Discover the FABULOUS PINK WATERS at the Caribean (Las Coloradas+Río Lagartos)

Planning a trip from Cancun and wondering whether a day trip to see the famous pink salt lakes and flamingos is worth it? This tour takes you on a full-day adventure through some of the most visually striking landscapes in the Yucatán Peninsula, combining natural beauty with wildlife encounters. It’s a popular choice for travelers who love scenic views, abundant wildlife, and a taste of local salt harvesting.

We particularly appreciate the well-organized boat ride through the Ría Lagartos Reserve and the opportunity to photograph the vibrant lakes — a true highlight. Plus, the inclusion of meals and transportation makes this a hassle-free experience. That said, the long drive, sometimes uneven guides, and seasonal variations in lake color are things to keep in mind.

This tour is ideal for those eager to see iconic salt lakes, flamingos, and crocodiles while enjoying a comfortable, all-in-one package. If you’re up for a full day of adventure with some travel time involved, this could be a memorable highlight of your Yucatán trip.

Key Points

• Spectacular scenery of Las Coloradas’ pink salt lakes, perfect for photos.
• Wildlife sightings, including flamingos and crocodiles, with a boat ride through Ría Lagartos.
• Comfortable logistics with hotel pickup, air-conditioned transport, and included meals.
• Seasonal variations mean lake hues might be less vibrant during salt harvest season.
• Long day, with a drive that can be up to 5 hours each way, so good for those prepared for a full day.
• Mixed reviews on guide quality and organization, so expectations should be realistic.

Introduction: An Eye-Copping Day From Cancun

This tour promises a photo-worthy journey into the unique landscape of Las Coloradas, where salt lakes glow in shades ranging from soft peach to fiery fuchsia. We love how this tour combines spectacular natural scenery with encounters with local wildlife, especially flamingos and crocodiles, which make for unforgettable photo opportunities. The boat ride through Ría Lagartos is a highlight, offering a chance to see the birds and reptiles in their natural habitat.

What we also like is the all-in-one approach—with hotel pickup, air-conditioned transportation, breakfast, and lunch included, it feels like a careful effort to maximize comfort and convenience. However, travelers should be aware that the colors of the lakes vary seasonally—if you visit during salt harvest season (July to August), the lakes might not display their iconic pink hues. This could be disappointing if your main goal is the vivid color.

This trip works well for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those seeking a full-day adventure with minimal planning. If you’re comfortable with a lengthy drive and are looking for a scenic, wildlife-packed experience, this tour offers a lot of value—albeit with some caveats about logistics and guide service.

Why This Tour Can Be a Great Choice

The Scenic Wonder of Las Coloradas

The main draw of this tour is the chance to see the famous pink salt lakes. These lakes are awe-inspiring, especially when they shimmer under the sun. We loved the way the tour provides time at Las Coloradas to walk around and capture photos. As one reviewer said, “The pink lake is pretty impressive.” Keep in mind, though, that during salt harvesting season, the lakes may not turn as pink, which could impact your photo plans.

Wildlife and Boat Ride at Río Lagartos

The boat ride through the Ría Lagartos Reserve is another highlight. This area is teeming with wildlife—flamingos feeding in shallow waters, crocodiles lounging on the banks, and a variety of bird species. One guest commented, “The crocodiles and flamingos are very close, and the boat ride was fun.” The guide’s ability to spot and explain what you’re seeing can make a big difference, so a knowledgeable guide enhances the experience.

Comfort and Convenience

The large bus with reclining seats, hotel pickup, and air-conditioning make the long transfers more bearable. The included breakfast and lunch, with regional dishes and a cooler with drinks, are thoughtful touches that help travelers manage the day’s physical demands. Many reviews appreciate the food offerings, noting they’re generous and refreshing, especially in the hot weather.

Educational and Cultural Aspects

Some reviews mention learning about salt harvesting and the local environment, which adds depth to the experience. The salt lakes aren’t just pretty—they’re part of a local industry, and understanding that process enriches your appreciation of these landscapes.

Challenges and Considerations

Lengthy Travel Time

One of the most discussed downsides is the long drive—up to 5 hours each way from Cancun. Several reviews express fatigue, with some feeling the ride was uncomfortable, cramped, or without proper amenities. As one traveler said, “The van ride was 3 hours x 2 with no air conditioning,” which can be particularly tough in the heat. The long hours in transit mean this tour suits those who are prepared for a full day of travel rather than a quick sightseeing trip.

Seasonal Variations in Lake Color

From July 19 to August 19, 2023, the tour notes that due to salt harvest, the lakes will have a less vibrant pink hue. This is a natural part of the salt production cycle, so if your visit coincides with this period, you might want to temper expectations about the vividness of the lakes.

Variable Guide Quality and Organization

While many reviewers praise guides for their knowledge and friendliness, others point out inconsistencies. Some travelers felt the guides lacked comprehensive explanations or that the organization was rushed. One reviewer remarked, “The stop at Las Coloradas was just for photos, not to explore the area,” which could be frustrating if you’re hoping for a deeper experience.

Additional Costs and Optional Extras

Be aware that some activities, like visiting a viewpoint, cost extra ($8 USD per person), and there are additional taxes ($27 USD) at Las Coloradas. Food at the restaurant does not include drinks, and some found the included breakfast and lunch to be modest, so bringing extra snacks might be wise.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included:

• Air-conditioned vehicle with reclining seats
• Breakfast box (sandwich, fruit, juice, cookie)
• Visit to Las Coloradas (note: salt harvesting season may affect the lakes’ appearance)
• 2-hour boat ride at Río Lagartos Reserve
• Lunch at a regional restaurant (drinks not included)
• Bilingual guide
• Visit to a crocodile farm

Not included:

• Soda or additional drinks at the restaurant
• Optional viewpoints ($8 USD per person)
• Dinner
• Additional taxes at Las Coloradas ($27 USD)
• Personal expenses or souvenirs

Travelers should plan to bring extra water, snacks, and possibly a camera with a good zoom lens—especially if flamingos are far away or lighting conditions aren’t ideal.

Step-by-Step Breakdown of the Itinerary

Stop 1: Las Coloradas (Approx. 1 hour)

This is the core photo stop, set in a small fishing village known for its striking salt lakes. The tour provides time to walk around, take photos, and learn about the salt production process. Keep in mind that during the salt harvest, the lakes might not look as pink, and some visitors have expressed frustration at being rushed through the area.

Stop 2: Río Lagartos

The highlight here is the boat ride through the mangroves, which lasts about two hours. Expect to see flamingos feeding, crocodiles sunbathing, and a variety of bird species. Many guests appreciate the opportunity to get close to wildlife, and guides can help spot animals you might miss. Some reviews mention the desire for more detailed explanations during the ride, but overall, it’s an engaging experience.

Stop 3: Local Restaurant & Return

After the boat ride, you’ll have a chance to enjoy a regional dish at a restaurant. The meal is generally well-received, with generous portions and regional flavors, although drinks are extra. The tour then returns to Cancun, with the entire day ending around 7-9 pm, depending on traffic and timing.

Additional Activities

Some tours include a visit to a crocodile farm where you can see the animals up close and even hold baby crocodiles. Reviewers note that this part may feel somewhat rushed or overly staged, but it’s still a memorable experience, especially for animal lovers.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

Many reviews reflect genuine enthusiasm about the wildlife and scenic beauty. One traveler wrote, “The pink lake was impressive, and the boat ride was fun,” while another appreciated the knowledgeable guides and the good food provided.

However, criticisms highlight logistical issues like long travel times, cramped vans, and inconsistent guide explanations. One guest summarized it by saying, “The drive was too long, and the tour felt rushed at times,” which is worth considering if you prefer shorter excursions.

The tour offers a beautiful and wildlife-rich day but requires patience and a tolerance for long hours in transit. It’s a solid choice for those eager to see the salt lakes and flamingos in their natural habitat without venturing too far from Cancun.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for nature and wildlife enthusiasts who don’t mind a long day on the road. It offers stunning views, memorable wildlife encounters, and good value for the price, especially with meals and transportation included. If your main goal is to see the vivid pink lakes, plan for the seasonal variation or manage expectations about the lakes’ appearance during salt harvest season.

Travelers who enjoy guided tours with a laid-back pace will appreciate the reasonably priced package and the opportunity to learn about local salt harvesting and ecosystems. However, those who dislike long journeys, unpredictable guides, or are traveling with very young children might want to consider other options.

In all, this tour is a well-rounded adventure—a chance to see some of the most distinctive sights of the Yucatán Peninsula, enriched with wildlife, culture, and some well-deserved relaxation over a full day’s span.

FAQ

How long is the drive from Cancun?
The drive can be up to 5 hours each way, making it a full-day commitment. Be prepared for a lengthy trip, especially if you prefer shorter excursions.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup, an air-conditioned vehicle, breakfast, lunch, guided visits to Las Coloradas and Río Lagartos, a boat ride, and a visit to a crocodile farm.

Will I see the pink lakes in their full color?
Possibly not during salt harvesting season (July 19 to August 19, 2023), when the lakes might appear less pink. The lakes are most colorful outside of this period.

Are there optional costs?
Yes, extra activities like visiting a viewpoint cost about $8 USD per person, and there’s a $27 USD tax at Las Coloradas. Drinks at the restaurant are also an extra.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but the long transportation time and long day might be tiring for very young children. Check with the tour provider if you have specific concerns.

What should I bring?
Bring extra water, sunscreen, a hat, and a camera with zoom capability if flamingos are far away. Also, consider packing a swimsuit if you want to participate in the salt scrub or enjoy the boat ride fully.

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

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, pickup is offered from most Cancun hotels, making the experience more convenient.

In the end, this tour offers a chance to witness some of the most visually stunning and wildlife-rich sites of the Yucatán. With a bit of patience and realistic expectations, you’ll go home with unforgettable images and stories—plus a good understanding of how salt plays a role in local life.