Explore the Nature: Las Coloradas & Rio Lagartos from Playa del Carmen

If you’ve ever dreamed of witnessing a pink salt lake or spotting flamingos in their natural habitat, this tour promises just that. It’s a full-day adventure, about 11 to 12 hours, taking you from Playa del Carmen into the heart of Yucatán’s unique landscapes. We haven’t done it ourselves, but based on reviews and the detailed itinerary, it looks like a solid choice for travelers eager to see something truly different — especially if you’re into wildlife, nature, and local culture.

What we love about this trip? First, the stunning scenery at Las Coloradas, where the vibrant pink hues of the salt ponds make for incredible photos. Second, the knowledgeable guides seem to elevate the experience, making it educational and engaging. On the flip side, a potential concern could be the long travel time — roughly 3 hours each way — which might be tiring if you prefer short, leisurely outings. Still, if you’re up for a full-day adventure and want to see the Yucatán’s most distinctive sights, this tour could be a great fit.

It’s ideal for curious travelers who enjoy nature and wildlife, love local food, and don’t mind a full day on the road. If you’re traveling with friends or a family who appreciate outdoor experiences and unique landscapes, this tour has plenty to offer. Just be prepared for the early start and moving between several spots in one day.

Key Points

• Vivid scenery at Las Coloradas offers perfect photo opportunities with its unique pink lakes.
• Wildlife spotting in Ría Lagartos includes flamingos, crocodiles, pelicans, and more—great for nature lovers.
• Educational aspect about salt production and local Mayan traditions adds depth to the experience.
• Comfortable transportation with round-trip transfers from many Playa del Carmen hotels simplifies planning.
• Variety of activities including boat rides, mud baths, and local seafood make for a well-rounded day.
• Long travel time might be a consideration for some, as the trip involves around 3 hours each way.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

The tour kicks off early — at 6:30 am — with pickup from Playa del Carmen. This is a good thing if you want to maximize your day without feeling rushed, but it does mean an early wake-up call. The first stop is Las Coloradas, a place that’s become almost iconic thanks to its surreal pink lakes. The water’s color is due to high salt concentrations and microorganisms, which create this striking hue. When we read reviews, many mention how impressive it is to see in person — a true Instagram-worthy spot that doesn’t disappoint.

You’ll have about two hours here to walk around, take pictures, and learn how salt is harvested, all while soaking in those vibrant colors. A tip: the best photos often come with good sunlight, so visiting in the mid-morning or late afternoon can give you the most striking shades. The guided explanation about salt production is a bonus for those interested in local industry and natural processes.

Next, the adventure continues to Ría Lagartos, a protected biosphere where you’ll get on a boat to explore mangroves and observe wildlife. This part sounds very engaging, especially for fans of birdwatching and animals. You might see flamingos, pelicans, herons, eagles, and crocodiles in their natural habitat. The boat ride is a highlight, offering a chance to see the landscape from a different perspective. We loved the way the reviews highlighted the guides’ knowledge — “mindblowing” was the word one guest used — suggesting that the guides make the wildlife encounter meaningful.

The third highlight is a Mayan mud bath, which is described as hydrating and cleansing, plus a freshwater rinse. It’s a relaxing, fun break after all the sightseeing. The local lunch, featuring seafood prepared by villagers, is another standout. Reviewers find the food genuinely tasty, with one mentioning that the lunch was “really tasty.” It’s a chance to experience local cuisine straight from the community, adding authenticity to the experience.

Finally, you have some free time at the Pink Lagoon for photos or just soaking in the scenery, and in some cases, relaxation at the beach. The tour ends back at the starting point, around 6:30 pm. Keep in mind that the admission fee to the reserve (~$27) isn’t included in the price, so budget accordingly.

Transport, Cost, and Overall Value

The $125 per person fee covers transportation from Playa del Carmen, the guided tour, boat rides, and meals, which in itself offers decent value considering the full-day itinerary. The inclusion of a box lunch, a restaurant meal, and bottled water keeps you nourished without extra fuss. The round-trip transfer service makes logistics straightforward — no need to figure out public transport or rent a car.

However, remember that the reserve fee is separate, so it’s not included in the ticket price. This fee is standard for visits to protected areas, but it’s worth noting so you aren’t caught off guard.

Groups consist of up to 40 travelers, which is a comfortable size for a guided tour but still big enough that you may not get very personalized attention. The guides are bilingual, which helps if you’re not fluent in Spanish, and reviews praise their knowledge and friendliness.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

According to reviews, the experience consistently hits high marks. One reviewer called it a “great trip and management,” praising the staff, service, and overall experience. They would recommend it to anyone visiting Cancun, which speaks volumes about the perceived quality.

Another reviewer was especially impressed by the guides’ knowledge and the quality of the lunch, calling the experience “mindblowing.” They appreciated learning more about salt production and the Mayan mud bath, citing these as highlights. That’s a good sign that this isn’t just a sightseeing tour but offers educational value as well.

A common theme in reviews is how beautiful the scenery is, with many noting that the pink lake is even more impressive in real life than photos can capture. Some mention that sunlight affects the lake’s shade, so for the best photos, timing your visit mid-morning or late afternoon may be ideal.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour works well for nature lovers and those interested in local culture. If you enjoy seeing wildlife in natural habitats and are curious about how salt is produced, the experience provides a compelling look into both. It’s also suited for travelers who want a full-day adventure with a mix of stunning scenery, educational content, and tasty local food.

While families can enjoy it, keep in mind the early start and long transfer time for younger children. It’s best suited for those who are comfortable with a full day on the road and outdoor activities. If you’re looking for a relaxed, short outing, this might be a bit much.

FAQs

• How long is the trip from Playa del Carmen to Las Coloradas?
  It’s about 3 hours each way, so plan accordingly for a full day.

• Is the reserve fee included in the tour price?
  No, the $27 reserve fee is paid separately at the location.

• What should I bring?
  Pack your swimsuit, towels, extra clothes, biodegradable sunscreen, insect repellent, and a camera for all those colorful photo ops.

• Are meals included?
  Yes, you get a box lunch, a restaurant meal, and bottled water during the tour.

• Can I buy souvenirs or extra snacks?
  While not explicitly mentioned, there may be opportunities at the stops, especially in Ría Lagartos. Bring some cash if you want extras.

• Is the tour suitable for everyone?
  Most travelers can participate, but be prepared for the long travel time. It’s a great experience if you’re comfortable with full-day excursions.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a unique combination of nature, wildlife, and local culture, this tour from Playa del Carmen offers a packed day of memorable sights and experiences. The vivid pink lakes alone make it worth considering, but the chance to see flamingos and crocodiles in their natural environment elevates it further. The guides’ knowledge and the tasty local food are added bonuses.

However, be aware of the long travel hours and the need to be prepared for an active day. It’s best suited for travelers who are eager to explore, curious about salt production and Mayan traditions, and happy to spend a full day on the road. With positive reviews attesting to its organization and quality, it’s a solid choice for those wanting to see a different side of the Yucatán Peninsula.

Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget your camera!