Safari in Rio Lagartos, Coloradas and Mayan Bath

If you’re planning a day trip from Cancun to see some of the Yucatan Peninsula’s most striking sights, this tour might catch your eye. It promises a full day of natural beauty, from the famous pink salt lakes to the mangrove-lined channels of Rio Lagartos—and it packs in quite a bit for just $119 per person.

What we love about this experience is how it combines scenic boat rides, iconic photo opportunities, and the chance to unwind with a traditional Mayan bath. Plus, the included lunch and transportation make it a fairly convenient way to explore some of the area’s best-kept secrets. The only thing to consider is that this is a long day, often starting early and lasting around 10 to 11 hours, so it’s not ideal if you’re looking for a quick, relaxed outing.

This tour suits travelers who are keen on nature, photography, and authentic cultural experiences. If you’re up for a full day on the road and enjoy discovering lesser-visited spots with guides who are knowledgeable and friendly, you’ll probably find this trip well worth your time.

Key Points

• Beautiful Scenery: Expect stunning views of the pink salt ponds and mangroves, perfect for photos.
• Expert Guides: Reviews highlight guides that are knowledgeable and attentive.
• Comfortable Transportation: The bus is praised for being spacious and air-conditioned, easing the long journey.
• Value for Money: With included meals, activities, and transportation, many feel the price is reasonable.
• Long but Rewarding Day: Prepare for a full-day adventure, starting early at 7 AM.
• Authentic Experience: The trip offers a genuine look into Yucatan’s natural environment, with efforts to share preservation stories.

Starting Early and Getting There

The tour kicks off at 7:00 am, which might seem early, but it’s necessary to make the most of the day. You’ll be picked up in an air-conditioned vehicle, a welcome feature considering the Yucatan heat and the long hours ahead. The group size can go up to 552 travelers, but in practice, it feels more like a manageable group, especially with the comfortable bus.

One reviewer, Gillianleigh, mentions, “Comfy bus! Great guides! Overall great day and experience! Definitely recommend doing this tour! Long day but worth it.” For many, the long travel time is the biggest challenge, but the comfort of the transportation and the scenic views along the way help pass the hours.

Rio Lagartos: The Natural Jewel

The first stop is Rio Lagartos, a highlight for nature lovers. The boat ride through the channels is a peaceful way to see the mangroves and observe local bird species, including flamingos. This part lasts about three hours and is free of admission fees, letting you focus on the wildlife and scenery.

Guests love the guides’ insights here. The boat ride is described as a chance to see a quieter, more unspoiled side of Yucatan. Daneta_G shared, “If you don’t mind long travel by comfortable bus, then this is a trip you will love. The water is truly PINK!! Just breath taking.” The pink salt lakes, a photo icon, are a major draw for visitors. Seeing these vibrant pink ponds up close is a surreal experience, and many reviews confirm that the color often exceeds expectations.

Las Coloradas: The Iconic Pink Salt Ponds

Next, you’ll visit the Parque de las Coloradas, a place that’s become a must-see for travelers wanting that perfect Instagram shot. The salt ponds’ intense pink hue varies with weather and salt production cycles, but the opportunity to snap iconic photos is what most people are after.

Your ticket includes entry, so you can wander freely and take in the spectacle. Some visitors mention that the salt ponds can sometimes be less vibrant, so luck plays a role, but when the pink is vivid, it’s truly a sight to behold. Gillianleigh noted, “The water is truly PINK!! Just breath taking,” emphasizing how unforgettable this scenery is.

Playa Las Coloradas and the Mayan Bath

After exploring the salt ponds, you’ll head to a nearby beach for a Mayan bath and some relaxation. The Mayan bath typically involves mud treatments that are both fun and believed to have health benefits—though experiences can vary, and some travelers mention the food at the restaurant as just okay.

Following the bath, you get about 30 minutes to unwind on a pristine, less crowded beach. It’s a perfect chance to cool off and take in the natural surroundings. A reviewer named Nick_L called it a “great day out,” highlighting the visual impact of the pink lakes and the relaxing beach atmosphere.

Included Meals and Extras

The tour offers a lunch with a main dish and a bottled drink, along with two bottles of water during transportation, which is appreciated on a hot day. The food is described as attentive but nothing extraordinary—enough to sustain you for the long day without being a culinary highlight.

Another nice touch is the use of bicycles, which some travelers mention enjoying, allowing a bit of extra exploration around the sites.

Costs and Value

While the tour price is $119, there’s an admission fee to the salt ponds, lakes, and other attractions, which costs MX$800 per person if paid separately. Many reviews note that the overall experience feels like good value for what’s included—especially with transportation, meals, and guides all covered.

However, it’s worth noting that some found the bus size a bit cramped, especially for taller or larger travelers. Antonio_B mentioned, “The bus was way too small for my tour group. I was squeezed into something akin to a child seat (I’m 5’10”) with others almost sitting me.” This is an important consideration if comfort during long rides is a priority.

Guides and Customer Service

Travelers consistently praise the guides for their knowledge and friendliness. KelliA_W shared, “Jose and Carlos were excellent tour guides. The bus was clean, spacious and comfortable.” The guides seem to go out of their way to make the experience enjoyable and informative, sharing insights into the environment and conservation efforts.

Flexibility and Cancellations

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, which helps if your plans change unexpectedly. Most travelers find the booking process straightforward and appreciate the confirmation received immediately upon booking.

This experience is perfect for those who enjoy nature, photography, and want a full day of exploration with minimal fuss. It’s well-suited for travelers who don’t mind a long day on the road in exchange for incredible scenery and cultural insights. If you’re someone who loves capturing unique landscapes and appreciates guided tours with friendly guides, this trip will satisfy those interests.

However, if you’re sensitive to long bus rides or prefer a more relaxed pace, you might find the duration demanding. Likewise, if comfort is a top priority for transportation, be aware that some travelers have mentioned the bus feeling a bit tight, especially during the lengthy journey.

Is transportation included? Yes, the tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle to and from Cancun, which makes the long day more bearable.

What is the itinerary like? You’ll start with a boat ride in Rio Lagartos, then visit the pink salt lakes at Las Coloradas, followed by a Mayan bath and some beach time. The entire day lasts about 10 to 11 hours.

Are meals included? Yes, a lunch with one main dish and a bottled drink along with two bottles of water during transportation are provided.

How much does the extra admission fee cost? The entrance fee to the salt ponds and other attractions is MX$800 per person, payable separately.

What are the main highlights? The vibrant pink salt lakes, birdwatching in Rio Lagartos, the relaxed beach and Mayan bath, and the opportunity to take iconic photographs.

Is this tour suitable for families? It’s generally a full day of outdoor activity, so consider the long hours if traveling with young children. The focus is on nature and scenery.

How long is the bus ride? Expect about 3.5 hours each way, so bring entertainment or enjoy the scenery along the way.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, providing some peace of mind.

If you’re after a day filled with natural beauty, unique landscapes, and insightful guides, this tour in Rio Lagartos and Las Coloradas offers a pretty compelling experience. The chance to see the famous pink lakes, spot flamingos and other birds, and relax with a traditional Mayan bath makes it stand out among the typical Cancun excursions.

While the long hours and sometimes cramped bus ride might not be for everyone, many travelers find that the sights and experiences more than make up for those inconveniences. It’s especially suited for those who love photography, nature exploration, and authentic cultural encounters.

For a reasonable price, you get a full day of discovery that showcases some of the Yucatan’s most colorful and tranquil spots. Just be prepared for a full itinerary, and bring your patience—and plenty of camera batteries!