Tour Las Coloradas

Explore the Unique Pink Lagoon and Wildlife of Las Coloradas

The Tour Las Coloradas offers an engaging day trip from Cancun, Mexico for those eager to see one of the world’s most unusual natural wonders. Priced at $135 per person, this 12-hour experience includes round transportation, air-conditioned vehicles, and a visit to two notable locations: Rio Lagartos and the famous pink lake at Las Coloradas. With a 92% recommendation rate and an average booking 17 days in advance, this tour attracts travelers looking for a blend of nature, wildlife, and extraordinary landscapes.

While the trip involves a lengthy journey, it rewards visitors with the chance to observe native Mexican wildlife, explore diverse flora, and enjoy a boat ride that takes you directly to the pink lagoon. The tour features complimentary bottled water and a box lunch, making it a solid value for a full day of adventure. However, it’s important to note that additional government fees of $27 per person are payable on-site, and the tour’s length means it suits those prepared for a long day in comfortable transportation.

Key Points

• Full-day tour from Cancun lasting approximately 12 hours
• Visit Rio Lagartos Biosphere Reserve with free admission and wildlife viewing
• Experience the iconic pink lake at Las Coloradas with an included boat ride
• Learn about local salt production and flora and fauna from knowledgeable guides
• Includes a complimentary lunch, snacks, bottled water, and air-conditioned transport
• Long travel time may be a consideration due to pickup and traffic

Pickup and Transportation: Comfort and Convenience

The tour departs early at 6:30 am, with pickup offered from Cancun hotels. Travelers are gathered into smaller vehicles for the initial transfer, which then joins the main air-conditioned bus heading toward the Yucatán Peninsula. The journey involves a considerably long bus ride—up to 7 hours—which can be tiring, especially after multiple pickups. This aspect is a common point for improvement among some travelers, but the comfort of the air-conditioned coach helps make the trip manageable.

Group sizes are capped at 60 travelers, ensuring a comfortable atmosphere and easier interactions with guides. The round-trip transportation makes this tour a hassle-free option for visitors who prefer an organized, all-inclusive experience without worrying about logistics.

Rio Lagartos Biosphere Reserve: A Haven for Wildlife

The first stop at Rio Lagartos lasts around 3 hours and offers a chance to explore a Ramsar-recognized wetlands area. The reserve features mangroves, estuaries, lagoons, and marshes, creating a rich habitat for many species. Visitors can expect to see flamingos, eagles, ospreys, and other native birds in their natural environment.

Admission is free, and guides will explain the diverse flora and fauna of this protected area. This stop is particularly appealing to nature lovers who enjoy observing wildlife in a more untouched setting. The landscape and wildlife are some of the most praised features of the trip, with many noting the opportunity to see birds in flight and learn about the ecosystems of the Yucatán.

The Pink Lagoon at Las Coloradas: A Natural Marvel

The highlight of the tour is the visit to Las Coloradas, famous worldwide for its spectacular pink lake. The coloration results from halobacteria that produce a peculiar pigment in water saturated with salt. The 3-hour stop includes a boat ride across the lagoon, offering close-up views of the pink waters and an opportunity to observe flamingos in their natural habitat.

This location stands out due to its unusual color and landscape, making it a must-see for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike. Visitors also learn about the salt extraction process from guides, adding an educational element to the awe-inspiring scenery.

Activities at Las Coloradas: More Than Just Sightseeing

Beyond the pink lagoon, the tour offers a chance to swim in the Gulf of Mexico to wash off the Maya mud applied earlier, a fun and unique experience. Visitors can touch and hold crocodiles of various ages, a highly praised activity that adds an adventurous touch. The boat ride is also a highlight, feeding and observing birds along the way.

The Maya mud treatment in the lagoon is often described as lovely, providing a natural skincare experience. The crocodile interaction and bird feeding stand out as memorable moments, especially appreciated when guides explain the local wildlife and their behaviors.

Food and Refreshments: Included and Optional

A complimentary box lunch is provided, allowing visitors to enjoy a tasty meal during the day. Guests can choose their lunch dish, which often features fish and local ingredients. Bottled water is available throughout the trip, with recommendations to bring additional water, snacks, and a sweater due to the air-conditioned bus and potential long waits.

Beverages in the restaurant are not included, and an extra government fee of $27 per person applies, payable at the site. This fee covers access to the protected areas and is an important consideration when budgeting for the trip.

Guides: Knowledgeable and Friendly

The tour is led by guides who are praised for their expertise and friendliness. One review highlights guide Arturo, describing him as amazing and multilingual, while another reviewer notes the driver as flexible and friendly. The guides effectively explain the salt process, local wildlife, and cultural notes, enriching the overall experience.

While most guides receive high praise, some reviews mention inconsistent service from supporting guides, with one noting a less helpful second guide. Despite this, the majority find the guides to be helpful and informative, making the tour engaging and educational.

Pacing and Duration: Long but Rewarding

The 12-hour itinerary is filled with activities, but the long travel hours—up to 7 hours each way—are a common concern. This means the tour may feel rushed at times, especially for those sensitive to lengthy bus rides. Travelers are advised to wear comfortable clothes and shoes, and bring snacks to stay energized.

On the positive side, the pacing allows for ample time at each stop, giving visitors opportunity to photograph, explore, and interact with wildlife without feeling hurried.

Costs, Fees, and Booking Tips

The main cost of the tour is $135 per person, which includes the boat ride, lunch, transportation, and admission to Las Coloradas. Travelers should book well in advance, as the tour is typically scheduled 17 days ahead. Be prepared to pay an additional government fee of $27 per person during the visit.

Considering the long transfer time, this tour suits those comfortable with extended travel and eager to see Las Coloradas’ pink waters and wildlife in one day. The tour offers good value with its inclusions but requires patience for the travel parts.

Final Thoughts on Tour Las Coloradas

This full-day trip from Cancun provides a spectacular look at one of the most eye-catching natural phenomena—the pink lagoon at Las Coloradas—combined with the wildlife-rich Rio Lagartos. Highly praised guides enhance the experience with informative commentary and friendly service, making it a worthwhile excursion for nature lovers.

However, the extended bus ride is a key consideration. Those prepared for the long hours in transportation, and willing to spend a full day outdoors, will find this tour well worth the effort. It’s particularly suited for adventurous travelers eager to witness breathtaking landscapes and observe native wildlife in Mexico’s Yucatán region.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour price?
Yes, round transportation in air-conditioned vehicles is included from Cancun to the stops and back.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 12 hours, starting at 6:30 am, with pickup and drop-off included.

What are the main highlights?
The pink lagoon at Las Coloradas, the Rio Lagartos Biosphere Reserve, wildlife viewing, boat ride, and crocodile encounters stand out as top features.

Are meals included?
Yes, a complimentary box lunch and bottled water are provided, but beverages at the restaurant require an extra payment.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothes and shoes, biodegradable sunscreen, insect repellent, extra water, snacks, and a sweater for the air-conditioned bus.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, for a full refund.