Coloradas, Ria Lagartos Boat Trip & One Natural Beach from Merida

Coloradas, Ria Lagartos Boat Trip & One Natural Beach from Merida: A Complete Guide

Planning a day out from Mérida that offers a mix of natural beauty, wildlife encounters, and memorable photo opportunities? This tour, priced at $120 per person, takes you through three of Yucatán’s most captivating spots—Las Coloradas, Ría Lagartos, and a secluded natural beach near Las Coloradas called Cancunito. With an 11 to 12-hour schedule, it’s a full day adventure that promises plenty of stunning sights and authentic experiences.

What we love about this trip is the chance to see the famous pink lagoons, which are every bit as mesmerizing in person as they look in pictures. Plus, the boat ride through the Ría Lagartos Biosphere Reserve offers a chance to spot pink flamingos and other wildlife in their natural habitat. On the flip side, a potential downside is the need to be prepared for a long day, including bringing essentials like sunscreen, water, and a change of clothes. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy nature, photography, and a bit of adventure away from crowded tourist spots.

This tour is perfect for those who want an immersive experience in Yucatán’s pristine ecosystems—especially if you’re eager to see the vibrant pink lakes and wildlife in a relaxed, guided setting. It’s suited for active travelers who don’t mind the early start and enjoy a full, well-rounded day discovering some of Yucatán’s most iconic natural wonders.

Key Points

• Stunning natural scenery: The pink lagoons of Las Coloradas are truly unforgettable.
• Wildlife encounters: Expect to see flamingos and other local fauna in Ría Lagartos.
• Comfortable transportation: Round trip in air-conditioned vehicles from Mérida.
• Expert guidance: Bilingual guides provide insightful commentary.
• Full-day experience: Includes visits to three distinct spots, with plenty of time at each.
• Additional costs: Government fee of $27 and conservation tax of $25 USD aren’t included in the base price.

An In-Depth Look at What the Tour Offers

Transportation and Logistics

The tour begins early at 8:00 am in Mérida, meeting at the designated central point near the San Ildefonso Cathedral. The round-trip transport is in air-conditioned vans, which makes a big difference considering the Yucatán heat. For some travelers, the note that hotel pick-up isn’t always available might be a minor inconvenience—you’ll need to arrive at the meeting point on your own if your accommodation isn’t nearby. The journey to the first stop is smooth and comfortable, setting a relaxed tone for the day ahead.

Stop 1: Cancunito – A Hidden Natural Beach

Your first stop is Cancunito, a virgin beach close to Las Coloradas. Here, you’ll have about an hour to enjoy the soft white sands and crystal-clear waters away from the crowds. Many reviews highlight how peaceful and pristine this beach feels, offering an ideal spot to relax, take photos, or simply enjoy the gentle sea breeze.

What makes Cancunito stand out is its seclusion; it’s a real find for those looking to avoid commercialized beaches. Pack your swimsuit and a towel, as you might want to go for a quick dip or just lounge and listen to the waves. It’s a perfect place for some quiet time before the more active parts of the day.

Stop 2: Las Coloradas – The Pink Lagoon Wonder

The highlight for most visitors is Las Coloradas, renowned for its stunning pink hues. The tour allocates about two hours here, giving ample time for photographs and exploring the area. The vibrant lagoons are the result of natural mineral deposits and algae, which create the surreal pink color, especially striking in the bright Yucatán sunlight.

Our guide, Carlos, explained the science behind the pink color and shared some curious facts that added depth to the visit. Many travelers comment on how “the lagoons look even more incredible in real life” and appreciate the chance to capture incredible photos. Be sure to bring a good camera or smartphone with a wide-angle lens.

One potential caveat is that the area can be busy during peak times, but most visitors find it manageable. The site is relatively rustic, so don’t expect luxury amenities—think of it as nature’s art painted on a grand scale.

Stop 3: Ría Lagartos Biosphere Reserve – A Wildlife Sanctuary

The final leg involves a boat ride through Ría Lagartos, which takes about two hours. Here, you’ll glide through canals and lagoons, observing flamingos wading through the water and other bird species. The pink flamingos are a top draw, and many reviews mention how “it’s like being in a live nature documentary”.

The boat ride is a relaxed but engaging experience. The guide points out different flora and fauna, giving you a sense of why this area is designated a biosphere reserve. If you’re lucky, you might even see crocodiles or herons along the way.

Most travelers find the boat trip to be a highlight, especially for the chance to see wildlife in a natural setting. The boat is comfortable and well-equipped, and the guides are informative and friendly. It’s a peaceful yet lively way to connect with nature.

Final Details and Additional Costs

Besides the main activities, you’ll enjoy a lunch at a local restaurant, which adds value and a taste of regional cuisine. Drinks aren’t included, so bring some cash for beverages. The government fee of $27 and the conservation tax of $25 USD are additional costs that you should prepare for.

The tour is capped at 40 travelers, providing a good balance between social atmosphere and comfort. The group size means a more personalized experience, but it’s still lively enough to meet fellow travelers.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

Considering the full day of activities—three different locations, boat rides, and a guided experience—the price of $120 is reasonable. It includes transportation, guides, and entrance fees, making it easy to budget. The chance to see Yucatán’s iconic pink lakes and flamingos in one trip makes it a worthwhile investment.

The tour’s flexible itinerary and knowledgeable guides mean you get a genuine look at these natural wonders. If you’re into photography, birdwatching, or simply want to escape the city for a day of natural beauty, this trip delivers.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for nature lovers and adventurous travelers eager to see Yucatán’s unique landscapes. It’s perfect if you enjoy wildlife, photography, or want a relaxed, full-day excursion away from busy tourist hubs. Because of the early start and long duration, it’s suited for those comfortable with a full schedule. If you’re looking for luxury or hotel transfers, keep in mind that logistics might require some planning.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $120 per person, which includes transportation, a bilingual guide, the boat ride, and entrance fees.

Are drinks at the restaurant included?
No, drinks are not included, so bring cash if you want beverages during lunch.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 11 to 12 hours.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the central meeting point in Mérida near the San Ildefonso Cathedral and returns there at the end of the day.

Is hotel pickup available?
Not always; in some cases, you’ll need to arrive at the meeting point on your own, as hotel pickups are not guaranteed.

What should I bring?
Sunscreen, comfortable clothes, swimsuit, a change of clothes, water, and cash are recommended.

Are children allowed?
Most travelers can participate, but check with the provider for specific age restrictions.

What extra costs should I be aware of?
Besides the tour price, there’s a government fee of $27 and a conservation tax of $25 USD.

How many people are on the tour?
The maximum group size is 40 travelers.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a full-day adventure that combines breathtaking scenery, wildlife, and a bit of adventure, this trip from Mérida hits the mark. It offers an excellent balance of guided insight and free time, allowing you to truly appreciate Las Coloradas’ pink lagoons and the vibrant flora and fauna of Ría Lagartos.

The tour’s value lies in its comprehensive nature—covering three iconic spots—and the chance to photograph one of the world’s most surreal natural phenomena. It’s best suited for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and those seeking a genuine local experience away from tourist crowds.

While it’s a long day, the variety of sights and experiences makes it worthwhile. Just be sure to come prepared, and you’ll leave with a camera full of stunning images and memories of Yucatán’s most extraordinary landscapes.