From Cancún: Rio Lagartos & Las Coloradas Day Trip & Lunch

Explore Rio Lagartos and Las Coloradas on a Full-Day Adventure from Cancún

This full-day tour from Cancún, priced at $91 per person, takes you to two of the Yucatán Peninsula’s most captivating natural sights: Rio Lagartos and Las Coloradas. With a 12-hour itinerary, including boat rides, wildlife observation, a traditional Mayan clay bath, and a local seafood lunch, this experience offers a mix of nature, culture, and relaxation.

The tour departs from Hotel Zone, Cancún, and Puerto Morelos, and features guided visits led by bilingual guides in English and Spanish. It’s well-suited for those seeking a day immersed in the wild beauty of Mexico’s coast, though it requires some walking on uneven terrain and participation in outdoor activities. A key highlight is the pink waters of Las Coloradas, which are dependent on weather conditions, adding a touch of unpredictability to the trip.

While the long travel time—about 6 hours on the bus—might be daunting for some, the diverse stops and natural wonders promise a rewarding experience. The trip’s strength lies in its detailed exploration of Rio Lagartos’s mangroves and birdlife and the unique salt flats of Las Coloradas, complemented by delicious local cuisine.

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Key Points

• Full-day experience from Cancún lasting around 12 hours.
• Guided boat ride through Rio Lagartos’s mangrove canals with bird and crocodile sightings.
• Visit Las Coloradas to see the famous pink salt flats, with water bodies that change color based on weather.
• Includes a Mayan clay bath and time to relax at an unspoiled beach.
• Local seafood meal with fish, chicken, and vegetarian options, plus drinks.
• Entry fees and taxes are paid separately, adding 800 MXN per person to the cost.

Discovering Rio Lagartos’s Natural Charm

Rio Lagartos is a small fishing village in a protected Nature Reserve on the Yucatán Peninsula. The guided boat tour explores its water canals, which are lined with mangroves, offering a chance to observe pink flamingos, herons, eagles, seagulls, pelicans, and cormorants. The guides are knowledgeable and explain the wildlife and ecosystem along the way, making the boat ride both informative and visually stunning.

The surrounding bodies of water are part of the salt production process, and you can see Las Coloradas from the boat. The salt flats are especially striking when the water takes on a vivid pink hue — a phenomenon that varies depending on sunlight and weather.

Travelers should note that walking on uneven terrain is required during the tour, especially when exploring the salt flats and natural surroundings. The boat ride typically lasts about 1.5 hours, providing plenty of time to spot wildlife and take photos of the scenic landscapes.

Las Coloradas: Pink Salt Flats and Water Features

Las Coloradas is renowned for its saline lakes with a distinctive pink color. The salt deposits form striking pink water bodies, creating an unforgettable visual. The color intensity can fade or intensify based on weather, so sunny days are best for photos.

During the guided visit, travelers walk around the park and see the salt extraction process firsthand. The sight of pink-colored waters and white salt deposits makes for excellent photographs, though some visitors mention that the pink hue is not always as vibrant as expected due to weather conditions.

The tour allocates roughly an hour for exploring Las Coloradas, giving sufficient time for pictures and a leisurely walk. Keep in mind that entry fees and environmental taxes are paid separately, amounting to 800 MXN per person.

The Mayan Bath: Clay, Sand, and Refreshing Water

A unique feature of this tour is the Mayan clay bath, where participants are covered in nutrient-rich clay. This traditional activity is believed to have skin benefits and is a fun, hands-on experience. After coating the body in clay, travelers head to an unspoiled beach to rinse off in crystal-clear waters.

The beach provides a relaxing environment to wash away the clay and enjoy some free time. It’s an ideal opportunity to cool off, soak up the sun, and enjoy the natural surroundings. The clay and sand are part of the cultural experience, adding a rustic charm to the day.

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Authentic Local Seafood Lunch and Refreshments

The tour includes a lunch featuring local fish, chicken, and vegetarian options at a small village restaurant. The meal is praised for its freshness and authenticity. Plus, bottled water and a bottled drink are provided during transportation to keep travelers hydrated.

Guests often highlight the delicious ceviche served during lunch, which complements the outdoor experience. The meal is a welcome break after the outdoor activities and provides a taste of regional cuisine.

Transportation and Group Dynamics

Transportation involves a bus or coach ride of about 3 hours each way, with pickup options in Cancún, Hotel Zone, and Puerto Morelos. The long drive is part of the adventure, but some reviews mention that group switching during pickup can add around an hour to the wait.

Guides are attentive and friendly, with many reviews praising their knowledge and hospitality. Small amenities like snacks, juice, and water bottles are offered during the journey, enhancing comfort.

Practical Tips for the Tour

Travelers should bring swimwear, a towel, and a passport or ID. Shoes suitable for walking on uneven ground are recommended, and changing clothes after the clay bath is advisable. The tour prohibits large luggage, drones, alcohol, and drugs for safety and environmental reasons.

Participants should be aware that weather conditions impact the pink color of Las Coloradas, so choosing a sunny day is ideal for photos. The activity is not suitable for children under 2, individuals with mobility or health issues, or those weighing over 150 kg.

Cost and Additional Fees

The $91 ticket covers guided tours, boat rides, the clay bath, and the meal. However, an additional fee of 800 MXN per person applies for entry, eco-taxes, boat transportation, and salt flat access. This fee is paid directly on-site and should be factored into the overall budget.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The combination of wildlife observation, salt flats, Mayan cultural activity, and local cuisine offers a comprehensive day trip experience. The guided boat rides and expert guides ensure a smooth and informative journey.

While the long bus ride might seem tiring, most reviews find the variety of stops and sights makes it worthwhile. The photo opportunities at Las Coloradas and the chance to see flamingos and crocodiles make this a memorable adventure.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This trip appeals to nature lovers, photographers, and culture enthusiasts. Those interested in birdwatching and wildlife will appreciate the boat tour through Rio Lagartos’s mangroves. The activity suits adventurous travelers comfortable with outdoor walking and long travel durations.

It is ideal for travelers looking for a full-day escape from Cancún that combines nature, wildlife, and cultural experiences with delicious regional food.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the length of this tour?
The tour lasts around 12 hours, departing early in the morning and returning in the evening.

How much does the additional entry fee cost?
Participants pay 800 MXN per person for entry, taxes, boat transportation, and salt flat access, paid on-site.

Is the pink color of Las Coloradas always visible?
The pink hue varies depending on weather and sunlight; it can be less vibrant if conditions are not sunny.

What activities are included in the tour?
The tour includes guided boat rides, a Mayan clay bath, a walk around Las Coloradas’ salt flats, and lunch at a local restaurant.

Are the guides bilingual?
Yes, the guides speak English and Spanish and explain the natural and cultural sites clearly.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It is not recommended for children under 2 years or individuals with mobility or health issues.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, ID, and comfortable shoes for uneven terrain.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

Does the tour accommodate dietary restrictions?
The lunch offers fish, chicken, and vegetarian options, but specific dietary needs should be communicated in advance.

What is the overall rating of this tour?
It holds a rating of 4.5 out of 5 based on 353 reviews, highlighting its popularity and positive feedback.

This From Cancún: Rio Lagartos & Las Coloradas Day Trip combines wildlife, salt flats, and local culture into a memorable day. With guided tours, delicious food, and unique scenery, it offers great value for those eager to explore beyond the usual beaches.

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