Pinktastic Lagoon Adventure Las Coloradas & Rio Lagartos from Cancun

Exploring the Pinktastic Lagoon Adventure: Las Coloradas & Rio Lagartos from Cancun

If you’re craving a day trip that offers a splash of color, wildlife sightings, and a break from the usual beach scene, the Pinktastic Lagoon Adventure might catch your eye. This tour promises a journey through the striking pink lakes of Las Coloradas and a boat cruise in the lively Rio Lagartos biosphere, just a few hours from Cancun. While it’s not perfect—some logistical quirks and extra costs are worth noting—it’s a worthwhile outing for those interested in nature, photography, and seeing Mexico’s remarkable coastal landscapes in action.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines unique natural beauty with accessible guided commentary. The chance to see flamingos, crocodiles, and vibrant pink lagoons all in one day is quite special. Plus, the inclusion of a bilingual guide, breakfast, and a boat ride makes it feel like a well-organized adventure. However, one potential snag is the extra charge for the Rio Lagartos Nature Reserve tax, which adds to the overall cost, and some travelers have expressed concerns about pickup logistics. This tour best suits nature lovers, photographers, and curious travelers eager for a colorful and wildlife-rich experience outside Cancun.

Key Points

• Colorful Highlights: Experience the stunning pink lakes of Las Coloradas, a rare and photogenic natural wonder.
• Wildlife Encounters: Spot flamingos, crocodiles, and other species in their natural habitat during guided boat rides.
• All-Inclusive Value: Price includes transportation, a guided tour, breakfast, lunch, and boat rides, making it a comprehensive package.
• Extra Fees: Be prepared for a $27 USD reserve tax and optional restaurant beverages, which aren’t included in the upfront price.
• Logistical Considerations: The tour begins early at 6:30 am, with long travel times potentially up to 14 hours, so it’s best suited for those with full days to spare.
• Mixed Reviews: Some travelers question pickup arrangements, but most agree the guides are knowledgeable and views are breathtaking.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Rio Lagartos: A Colorful Introduction to Coastal Wildlife

Our journey kicks off with a pick-up from Cancun early in the morning—around 6:30 am. Notably, some travelers have reported issues with pickup logistics, with one review mentioning they had to walk 15 minutes from their hotel because specific pickup points weren’t arranged. That’s something to keep in mind if you’re staying in less central locations.

Once onboard, the air-conditioned transport sets a comfortable tone for the roughly 2-hour drive. The first stop is Rio Lagartos, a biosphere reserve renowned for its vibrant birdlife and marine animals. The highlight here is a 2-hour boat ride through mangroves, offering a chance to see flamingos—often the star of the show—along with crocodiles and other native species. This part of the trip is what truly makes the experience special, as you get close to nature in a relatively unspoiled environment.

Las Coloradas: Nature’s Pink Masterpiece

After the boat ride, you’ll head to Las Coloradas, a small fishing village famous for its pink lakes. These striking bodies of water owe their blush to salinity and mineral deposits, creating a surreal, Instagram-worthy landscape. The tour includes about 3 hours here, with a guided visit to the lakes, giving you ample time to snap photos and learn about the salt mining industry that sustains the town.

The salt ponds are surprisingly expansive, and the varying shades of pink—especially under bright sunlight—are mesmerizing. Be prepared for the admission included in your ticket, and note that you’ll be walking on uneven surfaces, so comfortable footwear is advised.

Lunch and Additional Costs

A lunch is included, with a choice of dishes at a local restaurant, along with a small breakfast box in the morning containing a sandwich, juice, and fruit. This makes for a satisfying break after a long morning of sightseeing. However, drinks at the restaurant are not included, and there’s an additional $27 USD fee per person for the Rio Lagartos Nature Reserve tax—a common extra that many tours charge separately.

What Travelers Can Expect

Guides and Knowledge: Multiple reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides who offer informative commentary about the flora, fauna, and history of the sites. One reviewer praised the way the guide explained the different types of mangroves and the significance of flamingos, making the experience more enriching.

Scenic Views: The pink lakes are undeniably breathtaking, especially for avid photographers or anyone wanting a unique backdrop for photos. The boat ride through the mangroves adds a sense of adventure and intimacy with nature.

Logistical Realities: The tour’s full-day duration—up to 14 hours—means it’s best suited for those prepared for a long day. Traffic can influence timing, and the early start is non-negotiable. Some reviews mention that the pickup arrangement was less than ideal, which could be a dealbreaker if you’re not staying centrally or prefer more reliable logistics.

Cost vs. Value: At $134 per person, the price is reasonable considering the included activities, but the extra taxes and optional drinks can add up. The experience offers good value for wildlife and scenery enthusiasts, but those on a tight budget might want to budget for additional costs.

Transportation and Group Size

Transport is air-conditioned and shared among a group of up to 50 travelers. While this keeps costs down, it also means some might prefer smaller, more intimate tours. The morning pickup and the long day make it clear this is a group experience rather than a private one.

Final Thoughts

This tour is ideal for travelers who want to see something truly unusual—a landscape that looks almost surreal and wildlife that’s both abundant and accessible. If you enjoy photography, birdwatching, or simply discovering lesser-known sights, the Las Coloradas and Rio Lagartos trip offers plenty of opportunities. The guides’ knowledge enhances the experience, and the boat rides promise a memorable, immersive look at coastal ecosystems.

However, it’s not for everyone. The long hours, logistical quirks, and extra fees require some planning. If you’re traveling with kids, have mobility issues, or prefer a more relaxed schedule, this might be a little too intense. Also, travelers should be prepared for the early start and to possibly deal with some organizational hiccups, as indicated in the reviews.

Overall, it’s a value-packed day trip that rewards curiosity with color and wildlife in spades, perfectly suited for those eager to explore beyond Cancun’s beaches and get a glimpse of authentic coastal ecosystems.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle is included, but pickup points may not be specifically arranged for all hotels.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 12 hours, with travel times potentially extending to 14 hours depending on traffic and pickup logistics.

What’s the best way to prepare for this tour?
Bring comfortable clothes, shoes suitable for walking on uneven surfaces, swimwear, towels, and extra clothes. Use biodegradable sunscreen and insect repellent.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, there’s a $27 USD fee for the Rio Lagartos Nature Reserve, plus beverages at the restaurant are extra. The preservation tax of $25 USD per person at Rio Lagartos is also not included in the price.

What wildlife might I see?
You can expect to see flamingos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species, especially during the boat ride through the mangroves.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but the full-day duration and physical activities mean it’s better suited for older children and adults.

What should I consider about the logistics?
Be prepared for early pickup and long hours on the road. Some travelers have noted issues with pickup arrangements, so confirm your details beforehand.

To sum it up, the Pinktastic Lagoon Adventure offers a colorful, wildlife-rich escape from Cancun that’s perfect for those craving nature and striking scenery. While some logistical and extra cost considerations exist, the chance to see flamingos, paddle through pink lakes, and cruise among mangroves makes this a memorable outing—especially for travelers who appreciate authentic natural environments and don’t mind a full day on the go.