Adventour Day: Coloradas and Rio Lagartos Excursion from Cancun!

Exploring Cancun’s surroundings beyond the beaches can be a real treat, and this Adventour Day: Coloradas and Rio Lagartos Excursion offers just that—a peek into the striking natural beauty of the Yucatán Peninsula. We haven’t experienced it ourselves, but based on a solid amount of reviews and detailed info, it looks like a well-organized, engaging day trip suited for those wanting a mix of landscapes, wildlife, and cultural flavor.

One thing we really appreciate about this tour is how it combines stunning scenery—like the famous pink lagoons and flamingos—with educational insights from knowledgeable guides. Plus, the inclusion of a local lunch makes it feel like a full taste of regional life. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the early start and long day, which might not suit everyone, especially those who prefer more relaxed outings. But overall, if you’re into nature, wildlife, and authentic experiences, this trip seems like a good fit.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want to see iconic natural phenomena and enjoy a day outside the typical Cancun beach scene. It also offers enough structure and highlights to keep those interested in ecology and unique landscapes engaged, without being overly intense or complicated.

Key Points

• Vivid Natural Landmarks: Visit the famous pink lagoon at Las Coloradas and see flamingos in their natural habitat.
• Expert Local Guides: Guides are knowledgeable and helpful, enhancing your understanding of the ecosystems.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Transport, a boxed lunch, and a choice of local meal are included, making logistics simpler.
• Long but Rewarding Day: Approximately 12 hours with early pickup, so be prepared for a full day out.
• Scenic and Educational: Perfect for nature lovers or anyone curious about the unique sites of the Yucatán.
• Some Extra Costs: Marine tax at Las Coloradas is an additional $27, which you should factor into your budget.

The Experience in Detail

If you’re considering this trip, here’s what you can expect from start to finish. The day begins early—pickup is scheduled at 6:30 am—so a good night’s sleep beforehand is a smart idea. The tour is an all-day affair, about 12 hours total, that takes you from Cancun or Playa del Carmen to some of the most mesmerizing natural sites in the region.

The Drive and Atmosphere

The round-trip transportation is included, and although details about the vehicle aren’t specified, most likely you’ll be riding in a comfortable, air-conditioned bus. There’s a limit of 50 travelers, so while it’s not a small group, it’s manageable enough to feel somewhat intimate. The bus has a single bathroom, which is something to keep in mind—use the facilities before boarding and during scheduled stops, as it’s not possible to use the second bathroom due to ventilation issues.

Las Coloradas: The Pink Lagoon

The first major stop is Las Coloradas, a unique destination famous for its vibrant pink waters. This phenomenon owes itself to halobacteria thriving in the saline-rich environment, which produces the striking hue. It’s a sight that photographs don’t quite do justice to, so be prepared to take plenty of shots. The guides will share insights into the geology and ecology, adding context that makes your visit more meaningful.

From the reviews, we know visitors find the pink lagoon mesmerizing and worth seeing firsthand. One traveler described it as “a truly remarkable destination,” emphasizing how vivid and otherworldly the landscape appears. Keep in mind there’s a marine tax of $27 payable on-site, which isn’t included in the tour price.

Rio Lagartos: Flamingos and Wetlands

Next, the tour heads to Rio Lagartos, a biosphere reserve recognized by the Ramsar Convention for its wetlands. The reserve is a haven for wildlife—birds, aquatic animals, and other creatures thrive here. You’ll likely see flamingos up close and enjoy a boat ride through mangroves, which is often highlighted as a memorable part of the day.

A reviewer mentioned that “the boat ride through the mangrove trees to the Gulf of Mexico was the highlight,” and if you’re into birdwatching or just enjoying serene water views, this will hit the spot. The reserve is a vibrant ecosystem and is especially appealing to those interested in observing wildlife in their natural environment.

Food and Refreshments

Included in the tour is a box lunch featuring a sandwich, juice, and an apple, along with a choice of a local dish for lunch. Many travelers appreciate the convenience of having the meal included, saving time and effort. Be aware that beverages in the restaurant are not included, so bring extra drinks if you want something specific.

Practical Tips and Considerations

• Wear comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for walking and outdoor exploration.
• Bring swimwear, towels, and extra clothes if you want to enjoy a dip or need to change after water activities.
• Use biodegradable sunscreen and insect repellent—the guides recommend eco-friendly products to protect the environment.
• The tour’s itinerary is fixed, and while it’s well-organized, some reviews hint at the importance of arriving early to avoid missing out on parts of the experience.
• The early start and long hours mean it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy full-day excursions and are prepared for a busy schedule.

Authentic Experiences and Honest Feedback

While most reviews highlight the professionalism and helpfulness of guides, some pointed out the importance of punctuality—being early helps ensure you get the full experience, especially given the shared nature of the tour. One reviewer mentioned that “the tour was very organized and the guide constantly reaches out,” which is reassuring for those who like to feel well-informed and supported.

However, not all experiences are perfect. One guest gave a 3-star review, noting that the boat ride was the best part, but other aspects fell short. The response from the provider suggested that arriving early is crucial, especially if you want to maximize your experience, and recommended private tours for more flexibility.

Value for Money

At $120 per person, the tour offers a good deal considering transportation, guided insights, and meals are included. The main attractions—Las Coloradas and Rio Lagartos—are unique enough to justify the cost if you’re interested in natural beauty and wildlife.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This trip is ideal for nature enthusiasts, wildlife lovers, and travelers who want to see iconic Yucatán landscapes without the hassle of planning multiple outings. It’s suited for those comfortable with a full day on the road, early mornings, and a busy schedule. If you’re not keen on long group excursions or have specific needs, you might prefer a private tour.

It’s also a good choice for adventurous families, provided children are comfortable with the early start and outdoor activities. The boat ride and wildlife viewing could be especially exciting for kids with an interest in animals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, round-trip transportation from Cancun and Playa del Carmen is included, making it convenient to focus on enjoying the sights.

What time does the tour start?
Pickup begins at 6:30 am, so expect an early start—plan accordingly.

How long is the tour?
It’s approximately 12 hours, so be prepared for a full day of exploring.

Are meals included?
Yes, a box lunch (sandwich, juice, apple) and a choice of a local dish are provided. Be aware that beverages in the restaurant are extra.

How much is the marine tax at Las Coloradas?
An additional fee of $27 per person is payable at Las Coloradas for the marine tax.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothes and shoes, swimwear, towels, extra clothes, biodegradable sunscreen, and insect repellent. Also, bring some cash for extras or additional fees.

Can I use the bus bathroom during the trip?
The bus has only one bathroom, which is designated for number 1. Stops will be made at the visited spots where you can use the facilities.

Is this a family-friendly tour?
While not explicitly marketed as family-specific, the activities are outdoor and nature-based, which can be suitable for children comfortable with the schedule and environment.

What is the group size?
The maximum number of travelers is 50, so it’s a semi-private group experience.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Wrapping It Up

If you’re after a well-organized, scenic day trip that highlights some of the most Instagram-worthy sights of the Yucatán—like the iconic pink lagoon and flamingos—this tour does a solid job. You’ll get the chance to learn from guides who know the areas well, enjoy a comfortable ride, and take home some memorable photos.

It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy wildlife, photography, and outdoor adventures, and who are comfortable with a full-day itinerary. The inclusion of meals and transportation makes it convenient, but keep in mind the early start and the long hours.

For travelers looking for a full, immersive experience with a focus on natural beauty, this tour could very well be worth the price. Just be prepared for a busy day, and consider private options if you prefer more flexibility.

Ready for a day of vibrant colors and wildlife? This trip combines the best of the Yucatán’s natural attractions without the fuss, perfect for curious explorers eager to see something a little different from the usual beach scene.