Breathtaking Pink lake Las Coloradas and Rio lagartos from Tulum

An Honest Look at the Pink Lake and Rio Lagartos Tour from Tulum

If you’re dreaming of a day surrounded by striking natural beauty and unique wildlife, this tour hits the mark. For $121 per person, you get a full-day adventure that takes you from the colorful shores of Las Coloradas, home to the second-largest salt factory in Mexico, to the lively Rio Lagartos nature reserve, famous for its flamingos and diverse birdlife. The tour lasts around 12 hours, including travel time, and provides an opportunity to see some of the most photogenic sights in the Yucatán Peninsula.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it balances spectacular scenery with wildlife sightings—you’ll get excellent opportunities for photography and connection with nature. The boat ride at Rio Lagartos offers a chance to spot flamingos, herons, eagles, and ospreys, which are highlights for bird lovers. Plus, the visit to Las Coloradas presents a surreal landscape, where a pink lagoon makes for unforgettable photos.

One thing to consider is that the tour involves quite a bit of travel — about 12 hours — so it’s best suited for those comfortable with long days on the road. Also, there’s an extra tax reservation fee of $27 USD for Rio Lagartos that’s not included in the base price, so budget accordingly. This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who love wildlife and stunning vistas and want to experience something truly distinctive in Mexico.

Key Points

• Spectacular Views: The pink lagoon at Las Coloradas and the vibrant birdlife at Rio Lagartos stand out.
• Wildlife Encounters: Expect to see flamingos, herons, eagles, and possibly crocodiles.
• Expert Guide: The tour includes a guided explanation, making the experience educational as well as visual.
• Full-Day Experience: From early morning pickup to evening return, it’s a well-paced but long adventure.
• Value for Money: The price includes transportation, boat rides, a guided tour, and meals, making it a comprehensive package.
• Additional Fees: Be aware of the $27 USD reservation tax for Rio Lagartos, which is paid separately.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transport

The journey begins early, with pickup at Súper Akí in Tulum at 7:00 am. The tour is private, meaning your group will be the only ones on the vehicle, which allows for a more personalized experience. The transportation is round-trip, so you can relax and enjoy the scenery without worrying about logistics.

Travel time can be up to 13 hours, depending on traffic — a significant commitment, but one that pays off with the sheer variety of sights. Comfortable clothes and shoes are recommended, since you’ll be walking and spending time outdoors. Packing a swimsuit, towels, and extra clothes is advised, especially if you want to take a dip or just stay comfortable in the heat.

Las Coloradas: The Pink Lagoon

The first stop, Las Coloradas, is about three hours long. Here, you’ll get to walk around the famous pink lakes made by salt-saturated waters teeming with halobacteria bacteria, which produce the vivid hue. This part of the tour is especially photo-worthy, and guides are typically ready to explain how these unique ecosystems function.

We loved the way the guide explained that this pink coloration isn’t artificially painted — it’s a natural occurrence, driven by microorganisms in the salt-rich water. It’s an otherworldly scene, with the water reflecting the sky and the surrounding salt flats, creating a surreal landscape that’s perfect for cameras.

Rio Lagartos: Birdwatching and Wildlife

Next, the tour moves to Rio Lagartos, a biosphere reserve recognized for its wetlands, mangroves, and estuaries. The boat ride here offers a fantastic chance to see flamingos in their natural habitat, along with herons, ospreys, eagles, and possibly crocodiles. The boat is included in the tour, and the guide’s commentary enriches the experience.

Travelers have noted how the flamingo sightings truly are a highlight, with one reviewer mentioning, “The flamingos looked like pink clouds in the sky,” capturing how picturesque the scene is. The wetlands serve as vital nesting sites, and the various ecosystems support a wealth of birdlife, making this a haven for nature lovers.

Lunch Break and Additional Fees

After the boat ride, you’ll stop at a local restaurant for a lunch included in the tour price. You can choose from one dish, with a box lunch provided during transportation that includes juice, fruit, and a sandwich. Be aware that beverages at the restaurant are not included, and an extra $27 USD must be paid if you wish to visit the salt extraction area in Rio Lagartos — a worthwhile expense if you love seeing industrial processes, but it’s optional.

Crocodile Sighting and Reflection

The tour also offers a chance to spot crocodiles in their habitat, adding a bit of excitement to the boat ride. Although sightings aren’t guaranteed, the presence of crocodiles in the wetlands is well-documented, and it’s an interesting part of the ecosystem.

Practical Details and Tips

• Price: At $121 per person, the tour is a good value considering the inclusions—transportation, boat rides, guided explanation, and meals.
• Timing: Starting at 7 am, it’s a long day, so be prepared for an early start and a late return.
• Inclusives: Everything from pickup to boat rides and meals is included, though the $27 USD reservation tax is paid separately.
• Weather Considerations: The tour relies on good weather; if canceled due to bad conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.
• What to Wear: Comfortable, breathable clothing, sturdy shoes, and biodegradable sunscreen are recommended.
• Photography: Bring your camera or smartphone to capture the spectacular pink lakes, bird flocks, and wildlife.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers who want to see unusual landscapes and vibrant birdlife. It’s also well-suited for those who don’t mind a full day’s commitment and long travel hours. If you enjoy photography, the colorful scenery and wildlife provide ample opportunities for stunning shots.

Travelers who value educational insights about the ecosystems and the salt extraction process will appreciate the guided commentary. However, if you’re seeking a more relaxed, less packed day, this might feel a bit hectic due to the long hours.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a compelling mix of breathtaking scenery, abundant wildlife, and cultural insight. The photos of the pink lakes with flamingos flying overhead alone are worth the journey. The boat ride at Rio Lagartos adds an adventurous touch, giving you a real feel for the wetlands’ vibrant ecosystem.

While the day is packed and involves some extra costs — like the reservation tax — it delivers a comprehensive experience that balances visual spectacle with educational value. For travelers who want to see Mexico’s most unique landscapes and enjoy a full immersion in nature, this tour is an excellent choice.

For those wishing to explore beyond Tulum’s beaches and ruins, it’s a fantastic opportunity to witness some of the region’s most colorful and lively habitats. Just remember to bring your camera, some patience, and an appetite for adventure.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 12 hours, including travel time, with pickup at 7 am and return in the evening.

What does the price include?
The $121 fee covers transportation, a boat ride at Rio Lagartos, guided tour at Las Coloradas, a box lunch, and a meal at a restaurant (excluding drinks).

Is there an extra fee I should be aware of?
Yes, there is a $27 USD reservation tax for Rio Lagartos that you pay on site, separate from the tour price.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but keep in mind it’s a full-day tour. Bring snacks, water, and comfort items for younger children if needed.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothes, shoes, biodegradable sunscreen, insect repellent, swimwear, towels, and an extra set of clothes.

Can I take photos?
Absolutely. The landscapes and wildlife are extremely photogenic, especially the pink lake and flamingos.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to rain or storms, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is the tour private or group-based?
It’s a private tour, so only your group will participate, making it more flexible and personalized.

Will I see crocodiles?
There’s a chance, as crocodiles inhabit the wetlands, but sightings are not guaranteed.

In short, this tour from Tulum offers a remarkable mix of nature, wildlife, and striking scenery that’s hard to find elsewhere. If you’re eager to see Mexico’s vibrant wetlands and pink lakes up close, it’s a memorable trip worth considering.