Río Lagartos (Alligator River) is a fishing village that is located in the windy northern shore of the peninsula. The exquisite Ria Lagartos lagoon is a recognized biosphere reserve; and a part time home to over 300 species of birds, and thousands of pink flamingos that fish the shallow salt flats for shrimp and other mariscos. There are, however, lots of alligators and crocodiles which you will most likely see if you take a flamingo tour. 

 

Río Lagartos has one of the most bizarre landscapes ever. Next to the lagoon, there are shallow canals of dull red foaming water. There is a large salt extraction operation here that supplies a large amount of the grainy white substance to Mexico’s dining tables. Furthermore, if you dig through the surface of the cracking earth, you will find a damp mud containing huge concentrations of salt. This extra salty soil is perfect for an exfoliating mud bath, so actually you are in the middle of nowhere receiving a luxury spa treatment. 

The seafood in Río Lagartos is sublime; lobster, shrimp, fish, and ceviche; all fresh from the sea, and served to you in a wide variety of ways. 

 

On the way back from the reserve you can go to El Cuyo beach, which is located at the end of the road from Río lagartos. El Cuyo has a clear white-sand beach, muddy maters and a windy coast, which makes for good kiteboarding. 

 

How to get to Río Lagartos?
Cancun-Valladolid-Tizimin-Río Lagartos. 
Or take the highway 180 west to Ignacio Zaragoza. Turn right after the checkpoint and follow the signs to Colonia Yucatan-Tizimin-Rio Lagartos. 
It will take you around 3 hours.