Tour Las Coloradas! Amazing Pink Lake Round Transportation from Tulum

Experience the Magic of Las Coloradas and Ria Lagartos on a Full-Day Tour from Tulum

If you’re visiting the Yucatán Peninsula and seeking a day filled with striking natural beauty and unique wildlife, the Las Coloradas Pink Lake tour offers an intriguing mix. For $128 per person, you’ll spend roughly 12 hours traveling from Tulum, exploring two of the area’s most captivating sights: the vivid pink salt lake and the diverse wetlands of Ria Lagartos. The tour includes round-trip transportation, a bilingual guide, a box lunch, and the chance to snap some memorable photos.

What we particularly appreciate about this experience is the opportunity to see nature’s artistry—the pink lake with its surreal color is unlike anything you’ll see elsewhere, and the chance to observe flamingos in their natural habitat adds a sense of authenticity. Plus, the visit to the Reserva Ria Lagartos provides insight into local biodiversity, with marshes, mangroves, and wildlife like crocodiles and birds all on display.

However, it’s worth noting that the meeting time starts quite early — at 7:30 am (and in some reviews, even earlier), which might be a bit demanding after a night out or if you’re not an early riser. Also, the $27 government fee per person is an extra cost to keep in mind, as it’s not included in the base price. The overall experience suits travelers who value natural scenery and wildlife and don’t mind a long day on the road.

This tour is perfect for those who want an authentic glimpse of local ecosystems and stunning landscapes without fussing over logistics, thanks to the included transportation and guides. If you’re keen on photography, nature, and exploring off-the-beaten-path sights, this tour could be a great fit.

Key Points

• Unique scenery: Witness the surreal pink waters of Las Coloradas, a natural phenomenon caused by microorganisms.
• Wildlife opportunities: Spot flamingos, crocodiles, and other native species in their habitat.
• Inclusive setup: Round transportation, bilingual guides, and a box lunch ensure a hassle-free day.
• Timing and planning: Expect an early start, with some logistical details like the government fee added on top.
• Authentic experience: Learn about the region’s biodiversity directly from guides and enjoy plenty of photo opportunities.
• Long day: With approximately 12 hours of travel and sightseeing, it’s best suited for energetic travelers prepared for a full schedule.

In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Out: Meeting in Tulum and Early Departure

The tour begins at 7:30 am (or slightly earlier, according to some reviews), at the Super Aki in Tulum. This early start can be a challenge if you’re not an early riser — some travelers report that the actual meeting time is 7:00 am, so punctuality is key. The small group departs in smaller vehicles before converging onto the main bus that will take you to the day’s destinations.

The advantage of this setup is that it keeps the group intimate (up to 50 travelers max), making it easier to hear the guide and ask questions. The transport is comfortable enough for a full day, and you’ll appreciate the air conditioning after a hot morning on the road.

Las Coloradas: The Pink Lake

The highlight for many visitors is the Las Coloradas salt lake. It’s a natural wonder that looks like something out of a dream—vivid pink waters contrasted against bright white salt flats. The color comes from halobacteria, microorganisms thriving in the salty environment, which produce the recognizable pink hue.

You’ll get about 3 hours here, plenty of time to walk along the salt flats and capture photos that will surely turn heads. The tour includes admission tickets, so no surprises there. Guides typically explain the science behind the color and the salt harvesting process, adding educational value to the visit.

Some travelers, like the reviewer who commented, appreciated that they got to see the sights they expected and that the experience was “absolutely awesome.” Others noted that the actual start time was earlier than advertised, so being punctual is essential.

Ria Lagartos: Wildlife and Wetlands

Next, the group heads to the Ría Lagartos Biosphere Reserve, a diverse wetlands area recognized by UNESCO’s Ramsar Convention. Here, you’ll have about 2 hours to explore. The landscape includes mangroves, estuaries, and coastal lagoons, serving as a vital habitat for a wide variety of animals.

Whether you choose to swim at Rio Lagartos, enjoy a Mayan mud bath, or simply observe the birdlife, this part of the tour offers a more relaxed pace. Visitors can look out for flamingos, which are often seen in large colonies, and sometimes spot crocodiles basking along the banks.

The guide’s knowledge about the local ecosystems enhances the experience, helping you understand how these wetlands function and why they’re important. All of this is provided free of charge aside from the additional government fee of $27, which covers park entry and conservation efforts.

Lunch and Wrap-Up

The tour includes a boxed lunch — a sandwich, juice, and fruit — which is simple but adequate after a busy morning. There’s also an option to choose a main dish when booking, adding a touch of personal preference. Be aware that beverages in the restaurant are extra, so if you want something other than the provided juice, plan accordingly.

The return trip begins in the early afternoon, and the group is brought back to Tulum around 6 pm, making this a full but rewarding day outdoors.

The Value of This Tour

This experience is priced at $128 per person, which might seem steep for a day trip. However, it covers transportation, entry fees, a guide, and lunch, which are often additional costs if you explore independently. The guided aspect ensures you gain context about the local environment, making the visit richer than simply sightseeing.

The small group size and bilingual guides add value for travelers who want to learn and ask questions comfortably. For families, couples, or solo travelers interested in nature photography and biodiversity, this tour offers picture-perfect moments and educational insights.

Considerations and Practical Tips

Given the early start, you should be prepared for a long day. Bring swimsuits, towels, extra clothes, and biodegradable sunscreen to protect the environment. Wear comfortable shoes for walking and be mindful of the $27 government fee not included in the booking price.

While most travelers find the tour well-organized, some mention that the schedule isn’t exactly as advertised, and the start time may be earlier than expected. The guide’s knowledge and enthusiasm are often praised, making these points more manageable.

This tour is best suited for those who enjoy nature, wildlife, and photography, and who don’t mind a packed itinerary. If your goal is a relaxed, leisurely day, you might prefer a less structured experience. But if you’re eager to see these unique landscapes and ecosystems in one day, this is an efficient and engaging option.

The Sum Up

This Las Coloradas and Ria Lagartos tour from Tulum offers a fantastic glimpse into some of the region’s most striking natural features. The pink lake is a surreal sight that’s worth the early wake-up call, and the wetlands provide opportunities to observe native wildlife in a pristine environment. The guides tend to be knowledgeable, making the experience both informative and enjoyable.

While it’s a long day, the included transportation and structured itinerary make it accessible for travelers who want a hassle-free way to explore beyond Tulum’s beaches. The photo opportunities and biodiversity make this a strong choice for those wanting an authentic, memorable adventure.

If you’re interested in native ecosystems, wildlife viewing, and spectacular scenery, and don’t mind the early start and full schedule, this tour will be well worth your time. For travelers seeking a relaxed pace, or those on a tighter budget, it might be worth considering other options or private arrangements.

FAQs

What is the starting point of the tour?
The tour begins at Súper Akí in Tulum, with pickup around 7:30 am. Some reviews suggest the actual meeting time is 7:00 am, so arriving on time is important.

How long is the tour?
The complete experience lasts approximately 12 hours, including transportation, sightseeing, and lunch.

Are the transportation arrangements comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses smaller vehicles for pickup and then a larger bus for the main journey, designed for comfort during a full day of travel.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimsuit, towels, extra clothes, comfortable shoes, biodegradable sunscreen, sunglasses, and some cash for additional beverages or extra expenses.

Is there an additional fee I should be aware of?
Yes, there is a government fee of $27 per person that is not included in the booking price.

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

Who is this tour best suited for?
It’s ideal for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and photographers eager to capture the surreal pink lake and wetlands, and who don’t mind a long, full day of sightseeing.

In essence, this tour combines natural wonder with wildlife observation, guided by knowledgeable locals. It’s a memorable way to see some of the most distinctive sights of the Yucatán, especially if you’re eager to step off the typical tourist trail and experience the authentic landscapes and ecosystems that make the region special.