Pinktastic Lagoon Adventure Las Coloradas & Rio Lagartos from Cancun

Planning a day trip from Cancun that combines nature, wildlife, and striking scenery? The Pinktastic Lagoon Adventure offers a chance to explore the colorful salt lakes of Las Coloradas and cruise through the thriving Rio Lagartos biosphere. While this tour provides plenty of memorable sights and expert guides, it’s not without a few quirks. We’re here to help you decide if it’s a good fit and what you can really expect along the way.

What we love about this tour is the chance to see Las Coloradas’ surreal pink lakes—something that truly feels like stepping into another world—and the opportunity to spot flamingos, crocodiles, and other wildlife in their natural habitat. The boat ride through Rio Lagartos puts you in the middle of a vivid, thriving ecosystem, offering excellent photo ops and a genuine connection with nature.

However, one thing to consider is that the pickup arrangements have received some mixed reviews, with at least one reviewer noting a lack of a dedicated pickup point. Also, the cost includes various taxes and meals, but some travelers might find certain extra fees, like the $27 USD reserve tax, a bit unexpected if not carefully prepared.

This tour suits travelers eager to see the Yucatan’s iconic pink lakes and vibrant birdlife in one day, especially those who appreciate guided insights and don’t mind a long day of travel. If you’re seeking an immersive, Instagram-worthy experience with a mix of nature and local scenery, this could be a good choice.

Key Points

• Colorful landscapes: Las Coloradas’ pink lakes are visually stunning and perfect for memorable photos.
• Wildlife-rich environment: Expect to see flamingos, crocodiles, and various bird species in their natural habitat.
• Guided experience: Bilingual guides add value with informative commentary.
• Convenient transport: Air-conditioned round trip transportation simplifies logistics.
• Long day, full experience: The tour lasts approximately 12 hours, making it a comprehensive outing.
• Extra costs: Be prepared for the $27 USD reserve tax and optional drinks at the restaurant.

The Itinerary: What You Really Get

Rio Lagartos: Starting with Wildlife and Mangroves

Your day begins early, with a pickup around 6:30 am, and you’ll travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. The first stop is Rio Lagartos, a biodiversity hotspot with lush mangroves and abundant birdlife. The main highlight here is the boat ride through the mangroves—a two-hour cruise that offers a glimpse of flamingos, crocodiles, and other species in their natural environment.

This part of the tour is quite scenic. We loved the way guides pointed out different bird nests and explained the ecosystems—if you’re a nature buff, this adds a lot of educational value. One reviewer noted, “the guides are knowledgeable,” which enhances the experience, especially if you’re interested in learning about the flora and fauna.

Las Coloradas: The Pink Lake Experience

After the boat ride, you’ll head to Las Coloradas, a small fishing village famous for its vivid pink lakes and salt production. The salt mines here are the largest in Mexico, adding an industrial aspect to the scenery. Expect about three hours at this stop, with time to walk along the lakes, take photos, and learn about salt extraction.

The lakes’ bright pink hue comes from algae and bacteria thriving in the salty waters—an unusual sight that’s hard to capture elsewhere. You’ll also see flamingos, which frequently feed in the lakes and are a highlight for many visitors.

While the visit is quite brief, the landscape makes a lasting impression. As one traveler put it, “the views are unbelievable—surreal in the best way.” The guided visit helps you appreciate the natural and economic importance of this area.

Additional Details: What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes all necessary transportation, a bilingual guide, and a breakfast box lunch with a sandwich, juice, and fruit—an efficient way to fuel up for the long day. The boat ride and visit to Las Coloradas are included in the price, with the exception of the $27 USD reserve tax payable on-site.

Beverages at the restaurant are not included, so consider bringing extra drinks if you’re thirsty. The tour concludes with a meal at a local restaurant, where you can choose from a dish offered, rounding off a day packed with activities.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Be ready for an early start—most of the day is spent exploring, so bring comfortable clothes and shoes.
• Use biodegradable sunscreen and insect repellent—these areas are eco-sensitive.
• Bring swimsuits and towels if you want to take a quick dip or just to stay comfortable.
• Keep in mind that the tour can take up to 14 hours depending on traffic and your pickup location.
• Remember, there’s an additional $25 USD preservation tax at Rio Lagartos, so factor this into your budget.

Authentic Experiences and Real Traveler Insights

From reviews, we see that the guides’ knowledge is a major plus—many travelers appreciated their insights about the ecosystems and local culture. One reviewer mentioned, “the guides are very knowledgeable,” which made the experience more engaging.

On the flip side, some travelers found the pickup arrangements less than perfect. As one pointed out, “they didn’t arrange a special pickup point for us,” which meant walking a bit from the hotel—something to keep in mind if you’re staying in a less central location.

The views of the pink lakes are universally praised—they’re described as “unbelievable,” “surreal,” and “a photographer’s dream.” The boat ride at Rio Lagartos offers a chance to see wildlife up close, and many found it a “highlight” of the trip.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure is ideal for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone craving a memorable photo opportunity. It suits travelers who are comfortable with a long day and are eager to see the Yucatan’s distinctive landscapes. It’s also perfect if you want guided expertise and a hassle-free transport option.

If you’re looking for a relaxing, leisurely day with plenty of downtime, this might feel a bit rushed. Likewise, if extra fees or the early start are deal-breakers, you might want to explore other options. But for those hungry for vivid scenery and wildlife encounters in one trip, this tour packs a punch.

The Sum Up

The Pinktastic Lagoon Adventure offers a well-rounded glimpse into one of the Yucatan’s most eye-catching environments. The highlight remains the bright pink lakes of Las Coloradas, which provide unparalleled photo opportunities and insight into salt production. The boat ride through Rio Lagartos’s lush mangroves adds an authentic wildlife encounter, especially with flamingos and crocodiles in their habitat.

While the tour does involve some logistical considerations—such as the early start, extra taxes, and the potential for less-than-ideal pickup arrangements—it delivers on its promise of vibrant scenery and educational value. The guides’ knowledge and the picturesque landscapes make it a worthwhile day trip for travelers eager to see the natural beauty of the Yucatan in a single, well-organized outing.

This experience is best suited for those who are curious about the ecology and culture surrounding the salt lakes and wildlife reserves. It offers a great way to combine nature, photography, and a touch of local industry, making it a memorable addition to your Cancun itinerary.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, the tour provides round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, making it easy to relax during the drive.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 12 hours, but depending on traffic and your pickup point, it could extend up to 14 hours.

Are meals and drinks included?
A breakfast box lunch is included, but beverages in the restaurant are not. You might want to bring extra drinks to stay hydrated.

Do I need to pay extra fees?
Yes, there is a $27 USD reserve tax at the Rio Lagartos Nature Reserve, and a $25 USD preservation tax at Rio Lagartos must be paid on-site.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but keep in mind the long hours and early start—check if your children can comfortably handle a full day.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothes and shoes, a swimsuit and towels if you want to swim, biodegradable sunscreen, insect repellent, and extra cash for taxes and optional drinks.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund.

Whether you’re after stunning photos, wildlife encounters, or simply a day immersed in nature, this tour offers a tangible taste of the Yucatan’s unique environment. Just be prepared for a full day, and you’ll leave with plenty of unforgettable memories.