Cancun tour Las Coloradas Pink Lagoon + Rio Lagartos Tour

Experience the Natural Wonders of the Yucatán: Las Coloradas Pink Lagoon + Rio Lagartos Tour

If you’re looking to escape the crowds and explore some of Mexico’s most captivating natural sights, this full-day tour from Tulum offers a wonderful opportunity. For around $139 per person, you’ll visit the famous Pink Lakes of Las Coloradas and the Ria Lagartos Biosphere Reserve, both teeming with wildlife and stunning scenery. The tour lasts about 14 hours, making it a long day, but packed with memorable moments.

What we love about this tour is how it combines unique scenery—like the surreal pink lakes—with opportunities to see exotic wildlife up close during a boat ride. Plus, transportation is taken care of, so you don’t have to worry about figuring out logistics on your own. Another highlight is the small group size (maximum 15 travelers), which makes for a more relaxed and personal experience.

That said, one consideration is the long drive—up to 3.5 hours each way—which might feel tiring, especially if you’re not a fan of bus rides. Also, there’s an additional park fee of about $25 USD payable in cash, which can be a surprise if you’re not prepared. This tour suits travelers who love nature, are eager for Instagram-worthy views, and don’t mind a full day on the road.

Key Points

• Unique Locations: Visit the pink lakes of Las Coloradas and Ria Lagartos, both off the beaten path.
• Wildlife Encounters: Spot flamingos, crocodiles, and other exotic animals during the boat tour.
• Comfortable Transport: Hotel pickup and drop-off make the trip hassle-free.
• Small Group: More personalized attention and fewer crowds.
• All-Inclusive: Breakfast, bottled water, lunch, and light snacks included.
• Additional Fee: A $25 USD park entry fee must be paid in cash.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Las Coloradas: The Pink Lakes

The tour begins early in the morning with a pickup from your Tulum hotel. After a comfortable bus ride, you arrive at Las Coloradas, a striking pink-hued salt lagoon. The vivid colors come from the natural salt evaporation process, combined with the presence of algae and microorganisms that thrive in the salty water. It’s a spot that’s become famous for photographs, and you’ll find plenty of opportunities to snap pictures of the surreal landscape.

While the admission fee isn’t included in the tour price, visitors often comment on the breathtaking views and the almost otherworldly feel of the lakes. One reviewer noted, “The drive was well worth it, and the views were stunning.” Keep in mind, the pink color can vary depending on weather and salt levels, and some travelers have observed that the lakes might not always appear as pink as in photos — it’s still beautiful, but don’t expect a consistent hue every day.

Ria Lagartos Biosphere Reserve

Next, the group heads to the Ria Lagartos Biosphere Reserve, a protected area known for its diverse flora and fauna. Here, you’ll embark on a boat tour, which is a highlight of the day. Expect to see flamingos, other bird species, and perhaps even crocodiles basking in the sun, as one reviewer noted, “Enjoyed the boat tour and walking in the mud! Bring appropriate footwear.” The boat ride is an excellent chance to observe the wildlife in their natural habitat.

One traveler mentioned a late pickup and waited six hours for the bus, illustrating how scheduling can sometimes be a bit off. However, most find the effort worthwhile, especially for the chance to see flamingos and exotic animals in a relatively untouched environment.

The Mud Bath Experience

Along With the lakes and wildlife, the tour includes an opportunity for a Mayan mud bath, which many find both fun and relaxing. The mud is believed to have therapeutic properties, and you’ll enjoy a gentle soak amidst scenic surroundings. It’s a playful yet rejuvenating break in the itinerary.

Wrap-up and Return

After a day filled with stunning scenery and wildlife encounters, the group heads back to Tulum. The entire experience lasts about 14 hours, so be prepared for a long day, but one packed with memorable sights.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour price includes breakfast, bottled water, lunch, and light refreshments, which add good value considering the full-day commitment. Having these meals and drinks ensures you stay energized, especially on a day that involves long travel hours.

Your guide, who may speak multiple languages, will coordinate the logistics and help you spot wildlife or understand the significance of what you’re seeing. The hotel pickup and drop-off are available only at certain hotels, so double-check if your accommodation qualifies.

However, the $25 USD park entry fee is paid cash to the guide, so come prepared. This fee is standard for access to the Ria Lagartos area, and it’s worth noting that it’s not included in the initial booking cost.

Transportation and Group Size

Transportation is a key benefit of this tour. The comfortable bus takes you directly from your hotel, removing the stress of planning your own transfers or navigating local transportation. The small group size (max 15 travelers) means fewer crowds and more personal attention from your guide.

Most travelers seem satisfied with the transport, though one review mentions a delayed pickup. If punctuality is important to you, it’s worth confirming the pickup time and being patient if the schedule shifts slightly.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour particularly suits nature lovers and those eager to see Instagram-worthy landscapes. If you enjoy wildlife and want a mix of scenery, adventure, and relaxation, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. It’s also ideal if you prefer organized trips, as the logistics are handled for you.

However, if you’re sensitive to long bus rides or aren’t comfortable with paying cash for entrance fees, you might want to weigh these factors. Travelers who appreciate small-group tours and want to avoid touristy crowds will find this experience more intimate and authentic.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This tour offers a good value for the price, considering the meals, guide, transportation, and access to rare natural sights. While the long drive may be tiring, it’s a small price to pay for the chance to see the surreal pink lakes and vibrant wildlife of Ria Lagartos.

Many travelers rave about the beautiful views and the unique experiences—like walking in the mud or spotting flamingos—making it a memorable day. Still, keep expectations realistic: the pink lakes can vary in color, and the drive is lengthy.

To sum it up, if you’re looking for an adventurous, nature-focused day trip from Tulum that’s well-organized and offers good value, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially suited to those eager to get off the beaten path and witness some of the most photogenic spots in the Yucatán Peninsula.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included at certain hotels in Tulum, making the trip more convenient.

How long is the bus ride?
The drive to Las Coloradas and Ria Lagartos can take up to about 3.5 hours one way, so prepare for a long day on the bus.

What’s the best time to visit the Pink Lakes?
The color of the lakes can vary depending on weather and salt levels. While it’s a popular photo spot, the pink hue isn’t guaranteed every day.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast, bottled water, lunch, and light snacks are included in the tour price.

What is the cost for park entry?
There’s a $25 USD cash fee per person for park and reserve access, payable to your guide.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers of all ages can participate, but it’s best if children are comfortable with a long day and a boat ride.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, ensuring flexibility if your plans shift.

This tour offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, wildlife, and cultural intrigue, all within a well-organized package. If you’re seeking an authentic adventure that goes beyond the typical tourist spots, it’s worth considering for your Tulum itinerary.