Tour Las Coloradas! Amazing Pink Lake Round Transportation from Tulum

Discovering the Las Coloradas Pink Lake and Rio Lagartos: An Honest Review

If you’re thinking about taking a day trip from Tulum to see the famous pink lake of Las Coloradas and explore the nearby Rio Lagartos wildlife reserve, you’re in the right place. While I haven’t personally done this tour, I’ve gathered enough details to give you a solid overview of what to expect—and what to watch out for.

What I like about this experience? First, the opportunity to see the stunning pink lake in person. It’s genuinely a sight that photographs well and feels a bit surreal. Second, the chance to spot wildlife like flamingos and crocodiles in their natural habitat adds an element of adventure.

A possible consideration is the timing and logistics—meeting early at 7:00 am, plus the length of the day, might be a lot if you prefer a more relaxed pace.

This tour is best suited for those who want a taste of Yucatán’s unique landscapes without breaking the bank, and are okay with a packed schedule. It’s good for travelers curious about nature’s oddities and wildlife lovers, but perhaps less ideal if you’re looking for a leisurely, boutique experience.

Key Points

• Spectacular views of Las Coloradas’ pink lake are a major highlight.
• Wildlife sightings at Rio Lagartos, including flamingos and crocodiles, are common.
• The full-day itinerary includes transportation, guided tours, and a box lunch, making logistics smoother.
• Timing: The tour starts early at 7:30 am, so be prepared for an early wake-up.
• Group size is capped at 50 travelers, which balances shared experience with comfort.
• The $27 government fee is not included in the price and should be budgeted separately.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Getting Started: Meeting Point and Timing

The tour kicks off early at the Súper Aki in Tulum at 7:30 am. It’s important to note that according to one review, the actual meeting time is 7:00 am, not 7:30, so be sure to double-check and arrive on time to avoid missing the bus. The early start means you’ll spend most of the day on the road, but it’s necessary to maximize your time at each stop.

Transportation

Transportation is included, with round-trip rides from Tulum in smaller vehicles that gather everyone before heading out on the main bus. This setup helps keep the group manageable and ensures everyone is accounted for. If you’re wary of long rides, be aware that the entire day lasts about 12 hours, so packing light and wearing comfortable shoes is advised.

Las Coloradas Pink Lake

The first stop, Las Coloradas, is the star of this trip. Known worldwide for its striking pinkish hue, the lake’s coloration comes from halobacteria that produce a pigment in salty water saturated with salt. It’s a place where nature’s oddities are on full display, and you’ll likely want your camera ready.

The tour includes a 3-hour visit, which should give you enough time to snap some photos, learn about the natural processes behind the color, and observe flamingos in their habitat. The guided aspect is appreciated; many travelers mention how knowledgeable guides enhance the experience, sharing insights about the microorganisms responsible for the lake’s color and the ecological significance of the area.

Rio Lagartos: Wildlife and Mud Baths

After the pink lake, the journey continues to Rio Lagartos, a protected biosphere recognized by the Ramsar Convention. This area is a mosaic of mangroves, estuaries, and marshes, teeming with wildlife. The highlight is likely to be spotting flamingos and crocodiles—both common sightings here according to reviews.

You’ll have approximately two hours at Rio Lagartos, which includes the chance to take a swim, enjoy a traditional Mayan white mud bath, and explore the wetlands. The mud bath is an unusual feature that many find fun and memorable, though it might not be for everyone.

Food and Additional Features

The tour provides a box lunch with a sandwich, juice, and fruit, plus the option to purchase beverages at the restaurant. One of the pluses here is that lunch is included, saving you some hassle during the busy day. You get to choose one dish for lunch, which adds a bit of personal touch.

Costs and Extras

The tour price is $128 per person, which covers transportation, guide services, entry to Las Coloradas, and the lunch. However, the $27 government fee is not included, so keep that in mind. It’s a small extra but worth budgeting for.

Actual Experience and Feedback

While the tour promises an exciting day, a review from a traveler noted that the trip wasn’t exactly as advertised. The meeting time was earlier than expected, and some found the schedule quite packed. But they also said, “You get to see the things they say you will see, so that’s of course absolutely awesome.”

Guides are often praised for their knowledge, which can make or break the experience. Expect to learn about the local biodiversity from someone who knows the area well, adding educational value beyond just sightseeing.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is suited for adventurous travelers who don’t mind early mornings and a full day of travel. It’s ideal if you’re looking for photo opportunities and want to be immersed in nature, with wildlife sightings and unique landscapes. It aligns well with those eager to explore the quirks of nature and enjoy a guided, all-inclusive day trip.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or are easily tired by long days, this might feel a bit rushed. Also, if you are particularly sensitive to salt or mud baths, or have mobility concerns, it’s worth considering the physical aspects of the stops.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a solid way to see some of Yucatán’s most photogenic and ecologically interesting sites without the hassle of planning multiple transfers or activities yourself. The inclusion of transportation, guide, and lunch makes it a convenient, reasonably priced option for travelers who want a full day of exploration.

The standout feature remains the pink lake of Las Coloradas—a true natural wonder. While the itinerary is quite packed, most travelers seem to find the experience worthwhile, especially with knowledgeable guides enhancing the trip.

If you enjoy discovering unique landscapes, spotting wildlife, and don’t mind early starts and busy days, this could be a good fit. Just keep your expectations aligned with the fact that it’s a tour, not a leisurely day, and plan accordingly.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, round transportation from Tulum is included, starting at Súper Aki.

What is the meeting time?
The official start time is 7:30 am, but some reviews note the actual meeting time may be 7:00 am, so it’s best to arrive early.

How long is the total tour?
The entire day lasts approximately 12 hours, so be prepared for a full day out.

Are meals included?
Yes, a box lunch with a sandwich, juice, and fruit is included. Beverages at the restaurant are extra.

Is there an additional fee I should know about?
Yes, the $27 government fee is not included in the tour price and must be paid separately.

Can I swim at Rio Lagartos?
Yes, there’s an opportunity to swim and enjoy the water at Rio Lagartos.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, towels, extra clothes, sunglasses, biodegradable sunscreen, and comfortable shoes.

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

In the end, this tour offers a glimpse into some of Yucatán’s most intriguing natural sights. It’s practical, well-organized, and perfect for those who want a guided experience to see the pink lake and wildlife without the hassle of DIY planning. Just remember that early mornings and a busy schedule are part of the package, so pack accordingly, and you’ll likely walk away with some unforgettable memories.