Natural Pink Lake Tour Las Coloradas only from Playa del Carmen

If you’re dreaming of capturing that iconic pink lake shot or exploring the vibrant wildlife of the Yucatán’s coast, the Las Coloradas tour from Playa del Carmen might catch your eye. From the outside, it promises a full-day adventure with visits to a flamingo-filled biosphere reserve and the striking pink salt lakes. But like all tours, it’s worth knowing exactly what you’re signing up for—especially since reviews highlight both the highs and the hurdles.

We love that this tour offers round-trip transportation from Playa del Carmen, making it a hassle-free way to visit distant sights without the stress of planning your own trip. The chance to see wildlife in Río Lagartos—including flamingos, crocodiles, and herons—is another highlight, especially with knowledgeable guides. And, of course, the photo opportunities at Las Coloradas are hard to beat, with that surreal pink hue guaranteed to make your Insta pop.

However, it’s also important to consider the long travel times involved, which some travelers found exhausting, and the fact that much of the day is spent on the bus. Plus, the tour does include a government fee of $27, which adds to the overall cost. This tour will suit travelers who don’t mind a full day on the road and are eager to see iconic sights with ease, especially those who value guided experiences with included meals and transportation.

Key Points

• Convenient transportation from Playa del Carmen makes this a stress-free day trip.
• You’ll encounter wildlife in Río Lagartos, including flamingos and crocodiles.
• The pink salt lakes of Las Coloradas deliver stunning, record-worthy photos.
• The tour includes meals and bottled water, adding value.
• Expect a long bus ride, which some find tiring.
• The tour is shared, with a maximum of 60 travelers, which influences the overall experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting the Day: Pickup and Transportation

The tour begins early, with pickups starting at 6:30 am. This means you’ll be up and ready to go before dawn, but it’s all worth it to maximize your day. You’ll be transported in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle that gathers guests from various hotels in Playa del Carmen. This shared approach keeps costs down and logistics simple but also means a fair amount of time is spent on the road—something reviewers have noted as a drawback.

One traveler mentioned, “The bus ride was excruciatingly long,” which is a common sentiment for those expecting a quick trip. To ease the long hours, bringing snacks, water, and a sweater for the air-conditioned bus is a smart move. The tour tends to be quite full, with a maximum of 60 travelers, so expect some lively group dynamics.

Río Lagartos: The Wildlife Sanctuary

Your first stop is Río Lagartos, a UNESCO biosphere reserve at the eastern tip of the Yucatán Peninsula. This stop is a highlight for nature lovers. The reserve boasts mangroves, estuaries, salt marshes, and small lagoons. Here, you’ll likely see a variety of bird species, including vibrant flamingos, pelicans, herons, and possibly even some crocodiles.

One reviewer raved, “The wildlife aspect of this tour was great!” and relayed how seeing the crocodiles and feeding them added to the sense of adventure. The tour doesn’t charge extra for admission, as the boat ride and wildlife observation are included, making it a good value for nature enthusiasts.

Las Coloradas: The Pink Salt Lake

After about two hours exploring Río Lagartos, you’ll head to Las Coloradas. This small salt-producing town is famous for its spectacular pink lake, often called the “pink beach,” though it’s actually a salt lagoon. The unusual color results from the high salt concentration and microorganisms that thrive in the salty waters.

The color can vary depending on the sunlight—sometimes a soft pink, other times a more intense hue. One visitor mentioned, “The pink lagoon is a show that no one can miss,” and the photos truly do justice to the surreal environment. The tour provides time for photos and offers an educational component about the salt process, which adds a layer of understanding behind the beauty.

Note that the lagoon is also a salt company, so the landscape includes salt flats and equipment, which might seem less idyllic but are part of the authentic scene.

Meals and Refreshments

Included in the tour are a box lunch and a simple restaurant meal, with options to choose from. This makes the day a bit less stressful, as you don’t need to worry about finding food during a busy schedule. Bottled water is provided, though beverages in the restaurant are extra. Some reviews expressed that they appreciated the included meals, especially after a long morning on the road.

Additional Details and Practicalities

The tour is quite full, with a maximum of 60 travelers. The timing and group size are factors to consider if you prefer more intimate or leisurely experiences. The tour operates rain or shine, so packing sunscreen, sunglasses, and comfortable clothing is essential.

Since the tour excludes taxes and government fees ($27 per person), you’ll want to budget for that additional cost. Also, remember that the tour is shared, so the experience may vary depending on the group dynamics.

Review Insights: What Travelers Are Saying

While some travelers found the trip too lengthy and tiring, others loved the wildlife encounters and the stunning photo ops. One reviewer summed it up: “Our guide Frank was hilarious and made the long day enjoyable,” highlighting how a knowledgeable guide can make a big difference. Another pointed out that the long bus ride might be more tolerable if you opt for a private tour or shorter options.

The consistency across reviews is that the wildlife in Río Lagartos is impressive, and the visual impact of Las Coloradas is truly striking. However, some noted the salt company aspect of the pink lake, which might take away some of the enchanted feeling for those expecting a pristine environment.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour offers a solid value for travelers eager to tick off iconic sights without the hassle of organizing multiple transfers or guides themselves. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate guided excursions that include meals, transport, and entrance fees, making it a convenient but full day.

If you’re someone who doesn’t mind a long bus ride in exchange for seeing the vibrant wildlife of Río Lagartos and capturing unique photos of Las Coloradas, then this trip can be quite rewarding. The guided nature and included amenities make it a good choice for visitors looking for a comfortable, all-in-one experience.

However, if you prefer more personalized, less crowded tours or are sensitive to long travel times, you might consider other options or private arrangements. The experience is all about hitting the highlights, but be prepared for the realities of a busy, shared day trip.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, round-trip transportation from Playa del Carmen is included, with pickups from most hotels.
How long does the tour last? The total duration is approximately 12 hours, including travel and sightseeing.
Are meals included? Yes, a box lunch and a simple restaurant meal are part of the package.
What is the cost? The price is $117 per person, plus a $27 government fee.
Can I take photos at Las Coloradas? Absolutely. The lake’s pink hue makes for fantastic photos—just be mindful of the salt flats and equipment.
What wildlife might I see? Flamingos, pelicans, herons, and crocodiles are common sights at Río Lagartos.
Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers? Most travelers can participate, but be prepared for the long bus ride and full-day schedule.

In the end, this tour delivers a memorable glimpse into some of the Yucatán’s most eye-catching sights, combining wildlife, surreal landscapes, and convenience. Whether you’re an avid photographer or a nature lover, it’s worth weighing the long travel times against the spectacular views and experiences awaiting you.