Las Coloradas

Discovering Las Coloradas and Rio Lagartos: An Authentic Mexican Day Trip

A full-day adventure from Playa del Carmen taking you into the heart of Yucatán’s natural wonders, this tour offers visits to Las Coloradas—famous for its stunning pink salt lakes—and the Río Lagartos reserve, where flamingos and mangroves thrive. Priced at $124 per person and lasting about 15.5 hours, it’s a comprehensive way to experience some of the region’s most unique sights without straying too far from the coast.

Two aspects we really appreciate are the opportunity to photograph the striking pink salt flats and the chance to enjoy a boat tour through the mangroves, which is perfect for nature lovers and photographers alike. The included lunch provides regional flavors that highlight local ingredients, and the crocodile farm visit adds a quirky, memorable element to the day.

One possible drawback is the long duration—over 15 hours—so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a full day on the road and some physical activity. The group size is capped at 50 travelers, which helps maintain a lively but manageable atmosphere. If you’re curious about wildlife, landscapes, and regional culture in a single trip, this tour offers a well-rounded experience.

This experience is especially good for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and travelers keen to see authentic Yucatán landscapes. If you enjoy outdoor adventures combined with cultural insights and shared meals, you’ll find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• Stunning Photo Opportunities: The flamingo-filled Río Lagartos reserve and the vibrant pink salt lakes of Las Coloradas are truly photogenic.
• Authentic Regional Flavors: Enjoy regional cuisine made by local cooks, adding a tasty dimension to the trip.
• Wildlife Encounters: The boat tour offers a chance to spot flamingos, crocodiles, and other local flora and fauna.
• Educational Highlights: Learn about salt harvesting, local history, and the ecosystems of mangroves.
• Comfortable Transportation: An air-conditioned vehicle ensures a comfortable journey through the Yucatán countryside.
• Long but Rewarding Day: Expect a full-day commitment, suitable for travelers eager to cover multiple sights in one go.

A Deep Dive into the Las Coloradas Tour Experience

Starting Point: From Playa del Carmen to the Yucatán

We begin our journey in Playa del Carmen, where pickup is offered right at your hotel—convenient and stress-free. The drive takes us into the Yucatán Peninsula, a landscape that’s as much about lush greenery as it is about the coast. While the precise travel time isn’t specified, the entire day’s itinerary suggests you’ll be on the road for several hours, making an early start key to maximizing your time.

Morning: Breakfast and Arrival at Las Coloradas

The tour kicks off with a breakfast box—a simple but thoughtful touch including juice, a sandwich, an apple, and a snack bar, giving us energy for the day ahead. We arrive at Las Coloradas, a salt flat that’s famous for its eye-catching pink hue. This is an especially popular spot for photographers and Instagram fans, but it’s also fascinating to learn about the salt harvesting process from guides who explain its significance.

We are given about an hour here to wander, take photos, and absorb the surreal beauty of the landscape. The salt lakes’ vivid pink is created by microorganisms thriving in the salt-rich environment, a natural spectacle that’s hard to find elsewhere. The guide’s explanations help clarify the meaning of the colors, making the experience both beautiful and educational.

Mid-Morning: Río Lagartos Boat Tour

Next, we head to Río Lagartos, about 2 hours and 30 minutes into the tour. This part is a highlight for many: a boat tour through the mangroves, where we get close to flamingos, herons, and other bird species. The boat is usually covered and comfortable, with plenty of space to enjoy the scenery.

We love the chance to see flamingos in their natural habitat, feeding or resting on the lagoons, a real treat for wildlife lovers. The boat also takes us past mangrove trees and other flora, giving a real sense of the ecological richness of this protected area. One reviewer called this the “best part,” noting that the Frank, our guide, was both helpful and enthusiastic.

Brief Stop in Tizimín and Crocodile Farm

Following the boat ride, we visit the charming town of Tizimín for about 40 minutes. Its quaint streets and colonial-style buildings are a good snapshot of regional life. We then visit a crocodile farm nearby, where you can feed the reptiles and take photos—a quirky, up-close experience that many find memorable. The farm visit offers a chance to learn about crocodile conservation efforts and the local importance of these creatures.

Afternoon: Lunch and Additional Sightseeing

After the farm, we head to a regional restaurant for lunch, which features delicious local seasoning. The included meal allows us to taste regional ingredients—more authentic than many mass-produced tourist fare—and provides a relaxing break from the morning’s activities.

Final Stop: Crocodile Encounter and Wrap-up

The trip concludes at the crocodile farm once again, where we can feed the animals and take some last photos. The visits are well-paced, giving us enough time to appreciate each sight without feeling rushed. The tour wraps up with the return journey, typically arriving back in Playa del Carmen in the evening.

Transport, Value, and Practicalities

The air-conditioned vehicle makes the long drive comfortable, and the limit of 50 travelers helps keep the group manageable. The $22 USD reserve entry fee for the natural reserves is an extra cost not included in the base price, so budget accordingly.

Considering the full-day length and the number of stops, this tour offers solid value, especially for travelers who want a comprehensive look at the region’s wildlife, landscape, and local culture. The included lunch and bottled water are thoughtful touches, making the day easier to manage.

What the Reviews Say

One reviewer praised the experience by saying, “No Title,” but highlighted that Frank was helpful and the day was so cool. The surprise of visiting the crocodile farm was a highlight, despite not knowing about it beforehand. This indicates that the tour offers unexpected but welcome experiences, adding to its charm.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is best suited for adventurous travelers eager to spend a full day exploring diverse environments. It’s perfect if you enjoy wildlife, photography, and regional culture, and don’t mind a long day on the road. However, those with mobility concerns should note the physical activity involved, especially walking around salt flats and boat riding.

Final Thoughts

For travelers seeking a balanced mix of natural beauty, wildlife encounters, and regional culture, this tour from Playa del Carmen delivers. The visual spectacle of Las Coloradas and the wildlife-rich waters of Río Lagartos stand out as the main attractions—and for good reason. The included regional lunch and guidance add value, making it a well-rounded experience.

While the length can be demanding, the variety of sights ensures you won’t feel the day is dull. If your goal is to see something different from the usual beach scene, and you’re comfortable with a packed schedule, this trip is likely to leave you with vivid memories—and plenty of photos.

FAQ

How long is the total tour?
Approximately 15 hours and 30 minutes, including travel time, sightseeing, and meals.

Is breakfast included?
No, but a breakfast box with juice, a sandwich, apple, and snack bar is provided at the start.

What is the main focus of the tour?
The tour emphasizes natural landscapes like the pink salt lakes and wildlife such as flamingos and crocodiles, combined with cultural insights and regional food.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, the tax for the natural reserve of Río Lagartos and Las Coloradas is $22 USD per person, payable on-site.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, an air-conditioned vehicle is used for the entire trip, ensuring comfort during the long drive.

What about group size?
The tour is limited to 50 travelers, which helps maintain an engaging and manageable atmosphere.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is family-friendly, it requires moderate physical activity and patience for a full-day outing.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility if your plans shift.

In all, this tour offers a satisfying blend of adventure, education, and stunning scenery—a perfect choice for those eager to explore Yucatán’s natural wonders without the hassle of planning each detail themselves.