Las Coloradas Natural Pink Lake Tour from Cancun & Riviera Maya

Taking a guided day trip from Cancun or the Riviera Maya to see Las Coloradas and Rio Lagartos offers a captivating glimpse into some of the Yucatán Peninsula’s most unique landscapes and wildlife. While this tour can be a long day—roughly 12 hours—it promises a mix of vibrant scenery, plentiful birdwatching, and local insights. We’re here to give you an honest, detailed look at what to expect, what’s worth your time, and what might give some travelers pause.

One thing we love about this tour is how it combines natural beauty with educational elements — learning about the salt extraction process at Las Coloradas, and seeing flamingos in their habitat. Plus, the included box lunch takes the hassle out of packing, making it easier to relax and enjoy the experience. On the flip side, the travel time can be quite long, and some might find the 6:30 am start a bit early, especially if you’re not an early riser. It’s a tour best suited for those eager to explore beyond the usual beaches, especially if wildlife, photography, or nature photography inspire you.

Key Points

• Visiting Las Coloradas offers a stunning, otherworldly pink landscape created by natural microorganisms.
• Wildlife enthusiasts will enjoy spotting flamingos, herons, and other birds in Rio Lagartos’s wetlands.
• Comfortable transportation with air conditioning makes the long day more bearable.
• The included box lunch simplifies your day, giving you a tasty and convenient meal.
• Tour group size is capped at 60 travelers, balancing social experience with personal space.
• Be prepared for additional costs — a separate tax reservation fee of $27 USD per person applies at Rio Lagartos.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Departure and Transportation

The journey begins early, with a pickup around 6:30 am. While the precise hotel pick-up details aren’t specified here, the tour is designed to be accessible for most travelers staying in Cancun or the Riviera Maya. The group travels in an air-conditioned vehicle, which is a plus considering the long drive and tropical heat. Expect a roughly 2-hour ride to Las Coloradas, giving you a comfortable break from the busy resorts.

Las Coloradas: The Pink Lagoon

Our first stop is Las Coloradas, a place unlike anything most travelers have seen. The pink hue of the water isn’t just a photo trick; it’s caused by the halobacteria microorganisms thriving in salt-saturated water. During the roughly two hours allotted, you’ll get plenty of time to walk around, take photos, and learn about the salt extraction process from local operators. The salt flats and shallow lagoons make for amazing images, especially if you visit during the right lighting.

Travelers consistently mention how surreal the scenery is, with one review stating, “It’s like walking into a giant pink cake.” That said, some warn that the pink color can vary depending on weather and time of year, so don’t expect a constant bubblegum pink—more often a soft blush or coral. Locals still actively harvest salt here, so you’ll see salt mounds and equipment that add to the authenticity.

Rio Lagartos: Wildlife and Wetlands

Next, the tour heads to Rio Lagartos, a protected biosphere recognized by the Ramsar Convention. Here, you’ll spend around two hours exploring wetlands, mangroves, estuaries, and lagoons teeming with birdlife. This part of the tour is excellent for birdwatchers and anyone interested in seeing flamingos in their natural habitat.

The wildlife sightings are a key highlight. Several reviews highlight the chance to see flamingos, herons, eagles, and ospreys. One traveler mentioned, “It was incredible to see the pink flamingos just a few feet away, in their natural environment, not in a zoo.” The wetlands also serve as nesting sites for many species, making it a vibrant and vital part of the local ecosystem.

Food and Rest

A practical perk of this tour is the included box lunch—a sandwich, juice, and an apple—so you don’t have to worry about packing snacks. Travelers have expressed appreciation for this simplicity, especially after a busy morning of sightseeing. The tour doesn’t include beverages at the restaurant, so you might want to bring your own water or other drinks.

Additional Costs and Considerations

There’s a $27 USD tax reservation fee required at Rio Lagartos, which is not included in the base price. This is a standard fee for visiting the biosphere reserve, and it’s worth budgeting for—think of it as a small contribution to conservation efforts.

The tour ends with a scenic drive back to your hotel, arriving in the late afternoon or early evening. The total duration is around 12 hours, making it a full but rewarding day.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This day trip is ideal for travelers who crave authentic nature experiences and are interested in ecology, wildlife, and unique landscapes. It’s a good fit if you’re looking to escape the crowded beaches and explore more diverse environments. Bird enthusiasts and photographers especially enjoy the flamingo sightings and colorful lagoons. If you’re traveling with family or a group who enjoys gentle walking and sightseeing, this tour offers a balanced mix of activity and relaxation.

However, keep in mind the early start and long hours—this isn’t a laid-back beach day. And if you’re not particularly interested in nature or wildlife, or prefer a shorter, less intensive experience, you might find this tour a bit too demanding.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For around $131 USD per person, this tour offers a well-rounded experience of nature, wildlife, and local culture. The inclusion of transportation, a box lunch, and admission tickets makes it a convenient option. You’ll get to walk through spectacular landscapes, observe flamingos in the wild, and learn about salt production—all under the guidance of knowledgeable guides.

While the early start and long hours might be a hurdle for some, the authentic scenery and wildlife sightings are genuinely memorable. It’s especially valuable for travelers who want to see beyond the typical tourist spots and gain a deeper appreciation of the region’s ecological richness.

In the end, this tour is best suited for adventurous travelers, nature lovers, and those eager for a photo-worthy experience. If you’re looking for a day that combines education, stunning visuals, and wildlife encounters, this trip will serve you well.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, pick-up and drop-off at your hotel, visits to Las Coloradas and Rio Lagartos, and a box lunch with a sandwich, juice, and an apple.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 12 hours, with about 2 hours at Las Coloradas, 2 hours at Rio Lagartos, plus travel time.

Is there an additional fee I need to pay?
Yes, an extra $27 USD per person for the tax reservation fee at Rio Lagartos. This fee is not included in the ticket price.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, towels, extra clothes if you wish to swim or get wet, comfortable shoes for walking, biodegradable sunscreen, insect repellent, and any personal snacks or drinks.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is offered up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What kind of wildlife might I see?
Expect to see flamingos, herons, eagles, ospreys, and other bird species. The wetlands are a vital habitat for many nesting and migratory birds.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 60 travelers, balancing group feel with comfort.

This tour offers a wonderful chance to explore some of the Yucatán’s most colorful and lively ecosystems, perfect for those eager to experience nature’s artistry in a meaningful way.