Travelers looking to escape the city and enjoy the natural wonders of the Yucatán Peninsula will find this full-day tour from Mérida a compelling choice. With a mix of vibrant landscapes, abundant wildlife, and tranquil beaches, it offers a well-rounded glimpse into the region’s most photogenic spots.
What makes this tour stand out are its carefully curated stops, the knowledgeable bilingual guides, and the delicious local cuisine enjoyed at the end. You’ll love the pink salt lakes, the lively boat tour through flamingo-filled waters, and the unspoiled sands of Playa Cancunito.
However, keep in mind that it’s a long day—roughly 13 hours of travel and exploration—which may be tiring for some. Still, if you’re craving an authentic experience with plenty of picture-worthy moments, this tour fits the bill perfectly. It’s best suited for active travelers with an interest in nature, wildlife, and stunning landscapes who don’t mind early mornings and full days on the go.
Good To Know
- All-inclusive Package: Tickets, taxes, and a tasty lunch are covered, making it straightforward and hassle-free.
- Wildlife and Nature: Expect flamingos, crocodiles, eagles, and a peaceful salt lake environment.
- Scenic Stops: The pink salt lakes and Playa Cancunito are unforgettable sights for photography and relaxation.
- Expert Guides: Bilingual guides keep the group engaged and share useful insights along the way.
- Value for Money: At around $82.25 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive Yucatán experience.
- Long Day, But Worth It: With careful planning, you’ll get a full taste of regional beauty in just over 13 hours.
Discovering the Highlights: A Detailed Breakdown of the Tour
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Starting Point and Early Morning Pickup
The adventure begins bright and early at the Viajes Colibrí office in Mérida, with a prompt 7:00 am departure. The convenience of pickup service means you won’t have to worry about organizing transport—just be ready on time, as the tour leaves precisely at the scheduled hour. The vehicle is equipped with a cooler for your drinks, and the group size is capped at 18, allowing for a more intimate experience.
Las Coloradas: The Pink Salt Lakes
One of the most striking sights on this trip is Las Coloradas, a landscape that looks almost surreal. You walk with a certified guide along paths that wind through the salt production site, where the pink hue of the lakes creates a perfect backdrop for photos. Reviewers mention that the salt ponds are breathtaking, especially when the water turns a vivid pink—an effect often intensified during the salt harvesting season.
You’ll spend about an hour and a half here, exploring the area and capturing images of this natural wonder. It’s worth noting that the salt lakes are also a working salt extraction site, so don’t expect a tourist-focused attraction—more a chance to see an active, colorful landscape.
Playa Cancunito: A Secluded Beach Escape
Next, the tour takes you to Playa Cancunito, a pristine stretch of coastline famed for its unspoiled beauty. Rated by many as one of the most beautiful beaches in Yucatán, its quiet, remote setting offers a peaceful escape from crowded tourist spots.
You’ll have around 45 minutes here—ample time to swim, relax, or snap some photos of the shimmering, turquoise waters and soft sands. Keep in mind there are no facilities like bathrooms or restaurants, so bring your essentials, a towel, and a swimwear. This stop is perfect for those craving solitude and natural beauty without commercial distractions.
Río Lagartos: The Wildlife Paradise
The highlight for many is the boat tour through Río Lagartos Reserve, where an experienced guide takes you on a 2-hour cruise amidst a habitat teeming with wildlife. Expect to see flamingos in their natural pink glow, along with crocodiles sunbathing on the banks, eagles soaring overhead, and various seabirds like seagulls and herons.
Reviewers describe the boat ride as “fantastic,” with some noting that the animals often come quite close—an exhilarating experience for wildlife enthusiasts. The boats are small (max six people), providing an intimate setting for bird watching, and binoculars are provided for an up-close view. The boat’s speed and maneuvering make it easier to spot animals, and the guides are praised for their knowledge and engagement.
Cultural and Culinary Stop at Maleconcito
After the boat adventure, the group heads to Maleconcito Gourmet, a local restaurant where a delicious, freshly prepared lunch awaits. The menu offers various regional dishes, and reviewers rave about the quality of the food—many mention the portions are generous and flavors authentic. Drinks aren’t included, so you might want to bring some extra cash or snacks, especially since the last meal is around mid-afternoon.
The meal is a chance to rest, chat, and enjoy the local flavors after a busy morning of exploration. Travelers highlight the friendly service and the relaxing atmosphere of this stop.
Return Journey and Final Drop-Off
The day concludes with a scenic drive back to Mérida, arriving around 8:00 pm. The return trip offers a chance to unwind and reflect on the day’s adventures. The company’s organization ensures punctuality, and the group size facilitates a more personalized experience.
What’s In the Price?
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This tour offers good value considering its inclusions:
- Transportation from Mérida and back, so no extra logistics needed.
- All tickets and taxes—no hidden costs.
- A guided walk at Las Coloradas and wildlife commentary.
- The 2-hour boat tour with binoculars for birdwatching.
- A full lunch at Maleconcito, showcasing regional cuisine.
- Environmental taxes and use of binoculars to enhance wildlife viewing.
- The boat features a refrigerator for keeping drinks cool.
The price of approximately $82.25 per person is reasonable when you consider the full day of sightseeing, wildlife encounters, and quality food. Though some guests feel the day is long, many agree that the experience justifies the duration and cost.
Possible Drawbacks and Considerations
While the tour ticks many boxes, some reviews mention the long hours—up to 13 hours—requiring good stamina and patience. The timing can feel tight, especially at Las Coloradas and Playa Cancunito, with limited free time.
Plus, the lunch service at Maleconcito receives mixed reviews, with some guests finding the food bland or salty. It’s worth bringing snacks or extra drinks if you’re particular about your meals. The beach stop is quite isolated, and waves can be choppy, so swimming could be limited depending on the weather.
Who Would Love This Tour?
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This experience is ideal for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and photographers eager to capture flamingos and salt lakes. It suits travelers who enjoy long, full days of exploration, especially those comfortable with early mornings and a bit of travel fatigue.
If you’re looking for a relaxed beach day or a quick sightseeing trip, this might not be the perfect fit. However, for those wanting an authentic, active adventure with stunning scenery, it offers a well-rounded taste of the Yucatán’s natural beauty.
FAQ
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Is transportation included? Yes, round-trip transportation from Mérida is part of the package, making it easy to relax and enjoy the ride.
How long does the tour last? Approximately 13 hours, from 7:00 am to about 8:00 pm, including all stops.
Are tickets and taxes included? All entrance fees and taxes are covered, so there are no hidden costs at the attractions.
What should I bring? Comfortable walking clothes, swimwear, towel, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, mosquito repellent, official ID (if Mexican), and a camera or phone for photos.
Is the tour bilingual? Yes, the tour runs in both Spanish and English, which helps ensure everyone can follow along easily.
Will I have free time at each stop? Yes, there is some free time at Las Coloradas, Playa Cancunito, and the restaurant, but the schedule is quite packed.
What is the food like? Lunch is regional and generally well-reviewed, though a few guests found it bland or salty. Bringing snacks is recommended.
Is the tour suitable for children? The physical demands and long hours suggest it’s best for active teenagers and adults.
What if the weather is bad? The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Final Thoughts
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This Mérida tour offers a fantastic way to see some of Yucatán’s most stunning and iconic sights without the hassle of planning. The combination of colorful salt lakes, wildlife-filled waters, and peaceful beaches makes for endlessly memorable photographs and stories. The guides’ friendly, bilingual service elevates the experience, making it informative and engaging.
While the day is lengthy, the variety of stops and the quality of the wildlife encounters provide genuine value. It’s best for travelers who don’t mind a full schedule and are eager to enjoy the region’s natural splendors. If you’re after a mix of adventure, relaxation, and culture, this tour won’t disappoint.
In summary, this experience delivers a well-rounded exploration of the Yucatán’s natural beauty—perfect for adventure seekers and photography buffs alike. Its combination of wildlife, scenic landscapes, and regional cuisine makes it a memorable, value-packed day out. Just come prepared for a long day and bring your camera, energy, and curiosity.