If you’re anything like us, you’re always on the lookout for a trip that blends beautiful scenery with a relaxed vibe — and maybe a little bit of fun in the sun. This day pass to Isla Columpios and Pig Beach in Yucatán promises just that. Offered by Shore Excursions Mexico, it’s a chance to enjoy some of the most photogenic spots in the region, with a dash of animal rescue charm thrown in.
What immediately caught our eye about this tour? First, the included round-trip transportation—no fussing with taxis or figuring out how to get there on your own. Second, the pet-friendly aspect, which is a rare find and makes it stand out for animal lovers. On the flip side, the rating is just 2.6 out of 5, which suggests that not everyone has been thrilled with the experience. That’s worth considering if you’re a traveler who values seamless, high-quality tours.
This tour is a good fit for those who want a relaxed, scenic outing that includes time both on a beautiful island and at a beach club. If you’re traveling with family or want a straightforward, guided trip with transportation included, this might be just what you’re after. But if you’re seeking an ultra-luxurious experience or detailed historical exploration, you might want to look elsewhere.
Progreso: Isla Columpios and Pig Beach Club Day Pass
Key Points
- Affordable Price: At $106 per person, it offers a solid balance of value and experience.
- All-Inclusive Transport: Only tour with provided round-trip bus service, so no worries about logistics.
- Pet Friendly: Your furry friends are welcome, and you can even pet the rescued pigs.
- Full-day Experience: About 5 hours from start to finish, making it a manageable half-day adventure.
- Scenic Boat Ride: Enjoy a gentle, leisurely boat tour with views of Bird Island and mangroves.
- Limited Extras: Food, drinks, towels, and snorkel gear are not included, so plan to bring or buy what you need.
Planning more time in Progreso? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
Starting Point and Transportation
The tour kicks off with the convenience of round-trip transportation from your hotel or Airbnb in either Merida or Progreso. This feature is a real boon, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area or prefer to keep things simple. The bus is air-conditioned, ensuring a comfortable ride, which is especially appreciated in the warm Mexican climate.
The pickup is arranged at your hotel lobby or Airbnb, making it a hassle-free start. For cruise passengers, the meeting point is at the Progreso cruise terminal by the tourist info stand, which helps streamline your planning.
The Boat Ride and Natural Highlights
Once at the seashore of Chuburna, you’ll hop onto a tourist-designed riverboat. The boat is comfortable, with safety measures in place, and the ride itself is quite scenic. The boat glides slowly, giving everyone a chance to soak in the views of the lighthouse, rocks, and shoreline.
One of the standout moments is passing the Bird Island, where hundreds of birds rest. We love the idea of observing wildlife up close without disturbing them — it’s a gentle touch of nature that adds a calming element to the trip. You’ll also see sand mounds amid mangroves with viewpoints and swings, perfect for snapping photos or just relaxing amidst nature.
Several reviews mention the stunning scenery as a major highlight. One reviewer said, “The views were so peaceful, and seeing all the birds was really special.” The boat ride lasts about 3 hours, which is enough to enjoy the sights without feeling dragged out.
Isla Columpios: The Instagram-Worthy Swing
The main highlight for many is the visit to Isla Columpios. This tiny island is famous for its swings hanging from trees with views over the water — a classic “must-post” spot. The swings are surrounded by lush greenery and offer a picture-perfect scene, perfect for those Instagram moments.
While we appreciate the beauty of Isla Columpios, it’s worth noting that it’s a small island. So, if you’re expecting a sprawling beach or extensive facilities, you might be a little disappointed. But for a quick, beautiful stop, it hits the mark.
More Great Tours NearbyRelaxing at Pig Beach Club
After the boat ride and island visit, the tour heads to the Pig Beach Club. This spot offers a laid-back environment with white sand beaches and calm, emerald waters. It’s ideal for families, couples, or anyone wanting some downtime.
What makes Pig Beach Club especially interesting is the rescue pigs. These little pigs now enjoy a safe haven where they can be pets, receive medical care, and relax on the beach. You can pet the pigs (as long as you don’t feed them, per the rules) and even make a small donation to support their care — a lovely touch for animal lovers.
The beach club provides loungers, umbrellas, hammocks, and facilities like bathrooms and showers, making it a comfortable spot to stretch out and unwind. Several reviews highlight the relaxing atmosphere and the friendly pigs as the main draw. One traveler said, “It’s rare to find a place where you can enjoy the beach and pet rescue pigs at the same time — it’s quite special.”
Returning and Additional Info
After a couple of hours at the beach club, the tour wraps up and returns you to your accommodation or cruise terminal. The entire experience lasts about 5 hours, making it a good option if you want a half-day escape that covers scenic views and some animal-friendly fun.
It’s worth mentioning that food, drinks, towels, and snorkel gear are not included, so you might want to bring your own or plan to buy snacks on-site. The tour does include life jackets, which is reassuring given the boat ride.
The reviews are a mixed bag. Some travelers love the stunning scenery and the pet-friendly vibe of the pigs, calling it a “beautiful trip” and “worth the price.” Others point out that the service quality is inconsistent, and some found the experience less organized or less engaging than expected, citing the 2.6 rating.
One review mentioned, “The boat was comfortable, and the views were lovely, but the tour felt rushed at times.” Another appreciated that it was pet-friendly and affordable, making it accessible for many.
Pros and Cons Summary
Pros
- Great value for the price considering transportation and guided tour
- Beautiful scenery along the boat ride and island
- Pet-friendly environment and rescue pigs
- Convenient logistics with hotel pickups
- Relaxing beach club with amenities
Cons
- The overall provider rating is modest, indicating some inconsistencies
- Limited included amenities (no food, towels, snorkel gear)
- Short time at each stop might feel rushed to some
- Not suitable for those with mobility impairments — sandy terrain and boat rides can be tricky
If you’re someone who loves scenic boat rides, appreciates animal rescue stories, and wants a relaxed beach day without too many logistical hassles, this tour could be a good pick. It’s especially suited for families, animal lovers, or travelers on a budget. The round-trip transportation and guided elements add peace of mind for those unfamiliar with the area.
However, if you’re seeking a luxurious or highly organized experience, or if you want extensive free time at the beach, you might find this tour somewhat limited. Be prepared for a shorter visit at each stop and a somewhat casual pace.
Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes round-trip transportation from your hotel, Airbnb, or cruise terminal, making logistics simple.
Can I bring food or drinks?
No, food and drinks are not included. You might want to bring snacks or buy on-site, but remember that towels and snorkel gear are also not provided.
Is this tour suitable for children?
While the experience is family-friendly overall, keep in mind that the terrain involves boat rides and sand, which might be difficult for very young children or those with mobility issues.
Are pets allowed?
Yes, the tour is pet-friendly and welcomes animals, which is a rare feature. You can pet the rescue pigs and enjoy the beach with your pets.
How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts about 5 hours, generally in the morning, which fits well into a half-day outing.
What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes and clothes, beachwear, a change of clothes, and perhaps sunscreen and a hat for sun protection.
Is snorkeling part of the tour?
Snorkel gear is not included, so if you want to snorkel, you’ll need to bring your own or rent locally.
This tour offers a relaxed way to enjoy some of Yucatán’s natural beauty and animal rescue stories. With scenic boat rides, picturesque swings, and a beach club with rescue pigs, it packs a lot into a half-day. While the rating suggests some inconsistencies, many travelers find it worthwhile, especially considering the affordable price and included transport.
It’s best suited for those who want an easy, laid-back trip with a mix of nature, scenery, and adorable animals. If you’re flexible and appreciate a casual experience, you’re likely to come away with some lovely memories — and plenty of photos.
For anyone seeking a straightforward, pet-friendly, and scenic outing, this tour in Progreso deserves a spot on your shortlist. Just keep your expectations realistic, and you’ll have a good time soaking up the views and meeting the pigs.
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