Paradisiacal tour: Las Coloradas Pink Lake and Rio Lagartos with Lunch included.

Traveling from Cancun and craving something a little different? This tour offers a chance to step away from the busy resorts and see some of the Yucatan’s lesser-known treasures. With visits to the surreal Las Coloradas Pink Lake and the ecologically vibrant Rio Lagartos, it promises a day full of striking sights and wildlife encounters. We’re here to share what you can expect, including the good, the not-so-great, and whether it’s worth your time.

Two things we really appreciate about this experience are the chance to see the magnificent flamingos and the unique pink waters—both sights that truly stand out. Plus, the boat tour through Rio Lagartos is a fantastic way to witness the region’s natural beauty up close. On the flip side, one potential hiccup is the late pickup some travelers have experienced, which can throw off your schedule a bit. That said, if you’re after an authentic, nature-focused day trip, this tour could be a solid choice.

This tour suits travelers who are interested in ecotourism, photography, and getting off the beaten path. It’s especially appealing if you want a full-day adventure that combines scenic beauty with wildlife spotting, all without spending a fortune. However, keep in mind that during July and August, the pink waters might not be as vividly colored due to salt harvests, so plan accordingly.

Key Points

• Unique landscapes with surreal pink waters and flamingos
• Two-hour boat ride through Rio Lagartos with wildlife sightings
• Includes a lunch box and hotel pickup, making logistics easier
• Limited to 40 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience
• Best enjoyed outside of peak salt harvest season for optimal color
• Approximate 12-hour day from start to finish, ideal for full-day explorers

The Experience: What to Expect

Starting the Day: Early Pickup and Journey

Your day begins early, around 6:30 am, with pickup from your hotel in Cancun. The company offers complimentary transportation, which is a real plus, saving you the hassle of arranging your own way to the meeting point. The group size is capped at 40, so you’re not lost in a sea of strangers. As we’ve seen from reviews, most folks find the pickup punctual, though some have experienced slight delays, like a 30-minute wait, which can be a little frustrating but isn’t uncommon with tour operators handling multiple pickups.

First Stop: Las Coloradas Pink Lake

The highlight for many is the visit to Las Coloradas, a tiny fishing village famous for its vivid pink waters and salt production. The tour includes admission to the site and about an hour to soak in the scenery. Even during July and August, when salt harvests reduce the water’s rosy hue, the landscape remains striking thanks to the white salt mounds and the contrast with the blue sky. You’ll want your camera ready—many visitors find themselves snapping countless photos of the flamingos, the pink lagoons, and the scenic surroundings.

You’ll also receive a lunch box to enjoy on your way to the next stop, which is a thoughtful touch, especially if you’re eager to maximize sightseeing time. The scenery here really does look like something from another world, with bright pink waters and flamingos strutting around—a true photo opportunity.

Second Stop: Rio Lagartos and the Boat Ride

After capturing your share of photos, you move on to Rio Lagartos, a protected area teeming with wildlife. The boat ride lasts about two hours, giving you plenty of time to spot flamingos, crocodiles, and various bird species. The boat trip is a highlight, as it offers a close-up view of mangroves, a habitat that supports impressive birdlife.

According to reviews, the boat ride is “marvelous,” and the chance to see wild crocodiles and flamingos up close makes it worth the trip. The guide will point out different birds and share insights about the ecosystem. One unique aspect is the opportunity for a Mayan clay bath, where you can indulge in a natural skin treatment using local clay—something that adds a bit of traditional flair to the adventure.

Lunch and Additional Activities

The lunch included is a dish of your choice, served with a bottle of water and snacks. While no soda or pop is included at the restaurant, the lunch itself provides a decent break in the day. It’s a simple, practical meal, not gourmet but satisfying enough after a morning of exploring.

End of the Day: Return to Cancun

The tour wraps up around early evening, with drop-off back at your hotel. The long day means you’ll get plenty of fresh air and natural beauty, but it also means a full schedule—be prepared for a long but rewarding day out.

Analyzing the Value

At $125 per person, this tour offers a fair price considering its inclusions—transport, boat ride, admission, and lunch. The small group size helps make the experience more personal, and the fact that you visit destinations most travelers miss adds to its appeal. If you’re into nature, birds, and scenic photos, you’ll find this a worthwhile investment.

Some reviews mention the pink waters’ subdued color during salt harvest season, which is worth considering if your trip is planned between July and August. Also, the pickup delay noted by one reviewer is an area the operator could improve, but overall, most travelers find the experience to be enjoyable and well-organized.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is well-suited for nature lovers, photographers, and adventurers eager to explore beyond Cancun. It’s also great for travelers who want a full-day escape that combines scenic beauty with wildlife encounters. If you’re traveling with kids, the boat ride and wildlife viewing might be engaging, but keep in mind the long hours and outdoor nature of the tour.

If you’re someone who appreciates authentic landscapes and photo ops, or if you’re curious about salt production and mangrove ecosystems, this tour offers a genuine glimpse into the region’s less touristy side.

If you’re after a day full of spectacular scenery and wildlife, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s a practical way to see Las Coloradas’ surreal pink waters and the vibrant ecosystem of Rio Lagartos without the hassle of planning multiple trips. The inclusion of lunch, transportation, and a boat ride makes it a comprehensive experience at a reasonable price.

While the pink hue might be less vibrant during certain months, the unique landscapes and wildlife sightings make it worthwhile. The small group size and natural setting elevate the experience, providing plenty of opportunities for great photos and memorable moments.

This tour is especially suited for adventurous travelers, nature enthusiasts, and photographers, but it also works if you’re simply looking for a day out of the city immersed in Mexico’s ecological beauty. If you’re prepared for a long day and a bit of an early start, you’ll find plenty to love here.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup, admission to Las Coloradas, a 2-hour boat ride in Rio Lagartos, a lunch dish of your choice, a bottle of water, and snacks.

Is there any additional cost I should be aware of?
Yes, there’s a reserve tax of MX$27 per person for Rio Lagartos, and no drinks are included at the restaurant.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring comfortable clothing, sun protection, a camera, and some cash for any extra purchases or tips.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 12 hours, from pickup in the morning to return in the evening.

What is the best time of year to see the pink waters at Las Coloradas?
The waters are most vibrant outside of July and August when salt harvests reduce the pink hue; during these months, the color may be less striking but the scenery remains beautiful.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While it’s suitable for most travelers interested in nature and wildlife, the long hours and boat ride might be tiring for very young children; use discretion based on your family’s needs.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather, and if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.