Full day tour to Rio Lagartos and Las Coloradas from Riviera Maya

Introduction

If you’ve been dreaming of seeing those incredible pink lakes of Las Coloradas, this full-day tour from Riviera Maya could be just what you need. It promises a mix of natural beauty, wildlife encounters, and a taste of Yucatán’s unique landscapes — all packed into roughly 10 to 11 hours. We haven’t done this exact trip ourselves, but based on the details, it looks like a well-rounded experience for curious travelers eager to explore beyond the usual beaches.

What really catches our eye are two things: first, the chance to see Las Coloradas’ famous pink waters—a photo opportunity that’s hard to beat. Second, the inclusion of a boat ride through Rio Lagartos with its vibrant birdlife and mangroves, which suggests you’ll get a taste of authentic nature and wildlife. On the flip side, a potential drawback is the admission fee of MXN 500 (roughly $25 USD) per person, payable on the day, which adds to the overall expense. But if you’re looking for a day that mixes scenic vistas with some light adventure, this tour could be a good pick, especially if you’re comfortable with moderate physical activity and long hours on the go.

This experience seems best suited for travelers who want a full day immersed in nature, enjoy photographing stunning scenery, and don’t mind paying a little extra for entrance fees. It’s also a solid choice if you’re interested in seeing flamingos, crocodiles, and enjoying peaceful beaches—all in one trip.

Key Points

• Stunning Photography: The pink lakes and colorful salt deposits make for unforgettable photos.
• Wildlife Encounters: Expect to see flamingos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species during the boat ride.
• Active Components: Use of bicycles and walking are involved; some physical effort is needed.
• A Taste of Local Culture: Experience a Mayan bath and enjoy the natural surroundings of Yucatán’s untouched areas.
• Cost Consideration: The ticket price is $150.83 plus an additional MXN 500 fee for park entry.
• Comfort & Convenience: Air-conditioned transport and lifejackets are provided, making the long day more comfortable.

Getting to Know the Tour: A Deep Dive

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour kicks off early, with a pick-up from Playa del Carmen at 7:00 am. After a comfortable ride in an air-conditioned vehicle, you’ll arrive at the Yucatán’s Rio Lagartos, where the adventure begins. The first highlight is the boat ride through the channels of Rio Lagartos. Surrounded by mangroves, this part is particularly appealing to bird lovers. You’re likely to see a variety of bird species, with some reviews mentioning the joy of spotting local wildlife in their natural habitat. The boat ride is also an opportunity to appreciate the vibrant ecosystem that supports crocodiles and flamingos.

Next, the tour takes you under the famous Las Coloradas bridge, leading to the salt deposits. The landscape here is striking — bodies of water with shades of pink and other colors— a natural phenomenon that attracts photographers and nature lovers alike. The salt production process leaves deposits that create these surreal hues, making it a perfect spot for those iconic photos.

After the salt flats, you’ll get the chance to cover your body with nutrient-rich clay and enjoy a traditional Mayan bath. It’s said to be good for the skin and a fun, tactile experience. Following this, you’ll head to a virgin beach to rinse off the mud in clear, calm waters—an ideal way to refresh before continuing your day.

Finally, you’ll have time to explore the Parque de las Coloradas, where the pink hues of the lakes are even more vivid. This area is perfect for taking photos and soaking in the scenery before heading back.

Highlights of the Experience

• Boat Ride & Wildlife Watching: The boat through Rio Lagartos’s channels offers a peaceful, scenic look at mangroves and a variety of bird species. If you love birdwatching or spotting crocodiles and flamingos, this will be a highlight.
• Salt Flats & Pink Lakes: The surreal colors of Las Coloradas are genuinely something you need to see in person. The contrast between the salt deposits and the pink water creates an otherworldly landscape.
• Mayan Bath & Clay: Covering yourself in nutrient-rich clay adds a touch of local culture and fun to the day, plus the potential skin benefits.
• Virgin Beach Stop: A quiet spot to wash off, relax, and enjoy the natural beauty of the area’s untouched coast.
• Comfort & Convenience: The inclusion of bicycles, lifejackets, bottled drinks, and water during transportation helps make the long day manageable.

Price & Value

At $150.83 per person, plus the MXN 500 entrance fee, this tour isn’t the cheapest option—but it covers a lot of ground and offers experiences you can’t easily access on your own. The transportation, guided insights, and included amenities add value, especially when considering the long hours involved. Still, the entrance fee is an additional cost to keep in mind, bringing the total closer to around $180 USD for the day.

What the Reviews Say (and What You Should Know)

While there are no reviews posted yet, the description and structure suggest this tour is a well-organized way to see some of Yucatán’s most photogenic and wildlife-rich spots. The mention of a maximum group size of 25 means it’s not overly crowded, allowing for better photos and more personalized attention.

The activity’s focus on nature and wildlife, along with the scenic landscapes, makes it appealing for travelers wanting a break from beaches or city tours. Keep in mind, the physical demands—like cycling and potentially walking around the salt flats—mean it’s best suited for those with moderate fitness levels.

The Sum Up

If you’re after a full day of natural beauty, wildlife, and photos that will wow your friends, this tour offers quite a bit for the price. The stunning views of the pink lakes and the chance to see flamingos and crocodiles in their natural habitat are big perks. Plus, the boat ride through Rio Lagartos adds a peaceful, scenic element that keeps the day lively and engaging.

This experience is particularly suited for those who want to combine adventure with some cultural touches like the Mayan bath and clay covering. It’s also ideal if you’re comfortable with a long day on the road and don’t mind paying the extra fee for park access.

That said, if you’re looking for a totally relaxed, low-effort trip, or are on a tight budget, you might prefer to explore those sights independently or seek other options. But overall, this tour offers a memorable way to see some of Yucatán’s most unique landscapes and wildlife with a guided touch.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, you’ll be picked up in an air-conditioned vehicle from Playa del Carmen, making the long day much more comfortable.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts around 10 to 11 hours, including travel time and visits.

Are meals included?
Yes, you’ll be provided with a main dish and a bottled drink as part of the tour.

Do I need to pay extra for park entry?
Yes, an entrance fee of MXN 500 (about $25) per person is payable at the park, not included in the ticket price.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
While the description doesn’t specify, the physical components like cycling and walking suggest moderate fitness is required. It’s probably best for older children or teenagers comfortable with outdoor activities.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there’s free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the tour. Just be sure to cancel in time to get a full refund.

If you’re craving a day of incredible scenery, wildlife, and unique landscapes, this tour from Riviera Maya could be just the adventure you’re looking for. It balances active exploration with moments of tranquility, offering a genuine taste of Yucatán’s natural treasures.