Natural Pink Lake Tour Las Coloradas only from Playa del Carmen

If you’re dreaming of snapping that perfect Instagram shot of a vivid pink lake or spotting flamingos in their natural habitat, the Las Coloradas tour from Playa del Carmen promises to deliver just that. While this full-day experience includes some of the Yucatán Peninsula’s most iconic sights, it’s not without its quirks.

We love the convenience of round-trip transportation from Playa del Carmen, the chance to visit Ría Lagartos biosphere reserve, and the opportunity to take stunning photos at Las Coloradas. That said, the tour’s long travel time and variable activity duration might not suit everyone’s expectations for a day trip. This tour is perfect for travelers eager to explore wildlife, salt-flavored scenery, and Mayan culture, but those with limited patience for lengthy bus rides may want to weigh their options.

Good To Know

• Comfortable transportation with hotel pickup from Playa del Carmen simplifies the trip.
• Wildlife enthusiasts will enjoy seeing flamingos, crocodiles, and other native species.
• Photographers will appreciate the vibrant colors and scenic views of Las Coloradas.
• The long bus ride (around 7 hours total) is a significant part of the day.
• The tour includes visits to both Rio Lagartos and Las Coloradas, with a focus on natural beauty.
• Cost includes some meals and water, but additional fees apply for government taxes.

An Honest Breakdown of the Itinerary

Starting Early for a Full Day’s Adventure

The tour kicks off at 6:30am with hotel pickups from Playa del Carmen, meaning an early start for most travelers. From there, you’ll be taken in smaller vehicles to a central meeting point where the main bus awaits. This initial transfer is designed for convenience, but it does extend the overall travel time—so expect to be on the road for a good chunk of the day.

Stop 1: Rio Lagartos Biosphere Reserve

The first stop is Rio Lagartos, a UNESCO-protected area teeming with wildlife. This part of the trip lasts approximately two hours and involves a boat or walking tour through mangroves, estuaries, and salt marshes. The reserve’s diverse ecosystems are home to flamingos, pelicans, herons, and crocodiles, which visitors can observe in their natural habitats.

One review notes that the wildlife aspect of this stop was “really great,” with the guide being both knowledgeable and engaging. The reserve is a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers, offering a quieter, more natural introduction before heading to the salt lakes. Since the admission is free, the real value lies in the guided experience and the chance to see animals like crocodiles and flamingos up close—especially if you appreciate the quiet beauty of unspoiled nature.

Stop 2: Las Coloradas – The Pink Lake

The highlight—Las Coloradas—is about a two-hour visit where you can soak in the surreal, pink waters. The lake’s signature hue is due to high salt concentrations and microorganisms, which interact with sunlight to produce that striking pink color. The shade varies with sunlight, so you might see a softer blush in the morning or a more intense pink at sunset.

While a few reviews mention the area is technically a salt company, it doesn’t diminish the awe of standing beside such a bizarrely beautiful natural phenomenon. Expect to take Instagram-worthy photos and learn about the salt production process. Be prepared for crowds, especially during peak times, as it’s a popular destination.

Keep in mind that the tour’s main focus is on the scenery, but some reviewers pointed out that the salt lake isn’t a natural pristine lagoon—it’s part of a salt extraction operation. Still, its visual impact remains undeniable.

Additional Inclusions & Practical Details

The tour provides a boxed lunch with a choice of dish, as well as bottled water, to keep you fueled through the long day. During the bus ride, you can enjoy a simple restaurant lunch and a snack box, which is appreciated given the total travel hours.

Transportation-wise, the tour is designed for ease, with pickup from most Playa del Carmen hotels—no need to worry about renting a car or navigating unfamiliar roads. However, one review pointed out that the long journey—up to 14 hours total—can be tiring, especially since most of that time is spent on the bus.

Extra Tips for the Trip

• Pack sunscreen and sunglasses as you’ll be exposed to the sun for most of the day.
• Wear comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for walking and possibly getting a bit muddy at some spots.
• Consider bringing snacks and a sweater, especially for the bus ride, which may have air conditioning.
• Be mindful to not forget personal belongings when leaving the bus or park, as reviews highlight how easy it is to leave items behind.

What the Reviews Say – Analyzing the Feedback

While some travelers have enjoyed the experience, others have expressed reservations. One reviewer criticized the duration—”It’s a 14:30 day from Cancun because you stop in Playa del Carmen to pick up people,”—and felt that activities were rushed, with only about 2.5 hours spent actually exploring. This reviewer also pointed out that the pink lake is a salt company, which might affect the perception of the “authenticity.”

However, others found the wildlife encounters and guide Frank to be outstanding. Descriptions of the boat ride and Mayan mud bath highlight the fun and unique aspects of the tour, with comments like “Hilarious guide” and “feeding crocodiles” making it clear that the tour does deliver some memorable moments.

Some travelers noted the length of the bus ride as a drawback, wishing for more efficient transportation or shorter trips. If you’re prone to travel fatigue, this is worth considering. The tour is more suited to those who enjoy long scenic drives and are prepared for a full, busy day.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This tour offers an immersive experience that combines wildlife spotting, unique landscape photography, and cultural insights into salt production. The convenience of hotel pickup and all-inclusive meals make it a practical choice for visitors based in Playa del Carmen, especially if you want to avoid the hassle of self-driving or planning multiple stops.

However, the lengthy travel time and short activity windows mean it’s less ideal if you’re looking for a relaxed, leisurely day. It’s best suited for adventure-seekers and photo enthusiasts willing to spend most of the day on a bus in exchange for once-in-a-lifetime views and wildlife encounters.

If you’re after an authentic, nature-focused tour with knowledgeable guides and don’t mind the long journey, this trip will leave you with stunning visuals and great stories.

FAQs

How long is the tour from Playa del Carmen?
The tour lasts approximately 12 hours, including hotel pickup, travel time, and activities. Expect to be on the bus for most of the day, with some breaks.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
Yes, pickup is offered from most hotels in Playa del Carmen, making it a hassle-free option.

What is the main attraction of this tour?
The highlight is the pink waters of Las Coloradas, along with wildlife at Rio Lagartos such as flamingos and crocodiles.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour provides a boxed lunch and a restaurant meal during the day, plus bottled water.

Are there additional costs?
Yes, government fees of $27 per person are not included and must be paid on the day.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, so it’s generally suitable for families, but keep in mind the long travel hours.

How is the wildlife experience?
Most reviews praise the wildlife sightings, especially the birds and crocodiles, with some tour guides being highly knowledgeable.

Is the pink lake natural?
Yes, it’s a natural phenomenon caused by salt and microorganisms, though it’s also used for salt extraction.

What should I bring?
Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, comfortable clothes, some snacks, and a sweater for the bus ride.

Final Verdict

This tour is a great pick for those eager to photograph the striking pink lake and observe Yucatán wildlife in their natural setting. The all-inclusive approach simplifies logistics, but the long hours might test your patience. If you’re okay with a full day of travel and want an authentic, scenic adventure, this experience can deliver some unforgettable sights and stories.

For travelers seeking a more relaxed pace, or shorter trips focused solely on the pink lake, there are other options to consider. But if you’re after value, guided insights, and a full-day nature immersion, this tour ticks those boxes quite well.