Las Coloradas Tour from Cancun and Playa del Carmen

If you’re looking to escape the crowds and see some of the most unique landscapes in Mexico, the Las Coloradas Tour offers a compelling way to do just that. This full-day adventure from Cancun or Playa del Carmen takes you to two of the Yucatan Peninsula’s most intriguing sights: the brightly pink Las Coloradas lagoon and the wildlife-rich Rio Lagartos reserve. As a travel writer who loves sharing honest, detailed reviews, I find this tour particularly appealing for travelers craving authentic natural beauty and a bit of local flavor.

What we love most about this experience are the stunning, photo-worthy views of the flamingo-filled wetlands and the insightful guides who help you understand the significance of each site. The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off makes it convenient, and a boxed lunch ensures you stay fueled during long, scenic hours. On the flip side, one consideration is the additional reservation tax for Rio Lagartos, which adds $27 USD per person — something to plan for if you’re budgeting.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy nature, photography, and wildlife, and who want to see something truly different without sacrificing comfort or convenience.

Key Points

• Unique Landscapes: See the world-famous pink waters of Las Coloradas lagoon, created by salt-loving microorganisms.
• Wildlife Encounters: Observe flamingos and other wildlife in their natural habitat at Rio Lagartos.
• Comfort & Convenience: Includes hotel pickup, air-conditioned transport, bottled water, and a packed lunch.
• Educational Guides: Tour guides are praised for their kindness, respect, and knowledge.
• Value for Money: The comprehensive itinerary and included amenities make this a solid choice for travelers wanting an authentic experience.
• Additional Cost: Be aware of the $27 USD reservation tax at Rio Lagartos.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Starting Early at 6:30 am, this tour kicks off with a pickup from your Cancun or Playa del Carmen hotel. The long drive might seem daunting, but the comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle is a plus, especially after a night’s sleep. Once you arrive at each site, your guide will help you navigate and learn about the landscape and its inhabitants.

First Stop: Las Coloradas

Las Coloradas is the star of this trip, and rightly so. This extraordinarily scenic lagoon is famous for its vivid pink hue, caused by halobacteria thriving in the salt-saturated waters. We loved how the colors seem almost surreal, especially in the right sunlight, making it a photographer’s dream. You’ll get around two hours here, enough time to walk along the viewing platforms, snap photos, and learn about how salt has been extracted from these waters for decades.

One reviewer describes it as “one of the best tours I ever took,” highlighting the brilliant colors and the informative guides. Keep in mind that access to the lagoon is not included in the $126 price; there’s an additional $27 USD reservation tax you must pay on-site, which is a typical fee for entering protected areas like this.

Second Stop: Rio Lagartos

Following Las Coloradas, you’ll head to Rio Lagartos, a UNESCO-recognized biosphere reserve. This area is a vital wetland habitat, with mangroves, estuaries, and marshes. It’s a biodiversity hotspot and a nesting site for various bird species, including the iconic flamingos. During your approximately two hours here, you can observe these birds in their natural environment and appreciate the lush landscape.

Reviews mention the knowledgeable guides as a highlight — one enthusiast called out the guide’s kindness and respect, making the experience all the more enriching. While the reserve itself is free to visit, remember that the reservation tax applies here too, as noted in the tour info.

Practical Details & Tips

• Timing: The tour begins early in the morning, so get a good night’s sleep to enjoy the full experience.
• What to Bring: Swimsuits, towels, and extra clothes are recommended if you want to cool off or explore more freely.
• What to Wear: Comfortable clothes and shoes are best; biodegradable sunscreen and insect repellent are encouraged.
• Inclusions: The tour includes hotel pickup & drop-off, bottled water, a boxed lunch (sandwich, juice, apple), and all entrance fees except the reservation tax.
• Exclusions: Beverages at the restaurant and the $27 USD reservation tax for Rio Lagartos are extra costs to plan for.

Authentic Experiences & Real Traveler Insights

One traveler shared that the guide was very friendly and informative, which made the day even more special. Another mentioned how beautiful the flamingos looked in their natural habitat and appreciated the chance to learn about the health of this protected ecosystem. Yet another pointed out that unfortunately, they couldn’t go into Las Coloradas due to uncontrollable circumstances, highlighting that weather or access issues might occur, so flexibility is key.

The overall feedback indicates that this tour offers great value for those interested in nature, wildlife, and photography, with the added bonus of convenient transfers and a comfortable pace.

A Well-Balanced Tour for Curious Travelers

This experience is perfect for those who want more than just pretty pictures — it’s for travelers who love to understand the environment and enjoy guided insights. The full-day schedule allows ample time to soak in each site without feeling rushed, and the small group atmosphere (max 60 travelers) fosters a more personal experience, especially with knowledgeable guides.

The high marks from reviews about the guides’ friendliness and the breathtaking views make this a compelling outing. However, the additional reservation fee can be a surprise if overlooked, so budget accordingly.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re eager to witness something truly unique—the pink waters of Las Coloradas—paired with a biodiverse wildlife reserve, this tour ticks both boxes. It’s especially suitable for nature lovers, photographers, and eco-conscious travelers. Those who appreciate comfort and convenience will value the included hotel transfers and lunch. But if you prefer more flexibility or a shorter outing, you might want to explore other options.

This tour strikes a good balance between spectacular sights and educational value, making it a worthwhile choice for curious visitors to Cancun or Playa del Carmen.

FAQ: Practical Questions About the Las Coloradas Tour

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your Cancun or Playa del Carmen hotel, making it easy to join without extra hassle.

How long is the entire tour?
Expect about 12 hours from start to finish, including travel time, site visits, and lunch.

What should I bring with me?
Bring swimsuits, towels, extra clothes if you wish to swim or relax, comfortable shoes, biodegradable sunscreen, and insect repellent.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, there’s a $27 USD reservation tax for Rio Lagartos, payable on-site, not included in the tour price.

What is included in the tour price?
Hotel transportation, bottled water, a boxed lunch, and entrance fees (except the reservation tax).

How many people usually go on this tour?
The maximum group size is 60 travelers, which keeps the experience a bit intimate and guided.

Can I go into Las Coloradas?
Access is limited to viewing platforms. The tour doesn’t include entry into the lagoon itself, but you can enjoy the stunning views.

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

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but consider physical ability for walking and standing during stops.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking about 48 days in advance is typical, but earlier reservations are recommended as the tour is quite popular.

The Las Coloradas Tour from Cancun and Playa del Carmen offers an authentic glimpse into one of Mexico’s most photogenic and biologically diverse areas. With its surreal pink lagoon and the chance to spot flamingos and other wildlife, it’s a solid pick for travelers seeking a nature-focused day that’s both comfortable and informative. The guided experience adds depth and context to each stop, making it more than just a sightseeing trip.

While it does involve an additional reservation tax and a full-day commitment, the scenic views, wildlife encounters, and expert guides create a memorable adventure worth the investment. Perfect for those who enjoy learning about ecosystems while capturing stunning photos, this tour provides a genuine taste of the Mexican wilderness.

Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a photographer, or simply someone wanting a break from beaches and city streets, this experience is likely to leave a lasting impression. Just remember to pack your camera, a sense of adventure, and a readiness to see some of the most captivating natural sights the Yucatán has to offer.