Traveling to Yucatan offers so many exciting options, but if you’re looking for a full-day experience that captures the natural beauty, fun, and laid-back vibe of the coast, this tour to Isla Columpios and Pig Beach might just be your best bet. It’s a well-rounded package that combines scenic boat rides, picture-perfect beaches, and adorable rescued pigs—all wrapped into a solid 5-hour adventure.
What truly makes this tour appealing is its competitive price at $106 per person, especially considering the inclusive roundtrip transportation, beach club access, and the chance to see the iconic floating swings. Plus, it’s pet-friendly, which is a rare bonus for beach excursions. That said, the overall provider rating of 2.6 hints that some travelers might have experienced hiccups—it’s worth considering if you’re seeking a smooth, premium experience.
If you’re into authentic scenic moments and love animals, this tour is mostly designed for you. It’s especially suitable for families, pet lovers, and travelers who want a relaxed day in nature without the hassle of planning transportation or activities. However, if you prefer more exclusive, high-end service or have mobility limitations, you might want to explore other options.
Good To Know

- Value-packed: Includes round-trip transport, beach access, and a guided experience.
- Pet-friendly: The tour welcomes your furry friends for a beach day.
- Scenic boat ride: Pass by Bird Island, mangroves, and lighthouse views.
- Iconic swings: Enjoy the famous Isla Columpios in a peaceful natural setting.
- Relaxing beach: Pig Beach offers calm waters and soft white sand.
- Family-friendly: Suitable for kids and those looking for a laid-back day.
What to Expect from This Tour

Transportation and Pickup
The adventure kicks off with air-conditioned round-trip transportation, which is often a concern for travelers, but here, it’s included in the price. The pickup point is conveniently set at your hotel or Airbnb in Merida or Progreso, eliminating the need to navigate unfamiliar logistics. For cruise travelers, the meeting point shifts to the Progreso cruise terminal near the tourist information stand, which simplifies coordination.
The Scenic Boat Ride
Once on the boat, which is designed for tourism and comfort, your guide will take you slowly past some captivating sights. You’ll enjoy the views of the lighthouse and rocks, but perhaps the highlight here is Bird Island, where hundreds of birds rest and flutter in close proximity. A reviewer mentioned, “Watching the birds without disturbing them was a beautiful spectacle”—and it’s easy to see why. The boat cruise provides a peaceful, nature-focused introduction to the area, making it more than just a transfer.
Mangroves, Sand Mounds, and Swings
The boat tour includes circling small sand mounds amid mangroves, where you’ll find viewpoints and swings. These spots, often set in seemingly isolated natural corners, offer fantastic photo opportunities and a chance to enjoy the tranquility of the Yucatán coast. The gentle ride allows you to soak in the landscape, giving a relaxed pace that’s perfect for families or anyone wanting a low-stress experience.
Return to the Beach and Isla Columpios
After about three hours of scenic cruising, you’ll return to the shore to visit Isla Columpios, known for its floating swings that hang over the water. Travelers say these are “a must-try” for their “stunning views” and photo-worthy moments. The swings, combined with turquoise waters and white sand, make for an Instagram-ready backdrop, but they also offer a genuine chance to relax and enjoy nature’s calmness.
Pig Beach Experience
Later, the tour takes you to Pig Beach, where rescued piglets roam freely on the sands. These pigs, now healthy and cared for, are a highlight for animal lovers. The area is pet-friendly and provides amenities like lounge chairs, umbrellas, bathrooms, and showers, making it a comfortable spot for families or anyone wanting to unwind after the boat trip. You can pet the pigs (feeding is not allowed, but donations are welcomed), and watch their playful antics in the calm waters.
What You’ll Love
The beach at Pig Beach is ideal for relaxing, with shallow waters perfect for kids or anyone seeking a tranquil swim. The opportunity to see rescued animals in their natural environment adds an extra layer of authenticity and feel-good vibe to the day.
Find more activities and experiences we've covered in Progreso.
Practical Details and Tips

Duration & Schedule
This is a five-hour tour, usually available in the morning, allowing you plenty of time to explore or relax afterwards. The inclusion of transportation and guided commentary ensures a smooth flow from start to finish.
What to Bring
Pack comfortable shoes, a change of clothes, beachwear, and towels if you wish to stay longer at the beach club. Since food and drinks are not included, bringing snacks or water is advisable, especially if you plan to stay longer at Pig Beach.
Cost & Value
At $106, this tour offers a decent value considering all inclusions—transport, beach access, and guided tours. The reviews point out that it’s the only tour with round transportation included, which is a major plus when comparing options.
Accessibility & Suitability
The tour isn’t tailored for those with mobility impairments, which is worth noting if that applies to you. Also, alcohol and drugs are prohibited on the tour, maintaining a family-friendly environment.
Authentic Experiences and Tips from Reviews

Several travelers appreciated the scenic boat ride for the opportunity to observe wildlife up close, especially Bird Island. One noted, “It was a beautiful spectacle to see hundreds of birds fluttering so close,” which underscores how immersive the experience can be.
On the downside, some reviews hinted at the service quality, suggesting that while the experience is beautiful and affordable, the overall organization might not be seamless everywhere. The pet-friendly nature of the tour and the chance to see rescued pigs in a natural setting remain key highlights.
Why This Tour Works Well for You

If you’re after a balanced combination of scenic boat rides, beach relaxation, and animal encounters, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suitable for families and pet lovers wanting a safe, inclusive environment where fun and natural beauty merge.
Travelers who appreciate stunning views, minimal hassle, and the chance to capture memorable photos will find this experience offers plenty of those moments. It also provides a relaxed pace, perfect for unwinding without feeling rushed.
However, those seeking a luxury experience or easy accessibility might prefer other options, as some reviews suggest the service could be inconsistent.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyFinal Thoughts

This tour offers a wonderful way to experience the Yucatán coast’s natural beauty and animal rescue stories in a relaxed, affordable setting. The boat ride, with its scenic views of Bird Island and mangroves, sets a peaceful tone, while the iconic floating swings at Isla Columpios provide picture-perfect moments. Visiting Pig Beach adds a fun, heartwarming touch, especially for animal lovers.
The inclusion of roundtrip transportation and guided commentary makes it convenient and informative, reducing stress for travelers unfamiliar with the area. While the overall provider score hints at some inconsistencies, the core experience remains charming and authentic.
If you’re looking for a family-friendly, pet-welcoming activity that combines scenic views with wildlife encounters and beach relaxation, this tour offers a compelling option. It’s best suited for travelers who value natural beauty, relaxed pacing, and a touch of adventure.
FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, round-trip transportation from your hotel or Airbnb is included, making it easy to relax and focus on the experience without worrying about logistics.
Can I bring my pet?
Absolutely. The tour is pet-friendly, allowing your furry friends to enjoy the beach day with you.
What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a change of clothes, beachwear, towels, and some snacks or water, as food and drinks are not included.
How long does the boat ride last?
The boat cruise takes about 3 hours, giving enough time to see Bird Island, mangroves, and enjoy the scenery.
Are there facilities at Pig Beach?
Yes, the beach club provides lounge chairs, umbrellas, bathrooms, and showers, making it comfortable for a full day of relaxation.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s family-friendly, especially with calm waters at Pig Beach and easygoing activities. Just note that mobility impairments are not accommodated.
What is the best time of day to take this tour?
It’s most often available in the morning, giving you ample time to enjoy the beach and return comfortably within the 5-hour window.
This day trip offers a delightful mix of scenic beauty, animal encounters, and relaxed beach vibes—perfect for those wanting a genuine taste of Yucatan’s coastal charm without breaking the bank.
You can check if your dates are available here:More Tour Reviews in Progreso
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