it easy to find. Travelers are advised to confirm their start time via WhatsApp or email after booking to ensure smooth planning.

The cost of 3000 MXN covers the private group experience, with an additional optional fee of 2800 MXN for access to the natural sites. The reservation fee of 200 MXN secures your spot and access to the facilities. Payment can be reserved now with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility in your plans.

Participants should bring comfortable shoes, a camera, biodegradable sunscreen, insect repellent, and beachwear. Packing cash, binoculars, and a reusable water bottle is recommended to enhance the experience.

The Guides and Their Expertise

The family of guides behind Rio Lagartos Naturelovers are certified and have over 10 years of experience. They are passionate about environmental education and wildlife observation, ensuring visitors gain deep insights into the ecosystem.

The guides, including Angel, are praised for their knowledgeability and friendly manner. They prioritize guest safety and comfort, providing all necessary safety equipment and first aid. Their patient explanations and willingness to answer questions make the tour engaging and informative.

Suitability and Recommendations for Participants

This EcoSafari is ideal for nature lovers, families, and friends seeking a private and educational experience. The moderate physical activity involved in the boat ride and walking on the beach makes it suitable for most ages but requires comfortable shoes and insect repellent.

The tour is not designed for those seeking luxury amenities but excels at providing authentic nature encounters in a quiet, scenic setting. The inclusion of a cultural Mayan clay bath adds a unique cultural dimension that distinguishes it from typical eco-tours.

The Sum Up: An Authentic EcoAdventure in Río Lagartos

The ECOSAFARI tour offers a well-balanced combination of wildlife observation, cultural experience, and relaxation in the Ria Lagartos Biosphere Reserve. The private format ensures a personalized and educational journey led by experienced guides who genuinely care about local ecosystems.

While the additional fee for natural site access is a consideration, the overall value lies in the intimate setting, expert interpretation, and scenic stops. This tour appeals most to those eager to learn about and connect with nature without the crowds, in a peaceful and authentic environment.

If you want a balanced mix of wildlife spotting, cultural activity, and beach relaxation, this EcoSafari in Río Lagartos is a worthy choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the EcoSafari tour?
The tour lasts 3 hours, including the boat ride, cultural stop, and beach relaxation.

What is the price per group?
The total cost is 3000 MXN for a private group of up to 16 people, including a 200 MXN reservation fee.

Do I need to pay extra to access the natural sites?
Yes, an additional 2800 MXN is required to access the natural sites and enjoy all features of the tour.

Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is at the Ria Maya Restaurant with coordinates 21.5965, -88.1602.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring comfortable shoes, a camera, biodegradable sunscreen, insect repellent, beachwear, cash, and biodegradable insect repellent.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour’s gentle pace and scenic stops make it suitable for families with children, provided they can handle boat rides and beach walking.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, full cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

What languages are guides available in?
The guides speak English and Spanish.

Is the tour environmentally responsible?
Yes, the guides are committed to sustainable tourism and environmental interpretation to support the preservation of the Ría Lagartos Biosphere Reserve.

How do I confirm my booking time?
You should confirm your start time via WhatsApp or email after booking to ensure proper planning.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby