Las Coloradas, Río Lagartos and Playa Cancunito Tour from Mérida

Experience the Best of Yucatán in One Day

Imagine waking early, leaving Mérida at 7 am, and spending the next 13 hours exploring some of the most stunning natural spots in the region. This Las Coloradas, Río Lagartos, and Playa Cancunito tour takes you through vibrant pink salt lakes, abundant wildlife, and unspoiled beaches, all with a knowledgeable guide to enhance your experience. For $82.25 per person, you get a full day of adventure that includes transportation, entrance fees, a boat ride, and a delicious lunch.

What we love about this tour is the chance to see Las Coloradas’ surreal pink lakes up close and the opportunity to spot flamingos, crocodiles, and a variety of regional birds during the boat tour. The highlight for many is the unique salt production process and the wildlife encounters—a truly authentic glimpse into the natural beauty of the area. Also, the unspoiled Playa Cancunito offers a peaceful retreat with pristine sands, perfect for a quick swim or photo session.

One thing to consider is that the tour can be quite long, stretching over 12 hours, which might be tiring for some travelers. Also, the schedule is tight, especially around meal times and at the salt lakes, so flexibility and good planning for breaks are helpful. It’s best suited for those who love nature, wildlife, and memorable landscapes—and are okay with a full day out on the road.

If you enjoy guided adventures that combine nature, wildlife, and cultural elements in a well-organized package, this tour will likely be a hit. It’s especially good for travelers who want an immersive experience without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

Key Points

• Comprehensive experience: Includes all tickets, taxes, transportation, and a satisfying lunch.
• Diverse scenery: From surreal pink salt lakes to unspoiled beaches and wildlife-rich mangroves.
• Wildlife encounters: Flamingos, crocodiles, eagles, and other regional birds are often seen close-up.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable bilingual guides enhance understanding and enjoyment.
• Long but rewarding: A 13-hour day, so pace yourself and bring snacks.
• Authentic moments: Featuring local salt production, birdwatching, and beach time.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The adventure begins early at the Viajes Colibrí office in Mérida. With pickup included, you’re off promptly at 7 am—an important detail since punctuality is emphasized. The minivan is equipped with a cooler and binoculars, making the journey comfortable and practical for wildlife spotting. Group sizes are kept small, typically no more than 18 travelers, which allows for a more personal experience and easier interaction with guides.

Las Coloradas: The Pink Salt Lakes

Your first major stop is Las Coloradas, a landscape that looks like it belongs on another planet. The pink hue is caused by salt-producing bacteria, a fascinating natural phenomenon. Many reviews mention how pictures don’t do justice to the actual scene, which is true—seeing the lakes in person is a more vivid, almost surreal experience. You’ll walk with a certified guide along designated paths, learning about the salt production process, which adds a layer of understanding to this striking environment.

Expect about 90 minutes here. Reviewers frequently praise the guided walk for its educational value and the convenience of included entrance fees and taxes. Be prepared to take plenty of photos; the scene is perfect for memorable shots, especially when the sunlight hits the pink water just right.

Playa Cancunito: A Remote Beach Escape

Next, the tour heads to Playa Cancunito, a remote, unspoiled beach rated by many as one of the most beautiful in Yucatán. There are no amenities like bathrooms or restaurants here—just miles of pristine sand and crystal-clear water. You’ll have about 45 minutes to swim, relax, or snap photos of the seascape. Several reviews note that waves can be choppy, which means it’s better suited for those who enjoy a lively sea rather than gentle paddling.

This stop is a perfect break from the busyness of the day, giving you some peaceful time by the sea. Just remember, no facilities are available, so bring your own water, towels, and perhaps a snack if you get hungry.

Río Lagartos Boat Tour: Wildlife Wonderland

The highlight for many is the boat tour in Río Lagartos, a natural park teeming with wildlife. The boats hold up to 6 people, providing an intimate and engaging experience. Guides hand out binoculars, and many reviews mention how close the animals come to the boat—flamingos, crocodiles, and an assortment of seabirds are often spotted just feet away.

This two-hour cruise offers a real sense of discovery. We loved how the guide, Greg, kept everyone engaged with entertaining stories and insights, making it educational and fun. Wildlife sightings are common, and some reviews describe how the flamingos often come eerily close to the boat, providing fantastic photo opportunities. Expect to see flamingos, crocodiles, and eagles in their natural habitat.

Lunch at Maleconcito Gourmet

After the boat ride, we head to Maleconcito Gourmet for a well-earned meal. The restaurant offers a varied menu, with many reviewers praising the delicious food and friendly service. Drinks are extra, but the food quality and portion sizes seem to be appreciated, making it a good value.

The timing here is about an hour, giving you time to relax and refuel for the journey back. Some reviews mention that the restaurant’s menu differs from their website, but overall, the food is seen as a highlight.

Returning to Mérida

The return trip begins around 4 pm, taking about three hours back to Mérida. The guides often use this time to share additional stories or answer questions, rounding out a full day of exploration. You’ll arrive back around 8 pm, tired but enriched by your adventure.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

From reviews, we see how guided expertise and close wildlife encounters make this trip memorable. Many travelers mention their guide’s knowledge and friendly attitude, which enhances the experience. The surreal beauty of Las Coloradas consistently impresses, with some saying it’s better than expected.

However, some reviewers point out the long hours and tight schedule, which can be exhausting. One traveler noted the meager lunch at the restaurant, suggesting bringing snacks. Another pointed out that the beach stop can be choppy and that facilities there are nonexistent—a true nature experience, but not for everyone.

The cost is generally seen as reasonable, given that all tickets, transportation, and entrance fees are included. Many agree that the value is good, especially considering the wildlife and the stunning scenery.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Take This Tour?

This tour is ideal for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts who don’t mind a long day of travel. If you’re keen on photo opportunities, the pink lakes and flamingos offer spectacular sights. It’s also perfect for travelers who want all-in-one convenience, as everything from tickets to meals is organized for you.

However, it may not suit those seeking a relaxed pace or comfort facilities at every stop. The long hours and tight schedule require a good level of energy and patience. If you’re traveling with kids or have mobility concerns, consider how the walking and boat rides might impact your experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, round-trip transportation from Mérida is included, making the logistics hassle-free.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring comfortable clothes, a swimsuit, towel, sunglasses, sunscreen, mosquito repellent, and plenty of water and snacks for the day.

Are the stops at Las Coloradas and the beach long enough?
Yes, Las Coloradas lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes, giving ample time for photos and exploring. Playa Cancunito has about 45 minutes, enough for a quick swim and photos.

Is the tour suitable for non-Spanish speakers?
Yes, guides speak both Spanish and English, with explanations provided in both languages.

What wildlife might I see?
Expect flamingos, crocodiles, eagles, herons, and many other regional birds, especially during the boat ride.

How crowded is the tour?
The group size is limited to a maximum of 18 travelers, which helps maintain a comfortable and engaging atmosphere.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Ultimately, this tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the natural wonders of Yucatán, combining vibrant scenery, wildlife, and local flavor in a full-day adventure. It’s perfect for those wanting to see the region’s most iconic sights without the hassle of planning every detail, and for travelers eager to capture unforgettable photos and moments.