Discover the FABULOUS PINK WATERS at the Caribean (Las Coloradas+Río Lagartos)

Discover the FABULOUS PINK WATERS at the Caribbean (Las Coloradas + Río Lagartos)

If you’re looking to see one of the most colorful sights of the Yucatán Peninsula, this full-day tour takes you to Las Coloradas, where vast salt lakes shimmer in shades of pale orange to deep fuchsia. It also includes a scenic boat ride through the Ría Lagartos Reserve, home to flamingos, crocodiles, and diverse birdlife. For $125 per person, you’ll enjoy hotel pickup, air-conditioned transport, and meals, making it a comfortable way to explore this unique part of Mexico’s Caribbean coastline.

What we love about this experience? First, the spectacular photo opportunities at Las Coloradas, which truly look like a surreal painting come to life. Second, the wildlife cruise offers a chance to see flamingos and crocodiles in their natural habitat, along with a salt mud exfoliating experience that’s both fun and memorable. However, one thing to consider is that during salt harvest season (July 19 – August 19), the lakes turn less pink, which may be disappointing if you’re hoping for the full rosy spectacle.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy nature photography, wildlife spotting, and cultural insights. It’s especially ideal if you want a full day of adventure with guided explanations, good food, and a taste of authentic Mexican coastal scenery. Keep in mind that the tour involves quite a bit of long travel time, so patience and a love for scenic drives will pay off.

Key Points

• Vivid Salt Lakes: Las Coloradas’ lakes are famous for their shifting shades of pink and orange, perfect for photos.
• Wildlife & Nature: The boat ride through Río Lagartos offers a chance to see flamingos, crocodiles, and other local birds.
• Guided Experience: The bilingual guide and salt farm explanations add context, making the trip educational and engaging.
• Meal & Comfort: Included breakfast and lunch are hearty and regional, with options for different tastes.
• Long Journey: Expect 12-14 hours, with some reviews noting long drives and bus comfort issues.
• Seasonal Variations: During peak salt harvest, the lakes are less pink, which might affect expectations.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

The Journey Begins Early for a Full Day

Starting at 7:00 am, you’ll be picked up from your hotel in Cancun, with the vehicle being air-conditioned—a relief on hot days. While many reviews praise the professional guides (like Pablo, Frank, or Arturo), some mention that long drives can be tiring, especially since the total travel time can stretch to up to 14 hours. One reviewer noted a three-hour van ride each way with limited comfort, which is something to consider if you’re not used to lengthy bus journeys.

Las Coloradas: Witness a Surreal Landscape

Your first stop is Las Coloradas, a tiny fishing village with salt lakes that seem straight out of a fantasy. We loved the breathtaking views and the chance to take spectacular photos of the lakes’ vivid colors. But, it’s worth noting that salt harvesting can influence the lakes’ hue; during the peak harvesting season (July 19 – August 19), the lakes are less pink, which disappointed some travelers.

One review mentioned that the actual inside of the salt ponds is sometimes off-limits or involves extra fees, like the $8 USD viewpoint or paying extra for a tour inside the salt complex. Another noted that the visit is mainly to get to the gate and take photos—so don’t expect a detailed salt processing tour unless you pay for it separately.

Río Lagartos: Wildlife & River Cruise

Next, you’ll board a boat to cruise through the Ría Lagartos Reserve. This part of the tour, roughly 3 hours, is often a highlight. Travelers report spotting flamingos feeding, crocodiles, and many bird species. The boat ride offers a more immersive experience, providing a chance to see wildlife in their natural environment, with some reviews highlighting the friendly and knowledgeable guides who make the experience fun and educational.

One traveler said, “The crocodiles were the highlight of the day,” adding that they enjoyed feeding and even holding the baby crocs. This close encounter gives a tangible sense of the local ecosystem that many find memorable.

The Salt & Mud Experience

As part of the tour, you’ll get a salt mud scrub—a popular activity—using clay from the salt lakes. Many visitors find this exfoliation both refreshing and fun, a tangible connection to the salt-mining process that sustains the area. A reviewer mentioned that this was a highlight: “We loved seeing Los Coloradas and learning a bit about salt harvesting.”

Lunch and Cultural Touches

The included lunch is regional—many describe it as delicious, with some noting the generous portions and local flavors. Drinks aren’t included, so if you’re thirsty, bring some extra water or beverages. One traveler shared that the restaurant was a highlight, praising the regional dishes and the friendly service.

Crocodile Farm & Final Moments

The tour also stops at a crocodile farm where you can hold baby crocodiles and watch the larger ones being fed. Some reviews expressed concern over animal welfare, mentioning that older crocodiles had their mouths tied and that the experience felt somewhat commercialized. Still, others appreciated the opportunity to learn about these creatures up close.

Returning After a Long Day

Most travelers get back around 9:00 pm, tired but filled with memories and photos. Some reviewers felt the long hours and long drives detracted from their overall experience, especially if they had trouble with the transportation comfort or bathroom breaks.

What the Reviews Reveal About the Tour

Authentic feedback highlights both pros and cons. Many praise the knowledgeable guides and the beauty of the lakes and wildlife, describing them as breathtaking and worth seeing. Several reviewers appreciated the well-organized meals and the value for money.

However, some concerns include the long travel time—with one noting a 3.5-hour drive each way—and transportation comfort issues. A few mentioned that guides’ explanations could be more detailed, especially at Las Coloradas, where some felt they didn’t get enough context about salt harvesting. Others were disappointed with the seasonal change in lake color, which can diminish the iconic pink appearance during harvest season.

Practical Tips for Future Travelers

• Bring snacks and extra water for the long trip, especially if you’re sensitive to long bus rides.
• Wear comfortable clothing and footwear; walking around Las Coloradas might involve some sandy or uneven surfaces.
• Prepare for the season: if visiting during salt harvest, don’t expect the lakes to be as pink.
• Bring a camera with good zoom—the flamingos are often quite far away.
• Consider your tolerance for long bus rides if you’re not used to lengthy travel; some reviews mention that the comfort level varies.
• Tip for animal lovers: the crocodile farm is a mixed bag—some find it fascinating, others are concerned about animal handling.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a wonderful mix of natural beauty and wildlife, all wrapped into a full-day adventure that promises great photo ops and unique experiences. If you’re someone who enjoys spectacular landscapes, birdwatching, and salt industry insights, this trip hits the mark. The inclusion of meals, guides, and transport adds good value, especially for those wanting a hassle-free day out.

But, be aware of the long travel hours and the seasonal variations in the lakes’ appearance. If you’re a traveler who appreciates guided explanations, wildlife encounters, and a taste of authentic Mexican coastal scenery, you’ll likely find this tour rewarding. Just pack patience and plenty of camera memory—you’ll want to capture every moment.

For those seeking a more relaxed or shorter experience, or traveling during peak salt harvest season, it might be worth exploring other options. This tour offers a unique snapshot of the Yucatán’s natural wonders, perfect for nature lovers and avid photographers.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 12 to 14 hours, starting early at 7:00 am and returning around 9:00 pm.

What is included in the price?
You get hotel pickup, air-conditioned transport, breakfast and lunch, guided visits to Las Coloradas and Río Lagartos, a boat ride, and a salt mud scrub experience. Entrance fees to Las Coloradas are included, but the $27 USD federal tax is paid separately.

Are there any seasonal considerations?
Yes, during July 19 to August 19, 2023, the lakes are less pink due to salt harvesting, which could lessen the visual impact.

Is the tour suitable for children or older travelers?
Most travelers find it suitable, but given the long bus rides and walking, you should consider mobility and patience for long hours.

How comfortable are the transportation vehicles?
Some reviews indicate long drives with limited comfort—especially if the vehicle isn’t well air-conditioned or lacks enough bathroom breaks.

What should I bring?
Bring extra water, sun protection, comfortable clothes, and a good camera. If you’re interested in the salt industry, consider extra insights or optional paid tours inside the salt complex.

In sum, this tour promises a visual feast and wildlife encounter that can be truly memorable, especially if you’re prepared for the travel and seasonal changes. It’s a great way to explore a rarely seen side of Mexico’s Caribbean coast, perfect for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike.