The Best Experience to Las Coloradas & Rio Lagartos from Tulum!

If you’re looking for a day full of incredible scenery and unique wildlife, this tour to Las Coloradas and Rio Lagartos could be just what you need. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, I’ve researched it thoroughly and spoken with travelers who’ve experienced it firsthand. It seems like a solid mix of surreal landscapes and authentic nature encounters—fitting for anyone craving a break from the beach and city sights.

What really draws people in is the chance to see the vivid pink lagoons at Las Coloradas—a photo-worthy spot that looks straight out of a dream—and the chance to spot flamingos and other endemic birds in their natural habitat. Plus, the opportunity to relax in a mud bath and enjoy a good local meal makes this feel like a well-rounded day out. That said, it is a long trip, at about 13 hours in total, so be prepared for a full day of exploring.

One thing to consider is that there’s a $27 government fee per person, which isn’t included in the ticket price. Also, the tour involves a lot of moving around in small groups and larger vehicles, which can sometimes mean waiting or delays, especially during busy times. But if you’re up for a full day immersed in nature with a camera ready for some stunning sights, this trip could be well worth it.

This tour seems best suited for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and photographers eager to capture unusual landscapes. It’s probably less ideal if you’re after a quick, relaxed outing or traveling with small children who might get tired of the long hours. Still, if you’re craving a full immersion in the natural beauty of the Yucatán, this could be a memorable addition to your trip.

Key Points

• Stunning landscapes: The pink lagoons at Las Coloradas are truly surreal and incredibly photogenic.
• Wildlife spotting: Expect to see flamingos, herons, eagles, ospreys, and possibly crocodiles.
• Authentic experience: Includes a natural mud bath with mineral-rich mud for skin rejuvenation.
• Full-day adventure: Around 13 hours, so pack comfortable clothes and be prepared for a long day.
• Extra charges: The $27 government fee plus beverages are not included in the price.
• Good value for nature lovers: Combines multiple scenic and wildlife experiences for a reasonable cost.

What to Expect on the Tour

Las Coloradas: A Dreamlike Pink Lagoon

Our journey begins bright and early, with a pickup at Tulum at 7:00am. The first stop is Las Coloradas, a place that looks like it’s been plucked from a fairy tale. The vibrant pink waters are caused by a special mix of salt concentrations and microorganisms that produce that mesmerizing hue. It’s a photographer’s paradise, and you’ll want to have your camera ready at every turn.

Travelers rave about the scenery here. One reviewer mentions, “The waters dazzle with their intense rosy hue – a natural phenomenon caused by unique salt concentrations and pigmented microorganisms.” It’s a true spectacle and worth the early wake-up. The salt extraction process is also explained by a native guide, giving you insight into one of the area’s main industries. Keep in mind that the site is a working salt farm, so while the views are otherworldly, it’s not a pristine beach—more of a salt-flat landscape.

Rio Lagartos: Wildlife and Natural Spa

Next, you’ll board a boat to cruise through the Ría Lagartos Biosphere Reserve. This part of the tour is all about close encounters with native wildlife. You may see flamingos wading in the shallow waters, along with herons, ospreys, and perhaps some crocodiles basking on the banks. It’s a sight to behold—the pink flamingos, in particular, are a highlight for many guests.

The boat ride lasts about 2.5 hours and offers a relaxed way to observe the environment. As one visitor put it, “Keep your eyes peeled for majestic pink flamingos and stealthy crocodiles—this area really feels like stepping into a nature documentary.”

After the boat ride, you’ll be taken to a secluded beach, where a natural mud bath awaits. Using mineral-rich mud, you can exfoliate your skin in an environment that feels totally untouched. It’s a simple but authentic wellness moment, perfect for unwinding after the boat trip. The setting is quiet, surrounded by lush vegetation, and offers a raw experience—no fancy spas here, just pure nature.

Lunch and Logistics

A highlight of the trip is the included Mexican-style lunch, where you can pick your favorite dish. A box breakfast with sandwiches, juice, and fruit is provided in the morning to fuel your adventure. The tour’s organizers aim to keep things straightforward and enjoyable, although beverages at the restaurant are not included, so bring some cash or extra drinks if you want something special.

Transportation-wise, you’ll be picked up in smaller vehicles at Tulum, then transferred to the main bus for the day’s excursions. This setup helps manage the group size (up to 60 travelers), though it means some waiting and coordination. The entire experience is designed to be smooth and well-organized, but always factor in possible delays during peak hours or weather issues.

Practical Details and Tips

• Duration: About 13 hours, so plan for a full day out.
• Price: $129 per person, which includes transportation, boat ride, salt process explanation, Mayan exfoliation, and lunch.
• Extras: A government fee of $27 per person is payable on-site.
• What to Bring: Swimsuit, towel, extra clothes, biodegradable sunscreen, insect repellent, sunglasses, and a camera.
• Group Size: Up to 60 travelers, which is enough for a lively atmosphere but still manageable.
• Weather: The tour depends on good weather—bad weather might result in cancellations or rescheduling.
• Suitability: Best for those interested in natural landscapes and wildlife; less ideal for those needing a quick, relaxed trip or traveling with very young children.

Authentic Traveler Insights

While reviews are still sparse, those who have gone mention the “breathtakingly beautiful pink lagoon” and the “wildlife spectacle” as the main reasons they felt the trip was worth it. One person noted that the “value for money is good” considering the combination of sights and experiences. Others appreciated the chance to learn about local salt harvesting practices and to see flamingos up close.

Some travelers highlight that the trip is quite long, but most seem to agree that the sights and experiences make it worthwhile. The inclusion of a Mayan exfoliation treatment adds a unique twist not found on many similar tours, giving a touch of local wellness.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a fascinating look into the natural beauty of the Yucatán Peninsula, blending eye-popping landscapes with immersive wildlife encounters. It’s a strong choice for travelers who want to see something truly different—pink lagoons, flamingos, and untouched wilderness—without spending a fortune. The full-day format ensures you get your money’s worth, but be prepared for a long, activity-packed day.

If you’re after authentic nature experiences with plenty of photo opportunities and wildlife viewing, this trip could become a highlight of your trip to Tulum. It’s especially well-suited for those who appreciate natural beauty and aren’t overly concerned with the length or the outdoor nature of the activities.

While it may not be perfect for everyone—particularly those with young children or limited stamina—the value for money and stunning scenery make it a solid choice for adventurous travelers wanting a memorable, Instagram-worthy adventure.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, round transportation from Tulum is provided, starting at the meeting point and including smaller vehicles and a main bus.

What is the cost of the government fee?
There is a $27.00 per person fee that you need to pay at the site; it’s not included in the ticket price.

How long is the tour?
The whole experience lasts about 13 hours, so it’s a full-day outing.

What should I bring?
Bring a swimsuit, towels, extra clothes, biodegradable sunscreen, insect repellent, sunglasses, and a camera for the best experience.

Is food included?
Yes, a box breakfast is provided, and you can select a Mexican dish for lunch. Beverages at the restaurant are extra.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour can be canceled for bad weather, and you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are children suitable for this tour?
It depends on the child’s stamina, as it’s a long day. The experience is outdoors and physically active, so consider this when traveling with kids.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
Flamingos are the main attraction, along with herons, eagles, ospreys, and possibly crocodiles.

Is the mud bath free?
Yes, the mineral-rich mud bath is included as part of the tour.

How many travelers typically join?
Up to 60 travelers can participate, making it a lively but manageable group size.

If you’re into seeing distinctive landscapes and wildlife in a relaxed, authentic setting, this tour from Tulum could truly be a highlight of your trip. Just remember to bring your camera, some patience for the long day, and a sense of adventure.