Tour Las Coloradas

If you’re considering adding a trip to the mesmerizing pink lakes of Las Coloradas to your Cancun itinerary, you’re in the right place. This tour promises a full day of natural wonders, wildlife encounters, and memorable landscapes. While it’s not a quick jaunt—it runs around 12 hours—it’s packed with experiences that could easily be the highlight of your trip.

What we love about this adventure is how it balances nature, culture, and comfort. You’ll get a chance to see flamingos, learn about salt production, and float in one of the most unusual lakes in the world. Plus, the boat ride in Rio Lagartos offers a closer look at local birdlife and wetlands. On the downside, the long bus ride might be a challenge for some travelers, especially those staying far from Cancun’s center. Still, if you’re into wildlife or unique landscapes, this trip can really deliver.

This tour best suits those who enjoy outdoor adventures, nature photography, and exploring off the beaten path. If you’re okay with a bit of travel time and want a day immersed in natural beauty rather than beach lounging, this trip is likely a good fit.

Key Points

• Wildlife Encounters: See flamingos, eagles, ospreys, and more in their natural environment.
• Stunning Landscapes: The pink lake of Las Coloradas offers a one-of-a-kind photo opportunity.
• Comfort & Convenience: Air-conditioned transportation and round-trip transfers make the long day manageable.
• Value for Money: The price includes boat rides, a delicious meal, and guided insights.
• Tour Length & Timing: Expect a 12-hour day with early pickup, so be prepared for a long but rewarding experience.
• Practical Tips: Wear comfortable clothes, bring sunscreen, snacks, and extra clothes for swimming or changing.

An Overview of the Tour Experience

Getting a sense of what this tour entails can help you decide if it’s worth your time and energy. It’s marketed as a full-day adventure, starting bright and early at 6:30am. The tour begins with a visit to the Rio Lagartos Nature Reserve, a protected wetland area teeming with birdlife and lush mangroves. This part of the trip is especially appealing if you’re into wildlife photography or simply love being outdoors.

You’ll spend about three hours here, exploring the wetlands via boat and enjoying the chance to observe flamingos, eagles, and other native species in their habitat. Many reviews highlight how knowledgeable guides make this experience engaging and educational, giving travelers context about the flora and fauna they encounter.

Next, the focus shifts to Las Coloradas, home to the world-famous pink lagoon. This striking landscape owes its color to halobacteria and microorganisms thriving in salt-saturated water. The tour allocates around three hours for this stop, giving plenty of time to take photos, learn about salt processing, and watch flamingos in their natural surroundings. Expect to be wowed by the sheer vibrancy of the water and the surreal quality of the scenery.

The Highlights in Detail

Rio Lagartos – The Wildlife Haven

Many travelers mention that this part of the tour is a highlight. The wetlands are recognized by the Ramsar Convention as important ecological sites, which speaks to their global significance. The boat ride offers a chance to see birds like flamingos, which are especially photogenic. One reviewer called the bird feeding and boat ride “brilliant and hilarious,” indicating that it’s not just educational but also fun.

The guides here are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the experience both informative and personal. You’ll learn about the various species and the ecological importance of the wetlands. The three hours may seem long, but it’s a good amount of time to soak in the scenery without feeling rushed.

Las Coloradas – The Pink Marvel

The main attraction here is undoubtedly the pink salt lake, which is a surreal sight. The water’s hue results from microorganisms thriving in the salty environment, creating a hue that can’t be missed. The photo opportunities are endless, making it a favorite for social media lovers.

Beyond just gawking at the color, you’ll get a chance to learn about the salt extraction process. Many reviews mention how the guides are eager to share interesting facts, and some even allow you to touch and hold crocodiles of various ages, which adds a touch of adventure.

Food & Refreshments

Included in the tour is a bottled water and a box lunch, which helps keep you energized through the long day. Travelers have raved about the quality of the meal, with some noting that the fish served was “amazing.” These small touches of local cuisine make the experience more authentic and satisfying after a busy morning of sightseeing.

Transportation & Logistics

The tour uses air-conditioned vehicles—a must for comfort, especially considering the lengthy travel times. You’ll be picked up early from your hotel or designated meeting point, usually around 6:30am. During reviews, travelers mention that the journey can be quite long—sometimes over 7 hours round-trip—due to multiple pick-ups and traffic. This is an important consideration if you’re a light sleeper or dislike long bus rides.

The group size is capped at 60 travelers, which is reasonable, but some reviews mention that the pick-up process can be a bit hectic, especially when coordinating with other guests.

What’s Not So Great?

The biggest drawback of this tour is the long travel time. While the sights are spectacular, some travelers have found the 7-hour round-trip journey to be a bit exhausting and a little frustrating, especially if your hotel is far out. One reviewer noted that the “pick up and drop off were the best,” but still described the long ride as a “nightmare,” mainly due to the multiple stops and travel delays.

Plus, some travelers mentioned that the walk in the hot sun to see flamingos was uncomfortable, particularly without shade or cover. Dehydration or overheating could be concerns if you’re sensitive to heat or not prepared.

Some reviews also pointed out that the transport can feel cramped, and the seats uncomfortable after hours on the bus. Bringing snacks, extra water, and a sweater or light jacket for the air-conditioned bus can make the journey more bearable.

Is This Tour Worth It?

In our view, this tour offers excellent value if you’re genuinely interested in nature, wildlife, and unique landscapes. The price includes boat rides, lunch, and guided commentary—things that would cost more if you arranged them separately. The chance to see flamingos in their habitat and the surreal pink lake makes for unforgettable memories.

However, if you’re not comfortable with long bus rides or have limited time, you might find the day a bit taxing. It’s best suited for travelers who don’t mind a full schedule and appreciate the opportunity to explore beyond Cancun’s beaches.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

• Wildlife lovers looking to see flamingos and other native species.
• Photographers eager to capture stunning scenes of nature.
• Adventure seekers who enjoy boat rides and outdoor exploration.
• Those wanting a break from crowded tourist spots and to experience more authentic Yucatan landscapes.
• Travelers prepared for a long day and long travel times, with an emphasis on comfort and safety.

Final Thoughts

This tour to Las Coloradas and Rio Lagartos offers a balanced mix of nature, wildlife, and extraordinary scenery. It’s well-suited for those who want to see the “real” Yucatan beyond the beaches and enjoy a day immersed in ecological beauty. The guided tours, boat rides, and local insights add value, making it more than just a sightseeing trip.

While the long bus ride can be a hindrance for some, many find the experience worthwhile thanks to the stunning sights and memorable encounters. The included lunch and wildlife sightings make this a good all-in-one option for a full-day adventure.

If you’re flexible, love nature, and want to witness one of the world’s most colorful lakes, this tour might become a favorite. Just be prepared for a day that’s packed, long, but ultimately rewarding.

FAQs

What is the start time for the tour?
The tour begins at 6:30am, so be ready early to make the most of your day.

How long is the entire tour?
Expect around 12 hours, including travel time, sightseeing, and meals.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses air-conditioned vehicles, but some reviewers mention the seats can feel cramped after a long ride.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothes and shoes, biodegradable sunscreen, insect repellent, swimwear, towels, extra clothes, snacks, water, and a light sweater for the bus are recommended.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, government fees of $27 per person are not included and must be paid on the day.

Can I see flamingos up close?
You’ll observe flamingos in their natural habitat, often feeding or wading close to the boat, but not necessarily very near.

Is it suitable for children?
The tour is generally suitable for most travelers, but keep in mind the long hours and outdoor walking in the sun.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a box lunch with a choice of dish and bottled water are provided.

What about the salt process?
You’ll learn about how salt is harvested at Las Coloradas, often with guides explaining the process during the visit.

Is there free time at the pink lagoon?
Yes, you’ll have about three hours to enjoy the lake, take photos, and explore at your own pace.

In summary, this tour offers a genuine glimpse of some of the most captivating natural sights in the Yucatán. It’s a good pick for travelers eager to combine wildlife, stunning landscapes, and local culture in one day, provided you’re prepared for a long but rewarding journey.