Rio Lagartos Biosphere + Coloradas Gorgeous Pink Lake! Transportation from Tulum

If you’re looking for a day full of striking scenery and authentic Mexican nature, the tour to Las Coloradas and Rio Lagartos offers just that. For $124 per person, you’ll spend roughly 12 hours exploring two of the Yucatán Peninsula’s most captivating sites—the otherworldly pink lake and a thriving biosphere reserve teeming with wildlife. Led by friendly guides and traveling in comfortable air-conditioned vehicles, this experience promises memorable moments, especially if you’re a fan of vivid landscapes and quiet natural beauty.

Two things we particularly appreciate about this tour are the chance to photograph a rare pink lake—a true natural marvel—and the opportunity to swim and relax in the refreshing waters of Rio Lagartos. The inclusion of a traditional Mayan bath adds an authentic touch, giving you a glimpse into ancient skincare traditions.

A possible consideration? The full-day nature of the trip means you’ll need to be prepared for early starts and a long day on your feet or in transit. That said, if you’re eager for an immersive experience that balances scenic beauty with cultural insights, this tour is excellent for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and those wanting to see a different face of the Yucatán.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery: Witness the vibrant pink hue of Las Coloradas, a spectacle created by salt-loving microorganisms.
• Wildlife and nature: Explore a biosphere reserve filled with flamingos, mangroves, and diverse bird species.
• Authentic experiences: Enjoy a traditional Mayan bath and learn about salt production process.
• Comfort and convenience: Transportation, guided visits, and lunch included make planning easier.
• Long but rewarding: Prepared for a full day, including early pickup and extensive local exploration.
• Photographer’s dream: Perfect for capturing memorable images of colorful lakes and lush landscapes.

The Experience in Detail

Start at Tulum: Convenient Pickup and Early Departure

The adventure begins early at the Súper Akí in Tulum, with pickup scheduled for 7:00 am. The tour’s vehicle is air-conditioned, crucial for comfort during the long ride, especially in the heat of Yucatán. From this starting point, the journey towards Las Coloradas and Rio Lagartos feels like stepping into a completely different world.

Las Coloradas: A Slice of Natural Art

Your first stop, Las Coloradas, is just as sensational as you’d expect. The pink lake is a natural marvel, with its vivid hue caused by microorganisms that thrive in salty water—halobacteria—which produce a striking pigment. You’ll spend about two hours here, giving you ample time to take photographs, walk along the salt flats, and observe flamingos in their natural habitat. The tour includes admission tickets, so no surprises there.

Many travelers praise the surreal beauty of this spot. One reviewer remarked, “The color was even more intense in person—like a scene from a watercolor painting,” which perfectly captures how photographic and awe-inspiring this location is.

Rio Lagartos: A Biodiversity Paradise

Next, you’ll move to Rio Lagartos, a sprawling biosphere reserve. With mangroves, estuaries, and lagoons, it’s an ecosystem bursting with life. You’ll have about three hours here, which includes the chance to swim in the waters, relax, and enjoy the lush scenery.

A highlight is the chance to see abundant wildlife, especially flamingos, which are often seen wading through the shallow waters. The area also serves as a nesting site for various bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. The admission is free, making this part of the trip feel like a genuine nature escape.

Unique Cultural Touch: The Mayan Bath

One of the more authentic elements of the tour is the “Mayan Bath”—a traditional Mayan practice where you exfoliate and care for your skin using local herbs and mineral-rich waters. It’s a rare opportunity to connect with ancient customs and enjoy a natural skincare ritual, adding depth to the experience.

Salt Production and Local Cuisine

As part of the tour, you’ll learn about salt extraction—a vital industry for the region. Seeing how salt is harvested from the lakes offers insight into local livelihoods and the environmental importance of these ecosystems.

Lunch is included, with a dish to choose from the menu. The tour provides a box lunch and bottled water, making it convenient to refuel after a morning of sightseeing. Keep in mind, beverages in the restaurant are not included, so you might want to bring some extra drinks if you prefer other beverages.

Return to Tulum

The trip wraps up with a return to Tulum, with the tour ending back at your pickup point. Expect to arrive around 7:00 pm, depending on traffic and how long you linger at each site.

Why This Tour Works Well

This experience is ideal for travelers who want more than just a beach day. It’s perfect if you’re curious about natural phenomena, local ecosystems, and traditional customs. The combination of a stunning pink lake and a thriving biosphere makes it a well-rounded day out.

Plus, the small group size (max 50 travelers) ensures you have space to enjoy the scenery without feeling crowded, and the included transportation removes the hassle of organizing separate trips.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring your swimsuit, towels, and extra clothes—you’ll likely want to swim and stay comfortable.
• Use biodegradable sunscreen and insect repellent to protect the environment and yourself.
• The tour is full-day, so be prepared for an early start and a long day—plan accordingly.
• The tax reservation fee ($27 USD per person) in Rio Lagartos must be paid separately, so budget for that.
• Check the weather forecast—poor weather might cancel or reschedule the trip, though you’ll be offered another date or a full refund.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip suits adventurous travelers eager to see unique landscapes and wildlife, especially those wanting to photograph the vibrant pink lake or enjoy a bit of culture with the Mayan bath. It’s also good for nature lovers who enjoy ecosystems, birdwatching, and salt production insights.

Those with a flexible schedule and tolerance for a long day will find it worthwhile, and it’s a great way to add some vibrant colors and natural wonder to your Yucatán itinerary.

The Sum Up

The Rio Lagartos Biosphere and Las Coloradas Pink Lake tour offers a vivid, authentic encounter with some of the Yucatán Peninsula’s most eye-catching sights. You’ll leave with incredible photos, new knowledge about local ecosystems, and a deeper appreciation for the natural beauty of this part of Mexico. The inclusion of cultural elements like the Mayan bath makes it more than just a sightseeing trip—it’s an experience rooted in the land and traditions.

For those who love nature, wildlife, and striking landscapes, this tour provides great value for a full day out of Tulum. Just be ready for an early start and a full schedule—trust us, the sights are worth every minute.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, you’ll be picked up from Súper Akí in Tulum and transported in an air-conditioned vehicle to both Las Coloradas and Rio Lagartos.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 12 hours, starting at 7:00 am and returning around 7:00 pm, depending on traffic and time spent at each site.

What do I need to bring for the trip?
Bring your swimsuit, towels, extra clothes, biodegradable sunscreen, insect repellent, and any personal items for comfort during the long day.

Are meals included?
Yes, a box lunch with your choice of dish and bottled water are included. Beverages at the restaurant are not included.

Is there an additional fee I should be aware of?
Yes, there’s a tax reservation fee of $27 USD per person in Rio Lagartos, which is not included in the tour price.

Can I see flamingos during the tour?
Yes, flamingos are common in Las Coloradas and Rio Lagartos, often seen wading through the water or nesting in the reserve.

What is the best time to visit?
While the tour runs year-round, clear, sunny days will give you the best views and photo opportunities, especially of the pink lake.

This detailed exploration of the Rio Lagartos Biosphere and Las Coloradas Pink Lake tour hopefully helps you decide if it’s the right adventure for your trip. It promises a day of stunning visuals, cultural insights, and lasting memories—well worth considering for your Yucatán itinerary.