From Cancún: Rio Lagartos & Las Coloradas Day Trip & Lunch
Location: Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico
Country: Mexico
Rating: 4.5/5 (353 reviews)
Price: $91 per person
Duration: Approximately 12 hours
A quick glance at what this tour offers
This full-day adventure takes you from Cancún to explore two of the Yucatán Peninsula’s natural gems: Rio Lagartos, a tranquil fishing village surrounded by lush mangroves, and Las Coloradas, famous for its stunning pink salt ponds. For $91, you get a guided boat trip, a Mayan clay bath, a taste of fresh local seafood, and plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting.
What we really appreciate are the chance to see flamingos and crocodiles up close on the boat rides, and the remarkable visual contrast of the salt flats, which turn a vivid pink in the sunlight—an Instagram-worthy highlight. Another plus: the guides are often praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the long day feel engaging rather than tiring.
One thing to consider is that entry fees and taxes come as an extra surcharge of 800 MXN per person, so budget accordingly. Also, the trip involves several hours on a bus, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a full day of travel. If you’re eager to see authentic local scenery, observe wildlife, and enjoy fresh seafood, this tour offers good value and memorable sights.
This experience works well for travelers who enjoy nature, birdwatching, photography, or just want a break from the beach scene in Cancún. It’s especially fitting if you’re interested in local culture and ecosystems, and don’t mind a full day with some bus time.
Key Points
- Wildlife and Nature: Expect to see flamingos, herons, eagles, cormorants, and crocodiles in their natural habitat.
- Visual Spectacle: Las Coloradas salt ponds are mesmerizing, especially in bright sunlight when they turn vibrant pink.
- Cultural and Authentic Flavor: Enjoy a local fish or chicken lunch and experience a traditional Mayan clay bath.
- Guided Experience: Bilingual guides enhance your understanding of the area’s ecological and cultural significance.
- Value for Money: For $91, the tour offers a full day of sights, activities, and local food, with the entry fees paid separately.
- Long Day Out: The trip involves about 6 hours on transportation, so comfortable shoes and patience are advised.
Exploring the Tour Itinerary in Detail
Start with Pickup & Travel Time
The tour begins with pickup options from Cancún’s Hotel Zone, Puerto Morelos, or nearby areas. From there, expect a roughly three-hour bus ride to Rio Lagartos. This may seem long, but it’s part of the experience—giving you a chance to relax and prepare for the day ahead. Several reviews mention the trip being well-organized, with guides like Chepe and Jose making the journey enjoyable through their stories and enthusiasm.
Rio Lagartos Boat Tour and Wildlife
Once there, you’ll jump into a guided boat ride through the canals of Rio Lagartos, surrounded by mangroves. Here, the focus is on wildlife observation—you’ll likely see flamingos, cormorants, herons, and possibly even crocodiles or raccoons. Many reviewers commend the guides for their knowledge and patience. For example, one noted that the boat captain was “very friendly and did his best to explain everything you’re seeing,” which makes the experience much richer.
The boat ride is often cited as the tour’s highlight, especially for bird lovers or those wanting to see nature in action. Expect a peaceful cruise, where the guides point out different bird species and share interesting facts about their behavior and habitat. You’ll love the chance to photograph flamingos, which often appear in the salt flats and marshes, and marvel at the crocodiles lounging quietly in the water.
Las Coloradas Salt Ponds
Next, the tour visits the Salt Ponds of Las Coloradas—the area famous for its intense pink hue. This coloration results from salt deposits and algae, which thrive in the mineral-rich water. However, some reviews mention that the pink color may fade depending on the weather and sunlight, so timing your visit for sunnier days can make a difference.
You’ll have about an hour here to walk around the salt flats, take photos, and appreciate the surreal landscape. Many visitors find this scene extraordinary—an unearthly, almost otherworldly place—and say it’s a must-see for any trip to the Yucatán. A few reviews note that the salt ponds are somewhat affected by nearby industrial activity, leading to questions about the environmental impact, but most travelers find the visual payoff worth it.
Mayan Clay Bath Experience
After Las Coloradas, it’s time for a Mayan clay bath, a traditional activity where your body is coated with nutrient-rich clay. This is not only relaxing but also gives you a chance to connect with local customs. Many reviewers mention enjoying this part of the tour, describing it as fun and rejuvenating.
Following the clay bath, you’ll head to a crystal-clear beach to wash off, often remarked upon for its cleanliness and quiet atmosphere. This is a great place to unwind, swim, or just enjoy the natural beauty before heading to lunch.
Lunch and Cultural Highlights
The tour includes a local restaurant serving fish, chicken, and vegetarian options. Reviewers often praise the tasty, fresh seafood and the chance to enjoy authentic Mexican flavors in a non-touristy setting. One visitor describes the ceviche as “amazing,” highlighting the quality of the food.
During lunch, many travelers appreciate the relaxed, friendly atmosphere and the opportunity to chat with locals and guides, exchanging impressions of the day.
Return Journey and Drop-Off
After lunch, the journey back takes another three hours, with some reviews pointing out that the drop-off order could be more organized. Guests staying closer to Cancún report a smooth experience, while others mention some inconvenience in the last leg. Still, most are satisfied with the overall trip, feeling it was a worthwhile day of discovery.
Authentic Experiences and Visitor Insights
From reviews, it’s clear that knowledgeable guides like Chepe and Jose add a lot to the trip, making complex ecological and cultural points accessible and engaging. Their friendliness and storytelling significantly boost the overall experience.
Many travelers appreciated the local, authentic feel—from the modest restaurant to the unspoiled village of Rio Lagartos. One reviewer called it a “quiet, charming village” that’s a stark contrast to Cancun’s busy resorts.
The wildlife sightings are a major draw. Multiple reviews mention seeing crocodiles and flamingos up close, often in settings where they are free to roam. For birdwatchers and nature lovers, this is a real highlight.
The salt ponds’ visual appeal is another big plus. The vibrant pink water, especially in good sunlight, makes for unforgettable photos and a surreal experience. Some mention, however, that the pink hue varies, so don’t expect a constant flamingo pink all day.
Food and Cultural Touchpoints
The included lunch offers much more than just a meal; it’s an opportunity to enjoy local flavors and support small businesses. The ceviche and fish dishes receive particularly high praise, making this aspect one of the best value points of the trip.
Price and Value Consideration
While the base price is $91, it’s important to budget an additional 800 MXN (~$45 USD) for entry fees, taxes, and boat transportation. Many reviews find this to be a reasonable supplement for the full experience. The trip’s length and the variety of sights—wildlife, salt flats, cultural activities—make it a good value for those interested in nature and authentic local culture.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This tour is perfect for nature lovers, especially those keen on birdwatching or wildlife photography. If you enjoy learning about ecosystems and want to see flamingos, crocodiles, and mangroves in one trip, you’ll find plenty to love.
It’s also well-suited for adventurous travelers comfortable with a long day on the road, as it involves about 6 hours of transportation total. The guided nature and informative guides make it a safe, engaging choice, especially if you’re interested in culture.
Those looking for a relaxing beach day might find the trip a bit long, but if you’re eager for a full day of authentic experiences that go beyond Cancun’s beaches, this trip offers a meaningful glimpse into the ecosystems and local life of the Yucatán.
FAQ
How long is the trip?
It lasts about 12 hours, including transportation, activities, and meals.
What should I bring?
Swimwear, a towel, passport or ID, and comfortable shoes.
Are there any extra costs?
Yes, a surcharge of 800 MXN per person for entry fees, taxes, and boat transportation.
Is it suitable for children?
It is not recommended for children under 2, those with mobility issues, or people with certain health conditions.
What kind of wildlife might we see?
Flamingos, herons, eagles, cormorants, crocodiles, and raccoons have been observed.
Is lunch included?
Lunch at a local restaurant with fish, chicken, or vegetarian options is included.
What’s the main highlight of the tour?
Many say the boat ride and wildlife viewing are the most memorable parts, along with the surreal salt ponds.
Will the pink water always look like that?
No, the pink hue depends on sunlight and weather, so it can fade or intensify.
How organized is the transportation?
Generally, reviews praise the guides and buses for smooth organization, though some noted longer waiting times or drop-off inefficiencies.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
In short, this tour offers a well-rounded look at the unique ecosystems, wildlife, and local culture of the Yucatán. It’s an excellent choice if you’re eager to see flamingos, learn about salt production, and experience the natural beauty beyond the beaches of Cancún. Just prepare for a long but rewarding day, and bring your camera!
You can check availability for your dates here: