Gorgeous Natural Pink Lake, Las Coloradas Tour! From Cancun & Riviera Maya

Planning a trip to Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula? If you’re drawn to spectacular natural sights and unique wildlife, the Las Coloradas tour offers a chance to see some of the region’s most unusual and photogenic landscapes. While it’s not a tour for those expecting luxury or quick transfers, it’s a rewarding adventure for travelers eager to experience the authentic beauty of Mexico’s coast and wetlands.

What we love about this tour are the stunning views of the pink lagoon, created by microscopic microorganisms, and the chance to see flamingos in their natural habitat—both genuinely memorable sights. The included lunch at a local restaurant also adds to the experience, giving you a taste of regional flavors.

A notable consideration is that the pick-up process can take some time, and the overall journey can be quite long—expect about a 6-hour drive round-trip. Plus, weather can be unpredictable, especially during rainstorms, which could impact boat rides and outdoor viewing.

This tour is best suited for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and those curious about Mexico’s lesser-visited natural wonders. It’s a full-day outing that rewards patience with extraordinary scenery and wildlife.

Key Points

• Unique landscapes: The pink lagoon at Las Coloradas is a photographer’s dream and a true natural wonder.
• Wildlife in focus: Expect to see flamingos and other endemic birds like herons and eagles in their natural environment.
• Educational component: Learn about the salt extraction process and microorganisms responsible for the lagoon’s distinctive hue.
• Comfort and convenience: Includes hotel pickup & drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, and a box lunch.
• Long but rewarding: The entire experience lasts about 12 hours, with some travelers noting the drive can be lengthy.
• Weather considerations: Rain can impact boat rides and outdoor viewing; packing rain gear is advisable.

A Detailed Look at the Las Coloradas Tour

Introduction to the Experience

This tour promises a full day exploring Mexico’s breathtaking natural sites, with two main stops: Las Coloradas and Rio Lagartos. It’s a good pick for travelers who enjoy wildlife watching, beautiful scenery, and a bit of regional culture. The highlight is undoubtedly the pink lagoon, which appears almost surreal, framed by salt flats and often populated by elegant flamingos.

What stands out is the combination of landscapes and wildlife—you get to see the vibrant pink waters and learn about the ecosystem that creates it. Plus, the local lunch allows you to taste regional flavors, making the day more than just sightseeing.

Transportation and Logistics

The tour is run by Cancun City Tour and includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Cancun or Riviera Maya, with a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle. The start time is early, at 6:30 am, which means you’ll need to get up and ready early but also ensures you make the most of daylight hours.

The drive to Las Coloradas and Rio Lagartos is approximately 3 hours each way, which some travelers might find quite long, especially if the weather isn’t ideal. One reviewer mentioned that the pickup process took around 3 hours, which suggests some variability based on the number of hotels and locations served—something to keep in mind if you’re staying farther out.

The Stops: Las Coloradas & Rio Lagartos

Las Coloradas (Approx. 2 hours)

This is the star attraction—the pink lake. The vivid rosy water is caused by halobacteria thriving in the salty environment, creating a spectacle unlike any other. It’s a photographer’s paradise, with plenty of chances to snap some striking shots.

You’ll also learn about salt extraction—Las Coloradas hosts the second largest salt factory in Mexico, and seeing the salt flats up close adds an industrial touch to the natural beauty.

Traveler tip: Bring your camera, and don’t forget your sunglasses—this area can be very bright. The tour includes admission, so no extra fee here, but be prepared for the preservation tax of $27 USD at Rio Lagartos, which is not included.

Rio Lagartos (Approx. 2 hours)

Next, you’ll visit the Ría Lagartos Biosphere Reserve, a protected wetland recognized internationally for its ecological importance. This area features mangroves, estuaries, and coastal lagoons, serving as nesting sites for many bird species.

Here, you might catch sight of flamingos, herons, eagles, and ospreys—birds that are endemic or quite rare elsewhere. The guide generally offers insights into the ecosystem, and you’ll likely see a variety of birds and other wildlife in their habitat.

Note: The boat ride here could be affected by weather, as one reviewer pointed out they were drenched and cold due to rain. Bringing a raincoat is recommended, especially in wetter seasons.

Food and Refreshments

Your lunch is included—a box lunch with a sandwich, juice, and an apple—providing enough sustenance after the early start. It’s simple but satisfying, especially after a busy morning of sightseeing.

Beverages in the restaurant are not included, so you might want to bring some extra water or other drinks if you prefer.

What Travelers Say

While the tour generally receives a decent 4-star rating, a couple of reviews highlight practical issues. One reviewer mentioned that pickup times and drive durations can be longer than expected, with the process lasting around 3 hours each way. They also noted that rain spoiled their boat ride, emphasizing the importance of good weather.

Another point raised was that lunch portions might not be enough for very hungry travelers, though this seems to depend on individual appetites. The long hours of travel are a key consideration—if you’re someone who prefers shorter trips or is prone to motion sickness, this might be a stretch.

Despite these downsides, many appreciate the stunning views and the opportunity to see flamingos in the wild. The photographic value of the pink lagoon and the chance to learn about local salt production** add educational and visual appeal.

Practicalities & Tips

• Timing: Book at least 9 days in advance; early start helps maximize daylight.
• Weather: Pack biodegradable sunscreen, insect repellent, and rain gear just in case.
• Clothing: Wear comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for outdoor walking and wildlife viewing.
• Money: Remember the $27 USD preservation tax at Rio Lagartos is not included in the tour price.
• Group size: The tour caps at 50 travelers, so expect a somewhat bustling but manageable group.
• Photo gear: Bring your camera or smartphone with plenty of storage—the scenery is remarkable.
• Other essentials: Towels, extra clothes, or swimsuits may come in handy if you get wet or want to refresh after the boat ride.

The Sum Up

The Gorgeous Natural Pink Lake, Las Coloradas Tour offers a fascinating glimpse into some of Mexico’s most unusual natural wonders. It’s ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and wildlife enthusiasts willing to spend a day on the road for unforgettable sights.

While the journey can be long and weather-dependent, the spectacular pink lagoon and abundant birdlife make it more than worth the effort. The included lunch and transportation make it a practical full-day adventure, especially if you’re keen to avoid the hassle of organizing local excursions on your own.

If you’re seeking a photo-worthy experience and an authentic encounter with Mexico’s coastal ecosystems, this tour is a solid choice, provided you’re prepared for the travel and weather variables.

FAQs

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts about 12 hours, including travel time, stops, and lunch.

What is included in the price?
Hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, visits to Las Coloradas and Rio Lagartos, a box lunch, and admission to Las Coloradas.

Is there an extra fee?
Yes, the preservation tax of $27 USD per person at Rio Lagartos is not included.

When does the tour start?
Pickup begins at 6:30 am, so be prepared for an early start to make the most of the day.

What should I bring?
Wear comfortable clothing and shoes, bring biodegradable sunscreen, insect repellent, a raincoat, camera, towels, and extra clothes if needed.

Can I expect to see flamingos?
Yes, flamingos are a key highlight and feed and nest in the area, creating incredible photo opportunities.

What if the weather is bad?
Rain can impact boat rides and outdoor views, so pack appropriate gear. If the weather is too poor, the tour might be canceled or rescheduled.

How long is the drive?
Approximately 3 hours each way, which can feel long but is necessary to reach these remote sites.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Generally, yes, but consider the long hours and outdoor nature—bring snacks, water, and be ready for some sitting around.

In essence, this tour offers a hearty dose of Mexican natural beauty, with plenty of opportunities for stunning photos and wildlife encounters. Be prepared for a full day, and you’ll leave with memories of a truly unique landscape.