Travelers Guide to Playa del Carmen

Ria Lagartos

          Ria Lagartos, located within the Biosphere Special Reserve on the northern coast of the Yucatan on the Gulf of Mexico, just east of the state of Quintana Roo, is famous for its enormous flamingo colony and large variety of other species. 

          It is also a picturesque fishing village with colorfully painted wooden and cement homes. Protected by the SMARNAP to preserve the diverse flora and fauna of the area, it was registered in the United Nations in 1986 as an area of important international wetlands.

          This is a fantastic place for birdwatchers and those who want to see an unusual area that is off the beaten track. There are different boat trips you can take that will allow you to explore the ria, the nesting areas, or Chiquila Beach. We recommend the trips that leave from the Isla Contly Restaurant with Diego, as he is quite knowledgeable about the local flora and fauna, having taken courses on preserving this delicately balanced area.

          You can get to Ria Lagartos via a travel agency, in a rented car or by bus. There are no hotels here. The next village, San Felipe, does have hotel accommodations that are clean and reasonably priced.