Discover the FABULOUS PINK WATERS in the Caribean

Discover the FABULOUS PINK WATERS in the Caribbean offers an exciting day trip from Cancun that combines vibrant natural beauty with wildlife encounters. For $125 per person, you’ll spend roughly 11 to 14 hours exploring Las Coloradas’ famous pink salt lakes, cruising through the mangroves of Ría Lagartos, spotting flamingos and crocodiles, and enjoying regional cuisine. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it a convenient way to see a different side of the Mexican Caribbean without the hassle of planning or driving yourself.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it balances stunning scenery with wildlife observation, all led by knowledgeable guides. The boat ride through the mangroves offers a chance to see crocodiles in their natural habitat, and the picturesque salt lakes provide perfect photo opportunities. Plus, the included lunch is a nice touch, providing fuel for the day’s adventures.

On the flip side, the distance and travel time can be a consideration. The journey from Cancun takes several hours, and if you’re sensitive to long bus rides, this may feel a bit tiring. Still, for those eager to see the iconic pink lakes and encounter local flora and fauna, this tour is a solid choice—especially for nature lovers and photographers eager to capture those Instagram-worthy shots.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy wildlife spotting, spectacular landscapes, and don’t mind a full-day commitment. Families, adventurous couples, or groups looking for an authentic and visually stunning experience will find plenty to love.

Key Points

• Stunning sceneries: Photos at Las Coloradas salt lakes and flamingos are unforgettable.
• Wildlife encounters: Boat ride offers close-up views of crocodiles and birdlife.
• Hassle-free logistics: Hotel pickup, air-conditioned transport, and included meals make it convenient.
• Educational guides add context and enhance the experience.
• Long travel time: Be prepared for a 3-4 hour ride each way.
• Great value: All major activities and meals are included, making it an economical full-day trip.

In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

What’s Included and How It Shapes the Day

At $125, this tour covers transportation, admission fees, a boat ride, and a regional lunch—pretty good value for a full-day adventure. The included box lunch with a sandwich, fruit, cookie, and juice ensures you’re nourished without extra expense, though some reviews suggest bringing your own water might be wise given the length of the day.

The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort on the long drive from Cancun. The tour is capped at 40 travelers, so while it feels like a group experience, it’s not overly crowded—perfect for those who prefer some space and personal interaction with guides.

Itinerary Breakdown

Las Coloradas Salt Lakes

We start early with a hotel pickup around 7:00 am, heading toward Las Coloradas—a place that truly lives up to its name. The lakes here are famous for their vivid pink hue, caused by the high salinity and microorganisms thriving in the water. During certain times of the year, the lakes are more intensely colored; however, from July 19 to August 19, 2023, the pink tone diminishes due to salt harvest activity, which might disappoint photographers looking for that perfect shot.

One of the best things about this stop is the chance to take stunning photos of the lakes’ surreal colors. Many reviewers mention how beautiful and Instagram-worthy the scenery is. A guide will point out the salt production plant nearby, which adds a layer of understanding about local industry and ecology.

Ría Lagartos Nature Reserve

After a couple of hours at Las Coloradas, the tour moves to Ría Lagartos, a UNESCO-protected biosphere reserve. Here, you’re treated to a boat cruise through mangroves, giving you the chance to see flamingos and various birds in their natural habitat. The boat ride is approximately two hours and offers close encounters with crocodiles—some almost coming right up to the boat, as one review recounted.

The guide’s commentary is appreciated, with many guests mentioning how knowledgeable and engaging their guides were, helping to identify species and explain ecological importance. This part of the tour not only provides a chance to observe wildlife but also to learn about the delicate balance of this vibrant ecosystem.

Regional Lunch and Relaxation

Following the boat ride, a well-deserved break for lunch at a local restaurant. The menu focuses on regional dishes, with vegetarian options available. Some reviews praise the quality of the food, highlighting that it’s well-prepared and flavorful, though one mentioned that the food can sometimes be dry. The included lunch is a significant value add, saving time and money in this remote area.

The Experience from the Traveler’s Perspective

Many travelers rave about the spectacular views and the informative guides. For example, one reviewer described the boat ride as “crazy” and the flamingo sightings as “unforgettable.” Another highlighted the guide’s multilingual skills, mentioning how Arturo, who speaks five languages, made the experience accessible and engaging.

However, some note the long travel times—up to six hours round-trip—and the discomfort of cramped transportation. The reviews vary, with some travelers feeling the journey is worth every minute, while others suggest that the overall experience could be improved with better logistics or communication, especially regarding pickup times and speaking languages.

Considerations and Caveats

One major consideration is the timing of the salt harvest, which affects the vividness of the lakes’ pink color during certain months. If your visit coincides with July through August, the lakes may not appear as intensely pink, which could be disappointing if your main goal is photography. Also, the distance from Cancun means a long day on the road, so patience and comfortable clothing are recommended.

Another point raised in reviews is the ** crocodile farm visit—some found it **informative and interesting, while others criticized it for animal welfare concerns. If this aspect is important to you, it’s worth noting that the tour does include a visit, but opinions on the ethics vary.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and photographers eager to capture the vibrant salt lakes and exotic birdlife. It is also ideal for those looking for a day out with minimal planning, thanks to the included transportation and meals.

However, if you prefer shorter trips or are sensitive to long travel times, or if you’re particularly concerned about animal welfare at the crocodile farm, you might want to weigh those factors. The tour’s group size and guided nature make it good for travelers who want educational insights and social interaction.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins with hotel pickup around 7:00 am, so be ready early for a full day of exploration.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour provides an air-conditioned vehicle, though some reviews mention that the vans can be cramped, especially with many travelers onboard.

How long is the drive from Cancun?
You should expect about 3-4 hours each way, depending on traffic. Keep this in mind if you’re prone to motion sickness or prefer shorter excursions.

What’s included in the price?
The tour fee includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, admission to Las Coloradas, the boat ride at Ría Lagartos, a regional lunch, a water bottle, and a visit to the crocodile farm.

Can I buy drinks at the restaurant?
Drinks at the restaurant are not included, so bring some water or purchase beverages separately.

Are there additional fees?
Yes, a federal tax of $27 USD per person applies at Las Coloradas, payable on-site, and an optional viewpoint costs $8 USD per person.

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

In The Sum Up, this tour offers a well-rounded and visually stunning adventure into some of the region’s most iconic natural sights. While the long travel time might be a con for some, the spectacular salt lakes and wildlife encounters make it worthwhile for those prepared for a full day. The guides’ expertise, the included meals, and the chance to see flamingos and crocodiles up close truly elevate this experience. It’s especially suited for those who value authentic nature exploration and don’t mind the journey to enjoy spectacular scenery and memorable wildlife moments.

Whether you’re a photographer eager for those perfect shots or a nature enthusiast keen to understand local ecosystems, this tour offers a meaningful glimpse into the natural beauty of the Yucatán Peninsula.