Las Coloradas Exploring Tour

Exploring Las Coloradas: A Natural Wonder Near Cancun

If you’re looking for a day trip that takes you beyond the beaches of Cancun into the fascinating world of natural color, the Las Coloradas Exploring Tour might be just what you need. This full-day adventure offers a glimpse of one of Yucatán’s most photogenic sights: the salt lagoons of Las Coloradas, where hues of pink, yellow, and coral ripple across the water — a sight that’s as surreal as it sounds.

What we love about this tour is its focus on authentic, less-touristy scenery that’s perfect for photography or simply marveling at nature’s art. Plus, the inclusion of breakfast, bottled water, and soda makes it feel like a thoughtful, all-inclusive experience. On the flip side, one point to keep in mind is the additional eco tax of 450 MXN per person, which isn’t included in the upfront price but is an unavoidable part of visiting this protected area.

This experience suits travelers who crave a visual feast of natural beauty without the hustle of crowded attractions. It’s especially great for those interested in unique landscapes, nature lovers, or anyone looking to add some colorful photos to their travel album.

Key Points

• Unique Landscape: Experience the stunning and unusual salt lagoons with colors that change from yellow to pink.
• Small Group: Limited to 15 travelers, ensuring more personal attention and fewer crowds.
• All-Inclusive Feel: Includes breakfast, bottled water, and soda — no need to worry about bringing your own.
• Eco Tax: Expect to pay a 450 MXN eco tax per person, which is separate from the tour price.
• Timing: Starts early at 7:00 am, making the most of daylight and avoiding midday heat.
• Duration: About 12 hours, offering a relaxed pace with plenty of time to enjoy each stop.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Starting Early at 7:00 am, this tour begins with a convenient pickup, usually from a designated meeting point in Cancun. The first major stop is Rio Lagartos, a small fishing village that acts as the gateway to Las Coloradas. Here, the group transitions into a comfortable vehicle that takes you to the salt lagoons, roughly a 6-hour experience that includes entry to the lagoons (free).

Las Coloradas: The Main Attraction

Once you arrive at the salt ponds, you’ll see why this site is a magnet for photographers and nature lovers alike. The high salt concentration and algae create vivid, shifting colors that make for spectacular photos. The scenery is genuinely otherworldly — the water’s hue can vary depending on the weather and the time of day, but you’re guaranteed a visual treat.

Travelers often comment that the lagoons look like they belong to another planet, with “colors that range from bright yellow to deep pink” — perfect for those Instagram shots. The tour includes ample time to walk around, take photos, and soak in the scenery.

What makes Las Coloradas special is its natural composition; the vibrant hues are a result of high salt levels and algae, not artificial dye. This authentic aspect is a highlight for many who visit, as it feels like witnessing a natural painting unfold before your eyes.

Additional Stops and Details

Most of the tour is dedicated to exploring the salt flats, but you’ll also get some insight into how salt is harvested from these lagoons, if that interests you. The tour’s focus isn’t just sightseeing — it’s about experiencing a rare and vibrant natural environment.

Practical Considerations

Be prepared for the eco tax of 450 MXN per person, a fee that supports the conservation of this fragile ecosystem. This fee is paid directly at the site, so budget accordingly. The tour also provides breakfast, bottled water, and soda — a nice touch that keeps everyone hydrated and energized during the long day.

Group Size and Weather

With a maximum of 15 travelers, the tour tends to be intimate and manageable, ideal for those who prefer a smaller group over large busloads. Since the experience depends heavily on weather conditions, if poor weather cancels the trip, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund, ensuring peace of mind.

The Value of the Tour: What Travelers Are Saying

Though there are no official reviews yet, the structure and inclusions suggest good value for those interested in natural landscapes. The tour’s emphasis on authentic scenery and small group size are highly appealing, and the fact that it includes breakfast and drinks might justify its $169 price tag for many travelers.

Some travelers might comment that the long duration requires an early start but appreciate the chance to see a less-visited part of Yucatán. The 6 hours at Las Coloradas provides enough time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed, which is a significant advantage over shorter trips.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is best suited for photo enthusiasts, nature lovers, and curious travelers who want to experience a surprisingly colorful landscape that few visitors get to see firsthand. It’s a good fit if you’re willing to spend a full day away from Cancun’s beaches in exchange for a unique visual experience.

Travelers who enjoy small groups will appreciate the limited size, and those looking for an authentic experience in Yucatán will find this a worthwhile outing. However, be prepared for the additional eco tax and the early start — both are small considerations for the unforgettable scenery you’ll take home.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 12 hours, starting at 7:00 am with pickup and ending in the late afternoon or early evening.

Is the eco tax included in the price?
No, the eco tax of 450 MXN per person is paid separately at the site and is mandatory for visiting the salt lagoons.

What’s included in the tour?
The tour includes breakfast, bottled water, and soda. The salt lagoon admission is free, and transportation between sites is part of the package.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, comfortable walking shoes, and a camera. Since the weather can vary, a light rain jacket or umbrella might also be helpful.

Is this tour suitable for kids?
Most travelers can participate, and given the nature of the site, children who can walk comfortably will enjoy the vibrant scenery.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How many people will be in my group?
The group size is limited to 15 travelers, making for a more intimate experience.

This Las Coloradas tour offers an eye-popping look at an extraordinary natural feature, perfect for travelers eager to see something different from the usual Cancun sights. It’s a well-organized, thoughtful trip that combines scenic beauty with practical inclusions, all at a price that reflects its exclusivity and authenticity.