Hike in Las Coloradas and Boat Tour of Río Lagartos

Introduction

If you’re dreaming of a day full of striking visuals, natural wonders, and a touch of local flavor, a tour combining Las Coloradas and Río Lagartos might just be your perfect match. While we haven’t personally experienced this tour, reviews and detailed itineraries paint a picture of an authentic adventure that promises unique photo opportunities and immersive nature encounters.

Three things that stand out about this experience are the spectacular pink waters of Las Coloradas, the vibrant wildlife of Río Lagartos, and the chance to relax with a regional lunch after a day of exploration. One possible consideration is the long transfer time from Merida, which could feel a bit taxing for some travelers. Still, if you love discovering lesser-known sights and enjoy a mix of nature and culture, this tour is tailor-made for those with a sense of adventure and curiosity about Yucatán’s coastal treasures.

Who is this tour best for? It suits travelers looking for a well-rounded day trip that combines stunning scenery, wildlife viewing, and a taste of local cuisine—all within an accessible, organized package. It’s ideal for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and anyone eager to see the remarkable colors and creatures that make this region so special.

Good To Know

• Vivid Photo Opportunities: The surreal pink waters of Las Coloradas are a highlight, perfect for capturing striking images.
• Wildlife Viewing: The boat ride through Río Lagartos offers chances to see diverse bird species and lizards.
• Cultural and Natural Blend: Combining scenery with a traditional Yucatán lunch enriches the experience.
• Comfort and Convenience: Air-conditioned transport and a certified guide make the day smooth and informative.
• Longer Transfer Time: Expect a 3-hour drive each way, which means starting early but also maximizing your sightseeing.
• Environmental Respect: Swimming isn’t allowed in Las Coloradas to protect its unique ecosystems, so be prepared for a viewing-only experience.

Exploring Las Coloradas: The Pink Lagoon

Your journey begins with a guided visit to Las Coloradas, renowned for its vibrant, almost surreal, pink waters. The 1 hour and 15-minute tour is a highlight, especially for photography lovers. Here, the guide will explain the science behind the water’s coloration—mainly due to high salt content and natural microorganisms like halobacteria.

While the lagoon’s hue is eye-catching, there’s an important environmental note: swimming isn’t permitted. This restriction helps preserve the delicate mineral balance and natural beauty of the site. You’ll have plenty of time to snap pictures from designated viewpoints and learn what makes this spot so unique.

The reviews reveal that visitors love the opportunity to get up close for photos, with one noting, “The colors are just unreal, and the guide helped us get great shots without disturbing the environment.” It’s a chance to witness a natural wonder that’s become an Instagram favorite, but remember, it’s all about respecting the space.

Río Lagartos: A Wildlife Haven and Natural Spa

After soaking in Las Coloradas’ hues, the tour moves to Río Lagartos for a boat ride through the estuary. This 1 hour and 20-minute journey takes you through mangroves teeming with birdlife and lizards. The boat is the perfect way to get close to nature without disturbing it—expect to see herons, flamingos, and perhaps even crocodiles if you’re lucky.

A notable feature is the Mayan Bath, where you can relax and enjoy a natural clay treatment. This mud bath is praised for its skin-softening properties, and many reviews highlight how fun and refreshing it is. Some travelers also mention the unspoiled beaches where you can wash off the mud and enjoy the serenity.

As one reviewer put it, “Seeing the birds and lizards in their habitat was incredible, and the mud bath was a unique, hands-on experience.” The boat ride not only offers wildlife sightings but also a chance to appreciate the lush mangrove ecosystem that forms the backbone of the region’s environmental health.

A Heartwarming Regional Meal

No trip to Yucatán is complete without sampling its flavors. The tour includes a 60-minute stop at a local restaurant, serving fresh fish or chicken fillet, with vegetarian options available. The meal is generally described as delicious, authentic, and good value—a satisfying way to fuel before heading back.

The reviews suggest that the lunch is a highlight, with many appreciating the generous servings and local ambiance. It’s a great opportunity to relax, discuss the day’s highlights, and soak in the rural charm of Río Lagartos’ surroundings.

The Return Journey

After lunch, the group boards the vehicle for the roughly three-hour trip back to Mérida. The journey offers a chance to reflect on the day’s sights and sounds, and most travelers find the ride comfortable thanks to air-conditioned transport and a knowledgeable guide. The tour concludes back at the original meeting point, making it a seamless experience.

Practical Details and Tips

• Price: At $115.88 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded value considering the transportation, boat ride, guide, and lunch included.
• Duration: Expect around 10.5 hours, with early start times (around 6:00 am) to make the most of the day.
• Group Size: Limited to 19 travelers, so it feels intimate enough for personalized attention but still social.
• Inclusions: Air-conditioned vehicle, certified guide, boat ride, and lunch are all included.
• Not Included: Entrance tickets to Las Coloradas are not included, so budget for that if needed.

Travelers emphasize that the long transfer times mean you’re on the bus for a significant part of the day, but this also ensures you get to experience the region’s far-flung beauty. The guides, like the company Guías de Yucatán, are praised for their helpfulness and wealth of knowledge.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a beautiful blend of natural wonder and wildlife that’s hard to find elsewhere in the Yucatán Peninsula. The chance to see the striking pink waters and cruise through lush mangroves in search of exotic birds makes it a memorable day out—not to mention the refreshing mud bath and regional cuisine that round off the experience.

While the long travel time might be a downside for some, the payoff is the immersion into one of Mexico’s most stunning coastal environments. It’s a good choice for those who value scenery, nature, and authentic local experiences over quick sightseeing.

If you’re after a photo-worthy, wildlife-rich adventure with a touch of culture and relaxation, this tour is worth considering.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 10 hours and 30 minutes, starting early in the morning around 6:00 am.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, a guided tour, the boat ride, and lunch at a local restaurant.

Are entrance tickets to Las Coloradas included?
No, tickets to Las Coloradas are not included and need to be paid separately if required.

Can I swim in Las Coloradas?
No, swimming isn’t permitted to help preserve the lagoon’s delicate environment.

What kind of wildlife will I see?
Expect to see a variety of birds, including flamingos, and lizards along the mangrove waterways. The boat ride offers close-up nature encounters.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers with children can participate, but keep in mind the long transfer times and a full day’s commitment.

How is the transportation?
You’ll ride in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle designed for group travel.

What is the meal like?
The included lunch features regional favorites like fish or chicken fillet, with vegetarian options available, served in a local restaurant.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, sunglasses, water, and your camera. Some reviews suggest packing a waterproof bag for your camera.

Is there any free time during the tour?
Most of the time is scheduled, but the boat ride and visit to Las Coloradas are flexible enough for photo breaks and short explorations.

In brief, this tour offers a full, scenic, and wildlife-rich day that balances stunning sights with the comforts of organized travel. It’s perfect for travelers eager to experience the colorful side of Yucatán while enjoying a mix of adventure, relaxation, and local flavor.