Rio Lagartos

Rio Lagartos is located on the Gulf of Mexico, an hour and a half north of Valladolid. While it is neither a river (Rio) or home to any alligators (Lagartos) this poorly named town is home to an abundance of great wildlife which includes Crocodiles, Flamingos, and many other bird species. It is a protected wildlife reserve known as Ria Lagartos, and it is easy to arrange a boat tour from Rio Lagartos. We were super lucky to find this group of Flamingos dining in the shallows outside of the town.

Reserva de la Biosfera Ría Lagartos is the perfect place to escape the hustle of the city, and experience a place unlike any other. It has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site 2004, protecting the important Biosphere. One of the most incredible places we have visited in Mexico, a boat ride into the lagoon at Rio Lagartos is an unforgettable experience. We took a trip through the Ria Lagartos Nature Reserve and were very lucky to see an abundance of wildlife. 

The creek was “discovered” by Francisco Hernandez in 1517, mistaking the lagoon for a river and mistaking the crocodiles for “many large alligators”. Today, Rio Lagartos is known as being a sanctuary for birds and other wildlife – such as crocodiles and flamingos – and an amazing place to get in touch with nature.

The mangroves and fresh water. We were smart (or lucky) and planned our adventure late in the day, which allowed us to return to Rio Lagartos as the sun set over the water. After an afternoon of watching crocodiles, flamingos and watching the birds of the biosphere. The sunset over the lagoon was spectacular and the perfect way to end the day.

Rio Lagartos