Discover the FABULOUS PINK WATERS in the Caribean

If you’re dreaming of stepping into a vibrant, colorful landscape where nature’s palette is truly on display, then this tour to Las Coloradas pink lakes and the Ría Lagartos biosphere reserve might be just the ticket. Designed for those who want a hassle-free day with plenty of Instagram-worthy shots, this experience promises stunning scenery, wildlife encounters, and regional cuisine—all wrapped in a well-organized package.

We love that it’s a full-day adventure, providing a mixture of scenery, wildlife, and culture in just about 11 to 14 hours. The hotel pickup and air-conditioned transport mean you can relax from the moment you leave your hotel, and the boat ride through mangroves offers a chance to see crocodiles and flamingos in their natural habitat. However, the long travel time, especially on busy days, is something to keep in mind. This tour is best suited for travelers looking for an immersive, photo-rich experience with a mix of nature, wildlife, and regional flavors.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery: The pink lakes are a visual highlight, with their salt flats creating an otherworldly backdrop.
• Wildlife encounters: Expect to see flamingos, crocodiles, and various bird species in their natural settings.
• Comfortable logistics: Hassle-free hotel pickup and modern vehicle transport make the day easier.
• Cultural and regional flavor: Enjoy regional cuisine during your included lunch.
• Educational guides: Knowledgeable guides help you understand the significance of the area’s natural features.
• Value for money: For around $125, you get multiple stops, guided tours, boat rides, and a meal—quite a package.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Journey Begins — Hotel Pickup and Travel Time

The day kicks off early with a 7:00 am pickup from your hotel, which is a real plus if you dislike abrupt mornings or navigating your way to a meeting point. The transportation is in an air-conditioned vehicle, helping you stay comfortable on the roughly 3-4 hour drive to Las Coloradas. This lengthy trip might not appeal to everyone, especially those eager for a quick getaway, but it’s a small price for the sights that await.

Some reviews mention the journey’s length — one traveler noted it took 4 hours to reach Las Coloradas, emphasizing that it’s quite a haul from the hotel zone. The bus is described as comfortable and well-maintained, but a few travelers noted waiting times and crowded conditions, so packing some snacks or water is wise.

Las Coloradas — The Pink Lakes

The star of the show is Las Coloradas, a salt-producing area famed for its pink and orange lagoons. The salt flats and lagoons offer stunning photo opportunities, especially when the sun hits the salt and water just right. The salt works near the lakes is a reminder that this has been a working industrial site for generations.

However, timing matters. Several reviews mention that during July 19 to August 19, 2023, the pink hue is muted because of salt harvest activity. So, if you’re visiting during this period, don’t expect the vibrant pinks you see in other times of the year. The salt lakes still make for great photos — the contrast of white salt, blue water, and the sky is captivating.

Many visitors marvel at the beauty of this landscape. One said, “the water appears pink due to the salt and the presence of salt in the sea,” and others described it as “a truly mesmerizing place.” Be sure to bring your camera and consider arriving early to beat the crowds.

Ría Lagartos — Wildlife and Mangrove Boat Ride

After about 6 hours at Las Coloradas, the tour continues with a 2-hour boat trip through the mangroves of Ría Lagartos. This part of the experience is often highlighted as a genuine wildlife encounter. Expect to see flamingos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species in the lush mangrove ecosystem.

One reviewer recounted, “on the boat ride, a crocodile swam close to the boat to get some fish,” illustrating how close-up and engaging these wildlife sightings can be. The guides do their best to educate and point out animals, making it a worthwhile stop for nature lovers.

Some travelers note that the boat tour feels more like a large, stable boat rather than a tiny craft, which is good for comfort. The natural habitat of crocs and flamingos offers a different perspective on the local ecosystem and provides excellent photo opportunities, especially for birdwatchers.

Lunch and Cultural Touches

A regional lunch wraps up the day at a local restaurant, with an emphasis on fresh, regional ingredients. The included box lunch features a sandwich, fruit, cookie, and juice, enough to keep you fueled for the rest of the day. Vegetarian options are available, and reviews praise the high quality of the food, describing it as “delicious.”

The choice of local cuisine adds authenticity and a chance to taste regional flavors. Several travelers mention that the lunch is a highlight, with some noting it as a well-prepared, flavorful meal. It’s a good opportunity to relax and chat about the morning’s adventures.

Crocodile Farm and Additional Stops

The tour also includes a visit to a crocodile farm, which some travelers find intriguing, especially if they’re interested in these creatures beyond seeing them in the wild. The farm is intended as an educational experience, but opinions are mixed — some find it fascinating, others less so.

Optional viewpoints cost an extra $8 USD per person, offering a panoramic view of the salt lakes or other scenic vistas. The tour’s admission to Las Coloradas costs an additional $27 USD per person, which should be considered part of the total expense.

Practical Aspects and Value

Pricing and What’s Included

At $125 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive experience: admission tickets to Las Coloradas, a boat tour, a lunch, water bottles, and a visit to the crocodile farm. Many reviews call this “good value” considering the number of stops and activities.

The included lunch and boat ride significantly upgrade the experience, avoiding extra costs and planning. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort during the long drives — a significant perk given the distance.

Group Size and Timing

With a maximum of 40 travelers, the group feels large enough for social interaction but not overwhelming. The start time at 7:00 am means a long day, but it’s necessary to fit all the highlights in. The tour duration is approximately 11 to 14 hours, so prepare for a full-day commitment.

Considerations

Some reviews highlight delays and logistical issues, such as late pickups or long drives. One traveler mentioned an hour delay and the driver not knowing the route, which underscores the importance of patience. Arriving early and being flexible helps make the most of the day.

Others note that weather impacts the visual spectacle, especially during cloudy days when the lakes may not look as pink. Still, the overall experience remains impressive.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for nature enthusiasts, wildlife watchers, and anyone eager to capture iconic pink salt lakes on camera. It’s also suited for travelers who want a guided, all-in-one experience without the hassle of planning logistics or driving themselves.

If you’re interested in regional culture, local cuisine, and wildlife, the combination of salt flats, flamingos, crocodiles, and regional food makes it a well-rounded outing. However, if you’re sensitive to long drives or have limited mobility, the extensive travel time might be a concern.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

This full-day tour from Cancun offers a chance to see Las Coloradas’ famous pink lakes, experience the wildlife in Ría Lagartos, and enjoy regional cuisine—all with the convenience of guided transportation. The guided tours and boat ride add educational value and make it easier to appreciate these unique landscapes.

For those who love photography, wildlife, and vibrant scenery, the visual magic of the salt lakes and mangrove ecosystems justify the cost. The meals and professional guides turn this into a comfortable, informative day trip. Be prepared for the long drive and variable weather conditions, and you’ll find this tour a memorable highlight of any trip to the Mexican Caribbean.

This experience is best suited for adventurous travelers, nature lovers, and photo enthusiasts who don’t mind a full day on the road and want a pre-arranged, hassle-free way to see some of the most colorful sights in the region.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup, starting at 7:00 am, making it easy to begin your day without worrying about transportation.

How long is the total tour?
Expect approximately 11 to 14 hours, including travel time, sightseeing, lunch, and the boat ride.

What is the cost?
The total price is $125 per person, which covers transportation, admission, boat tour, lunch, and water. Additional costs include the Las Coloradas federal tax ($27) and optional viewpoints ($8).

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, the included regional lunch can be prepared with a vegetarian salad menu.

How physically demanding is the tour?
It involves long hours on a bus, walking at the stops, and a boat ride. It’s suitable for most travelers in good health but may be tiring for some.

Will I see pink lakes during all times of the year?
Not necessarily. From July 19 to August 19, 2023, the pink hue is less vibrant due to salt harvesting activities. The lakes are still beautiful, just less colorful.

What wildlife might I see?
Expect flamingos, crocodiles, and various water birds in Ría Lagartos. The boat ride provides close wildlife encounters.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most likely, yes, especially if they enjoy nature and wildlife. However, the long drive and full-day schedule should be considered.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, the Las Coloradas federal tax ($27) and optional viewpoints ($8). Drinks at the restaurant are not included.

What should I bring?
Pack sunscreen, hats, water, camera, and comfortable shoes. Consider bringing extra bottled water, as only a small bottle is included.

In sum, this tour offers a well-rounded look at some of the most colorful and wildlife-rich spots in the Mexican Caribbean for a reasonable price. It combines natural beauty, wildlife, and regional culture, making it a great choice for curious travelers eager to explore beyond the usual beach scene.