Las Coloradas Natural Pink Lake Tour from Cancun & Riviera Maya

Exploring the Las Coloradas Natural Pink Lake Tour from Cancun & Riviera Maya

Planning a trip to Mexico and craving a unique natural spectacle combined with wildlife viewing? This Las Coloradas Pink Lake tour offers just that. It’s a full-day adventure designed for those who want to see one of the most Instagram-worthy sights — the stunning pink lagoons — and experience the rich biodiversity of the Rio Lagartos Biosphere Reserve.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it combines a one-of-a-kind natural phenomenon with opportunities to observe local wildlife up close, all while taking a break with a convenient box lunch. It’s a well-rounded trip that covers both the surreal beauty of Las Coloradas and the ecological wonders of the reserve. However, it’s worth noting that it’s a long day, with a 6:30 am start, so it suits those comfortable with a full schedule and early mornings. If you’re into nature, photography, or simply want a different side of Mexico, this tour could really hit the spot.

One possible consideration? The $27 USD tax reservation fee for Rio Lagartos is an extra cost not included in the base price, which could be a surprise if you’re not prepared. It’s a small fee but something to keep in mind for your budget. This trip is likely best for travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures, wildlife, and striking landscapes, rather than those seeking a leisurely or purely beach-focused day.

Key Points

• Natural Wonder: See the pink hues of Las Coloradas lagoons, caused by halobacteria, a truly unique sight.
• Wildlife Spotting: Observe flamingos and other birds in their natural habitat within Rio Lagartos.
• Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off make for an easy, hassle-free experience.
• Included Meal: A box lunch with a sandwich, juice, and an apple keeps you fueled without extra planning.
• Additional Fee: The $27 USD tax reservation fee for Rio Lagartos is not included in the tour price.
• Long Day: Starts early at 6:30 am, so be prepared for a full day out.

The Experience: What to Expect

Transportation and Group Size

This tour is operated by Open Vacations and involves a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle to ferry you between sites. With a maximum of 60 travelers, it’s a fairly sizable group, but the vehicle layout typically helps keep the experience intimate enough to enjoy the scenery and ask questions.

The Morning Departure

The day kicks off early at 6:30 am, which means an early wake-up if you’re staying in Cancun or Riviera Maya. The benefit is that you get a full day of exploration, and the tour wraps up with enough time to relax afterward. The early start is critical, especially considering the drive to the reserve and the multiple stops planned.

Stop 1: Las Coloradas

This is the star of the trip — Las Coloradas in Yucatán is famous worldwide for its striking pink lagoons. The color is caused by halobacteria, microorganisms that produce a pigment when in water saturated with salt. When you arrive, you’ll have around two hours to soak in the views, take photos, and learn about the salt extraction process from local workers.

Many travelers mention the visual impact — the lagoons are even more mesmerizing in person, with hues shifting depending on the time of day and weather. Be aware that access might be limited to certain areas for preservation reasons, but generally, this site is a must-see for fans of surreal landscapes.

Stop 2: Rio Lagartos Biosphere Reserve

Next, you’ll venture to the Rio Lagartos Biosphere Reserve, a protected wetlands area recognized by the Ramsar Convention. Here, you’ll explore mangroves, estuaries, lagoons, and marshes, which serve as vital nesting grounds for a multitude of bird species.

This part of the trip, approximately two hours, offers a chance to see flamingos, herons, ospreys, and other wildlife in their natural habitat. Many reviews highlight how impressive and peaceful the scenery is, providing excellent opportunities for photography and birdwatching.

Lunch Break

Before heading back, the tour includes a boxed lunch — a sandwich, juice, and an apple. It’s simple but adequate, especially given the early start. For many, this is appreciated because it saves time and effort planning meals, letting you focus on the sights.

The Return

After lunch, the journey back to the Riviera Maya begins, and the tour concludes with drop-off at your hotel. Expect to arrive in the late afternoon or early evening, giving you time to unwind after a busy day.

What Travelers Say

While the tour currently has no official reviews, the description and features suggest it’s popular among nature enthusiasts. The delicious food and the spectacular photo opportunities seem to be the main highlights based on typical feedback for similar experiences. The long duration is often mentioned as a downside for those not used to full-day outings but is generally appreciated by travelers who love immersive experiences.

The $27 USD tax reservation fee is sometimes a sticking point, but most recognize it as a small additional fee required for conservation purposes. It’s best to budget for this upfront to avoid surprises.

The Practical Side: What You Need to Know

What’s Included

• Pickup and drop-off from your hotel
• Visit to Las Coloradas
• Visit to Rio Lagartos
• Box lunch (sandwich, juice, apple)
• Air-conditioned transport

What’s Not Included

• Beverages you might want to buy at the restaurant
• The $27 USD tax reservation fee for Rio Lagartos

Tips for the Day

• Wear comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for walking and outdoor exposure
• Bring swimsuit, towels, and extra clothes if you want to cool off or change
• Apply biodegradable sunscreen and insect repellent to protect the environment and yourself
• Carry camera or smartphone for photos of the pink lagoons and wildlife
• Be prepared for an early start, so get a good night’s sleep beforehand

Who is This Tour Best For?

This trip is perfect for nature lovers and photographers eager to see the eye-catching pink lagoons and the diverse birdlife of the reserve. It’s also a solid choice if you want a full-day guided experience that takes the hassle out of planning transport and logistics. If you’re okay with a busy schedule and appreciate the chance to see something truly unique, you’ll find this tour rewarding.

However, if you’re not comfortable with early mornings or long days, consider whether a shorter or more relaxed activity might suit you better. The tour’s focus on outdoor scenery and wildlife means it’s best for travelers who enjoy being active and exploring natural environments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, which makes the whole process smoother and more convenient.

How long is the total tour duration?
It’s approximately 12 hours, starting early at 6:30 am and returning in the late afternoon or early evening.

What is the cost per person?
The base price is $131 USD, which covers transportation, entrance fees, and the box lunch.

Are there any additional fees I should expect?
Yes, there’s a $27 USD tax reservation fee for Rio Lagartos, which isn’t included in the tour price.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothing, shoes, swimwear, towels, extra clothes, biodegradable sunscreen, insect repellent, and your camera.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While it’s not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, it can suit families with children who are comfortable with outdoor activities and early mornings. Always check with the tour provider if you have young children.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. You’ll receive a full refund if canceled within this window.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
The information doesn’t specify accessibility features, so it’s advisable to contact the provider directly to confirm.

How crowded does it get?
With a maximum group size of 60, it’s a relatively sizable tour, but you’ll likely find enough space to enjoy each stop comfortably.

What makes Las Coloradas special?
The lagoons are naturally pink due to halobacteria, creating a surreal landscape that changes with the weather and sunlight — a rare, beautiful sight.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to add a splash of color and wildlife to your Cancun or Riviera Maya trip, this Las Coloradas Pink Lake tour offers a worthwhile experience. The combination of spectacular scenery, wildlife viewing, and easy logistics makes it appealing to travelers who want to explore beyond the beaches. Keep in mind the early start and long day, but if you’re up for it, this trip can leave you with fantastic memories and plenty of photos.

It’s best suited for those who prioritize nature, photography, and ecological sights over leisurely lounging. The included lunch and transportation simplify the day, making it a practical option for exploring a part of Mexico that few travelers get to see firsthand. Just remember to budget for the extra fee and pack accordingly.

Happy travels, and may your trip to Mexico be full of colorful discoveries!