Las Coloradas Pink Lake & Rio Lagartos Guided Tour

Key Points

• Full-day tour from Cancun lasting approximately 12 to 14 hours
• Includes visits to Las Coloradas Pink Lakes and Rio Lagartos with boat trips and wildlife viewing
• Price of $139 per person, with all logistics taken care of
• Highlights include flamingo sightings, crocodile feeding, and a traditional lunch
• Tour is suitable for most travelers, but involves early start and long hours
• Guides are bilingual and knowledgeable, enhancing the experience

The Tour Combines the Pink Lakes of Las Coloradas with Wildlife at Rio Lagartos

This guided tour departs from Cancun and offers a comprehensive look at two natural attractions in the Yucatan region. For $139 per person, it provides a full-day experience that includes transportation, boat rides, wildlife encounters, and a delicious regional lunch. The tour is designed for ease, with pickup and drop-off at your hotel or nearby pickup points.

The tour lasts roughly 12 to 14 hours, making it a long but rewarding day that suits travelers eager to explore beyond Cancun’s beaches. Reviewers highlight the supportive, bilingual guides, who help make logistics simple, allowing guests to relax and focus on the sights and wildlife.

Exploring Las Coloradas: The Famous Pink Lakes

Las Coloradas is the first stop of the day, where the vibrant pink hues of the lakes immediately captivate visitors. The admission to the lakes is included, and the scenery offers stunning photo opportunities—perfect for capturing memories of the bright pink waters and spotting pink flamingos along the shore.

Visitors can expect about an hour at this location. The striking color is caused by natural mineral deposits, making it a unique spectacle. This stop provides a peaceful moment for reflection and photo-taking before heading to Rio Lagartos.

Navigating Rio Lagartos by Boat for Wildlife Watching

Next, the tour moves to Rio Lagartos, where a two-hour boat tour takes travelers through tranquil mangroves. This boat ride is a main highlight, with opportunities to see wildlife in its natural habitat, including flamingos, pelicans, and crocodiles.

The boat tour is free of charge, and the guides lead the way through the biosphere reserve. Expect to witness flamingo sightings, observe crocodiles, and enjoy the lush surroundings of this protected area. The boat ride offers a calm, nature-filled experience, with plenty of chances for photography.

Authentic Mexican Lunch at Restaurante Los Negritos

After the boat adventure, the tour pauses at Restaurante Los Negritos, where a one-hour meal provides an authentic taste of regional cuisine. The menu features fried or grilled fish, ceviche, and regional dishes, allowing guests to enjoy a flavorful break.

The lunch is included in the tour price, and guests can choose from various dishes. Be aware that drinks are not included, so if you want beverages beyond water, you’ll need to purchase them separately at the restaurant.

Visiting the Crocodile Farm: Close Encounters with Prehistoric Creatures

The adventure continues at the Granja de Cocodrilos Itzamkanac, where a 45-minute visit offers a chance to get close to crocodiles and learn about their ecological importance. This farm is a key opportunity for wildlife observation and photo-taking.

Visitors watch crocodiles basking and are provided with educational insights into these ancient animals. The entry ticket is included, making it a convenient part of the tour.

Additional Activities: Flamingo Sightings, Mayan Clay Bath, and Swimming Stops

The tour also features wildlife sightings of flamingos and a Mayan Clay Bath, which provides a relaxing, natural treatment using local mineral-rich clay. In addition, there is a swimming stop for those wanting to cool off in natural waters.

These activities enrich the experience, blending wildlife encounters with relaxation. Bottled water is provided, and extra drinks can be purchased, ensuring hydration throughout the long day.

Practical Details: Logistics, Group Size, and What to Bring

The tour includes round-trip transfers from Cancun, with transportation organized professionally. The maximum group size is 50 travelers, facilitating a lively but manageable atmosphere. For larger groups, multiple reservations can be made under the same lead name.

Participants are advised to wear casual, fresh clothing, bring an umbrella, hat, sports shoes, and be prepared for early mornings. The tour runs daily from 6:30 AM to 9:00 PM, and confirmation is received at booking.

Note that Las Coloradas has a salt tax of MX$460 per person, payable at the site. Also, tips are not mandatory, but appreciated for guides and staff.

Important Warnings and Tips

Visitors should take care of their belongings, as the tour company is not responsible for lost items. For those staying far from Cancun downtown, the only meeting point is Super Aki Supermarket, and transportation is self-arranged.

The tour emphasizes safety measures; access may be refused if signs of intoxication are evident, and the minimum drinking age is 18. Most travelers can participate, but participants should be prepared for a long day of sightseeing and walking.

The Overall Experience and Who Will Love It

This tour offers a comprehensive look at natural beauty and wildlife in the Cancun region, with a balanced mix of sightseeing, wildlife observation, and cultural experiences. The bilingual guides and well-organized logistics** are strong points, making it suitable for those who value hassle-free travel and engaging scenery.

While the long hours and early start may challenge some, the spectacular views of the pink lakes and fauna justify the effort. Reviewers praise the value for money, especially given the inclusion of meals, boat rides, and entry tickets.

This tour stands out for its combination of iconic sights, wildlife encounters, and authentic regional flavors. It’s ideal for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and anyone eager to explore beyond Cancun’s beaches.

Las Coloradas Pink Lake & Rio Lagartos Guided Tour: Final Thoughts

With a solid 4.5-star rating from 84 reviews, this tour consistently delivers memorable moments. The natural beauty of Las Coloradas’ pink lakes and the vibrant wildlife of Rio Lagartos make it a compelling choice for a full-day escape.

The organized logistics and knowledgeable guides ensure a smooth experience, while the activities and stops offer a rich variety of sights and sensations. Although it requires a long day and early start, most travelers find the value and beauty worth the effort.

If you’re visiting Cancun and want to see some of the most stunning natural sights in the region, this tour provides an engaging, well-rounded adventure with plenty of photo opportunities and wildlife encounters.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, round-trip transfers from Cancun are included, with pickup at your hotel or nearby pickup points.

What should I bring for the boat tour and wildlife viewing?
Bring casual clothes, a hat, umbrella, sports shoes, and a camera. Water is provided, but extra drinks are available for purchase.

Are there any additional costs?
Beyond the Las Coloradas Salt Tax of MX$460, there are no hidden fees, but drinks at the restaurant are not included, and tips are optional.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but minimum age for alcohol consumption is 18. The tour involves long hours and walking, so plan accordingly.