Las Coloradas Amazing Pink Lake & Rio Lagartos from Tulum

This in-depth review takes a close look at the popular Las Coloradas Pink Lake & Rio Lagartos tour from Tulum, a full-day adventure that promises a memorable encounter with some of the Yucatán Peninsula’s most striking natural sights. Based on detailed information and traveler reviews, we’ll walk through what makes this trip special, what to expect, and whether it’s worth your time and money.

Two things we particularly appreciate about this tour are its focus on nature and wildlife—from observing flamingos in their natural habitat to exploring salt production—and the knowledgeable guides who bring these ecosystems alive with stories and insights. The inclusion of a mayan mud bath adds a fun, relaxing touch that complements the outdoor exploration.

However, it’s worth noting that the tour can be quite long—up to 13 hours—so it best suits those with a good level of stamina and a love for outdoor adventures. If you’re eager to see nature’s marvels without the crowds and enjoy learning from guides who know the area well, this tour offers incredible value.

Key Points

• Unique natural wonder: The iconic Pink Lake is a must-see, with its vibrant hues caused by microorganisms thriving in salty water.
• Wildlife viewing: Expect to see flamingos, crocodiles, pelicans, and eagles, especially during the boat ride through the Rio Lagartos reserve.
• Educational value: Guides share fascinating details about the salt-making process and the local ecosystem.
• All-inclusive experience: The tour covers transportation, a box lunch, and visits to two key sites, with optional additional costs for certain taxes and drinks.
• Time commitment: It’s a full-day trip, which might be long but rewarding for those keen on exploring away from the tourist crowds.
• Authentic experience: The tour emphasizes local ecosystems and introduces travelers to lesser-visited natural sites.

Starting Point and Timing

The tour begins early at 7:00 am, meeting at the Súper Aki store in Tulum. This central location makes it convenient for most travelers staying in Tulum or nearby. The group size is capped at 50 participants, which helps maintain a comfortable atmosphere while still allowing for a shared experience with fellow travelers.

The tour lasts approximately 12 hours, ending back at the starting point. Given the length, it’s best suited for those with a flexible schedule and an enthusiasm for outdoor adventures. Expect to be on the road for several hours, but with plenty of opportunities to stretch your legs and take photos.

Transportation and Comfort

Transportation is included, with a round-trip ride from Tulum in a comfortable vehicle. The journey itself provides a good chance to get a quick overview of the landscape and settle in for a day of adventure. Since the group is relatively small, the ride feels intimate without sacrificing efficiency.

The Excursion Itinerary: Breaking Down the Highlights

Stop 1: Las Coloradas (2 hours)

The first major stop is Las Coloradas, world-famous for its striking pink lake. This natural wonder owes its incredible hue to the microorganisms—halobacteria—that thrive in salt-saturated water. When sunlight hits the water, the lake’s surface shimmers in shades of pink and sometimes deep red, creating picture-perfect moments.

Walking around the lake, we loved the way guides explained the salt production process, giving insight into how this thriving industry shapes the landscape. You’ll have chances to observe the flamingos that frequent the wetlands, often wading gracefully in the shallow waters.

Travelers like Lesley_S highlighted how magical this sight is, describing it as “an amazing day out,” with the added thrill of seeing wild crocodiles in the mangroves. Some guides even feed these crocodiles during the boat ride, giving an up-close look at these often-misunderstood creatures.

Stop 2: Rio Lagartos (3 hours)

The second major stop is the Rio Lagartos Biosphere Reserve, an area teeming with diverse ecosystems. You’ll hop onto a boat for a guided tour, searching for flamingos, pelicans, eagles, and crocodiles in their natural habitat.

The boat ride offers a chance to see the mangroves, estuaries, salt marshes, and lagoons, which are vital for many bird species’ nesting and feeding. Guides are typically very knowledgeable, sharing stories about the local flora and fauna, helping you recognize various bird calls and behaviors.

This part of the tour is especially popular. Margot_D called it “une vue incroyable” (an incredible view) and appreciated the attentive personnel. The chance to be close to wildlife in such a pristine setting makes this a highlight.

Additional Activities

The tour also includes a visit to a salt-production site, where you’ll learn how the salt is harvested and processed. This is a rare opportunity to see a traditional industry still thriving in the area.

The experience isn’t complete without a Mayans mud bath, which offers a fun, natural way to relax after the boat ride. Although not extensively detailed in reviews, it’s an authentic local activity that adds a distinctive touch to the excursion.

What’s Included and What Costs Extra?

The tour provides round transportation, admission tickets for Las Coloradas, visits to Rio Lagartos, and a box lunch with a sandwich, juice, and an apple. You get to pick one main dish for lunch, adding a bit of flexibility.

However, travelers should be aware of additional costs like a $27 USD tax reservation in Rio Lagartos. Drinks at the restaurant are not included, so bringing cash or card for extras is a good idea.

The tour operator, Cancun Smart Pass, emphasizes safety and environmentally friendly practices—remember to bring biodegradable sunscreen and insect repellent.

The Value of This Tour

At $141 per person, considering the inclusion of transportation, guided tours, and meals, the price is reasonable. The experience offers a chance to see rare natural phenomena and observe wildlife in their habitat, which can be far more memorable than a typical tourist attraction.

Recent reviews speak highly of knowledgeable guides and stunning views. Lesley_S mentioned that the guides fed the crocodiles and shared insightful stories, making the long day both educational and fun.

This adventure is perfect for nature lovers and those eager to see authentic ecosystems away from crowded tourist sites. If you enjoy birdwatching, wildlife photography, or simply want to witness the surreal pink lake, this trip hits the mark.

It’s also suitable for travelers comfortable with a full day outdoors. The mix of boat rides, walking, and driving means a good level of physical activity—bring comfortable shoes, hats, and plenty of water.

Those interested in learning about local industries like salt production will find the explanations fascinating. Plus, the guides’ local knowledge makes the experience richer and more meaningful.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a rare glimpse into the natural beauty of the Yucatán Peninsula, combining stunning scenery with engaging wildlife encounters. It’s a well-rounded option for travelers seeking authentic experiences that go beyond the typical Maya ruins or beach days.

While it’s a long day, the variety of activities, stunning vistas, and knowledgeable guides make it a worthwhile investment for those eager to connect with nature. If you’re comfortable with the schedule and are excited about experiencing Mexico’s unique landscapes, this tour should be at the top of your list.

This full-day excursion is ideal for adventure seekers, wildlife enthusiasts, and curious travelers who want an authentic, educational look at Mexico’s ecological treasures. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate guided insights and wish to see rare natural phenomena like the pink lake.

The experience combines beauty, education, and fun, making it a memorable addition to any itinerary focused on nature and local culture. Families, solo travelers, or couples will find plenty to love here, provided they’re prepared for a long but rewarding day exploring the wild side of the Yucatán.

If your goal is to escape the crowds, learn about salt production, and marvel at flamingos and crocodiles in their habitat, this tour delivers a genuine, engaging experience that’s hard to match.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 12 hours, starting at 7:00 am and returning to Tulum in the early evening, depending on traffic and group pace.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Súper Akí in Tulum and ends back at the same location, making logistics simple for most travelers.

What is included in the price?
Transportation, admission tickets for Las Coloradas and Rio Lagartos, a box lunch, and a bilingual guide are covered. Drinks and certain taxes are extra.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but since it’s a long day with outdoor activities, it’s best suited for those comfortable with walking and boat rides.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, a $27 USD tax reservation in Rio Lagartos is payable. Drinks at the restaurant aren’t included, so bring extra cash or cards.

What should I bring?
Bring biodegradable sunscreen, insect repellent, swimwear, towels, and extra clothes. Camera gear for wildlife photos is also recommended.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of stunning scenery, wildlife encounters, and expert guides makes it a memorable natural experience that’s both educational and fun.

This tour is a lovely way to combine eco-tourism, wildlife watching, and cultural insights into a single day. For travelers eager to see Mexico’s vibrant ecosystems and learn about local industries, it offers real value and unforgettable moments.