Las Coloradas & Río Lagartos with boat & Lunch from Mérida

Experience the vibrant beauty of Yucatán with the Las Coloradas & Río Lagartos tour from Mérida. For $109.29 per person, you’ll spend roughly 11 to 12 hours immersed in some of the region’s most breathtaking landscapes, including the famous pink salt lagoons, a peaceful virgin beach, and a lively boat ride through mangroves. Led by knowledgeable guides and complete with a delicious local lunch, this tour offers a fantastic mix of scenery, wildlife, and culture.

Two things we really appreciate are the stunning, photo-worthy views of the pink lagoons—which genuinely look like they’ve been plucked from a dream—and the boat trip where flamingos, crocodiles, and vibrant flora come to life. Both add a level of authenticity and visual excitement that makes this trip stand out.

One potential consideration is the three-hour drive each way, which might feel a bit long if you’re not used to lengthy travel days or if you prefer shorter excursions. Still, the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle and the well-paced itinerary help make the day enjoyable.

This tour is best suited for travelers who love nature and wildlife photography, want a full-day adventure, and are interested in seeing iconic Yucatán sights beyond the usual ruins. It’s ideal if you enjoy guided experiences and don’t mind a bit of driving to reach these spectacular sites.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery: Pink lagoons and mangrove ecosystems create memorable photo opportunities.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides like Carlos enhance the experience with local insights and translations.
• Good value: Includes transportation, boat ride, and lunch for a reasonable price.
• Authentic nature encounters: Flamingos and crocodiles in their natural habitat offer genuine wildlife viewing.
• Comfortable logistics: Air-conditioned transport and well-structured itinerary help manage long travel times.
• Limited crowding: Small group size (max 20 travelers) allows for a more personal experience.

This experience made our article of What Are The Best Lunch Experiences In Merida? Our Top 15 Picks.

Exploring the Landscape of Las Coloradas & Río Lagartos

This tour offers a blend of awe-inspiring landscapes, wildlife encounters, and culture, making it a compelling choice for those seeking to see a different side of Yucatán. The highlight, of course, is Las Coloradas’ salt lagoons, with their surreal pink hue caused by a combination of salt, microorganisms, and sunlight. We loved the way these lagoons look like a painter’s palette spilled across the earth—truly a must-see for photographers and nature lovers alike.

The tour starts early from Mérida, with the pickup at 7:30 am. The drive to Río Lagartos is about three hours, giving you a good chance to relax and enjoy the scenery. Once there, you’ll visit the iconic pink salt ponds. While the ticket cost is not included (about MXN 270–320), the experience of seeing these natural wonders up close is well worth the small extra fee.

Las Coloradas: The Pink Salt Lagoons

What makes Las Coloradas so special? It’s not just the vibrant pink color—though that is spectacular—it’s also the story behind it. The salt ponds are actively harvested, and the high salinity supports microorganisms that turn the water a striking pink. This combination creates one of Mexico’s most eye-catching sights.

According to reviews, guides like Carlos go above and beyond to ensure you get plenty of time to take photos and appreciate the scenery. One traveler said, “The guides gave us time to look and take incredible photos,” which is a common theme among positive feedback. However, keep in mind that the admission fee is separate and can be around MXN 270-320, depending on your nationality.

Cancunito Beach: Peaceful and Uncrowded

Next stop is Cancunito, a pristine beach in Río Lagartos. This stretch of coastline offers a tranquil setting away from tourist crowds. It’s perfect for relaxing, sunbathing, or cooling off in the clear, calm waters. Reviewers love this part of the trip for its quiet beauty and the chance to unwind after the salt lagoons.

Because it’s a free stop, you might find yourself wishing for more time here—though one hour is usually enough to dip your toes in the sea and snap some photos. The unspoiled nature of Cancunito makes it a real highlight for those craving a peaceful escape.

Río Lagartos Boat Tour: Wildlife in Action

The boat ride through Río Lagartos’s mangroves is often called the highlight of the tour. Here, the landscape transforms into a lively hub of flora, fauna, and birdlife. Flamingos are a star attraction, often seen in groups performing their courtship dances, and crocodiles bask lazily on the banks.

A reviewer wrote, “Our favorite part was the river cruise—the flamingos put on quite a show,” which perfectly captures the magic of this part of the experience. The boat guides are usually very knowledgeable, sharing insights into the ecosystem and pointing out wildlife you might miss on your own.

Lunch and Return to Mérida

After the boat ride, the tour includes a lunch at a local restaurant in Río Lagartos. Many comments praise the welcoming atmosphere and tasty cuisine, making the meal a fitting end to a day full of sights. The return trip to Mérida takes about three hours, but with comfortable air-conditioned transport, the journey feels less tiring.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits nature enthusiasts, wildlife lovers, and photographers who appreciate genuine encounters with the environment. It’s also great for travelers who enjoy seeing diverse landscapes in one day—salt lagoons, beaches, mangroves—and don’t mind a long day of travel to reach these regions. The small group size ensures you get personalized attention, and the knowledgeable guides make sure you don’t miss the details that bring the scenery to life.

Final Thoughts

The Las Coloradas & Río Lagartos tour offers a well-rounded experience that balances spectacular natural beauty, wildlife encounters, and cultural insights. It’s a day packed with memorable sights, from the surreal pink lakes to the lively mangroves filled with flamingos and crocodiles. The inclusion of transportation, a boat ride, and a local meal makes it a good value—especially considering the unique scenery and expert guides.

While the long drive might be a consideration, many travelers find that the sights and experiences make the day worthwhile. If you’re after authentic, visually stunning landscapes and the chance to see wild animals in their habitat, this trip is a solid pick.

FAQs

How long is the total tour?
The tour lasts approximately 11 to 12 hours, including travel time, visits, and lunch.

What is included in the price?
The price covers transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, the boat ride, and lunch. Admission to the pink lagoons is not included but can be purchased separately.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate. The experience of seeing flamingos and crocodiles appeals to many family travelers, though consider the long drive for young children.

How much does the entrance fee to Las Coloradas cost?
The fee is approximately MXN 270-320 per person, depending on nationality.

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

Is the tour crowded?
No, it’s limited to a maximum of 20 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Can I take photos at all stops?
Yes, guides encourage photography, especially at Las Coloradas and during the boat ride.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera, sun protection, water, and a hat. Comfortable footwear is recommended for walking around the salt ponds.

Are guides bilingual?
Guides like Carlos are helpful and often go above and beyond to translate and explain in English, making the experience accessible to non-Spanish speakers.

In summary, this tour offers a fantastic way to see some of the most colorful and lively sights of the Yucatán. It’s perfect for those who want a full day of natural beauty, wildlife, and relaxed scenery, all with the comfort of a guided, well-organized trip.