Las Coloradas & Rio Lagartos, Beautiful Eco Adventure from Tulum City

A colorful day exploring Rio Lagartos and Las Coloradas from Tulum

If you’re craving a day away from the beaches of Tulum to explore some of Mexico’s most striking natural sights, this Las Coloradas & Rio Lagartos eco-adventure might just be what you’re looking for. For $125 per person, you get roughly 12 hours of travel, wildlife spotting, mud baths, and stunning scenery—all with the convenience of round-trip transport from Tulum’s Super Aki Market. The tour promises visits to the iconic pink lagoon of Las Coloradas and the ecological haven of Rio Lagartos, which is teeming with flamingos, crocodiles, and mangroves.

What we really appreciate about this trip is how it combines beautiful, Instagram-worthy landscapes with a taste of local life—plus, some fun wildlife encounters. The boat ride through mangroves offers a chance to see flamingos, pelicans, and even crocodiles in their natural habitat, making it more than just a photo stop. The inclusion of a mayan mud bath and a local seafood meal adds authentic touches that elevate the experience beyond a simple sightseeing tour.

Of course, no tour is perfect. One potential consideration is the limited water supply noted by a traveler, which highlights the importance of bringing your own hydration. Plus, the pink lakes are subject to natural variation—your view of the shade depends on the sunlight and season, so don’t expect a consistently vibrant pink every time.

This tour suits travelers who love nature, wildlife, and vibrant scenery, especially those who want a hassle-free way to experience some of the Yucatán Peninsula’s most striking spots without the hassle of planning logistics themselves. If you’re looking for a full day of adventure with local flavor, this trip offers plenty of value.

Key Points

• Convenient Transport: Round-trip air-conditioned bus from Tulum makes logistics simple.
• Wildlife & Nature: Opportunities to see flamingos, crocodiles, eagles, with a boat trip through mangroves.
• Authentic Experience: Includes a traditional seafood lunch and a mud bath, offering local flavors and relaxation.
• Stunning Scenery: The iconic pink lakes of Las Coloradas are a visual highlight, especially at sunrise or sunset.
• Limited Water Supply: Tour organizers note the need for travelers to bring extra water, as the provided supply might not suffice.
• Flexible Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours ahead allows for peace of mind.

Exploring the Tour in Detail

Starting the Day in Tulum

The journey begins early, with a departure at 7:00 am from Super Aki Market. This central meeting point is a straightforward spot but requires some planning, as no hotel pickups are included. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort during the roughly 2-hour drive northward, giving you a chance to settle in and get excited about the day ahead.

Rio Lagartos: A Natural Wildlife Sanctuary

Our first stop is Rio Lagartos, a quiet town surrounded by lush mangroves that serve as a sanctuary for hundreds of bird species, including flamingos. The boat ride through the ecological reserve is a highlight, giving us a close-up view of animals in their natural habitat. We loved the way the boat glided silently through the water, bringing us face-to-face with crocodiles resting on the banks and vultures circling overhead.

The guide explained the salt production process, which is fascinating—these pink ponds owe their color to high salt concentrations and microorganisms, a natural phenomenon that’s as intriguing as it is photogenic. We also learned about the mayan mud baths, which are believed to moisturize and refresh the skin—something you can try for yourself if you’re feeling adventurous.

The Flavors of Rio Lagartos

Post-boat, a local seafood lunch awaits. The fact that the meal is prepared by local villagers adds authenticity and a real taste of regional cuisine. Many reviews mention the deliciousness of this meal, with some describing it as a satisfying reward after a morning of wildlife spotting. It’s a good chance to sample fresh seafood, and you can expect simple, well-prepared dishes that showcase local ingredients.

Las Coloradas: The Pink Lagoon

After lunch, the bus heads to Las Coloradas, a quiet stretch of land famous for its vivid pink lagoon. This saltwater body is an ideal spot for photos, especially at sunrise or sunset, when the water’s shade is most intense. We loved the way the light played on the water’s surface, creating a surreal, almost otherworldly scene.

The pink hue results from a combination of salt concentration and microorganisms, making the lagoon a natural wonder. However, a review noted that the shade varies with sunlight, so don’t be disappointed if it’s not as vibrant as some photos suggest. Still, the spectacle of the white salt flats contrasting with the pink water makes this a must-see.

Practical Tips & Considerations

While the tour covers a lot, a key point from a traveler’s experience is to bring plenty of water, as the one small bottle provided may not be enough during the day. Also, remember to wear comfortable clothes, shoes, and sunglasses to handle the outdoor elements, and pack your swimsuit and towel if you want to enjoy the mud bath or freshwater dips.

The trip’s group size maxes out at around 60 travelers, so expect a lively, social atmosphere but still enough space to breathe. The tour is suitable for most travelers, as it requires only moderate physical activity, but be aware of the weather—bad weather might lead to cancellations or changes.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

The price tag of $125 includes transportation, a boat ride, entrance fees, a delicious meal, and water—which, when you think about it, offers a comprehensive day out. The inclusion of local cuisine is a thoughtful touch, giving you a taste of regional flavors without the hassle of finding somewhere to eat. Plus, the photo opportunities at Las Coloradas are worth the trip alone, especially if you’re interested in capturing unique landscapes.

Although the limited water supply might be a small inconvenience, it’s easily remedied by bringing your own bottles. The tour’s length of about 12 hours is long but packed with diverse experiences, making it a good choice for curious travelers who want to see more than just beaches.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you enjoy wildlife watching, unique landscapes, and local food, you’ll love this tour. It’s perfect for adventurous travelers eager to explore beyond the typical Mayan ruins or beaches, offering a different perspective on the Yucatán’s natural riches. It’s also well-suited for families or groups of friends who want a full day of outdoor activity with minimal hassle.

If you’re after serene, untouched scenery and a chance to see flamingos in their natural habitat, this trip delivers. However, if you’re sensitive to long hours of travel or limited hydration supply, you might want to prepare accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
No, the tour meets at Super Aki Market in Tulum, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.

What should I bring for the day?
It’s best to wear comfortable clothes, shoes, sunglasses, and bring plenty of water, your swimsuit, towel, and extra clothes for the mud bath and water dips.

Is there any extra fee I should know about?
Yes, the preservation tax of $27 USD per person is not included in the tour price and must be paid on site.

How long is the boat ride at Rio Lagartos?
The boat trip lasts roughly 3 hours, giving ample opportunity to see wildlife and learn about the salt production process.

Can I expect the pink lagoon to look as vibrant as in photos?
Not always. The lagoons’ shade depends on sunlight and season, but even in muted light, the scenery is striking.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but consider the length and walking involved. Bring extra water and sunscreen for comfort.

What is included in the tour?
Visit to Las Coloradas and Rio Lagartos, round transportation, a box lunch, bottled water, and an air-conditioned vehicle are included.

Are there any dietary restrictions I should communicate?
The provided meal is a local seafood dish, so specify any allergies or dietary needs when booking if possible.

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

This adventure from Tulum offers a vivid mix of scenery, wildlife, and authentic local experiences. It’s perfect for those who want a full day out exploring nature’s marvels, with the comfort of organized logistics. Pack your camera and sense of curiosity, and you’ll leave with unforgettable memories of the Yucatán’s colorful landscapes.