Tour Las Coloradas

If you’re looking to escape the crowds and experience some of the most unique sights in the Yucatan Peninsula, the Las Coloradas tour might just be what you’re after. This full-day adventure takes you away from Cancun’s busy beaches and introduces you to the stunning natural wonders of the region, including the famous pink lakes and vibrant wildlife.

What we love about this tour is how it balances nature and comfort—you’ll enjoy a smooth ride in air-conditioned vehicles and get plenty of time to explore at each stop. Plus, the guides are often praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the experience even more enjoyable. The chance to see flamingos, crocodiles, and even swim in the Gulf of Mexico offers an authentic taste of the Yucatan’s diverse ecosystems.

That said, keep in mind that the journey can be long—about 12 hours—and the pick-up process has been a point of frustration for some travelers, especially if your hotel is far from the main meeting point. This tour is best suited for those who love nature, wildlife, and don’t mind a bit of a road trip for a chance to see something truly extraordinary.

Key Points

• Authentic wildlife encounters in Rio Lagartos, including flamingos, crocodiles, and various bird species.
• Access to the iconic pink lakes of Las Coloradas, a surreal landscape caused by microorganisms that produce a striking hue.
• Comfortable transportation with air-conditioned vehicles, making a long day more pleasant.
• Learn about salt production from expert guides, adding an educational element to the trip.
• Includes a catered lunch and snacks, giving good value for the overall experience.
• Limited to 60 travelers, maintaining an intimate, friendly atmosphere.

This tour provides a comprehensive experience blending wildlife, stunning scenery, and cultural insights. Starting bright and early at 6:30 am, your day begins with a pickup from Cancun. You’ll then be whisked away in a comfortable, climate-controlled bus—an especially good thing given the lengthy drive involved.

Rio Lagartos: A Tangle of Ecosystems and Birds

Your first stop is the Rio Lagartos Biosphere Reserve, a designated Ramsar site. As you arrive, you’ll quickly notice the varied environment—mangroves, estuaries, marshes, and lagoons all in one place. This diversity makes it a prime habitat for flamingos, eagles, ospreys, and other birds. The reserve is recognized for its rich flora and fauna, and you’ll get the chance to see some of these creatures in their natural setting.

We loved the way guides explain the ecological significance of the wetlands. It’s not just a pretty boat ride—it’s a chance to understand how this environment supports so many species. Expect about three hours here, which includes a boat ride around the wetlands. Many reviews highlight the fun of feeding birds during the boat tour, with some calling it “brilliant and hilarious.”

Las Coloradas: The Pink Lake and Its Surreal Beauty

After Rio Lagartos, the journey continues to Las Coloradas, home to the world-famous pink lakes. The lakes owe their color to halobacteria, microorganisms thriving in highly saline water, creating a mesmerizing pink hue that looks almost artificial. You’ll have about three hours here to walk along the lakes, take photos, and soak in the surreal landscape.

Many travelers comment on the stunning views and the uniqueness of the scenery. Bronwen_T called the pink lake “beautiful,” and appreciated the chance to see something “a true wonder of nature.” You’ll also learn about the salt harvesting process—a fascinating insight into local industry and how this vibrant landscape is maintained.

Flamingos often frequent the lakes, and you’ll have the opportunity to spot these elegant birds in their natural habitat. The tour’s narrative often emphasizes the importance of respecting wildlife and the environment—guides are usually well-informed and eager to share their knowledge.

Additional Experiences and Practicalities

The tour includes a boat ride, bottled water, and a box lunch with your choice of dish. The food tends to be well-reviewed, with many noting the quality of the fish and local flavors. It’s a good value considering the full day of activities packed into the price of $135.

You’ll also get to explore the salt production process—an educational segment that adds context to the landscape’s striking colors. Plus, the tour provides biodegradable sunscreen and insect repellent recommendations, ensuring you can enjoy the outdoor environment responsibly.

While the main highlights are the wetlands and pink lakes, travelers also enjoy the opportunity to hold crocodiles of different ages, and some even experience swimming in the Gulf of Mexico to wash off the salt and mud—a fun and memorable activity for many.

The Ride and Logistics: What to Expect

The tour’s duration is approximately 12 hours, but some travelers have mentioned it can extend longer, especially if your hotel is far from the meeting point. The group size is capped at 60, which helps keep the experience personal and manageable.

The transportation is air-conditioned, which is a lifesaver on a hot day, but be prepared for a long bus ride—many reviews highlight the need for snacks, water, and comfortable clothing. We recommend bringing your own water bottles, some quick snacks, and a sweater or light jacket for the bus.

Pick-up times start early at 6:30 am, and while the itinerary is well-planned, some reviews point out the challenge of the initial pickup process. Most guests find the trip worthwhile, though, especially for the chance to see such spectacular landscapes and wildlife.

Authentic Encounters and Honest Feedback

Reviews paint a picture of a generally positive experience. One traveler called it “the best trip” and appreciated every aspect, from the boat ride feeding birds to touching crocodiles. Conversely, some found the journey to and from Cancun a bit tiring—up to 7 hours round-trip—and noted that the pick-up process could be complicated if your hotel is not close to the main meeting point.

Guide quality also varies, but generally, guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, with Arturo often singled out as an exceptional guide. On the flip side, a few reviews mention that one guide might be less engaging, so expectations for personalized attention may differ depending on the group.

The tour offers excellent value for those eager to experience the natural side of the Yucatan, away from crowded tourist spots. The combination of wildlife, surreal landscapes, and local industry makes it a well-rounded adventure.

This experience suits travelers who love nature, photography, and wildlife encounters. If you’re interested in seeing flamingos, crocodiles, and the famous pink lakes, and don’t mind a lengthy day of travel, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. It’s ideal for anyone who appreciates off-the-beaten-path destinations and wants a more authentic experience outside the usual tourist sights.

Families with older children, nature buffs, and those eager for a full-day excursion will appreciate the mix of activities. However, those with mobility issues or who prefer shorter, less extensive trips might want to weigh the long travel time before booking.

For travelers craving a visual feast of vibrant landscapes and wildlife, this tour offers a compelling mix of natural beauty and educational insights. The pink lakes are unlike anything you’ll see elsewhere, making this a memorable highlight of any Yucatan trip. The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge add value, turning the scenery into stories and lessons that stick with you.

The included boat ride, salt process learning, and local cuisine make this a good deal for a full-day experience. However, be prepared for a lengthy journey, and consider your comfort with long bus rides. The tour’s smaller group size fosters a friendly atmosphere, and the chance to see flamingos, crocodiles, and colorful lakes in one day is hard to beat.

This tour is best suited for explorers who want to go beyond Cancun’s beaches and dive into the vibrant ecosystems and landscapes that make the Yucatan so unique. If you’re after a blend of adventure, education, and picture-perfect moments, you’ll find this trip both worthwhile and inspiring.

How long is the total tour?
The entire day lasts around 12 hours, including travel time, with some trips possibly extending longer depending on your hotel location and traffic.

What is included in the price?
Your package covers transportation in air-conditioned vehicles, a boat ride at Rio Lagartos, a box lunch, bottled water, and admission to Las Coloradas. You also learn about the salt process.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, most reviews highlight the guides’ friendliness and knowledge. Arturo, in particular, receives praise for his helpful explanations and language skills.

What about transportation?
You’ll be picked up early in Cancun and transported in a comfortable, air-conditioned bus. Smaller vehicles handle the initial pickups, with a main bus taking everyone to the tour sites.

Is it suitable for children?
Most travelers with older children and teenagers enjoy the tour, especially those interested in wildlife and landscapes. It’s a full day, so younger kids should be prepared for the long hours.

Are meals included?
Yes, there’s a boxed lunch with a choice of dish, and bottled water is provided. Beverages at the restaurant are not included.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothes and shoes, biodegradable sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, sunglasses, your camera, some snacks, and water. A swimsuit and towel might be nice if you want to swim or wash off in the Gulf.

What is the government fee?
There’s an additional fee of $27.00 per person for government charges, payable on the day of the tour.

This Las Coloradas tour offers an authentic peek into the natural wonders of the Yucatan—perfect for those eager to see flamingos, salt lakes, and wildlife while enjoying the comforts of a well-organized trip. It’s a day packed with sights, sounds, and colors that you’ll carry with you long after you return home.