Las Coloradas and Ría Lagartos

If you’re curious about the natural wonder of the Yucatán Peninsula, a day trip to Las Coloradas and Ría Lagartos offers a compelling mix of surreal landscapes and vibrant wildlife. This tour, offered by Yolo Travel Designer, is designed for travelers eager to see iconic pink lagoons and explore a thriving ecological reserve—all in one 12-hour journey that promises plenty of memorable moments.

Two things we particularly like about this experience: the chance to stand in awe before the otherworldly pink lagoons—a spectacle of salt and microorganisms that’s hard to find anywhere else—and the opportunity to get close to flamingos and crocodiles in their natural habitat. That said, one consideration to keep in mind is the entrance fees to Las Coloradas and drinks are not included, so budget accordingly if you plan to indulge at the sites.

This tour is ideal for those who love nature, photography, and eco-activities. It suits travelers looking for a full-day adventure that balances scenic beauty with wildlife viewing, especially if you’re interested in learning about local ecosystems from knowledgeable guides.

Key Points

• Spectacular Pink Lagoons: Surreal, photo-worthy landscapes
• Wildlife Encounters: Flamingos, herons, pelicans, crocodiles
• Ecological Education: Insightful guidance on regional ecosystems
• Value-Driven Price: Includes transportation, food, boat, and Mayan bath
• Flexible Booking: Free cancellation and pay later options
• Accessible for All: Wheelchair friendly and guided in both Spanish and English

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What to Expect on This Day Trip

Starting the Day: Pickup and Transport

The tour begins with a hotel pickup, which is included in the price, simplifying the logistics of a trip in the Yucatán. The transportation is comfortable, and the guide confirms your name upon arrival. Since the tour lasts about 12 hours, expect a full but leisurely day, with a mix of guided explanations and free time for photos and exploration.

First Stop: Las Coloradas

Our first highlight is the tiny fishing village of Las Coloradas, famed for its vivid pink lagoons. These pools are a photographer’s dream, and the high salt concentration combined with microorganisms gives the water its striking hue. We loved the way the water contrasted against the blue sky and the white salt flats, creating a landscape that seems almost too perfect to be real.

Some reviews mention that the entrance fee to Las Coloradas is not included, so prepare for a small additional cost. Visitors often note that the lagoons are more impressive in person than in photos, thanks to the changing light throughout the day. The tour provides enough time to walk around, take pictures, and marvel at the surreal scenery, but it’s wise to bring sunscreen and water, as the area is largely exposed.

Exploring Ría Lagartos: A Wildlife Sanctuary

After soaking in the pink hues, we head to Ría Lagartos, a protected eco-reserve home to an incredible variety of birds and creatures. Here, the highlight is the boat tour through the mangroves and tranquil waters, giving you a front-row seat to the region’s rich biodiversity.

Guides are well-versed and eager to share insights about the ecological importance of the reserve. Expect to see pink flamingos (hence the name), herons, pelicans, and maybe even crocodiles lounging near the banks. Several reviews mention how the guides are passionate and knowledgeable, making the wildlife spotting both educational and fun.

This part of the tour is what truly sets it apart—being able to observe animals in their natural environment, rather than in a zoo, makes a lasting impression. The boat ride also offers a chance to appreciate the mangroves’ complex ecosystem, which plays a crucial role in maintaining regional biodiversity.

More Great Tours Nearby

Cultural and Natural Highlights: Mayan Bath and Food

Along With nature, the tour includes a traditional Mayan bath—a relaxing experience often involving natural herbs and local customs. The included food is another perk, providing a taste of local Yucatán cuisine, which adds an authentic flavor to your day.

End of the Tour: Return and Reflection

As the day winds down, the group returns to the hotel, often with plenty of photos and stories to share. While the tour is quite full, many find it a worthwhile investment in memory-making and eco-awareness.

The Practicalities: What You Need to Know

Pricing and Value

At $93 per person, this tour offers a reasonable price considering it covers transportation, guide services, boat tour, and food. Just remember, basic entrance fees to Las Coloradas are extra, so factor that into your budget. Many reviews praise the tour’s value for money, especially for those interested in natural landscapes and wildlife.

Duration and Timing

The tour lasts around 12 hours, making it a full-day commitment but an efficient way to see these two spectacular sites. The starting times vary, so check availability when booking. The long hours are manageable thanks to the comfortable transport and organized schedule.

Accessibility and Language

The tour is wheelchair accessible, a notable plus for travelers with mobility needs. Guides speak both Spanish and English, making it accessible for international visitors. The group size tends to be manageable, fostering a more personalized experience.

Cancellation and Flexibility

Booking with flexible options like free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance is available, which is helpful if your plans change unexpectedly.

Authentic Experiences and Real Traveler Insights

Many reviewers express admiration for the visual impact of the pink lagoons, with comments like “the colors are even more vibrant in person” and “a truly surreal landscape.” The wildlife viewing also draws praise—“seeing flamingos in their natural habitat was a highlight,” according to one review.

Some travelers note that the entrance fee to Las Coloradas isn’t included, so be prepared for an extra cost and plan accordingly. Others mention that the guide’s knowledge about the ecosystems enriched their understanding of the region’s ecological importance, making the experience both scenic and educational.

The inclusion of a Mayan bath and local food helps deepen the cultural connection, often cited as a relaxing and delicious addition after the outdoor activities.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and photographers eager to capture iconic landscapes. It’s also suited for travelers who want a full-day adventure that combines scenic beauty with ecological learning. If you’re interested in understanding more about local ecosystems or simply want to see a landscape that looks like it’s from another planet, this tour hits the mark.

However, those looking for a more relaxed, less structured day might find it a bit demanding, given the schedule and outdoor exposure. If mobility is a concern, note the accessibility information, but confirm the specifics with the provider.

The Sum Up

The Las Coloradas and Ría Lagartos tour offers a value-packed way to experience some of Mexico’s most striking natural phenomena. You’ll love the visual drama of the pink lagoons and the thrill of spotting wildlife in a protected reserve. The tour’s inclusive aspects—transport, guide, food, and boat—make it a convenient option, especially for travelers keen on eco-tourism and authentic landscapes.

While there is an extra cost for entrance fees, many see this as a small price to pay for the chance to walk through landscapes that seem almost unreal and observe wildlife in their natural habitat. The knowledgeable guides help turn a scenic excursion into an educational experience that’s enriching and fun.

If you’re planning a trip to the Yucatán and want a full-day adventure that combines natural beauty with ecological insight, this tour is a solid choice—offering good value, memorable sights, and a chance to connect with the region’s vibrant ecosystem.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and comfortable transportation to and from the sites.

How long does the tour last? It runs approximately 12 hours, giving you ample time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Are guides bilingual? Guides speak both Spanish and English, making explanations accessible for most travelers.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible? Yes, the tour is designed to accommodate wheelchair users.

What is included in the price? Transportation, guide, boat tour, food, and Mayan bath are included. Entrance fees to Las Coloradas are extra.

Can I cancel the tour? Yes, you can cancel for a full refund if you do so at least 24 hours in advance.

What should I bring? Sunscreen, hat, water, and camera are recommended; prepare for outdoor exposure.

Are drinks included? No, drinks are not included in the tour price.

Who is this tour best suited for? Nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and those interested in ecology will find this trip especially rewarding.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby