Las Coloradas and Rio Lagartos Tour with All Inclusive

Introduction

This review explores the Las Coloradas and Rio Lagartos Tour with All Inclusive, a full-day adventure in the Yucatán Peninsula that promises stunning pink lagoons, flamingo sightings, and a taste of Mayan culture. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, we’ve gathered insights from travelers and studied the itinerary to give you a balanced view of what to expect.

Two features stand out—the breathtaking visuals of Las Coloradas’ pink lakes and the opportunity to get close to wildlife like flamingos and crocodiles—making it a favorite for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike. The all-inclusive aspect, including transportation, meals, and boat tours, adds convenience and value to what is already a packed day.

However, be aware that the journey is quite long (about 12 hours), and some travelers mention that the bus ride can be tiring, especially for kids or those sensitive to lengthy travel. This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive experience in one day, combining natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural touches—ideal for those with a curious spirit and a camera ready to go.

Key Points

• Spectacular sights of the pink lagoons created by microorganisms and salt deposits.
• Wildlife encounters, including flamingos and crocodile feeding, in their natural habitats.
• Comfortable transportation with air conditioning and bilingual guides to enhance your experience.
• Includes meals and boat tours, offering good value for the full-day adventure.
• Long day, with around 12 hours of travel and activities, suited for those prepared for a full schedule.
• Mixed reviews about the journey’s comfort, so packing extra snacks and water is advisable.

Discovering Las Coloradas: The Pink Lagoons

Las Coloradas is the trip’s star attraction. These vivid pink lakes owe their color to microorganisms thriving in salty conditions and to the salt production process. As you approach, the sight of vast, shimmering pink water is almost surreal, making it a photographer’s paradise.

During the two-hour visit, you’ll learn how salt and tiny organisms combine to create this spectacular landscape. One reviewer called it “something spectacular,” and others highlighted how this is a must-see for anyone with a camera or an appreciation for natural wonders. You’ll have plenty of time to stroll along the lagoons, capture photos, and marvel at the unusual hue.

Some travelers noted the tour includes a “Mayan bath”, which might refer to a cultural or wellness experience, adding a layer of local tradition to the visit. The admission to Las Coloradas is included, so there are no extra fees here, allowing you to focus on enjoying the scenery.

Rio Lagartos: Wildlife and Boat Tours

After the lakes, the adventure continues with a two-hour boat tour through the Rio Lagartos lagoons. Here, you’ll witness the area’s vibrant biodiversity—flamingos wading among mangroves, crocodiles basking on the banks, and an array of seabirds.

The boat ride is often praised for its stunning scenery and close encounters with wildlife. One traveler shared that they saw flamingos fairly close and crocodiles very close, emphasizing how special these moments can be. The boat tour is included, and the guide will point out various species and explain the ecosystem, adding educational value.

The visit to the crocodile farm is a highlight, where you can see and even feed these impressive creatures. Reviews mention that holding and feeding crocodiles was “amazing,” and this kind of hands-on experience is a rare opportunity for many visitors.

You might also catch sight of flamingos—often a bucket-list moment—especially since the tour is scheduled for early in the day, when animals are more active.

Practical Details and Included Features

This tour offers a comprehensive package: transportation with air conditioning, a bilingual guide, a box lunch, a-la-carte meal, and bottled water. The group size is capped at 40 travelers, which helps maintain a friendly, manageable atmosphere.

The box lunch includes a sandwich, fruit, cookie, and juice—enough to keep you energized through the day. The a-la-carte meal gives you a choice of dish, adding a touch of flexibility to your dining experience.

The extra costs include the dock and ecological reserve tax of $23 USD, which you’ll need to pay on-site. Drinks at the restaurant are not included, so if you want something beyond water, bring some cash or plan to purchase beverages separately.

The tour begins early at 6:30 am, which means an early wake-up call but also plenty of time to enjoy the sights before the day winds down. Transportation is arranged from many hotels and meeting points, easing the logistics.

The Experience and the Reviews

Enthusiastic travelers praise the tour as a memorable highlight, especially for photography and wildlife viewing. One reviewer called it “the highlight of my Mexico trip,” highlighting encounters with flamingos and crocodiles, plus the salt pools and mud bath. Others appreciated the knowledgeable guides who provided helpful explanations about the region’s ecology and culture.

Some travelers, however, expressed concerns about the long bus rides and air conditioning issues—not uncommon on full-day trips. A few reviews also mention logistical hiccups, including a reviewer who had a negative experience due to poor communication about pickup times. It’s wise to confirm details beforehand and pack extra snacks and water for the journey.

The tour’s value for money is considered good, given the multiple activities packed into a single day and the inclusion of transportation, meals, and boat tours.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This trip is best suited for nature lovers and photographers eager to see the striking pink lakes and wildlife. It’s also a good fit for those interested in Mayan culture and looking for a full-day adventure that combines scenery, wildlife, and cultural insights.

If you’re traveling with family, be prepared for a long day and some potentially tiring bus rides. The boat and animal encounters make it especially appealing for kids and adults alike who love experiential activities.

However, those sensitive to long travel times or with limited mobility might find the trip a bit demanding. It’s also worth noting that some reviews mention room for improvement in guide communication, so travelers who value detailed, bilingual explanations should clarify expectations beforehand.

The Sum Up

This Las Coloradas and Rio Lagartos Tour offers a well-rounded experience that balances natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural elements—all at a reasonable price of around $110 per person. You’ll get to see the surreal pink lagoons, explore mangrove-lined lagoons teeming with flamingos, and even feed crocodiles, making this trip a highly visual and interactive day out.

The included meals, boat rides, and transportation make it a convenient option for travelers wanting to maximize their time without worrying about logistics. While the lengthy journey might be a drawback for some, many find that the remarkable sights and encounters make it worth the effort.

Ideal for photographers, nature enthusiasts, and curious travelers eager for an immersive day in the Yucatán’s unique ecosystems, this tour delivers an authentic blend of scenery and wildlife. Just remember to pack extra water, bring your camera, and prepare for a full day of adventure.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 12 hours, starting at 6:30 am and returning back to the meeting point in the late afternoon or early evening.

What is included in the price?
The price covers transportation with air conditioning, a bilingual guide, a box lunch, a-la-carte meal, boat tour in Rio Lagartos, flamingo sightings, visit to the crocodile farm, and a bottle of water. The ecological reserve tax of $23 USD is paid separately.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, you will need to pay the dock and ecological reserve tax of $23 USD on-site. Drinks at the restaurant are not included.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Many reviews suggest the trip is family-friendly, especially since kids enjoy wildlife encounters. However, be prepared for a long day and consider your children’s comfort with lengthy travel.

What should I bring?
Bring extra water and snacks, sunscreen, a hat, and your camera. Packing a swimsuit or towel might be useful if you want to enjoy the salt pools or mud bath.

How is the guide?
Guides are bilingual and knowledgeable according to most reviews, although some travelers noted that explanations could be clearer in English. Check with your booking provider for specifics.

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.

Can I cancel if needed?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

Is the tour popular?
Yes, on average, it’s booked about 30 days in advance, indicating steady interest and demand.

This day-long adventure in the Yucatán offers a vivid blend of natural wonders and wildlife, great for those ready to explore some of Mexico’s most photogenic landscapes. With careful planning and reasonable expectations, it’s a trip that rewards curiosity and a sense of adventure.