Riviera Maya: Rio Lagartos & Las Coloradas Day Trip w/Lunch

Riviera Maya: Rio Lagartos & Las Coloradas Day Trip w/Lunch

Imagine spending a day exploring one of Mexico’s most visually stunning natural sites, from the bright pink salt lakes of Las Coloradas to the peaceful mangroves of Rio Lagartos. For $91 per person, this 12-hour tour offers a balanced mix of wildlife, scenery, and local culture, with plenty of opportunities for memorable photos and authentic experiences. Guided by bilingual experts (most notably a guide named Jose, according to many reviews), you’ll ride boats through lush canals, relax with a traditional Mayan clay bath, and savor a fresh, local lunch.

What we particularly like about this trip is how well-organized it is—leaving plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed—and the chance to see flamingos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species in their natural habitat. Plus, visiting the colorful salt flats offers a surreal visual experience that sticks with you long after the day ends.

On the flip side, a consideration is the long bus transfer—about six hours total—so this isn’t a casual excursion if you’re looking to relax on a beach all day. It’s best suited for those eager to see unique landscapes and wildlife, and who don’t mind a bit of travel time to get there. If you’re a nature lover or keen on eco-friendly adventures, this trip hits all the right notes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Stunning scenery of pink lakes and mangrove canals offers excellent photo opportunities.
• Wildlife enthusiasts will love spotting flamingos, herons, crocodiles, and other bird species.
• The boat rides and Mayan clay bath provide authentic and memorable local experiences.
• Long travel time means you’ll spend a good part of the day on the bus, so be prepared.
• The tour includes lunch with seafood, chicken, or vegetarian options, making it a great value.
• Guided in both English and Spanish, ensuring clear explanations and cultural insights.

Exploring the Tour Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and Transfers

The trip begins with pickup options from Riviera Maya, Tulum, or Playa del Carmen. Most guests report that the pickup is smooth, with guides advising to wait in the hotel lobby 5 minutes before the scheduled time. The coach ride to Rio Lagartos takes about three hours, which might seem lengthy, but most travelers find the comfortable bus with air conditioning and bottled water a decent way to start the adventure. As one review notes, “We had a good amount of drinks and a smooth ride,” which helps pass the time comfortably.

Rio Lagartos Biosphere Reserve

Once in Rio Lagartos, you’ll be treated to a guided boat tour through the area’s water canals. Here, the landscape is abundant with mangroves, and the wildlife is lively. Expect to see pink flamingos, herons, eagles, pelicans, and cormorants—a true bird-watcher’s dream. Many visitors rave about how close they got to crocodiles, noting that their guides are very knowledgeable about the area’s fauna.

A key highlight is observing the diverse bird species in their natural setting. One reviewer vividly described, “Seeing flamingos in their habitat was truly amazing,” while others appreciated how the guides shared interesting facts about the ecosystem. This part of the trip emphasizes ecotourism and the importance of preserving these fragile habitats.

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Las Coloradas Salt Flats

After the boat ride, you’ll travel by bus for about 20 minutes to the famous Las Coloradas. Here, you’ll pass under the Las Coloradas bridge, and depending on availability, you might take a bike to reach the salt deposits—an activity some find fun, though others note it depends on availability. The salt lakes here are renowned for their striking pink hue, caused by a combination of salt deposits and algal activity.

Travelers describe the scenery as “breathtaking,” with one reviewer saying, “The pink lakes are so vibrant, it’s unlike anything I’ve seen before.” However, it’s worth noting that the pink color can fade depending on weather conditions, so don’t expect it to be as vivid every day. Still, the landscape is surreal enough to make a lasting impression.

Mayan Bath and Beach Time

Next, you’ll enjoy a traditional Mayan clay bath—a fun and nutrient-rich experience. You’ll cover your body in clay, which many reviewers say is “great for the skin,” then rinse off in the crystal-clear waters of a nearby beach. The opportunity to wash the clay off in the ocean is a refreshing way to relax after the activity.

The free time at the beach allows for some unwinding and picture-taking, with many visitors appreciating the peaceful environment. Just be prepared for uneven terrain if you plan to walk around.

Lunch and Final Return

The tour wraps up with a local meal, usually featuring fish, shellfish, or chicken, with vegetarian options available. One guest commented that “the food was delicious,” and it’s included in the $91 fee, which many perceive as excellent value given the quality and variety.

The return journey takes about three hours, which some travelers find long but manageable thanks to the comfortable coach and friendly guides. Most agree that the overall experience is worth the travel time, especially when considering the unique landscapes and wildlife seen throughout.

Authentic Experiences and Real Traveler Insights

The reviews paint a clear picture of what makes this tour special. Many mention Jose, their guide, as being knowledgeable, friendly, and enthusiastic, adding depth and humor to the experience. One traveler said, “Jose went above and beyond to make sure we had a fun and informative experience,” which underscores the importance of a good guide for enjoying the trip.

The wildlife sightings are consistently praised. Guests are often amazed at how close they get to crocodiles and how many bird species they observe. “It was so peaceful, and seeing flamingos in their habitat was unforgettable,” describes one visitor. This closeness isn’t just for photos; it’s about witnessing wildlife in its natural environment, which can be quite moving.

The scenery of the pink lakes and mangroves is another recurring highlight. Many reviews mention that the colors, tranquility, and unspoiled natural beauty make this a must-see. It’s not just a pretty backdrop but a rare glimpse into a fragile ecosystem that travelers help support through entrance fees and eco-taxes.

Value for Money

At $91, including boat rides, a guide, lunch, and transportation, this tour offers solid value. The reviews consistently praise the quality of the guides and the variety of activities, which make the price competitive with other eco-tours in the region. However, it’s important to note the additional entry fee of 800 MXN, which covers taxes, boat transportation, and protected area fees. Travelers should be prepared for this surcharge, but in return, they gain access to protected ecosystems and expert guidance.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and anyone interested in ecologically sensitive tourism. It’s also ideal if you enjoy photography, as the scenery provides countless Instagram-worthy moments. The tour is less suited for those with mobility issues, pregnant women, or small children under five, due to walking on uneven terrain and the length of the day.

Final Thoughts

This trip from Riviera Maya to Rio Lagartos and Las Coloradas offers a fantastic combination of scenery, wildlife, and cultural authenticity. The boat rides through the mangroves and the visit to the pink salt lakes are both visually stunning and educational. The guides’ local knowledge and friendly approach make the experience engaging and accessible.

While the long bus rides may test your patience, most visitors agree that the unforgettable landscapes and close wildlife encounters more than compensate. The included lunch is hearty and fresh, rounding out a full day of exploration.

If you’re eager to see undoubtedly unique natural beauty and experience local ecosystems, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s especially well-suited for travelers seeking an authentic, eco-friendly adventure with plenty of opportunities for great photos and wildlife spotting.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, most pickups are from your hotel, and transportation is provided via comfortable coach bus, with a 3-hour drive each way.

How long is the tour?
The full experience lasts about 12 hours, including travel time, boat rides, activities, and lunch.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a change of clothes, a towel, and your passport or ID. Wear comfortable shoes suitable for uneven terrain.

Are there any additional fees?
Yes, there’s a surcharge of 800 MXN per person covering entry fees, eco-taxes, boat transportation, and protected area fees.

Is the pink color of Las Coloradas always vibrant?
Not necessarily. The pink hue can fade depending on the weather, but the salt flats are still impressive and photogenic.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 5, pregnant women, or those with mobility or health issues that prevent walking on uneven surfaces.

Can I participate if I suffer from motion sickness?
Yes, but it’s advisable to consult your physician beforehand and consider taking preventive medication.

Is there free time during the tour?
Yes, there is a period at the beach after the clay bath, giving you time to relax and take photos.

Can I take photos during the boat ride?
Absolutely. The boat ride provides many scenic vistas perfect for photography, especially of the flamingos and salt lakes.

How do I handle the entrance fee?
The entry fee of 800 MXN is paid in person during the tour, so budget accordingly. It includes all access, taxes, and eco-fees.

This full-day adventure from Riviera Maya offers a compelling mix of ecological wonder, adventure, and local flavor. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a landscape photographer, or simply looking for a truly different experience, this tour will deliver plenty of memorable moments.

You can check availability for your dates here: