Tour to Las Coloradas Pink Waters and Boat Ride in Rio Lagartos with Lunch.

If you’ve been dreaming of those iconic pink lakes in Mexico, or want a nature-filled day with wildlife sightings and a boat ride, this tour might catch your eye. While it promises a full day of adventure from Cancun, it’s worth knowing both what works well and where it could fall short.

What we really like about this experience is how it offers a straightforward way to visit the spectacular Las Coloradas and wildlife-rich Rio Lagartos without the hassle of planning every detail ourselves. Plus, the inclusion of meals and a boat ride makes it easier to enjoy the day without constantly reaching for your wallet or worrying about where to eat.

On the flip side, some travelers have mentioned disorganization and safety concerns—notably around personal belongings—so it’s not perfect. Also, if you’re expecting the lakes to be vibrantly pink year-round, that’s something to keep in mind, especially during the salt harvest season when the color may be less intense.

This tour tends to suit those who want a full, guided day out focusing on natural sights and wildlife, and who value comfort and convenience over ultra-unique or exclusive experiences. It’s ideal if you’re looking for a good value, family-friendly outing, or simply want to check off the lakes from your travel list.

Key Points

• Convenient transportation from Cancun makes this a hassle-free day trip.
• The included meals and boat ride add value and reduce your planning stress.
• The pink lakes’ color can vary depending on the salt harvest cycle.
• Wildlife and birdwatching opportunities are plentiful, making it interesting for nature lovers.
• Some reviews mention disorganization and safety issues, so staying alert is smart.
• Tour size is capped at 40, balancing intimacy with group energy.

A Close Look at the Tour Experience

This tour packs quite a bit into around 12 to 15 hours, making it a lengthy but potentially rewarding day out. Starting early at 7:00 am, you’re picked up from your Cancun hotel, setting out on a roughly 3-4 hour drive. That part might feel long, but it’s your chance to relax, perhaps chat with fellow travelers, or enjoy the scenery passing by.

Visiting Las Coloradas

The highlight for many is Las Coloradas’ pink lakes. We loved the way the guide explains the salt extraction process, which has been happening here for decades. The salt harvests and lagoons are pretty impressive, and the sight of the pink waters — which are most vibrant when the sun hits just right — is genuinely striking. Just a heads-up: the lakes’ color isn’t always as bright, especially from July 19 to August 19, 2023, when the salt harvest is in full swing and the pink hue diminishes. So, if you’re visiting during that period, manage your expectations accordingly.

The tour includes ample photo time, which is crucial because these lakes are the kind of scene that makes for an unforgettable shot. Birdwatching is also part of the fun; flamingos are the stars, although the number you’ll see depends on the season. One review mentioned that seeing only a single crocodile was a bit of a letdown, but that’s the nature of wild animals—they don’t perform on cue.

Rio Lagartos and the Wildlife Boat Tour

Next, you hop onto a boat in Rio Lagartos for a guided tour through canals and lagoons. This part is where the tour shines for nature lovers. You’ll be on the lookout for flamingos, herons, pelicans, eagles, frigate birds, and possibly crocodiles if luck is on your side. We appreciated the birdwatching opportunities, which can be quite rewarding, especially with a knowledgeable guide pointing out different species.

The boat ride also offers a closer look at the habitat—you’ll see the flora and fauna in their natural environment, a rare chance to observe wildlife without disturbing it. Some travelers felt that more time with free-roaming crocodiles would have made the experience even better, though seeing even one crocodile was considered an added bonus for others.

Food, Relaxation, and Additional Stops

A key part of the tour is the included breakfast and lunch. The breakfast is a simple box with a sandwich, fruit, juice, and a cookie—nothing fancy, but enough to keep you going. Lunch at the restaurant features a dish of your choice, prepared to high standards, according to the provider. During the break, you can relax, recharge, and enjoy the local cuisine, which is a nice touch when you’re out for such a long day.

There’s also a visit to a crocodile farm, which some find interesting and others see as a brief, optional stop. Be aware that extra costs like the $8 USD fee for an optional viewpoint or the $27 USD federal tax at Las Coloradas are not included in the basic price.

The Overall Value

At $125 per person, this tour offers a lot of content—transport, meals, boat rides, and guided commentary. While it’s not the cheapest option out there, the convenience factor and variety of activities can make it a good deal. Keep in mind that some reviews suggest the organization could be improved, but overall, most travelers appreciated the chance to see iconic sights with minimal fuss.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a fan of wildlife, stunning scenery, and easy logistics, this tour hits the right notes. It’s especially suitable for those who want a guided, all-inclusive day without the stress of planning each leg. Families, nature enthusiasts, and casual travelers who don’t mind a long day will find this a worthwhile way to experience some of the Yucatán’s natural beauty.

This isn’t a tour for those seeking luxury or exclusivity; it’s more about value and access, with some imperfections. If you’re prepared for the possibility of disorganization or less-than-perfect wildlife sightings, you’ll likely find it a rewarding experience.

Final Thoughts

This trip offers a practical, enjoyable way to tick off the pink lakes and explore the biodiversity of Rio Lagartos. The boat ride and guided walks bring the landscape and wildlife to life, and the included meals make it easier to focus on the experience rather than logistics.

For travelers who prioritize convenience and a full day of natural beauty, it’s hard to beat the value this tour provides. Just be aware of possible hiccups, especially around organization and the seasonal variation in the lakes’ color.

All in all, it’s a good choice if you’re looking for a well-rounded day trip that showcases some of the most photogenic and wildlife-rich spots near Cancun. Just keep your expectations realistic, especially during salt harvest seasons.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, the tour includes round transportation from Cancun hotels, making it very convenient.

How long does the trip last? Expect around 12 to 15 hours, with early pickup at 7:00 am and return later in the afternoon.

What is the food like? The tour provides a breakfast box with a sandwich, fruit, juice, and a cookie, plus a choice of lunch dish cooked to high standards.

Can I see flamingos and crocodiles? Yes, flamingos are a highlight at Las Coloradas, and crocodiles are often spotted during the boat ride, though sightings can vary.

Are there any additional costs? Yes, there’s an optional viewpoint fee of $8 USD and a federal tax fee of $27 USD at Las Coloradas, which aren’t included in the main price.

How is the organization of the tour? The reviews suggest some inconsistency—while many enjoyed the sights, some travelers experienced disorganization or safety concerns, so staying alert is recommended.

Is this tour family-friendly? While not explicitly marketed as a family tour, the focus on wildlife and natural scenery makes it suitable for travelers with children who enjoy outdoor activities.

If you’re looking for a photo-worthy day with wildlife in a relaxed setting, this tour could be a good pick—just keep in mind the seasonal variations and recent reviews suggesting a need for better organization.