Adventure in Coloradas and Ría Lagartos and Cancunito

Planning a trip to Yucatán and looking for an experience that combines natural beauty, wildlife, and some of the most iconic sights in the region? This full-day tour from Mérida covering Las Coloradas, Ría Lagartos, and Cancunito might just be what you need. It’s designed for travelers who want a comprehensive look at some of the area’s most breathtaking spots, all in one day.

What we really like about this tour is that it offers a balanced mix of peaceful beaches, vibrant lagoons, and wildlife encounters, all guided by knowledgeable locals. Plus, with the round-trip transportation included, you don’t have to worry about logistics — just focus on enjoying the sights. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that it’s a pretty full schedule, so if you’re someone who prefers a more relaxed pace, it might feel a bit rushed.

This tour is perfect if you’re eager to see the pink lakes, spot flamingos, and enjoy a secluded beach experience — especially if you’re traveling solo or in a small group. It’s less ideal if you’re looking for luxury amenities or a more leisurely pace, but for those wanting a genuine taste of Yucatán’s natural wonders, it hits the mark.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: Combines Cancunito, Ría Lagartos, and Las Coloradas in a single day.
• Expert guidance: Bilingual guides offer insightful information about each stop.
• Wildlife and scenery: Opportunities to see flamingos, crocodiles, and stunning pink lagoons.
• Transportation included: Round-trip from Mérida makes logistics straightforward.
• Cost considerations: The tour price is $120 per person, with an additional government fee.
• Limited hotel pick-ups: Participants need to arrive at the designated meeting point.

What to Expect from the Tour

If you’re eyeing this trip, you’re probably after an authentic experience that highlights the natural beauty of Yucatán. Let’s go through the itinerary and what each part offers.

Cancunito: The Secluded Beach Experience

The tour kicks off early morning, with departure from Mérida at 7:00 am, heading to Cancunito, a quiet stretch of virgin beach just a short drive from Las Coloradas. Think soft white sands and calm waters, perfect for relaxing away from crowds. We loved the way this spot offers a peaceful retreat with great photo opportunities and a chance to unwind in a natural setting.

Here, you’ll get around four hours, which is enough time to soak up the sun, take a walk, or paddle in the shallow waters. There’s no mention of specific amenities at Cancunito, but given its natural vibe, it’s mostly about the scenery and tranquility.

Ría Lagartos: Wildlife and Mangroves

Next up is Ría Lagartos, a UNESCO-protected biosphere reserve known for its vibrant wildlife. The boat ride through the canals is a highlight — you’ll glide past lush mangroves, spotting birds, crocodiles, and maybe even some otters. The guides are noted to be knowledgeable, which means you’ll learn a lot about the flora and fauna that make this place special.

The three-hour stop offers ample opportunity to observe flamingos wading through the waters — a major draw for many travelers. One reviewer mentioned how they appreciated the guide’s explanations, making the experience both beautiful and educational. The boat ride is a key part of the trip, so be prepared for some time on the water.

Las Coloradas: Seeing the Famous Pink Lagoons

The final stop is Las Coloradas, where the famous pink lakes await. These lagoons are natural and striking, with the vibrant hues caused by the combination of mineral content and algae. The tour allows about two hours here, enough time to walk around, take photos, and listen to the guide’s explanations about why the lakes are pink and some curious facts about the area.

This spot is undoubtedly the most Instagram-worthy part of the trip. Many visitors comment on how surreal it feels to stand next to these massive, colorful lagoons. Be aware that there’s a government fee (around $27 USD) to access the lakes, which is payable on-site.

Transportation, Guides, and Overall Logistics

Transportation is included, starting from the official meeting point in Mérida, near the San Ildefonso Cathedral. The service is prompt, and the group size is limited to 25 travelers, keeping things intimate.

The guides are bilingual, which is helpful for international visitors, and they’re generally praised for their knowledge and friendly attitude. The tour lasts about 11 hours — a long day, but packed with sights and activities. It’s a good choice if you’re comfortable with early mornings and full days of sightseeing.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Your fee covers round transportation, the boat ride in Ría Lagartos, lunch at a restaurant, and a bilingual guide. However, drinks at lunch are not included, and there’s an additional government fee of $27 USD to access Las Coloradas. Bring cash for this, plus any personal expenses or souvenirs.

Practical Tips

• Arrive on time at the designated meeting point. No hotel pickups are offered.
• Pack sunscreen, a swimsuit if you want to dip in Cancunito, and a change of clothes. The day can be warm and sunny.
• Bring cash for government fees and any extras.
• Wear comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for walking and boat rides.

Price and Value

At $120 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive look at some of Yucatán’s most photogenic spots, with transportation and guides included. Considering the boat ride, the guided explanations, and the visits, many find it to be a good value — especially if you want to tick off multiple highlights in a single trip.

Authentic Feedback from Past Participants

While the reviews are still sparse, those who have taken the tour mention the knowledgeable guides as a real asset. One said, “The guides made everything so interesting, and we loved the views at Las Coloradas.” Others appreciated the small group size, which kept the experience personal and engaging.

Some did mention that the day feels a bit packed, so if you prefer taking things slow, this might be a full schedule. But overall, travelers seem to leave with memorable photos and stories.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience appeals most to adventurous travelers eager to see multiple natural attractions in one day. It’s great for photography lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those wanting a hassle-free way to explore the pink lakes and wildlife reserves. It’s less suited for those seeking luxury or a leisurely, unhurried pace, but perfect for anyone wanting a well-organized, informative trip.

The Sum Up

If you’re after a day filled with striking scenery, wildlife encounters, and a little adventure, this tour from Mérida delivers. It’s a smart choice for travelers who want to see Las Coloradas’ iconic pink lagoons, spot flamingos in their natural habitat, and enjoy some quiet beach time at Cancunito. The guides’ expertise and inclusion of transportation and activities make it a stress-free way to explore.

While it’s a full schedule and involves extra fees, the experience’s richness and the chance to see some of Yucatán’s best natural sights make it worthwhile. Just be ready for a long day and bring your camera, sun protection, and a sense of curiosity.

This tour is ideal if you’re looking to combine nature, stunning visuals, and wildlife into one memorable adventure — a great way to make the most of your time in Yucatán.

FAQ

Do I need to bring any special gear?
Just sunscreen, comfortable clothes, a swimsuit if you want to swim, a change of clothes, water, and some cash for fees and extras.

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from Mérida is provided, starting early at 7:00 am from a designated meeting point.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 11 hours, with stops at Cancunito, Ría Lagartos, and Las Coloradas.

Are drinks at the restaurant included?
No, drinks are not included, so bring some cash if you’d like to buy beverages.

Can I visit Las Coloradas alone?
You can visit independently, but the tour includes an organized visit with a guide, boat ride, and government fee, which simplifies the experience.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly labeled as family-friendly, children comfortable with long days and boat rides can participate. Always check with the provider if traveling with very young kids.

If you’re up for a day of natural beauty, wildlife, and unforgettable photos, this tour offers a genuine glimpse into the stunning sights of Yucatán.