*Turtle Hatching + 3 Palos Lagoon Boat Ride & Crocs Farm

Experience the Natural Charm of Acapulco with the Turtle Hatching, Lagoon Boat Ride & Crocodile Farm Tour

This tour offers a wonderful glimpse into the coastal ecosystems just outside of Acapulco, focusing on wildlife conservation and scenic boat rides. While I haven’t done it myself, reviews suggest it’s a well-balanced mix of nature, local culture, and fun activities that make it a great day out.

What we really like about this experience is its focus on endangered sea turtle conservation—adopting and releasing a baby turtle is a heartfelt moment. The cruise across the 3 Palos Lagoon offers expansive views and close encounters with fascinating bird life, and the chance to visit a crocodile farm adds an element of excitement. The inclusion of lunch further enhances the value, especially if you’re seeking a full day of adventure.

A possible consideration is the duration, which is around 5 to 6 hours—so if you prefer very leisurely or packed full days, this might feel a bit short. Also, the tour can be tailored to private groups, which could be a plus if you’re traveling with family or friends.

This tour suits travelers who love nature, wildlife, and scenic boat rides, and who want a hands-on experience that supports conservation efforts. Families, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone looking to see a different side of Acapulco will find plenty to enjoy here.

Good To Know

• Wildlife Conservation: Adopt and release a baby turtle into the Pacific Ocean, supporting local efforts to protect endangered species.
• Stunning Lagoon Cruise: Cruise in a traditional boat through the 3 Palos Lagoon, which is larger than Acapulco Bay, offering a lot of open water and birdwatching opportunities.
• Diverse Ecosystem: Experience mangrove tunnels, virgin lagoons, and a garden of wildflowers, all teeming with tropical flora and fauna.
• Wildlife Encounters: Visit a crocodile farm, where you might get some memorable photo moments with these impressive creatures as well as turtles.
• Authentic Local Flavors: Enjoy a delicious lunch—either the famed “Pescado a la Talla” (on private tours) or other local dishes like charcoal chicken or Mexican cuisine, adding a culinary highlight to your day.
• Flexible Options: The tour is available as both private and small-group experiences, with the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, plus a pay-later reservation.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Starting Point: Hotel Pickup & Introduction

Your day begins with a friendly pickup from your hotel, where your guide will greet you with a sign bearing your name. From there, the drive south along the coast takes about 45 minutes, giving you time to relax and soak in the scenery. Along the way, you’ll enjoy views of coconut and palm plantations, setting the tropical tone for the day.

Sea Turtle Conservation Camp & Baby Turtle Release

One of the tour’s most touching moments is the visit to a Sea Turtle Conservation Camp. Here, your guide will share insights into the efforts to protect these endangered creatures. You’ll witness a short educational talk before participating in the baby turtle liberation—a memorable experience that connects you directly with conservation. Reviewers mention how special this is, with Juan from the U.S. noting, “we had more interaction with turtles and little crocs,” which adds a personal touch.

Exploring the 3 Palos Lagoon

Upon arrival at the lagoon, you’ll board a traditional motorboat for a cruise of at least one hour. This sanctuary is seven times larger than Acapulco Bay, so you’ll have plenty of space to enjoy the views. As you glide through mangrove tunnels, you’ll see virgin lagoons and wildflowers, creating a vivid picture of tropical ecosystems.

The lagoon is home to a variety of exotic birds—herons, pelicans, storks, and more—making it a favorite for bird lovers. Reviewers like Ireen praise the friendly guides and overall safety, which makes for a relaxed atmosphere. We loved the way the boat ride offers both scenic beauty and wildlife sightings—a highlight for nature enthusiasts.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Crocodile Farm & Wildlife Interactions

After the cruise, you’ll visit a crocodile farm, where you can get close to these powerful animals and snap some impressive photos. Multiple reviews highlight how engaging and interactive the farm is, with one reviewer mentioning “fantastic souvenir photos.” It’s a chance to see these formidable reptiles up close and learn about their role in local ecosystems.

Lunch & Leisure Time

The tour includes an authentic Mexican lunch, which varies depending on whether you opt for the private or group version. The private tour features the famous Pescado a la Talla, a grilled fish dish that’s a Mexican culinary must-try. The group option offers charcoal chicken or other local dishes, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied.

Post-lunch, you have the option to stroll along the lagoon shore or head to the nearby ocean beach for some relaxing downtime. This flexible element is appreciated, allowing you to tailor the afternoon to your interests.

Optional Extras & Final Notes

Bottled water is provided throughout the day, but you’ll want to bring your own sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, and comfortable shoes. The tour is offered in multiple languages—English, Spanish, and French—making it accessible for international guests.

The overall length (5 to 6 hours) makes it manageable for most travelers, balancing sightseeing with relaxation. If you prefer a more personalized experience, booking a private group is recommended, especially since the guides are praised for their professionalism and knowledge.

Why This Tour Offers Real Value

The combination of wildlife encounters, scenic boat rides, and cultural experiences makes this tour a well-rounded option for those wanting to get a sense of Mexico’s coastal ecosystems. The adoption of a turtle and the support of conservation efforts add an ethical dimension that enriches the experience.

At $83 per person, the tour offers good value considering the transportation, boat cruise, lunch, and wildlife interactions included. It’s especially suitable for families, nature lovers, and travelers seeking an authentic, educational day outside typical tourist spots.

The reviews emphasize knowledgeable guides who are attentive and flexible—important for those wanting a smooth, informative experience. The stunning lagoon scenery and the chance to see wildlife in their natural habitat make it worth the time, especially if you’re eager to explore Mexico’s lesser-known natural treasures.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys outdoor activities, wildlife, and scenic boat rides, this tour is a wonderful choice. It’s ideal for families with children, wildlife enthusiasts, or travelers eager to support conservation efforts. The inclusion of local cuisine and flexible options also make it suitable for those wanting a comfortable, hassle-free experience.

However, if you’re looking for a very long-day adventure or prefer highly luxurious experiences, this might feel a little compact. Still, it’s a great way to spend a meaningful half-day in the company of nature and friendly guides.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 5 to 6 hours, making it a manageable length for most travelers who want a full but not exhausting experience.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers hotel pickup and drop-off, the lagoon cruise, bottled water, and a delicious lunch. Beverages like beer or wine are not included.

Can I choose between private or group options?
Yes, the tour is available as private or small-group experiences, giving you more flexibility depending on your preferences.

Is there a focus on wildlife conservation?
Absolutely. The tour includes visiting a Sea Turtle Conservation Camp and participating in releasing a baby turtle into the ocean, supporting local preservation efforts.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, and sunscreen are recommended to stay comfortable during outdoor activities.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the interactive nature of the activities and the wildlife encounters make it a good choice for families.

What is the tour’s main highlight?
Most travelers cite the lagoon cruise and turtle adoption as the most memorable parts, with many appreciating the scenic views and wildlife sightings.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended, especially since you can reserve without paying upfront and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What if it rains?
The tour can adapt to changing weather conditions, and guides are praised for their flexibility during rainy seasons, as some reviews mention.

This tour is a fantastic way to connect with Mexico’s coastal environment, enjoy scenic boat rides, and support wildlife conservation. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a family looking for an engaging day out, it offers a thoughtful mix of adventure, education, and relaxation—plus plenty of photo-worthy moments.

You can check if your dates are available here: