VALLADOLID: RIO LAGARTOS+LAS COLORADAS+EK´BALAM+CENOTE

If you’re traveling through the Yucatán Peninsula and looking for an experience that combines natural beauty, ancient history, and refreshing swimming spots, this Valladolid tour might just be your perfect day out. We haven’t done it ourselves, but from what we’ve gathered, it’s an engaging, well-rounded adventure suitable for anyone wanting to see some of the most iconic sights around Valladolid.

Two things that really stand out about this experience are the opportunity to spot flamingos and other wildlife in Rio Lagartos and the chance to climb the impressive ruins of Ek Balam with a knowledgeable guide. Both add a layer of authenticity and discovery that’s hard to find in more casual day trips. That said, one consideration is the cost of some optional extras, like boat rides and entrance fees, which can add up if you want to do everything.

This tour is best suited for those who enjoy a mix of nature, history, and a bit of adventure — travelers who appreciate guided insights but also value some free time for photos and personal exploration. Families, couples, or solo travelers eager to cover several highlights in a single day might find it particularly appealing.

Key Points

• Includes transportation and a local driver with basic English, making logistics straightforward.
• Highlights wildlife sightings like flamingos, crocodiles, and coastal birds at Rio Lagartos.
• Captures stunning photos at Las Coloradas’ famous pink salt lake.
• Climbs Ek Balam ruins for panoramic views and a sense of stepping back in time.
• Swims in Cenote Hubiku, experiencing the Mayan underworld and refreshing waters.
• Offers optional extras like boat rides, entrance tickets, and guided tours, which can increase overall costs.
• Travel insurance and courtesy breakfast are included, adding comfort and value.
• The tour lasts about 10 hours, making it a full but manageable day trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Tour Experience

If you’re considering this tour, you’re probably drawn to the idea of combining wildlife, natural beauty, and archaeology into one day. From what we’ve seen, it’s a well-organized trip that covers some of the Yucatán’s most Instagram-worthy spots, all while offering insightful commentary from guides.

The transportation part is a strong point — an air-conditioned vehicle with a certified local driver (who speaks Spanish and some basic English) means you can relax and not worry about navigating. Many reviews praise the driver’s friendliness and attentiveness, like one traveler from the Netherlands mentioning Olle’s kindness and good communication, even with language barriers. Knowing you’re in safe hands helps make the long day more comfortable and enjoyable.

Rio Lagartos: A Wildlife Wonderland

The journey begins in Rio Lagartos, a small fishing village that’s also a designated Wildlife Refuge and Biosphere Reserve. Here, the boat ride through mangroves is typically the highlight, offering chances to see crocodiles, herons, pelicans, and—most famously—flamingos. Many visitors appreciate the relaxed pace and the chance to see such a variety of birds in their natural habitat.

One review from July 2025 notes, “El guía, muy profesional, excelente todo el recorrido. Me explicó muy bien a cada lugar,” highlighting the professionalism and attentiveness of the guide. While the boat ride is optional and comes with an extra cost ($39 USD per person minimum, with discounts for groups), it’s often considered worth it for the wildlife experience.

Las Coloradas: The Iconic Pink Lake

Next, you’ll visit Las Coloradas, where saltwater evaporation creates a surreal pink hue. It’s a sight that truly lives up to the photos—vivid, vibrant, and perfect for snapping some memorable shots. It’s worth noting that there is an entrance fee of around $24 USD for foreigners (less for locals), so budget accordingly.

Guests frequently comment on the beauty of the lake, with one describing it as “stunning” and “a photo opportunity you can’t miss.” It’s a brief stop but one that leaves a lasting impression thanks to its unique color and salt flats.

Ek Balam: Ancient Mayan Marvels

From the salty lakes, the tour moves to Ek Balam, an archaeological site with towering pyramids and detailed stucco sculptures. Climbing the ruins offers sweeping views of the surrounding jungle and a tangible connection to the past. The general admission ticket is about $31 USD, and many visitors take the opportunity to explore with a guide for a more enriching experience.

Reviews highlight the expertise of guides like Maria, who teach visitors about Mayan history and architecture. “Our guide (Maria) was also very kind and proficient,” said one traveler, emphasizing the value of guided insights. The climb can be physically demanding but is rewarding for those interested in history and archaeology.

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Cenote Hubiku: Refreshing End to the Day

Finally, the tour concludes at Cenote Hubiku in the town of Hubiku. This semi-open cenote offers clear waters perfect for a swim, giving you a chance to cool off and relax after a busy day. Entrance costs about $24 USD, and you can also enjoy local Yucatecan cuisine here, making it a fitting wrap-up.

Visitors describe the cenote as “sparkling” and “a beautiful spot to unwind,” with some mentioning the opportunity to taste local liquors, adding a fun local flavor to the experience.

How the Experience Comes Together

This tour is a balanced mix of nature, history, and leisure, organized to maximize your time while providing comfort and insights. The inclusion of a courtesy breakfast, water bottles, and travel insurance adds value, especially for those concerned about a full-day commitment.

While some optional extras like boat rides and entrance fees increase the total cost (around $90 without extras), many consider these investments worthwhile for the full experience. It’s also flexible: you can choose to skip some optional activities if you’re on a tighter budget or prefer to explore on your own.

What We Like Most

The guides’ knowledge and friendliness shine through in multiple reviews, making the history and nature come alive. The variety of stops means you won’t get bored, and the opportunity to see flamingos and other wildlife is a rare treat for nature lovers.

Possible Downsides

The main consideration is the cost of optional activities—boat rides, entrance fees, and guided tours can add up. Also, because of the packed schedule, you might find it less suitable if you prefer a more leisurely, unstructured day or want to spend more time at each site.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

If you love exploring new places with a group, enjoy learning about local culture and history, and want to see several highlights in one day, this trip is ideal. It’s especially suited for those comfortable with a full day of activity and some optional extra costs. Families with older children who can handle a bit of walking and climbing will find it more accessible, though younger kids should be prepared for some physical activity.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, a certified local driver, travel insurance, a courtesy breakfast, water bottles, and visits to Rio Lagartos, Las Coloradas, Ek Balam, and Cenote Hubiku.

Are guide services included?
Guides are optional, but some reviews mention knowledgeable guides like Maria, who teach about Mayan history and architecture. The tour price covers general admission, but guided tours at sites often are extra.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 10 hours, making it a full-day experience with plenty of time at each stop.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, a camera, biodegradable sunscreen, a towel, change of clothes, cash, and insect repellent are recommended.

Can I skip optional activities?
Yes, optional activities like boat rides, entrance fees, and guided tours are extra, so you can choose whether to participate based on your budget and interest.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While not explicitly marketed as family-focused, the activities—like climbing ruins and swimming in cenotes—are suitable for older children and teens who can handle a full day.

How do I pay for extras?
Extras are paid on-site, such as boat rides ($39 USD per person minimum) and entrance fees. It’s good to carry some cash in case.

What languages are the guides speaking?
The driver speaks Spanish and basic English; guides at sites may speak Spanish, with some knowledge of English, as per reviews.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a comprehensive, well-organized trip that covers natural landscapes, archaeological sites, and unique salt lakes, this Valladolid tour delivers a solid experience. It balances guided insights with free time for photos and exploration, making the most of a full day.

It’s most suited for curious travelers who want a taste of everything—wildlife, history, and natural beauty—without the hassle of planning multiple separate outings. The inclusion of food, insurance, and transport makes it a practical choice, even if you decide to add optional extras for a richer experience.

For anyone eager to understand more about the Yucatán’s environment and past while enjoying some of the most picturesque spots, this tour offers a reliable and memorable way to do so.

You can check availability for your dates here: