Las Coloradas

Travelers seeking a blend of natural beauty, wildlife encounters, and regional culture often flock to the colorful lakes of Las Coloradas. These striking pink-hued salt flats in Mexico attract visitors eager to capture their breathtaking scenery and experience local traditions. But what does a typical tour include, and is it worth the time and money?

Based on the tour from Playa del Carmen offered by krea travel, we’ve gathered insights into what makes this experience interesting, practical tips on what to expect, and honest reflections on its value. We love the trip’s combination of vivid scenery, wildlife spotting, and delicious regional food—plus the chance to feed crocodiles—though it’s worth noting that the tour is quite long, at approximately 15.5 hours.

If you’re someone who enjoys nature, photography, and authentic regional experiences, this tour could be a good fit. However, be prepared for a full day with a busy schedule and some moderate walking. Let’s break down what makes this adventure stand out, and where it might fall short.

Good To Know

• Vivid scenery at Las Coloradas offers plenty of photo opportunities with its iconic pink lakes.
• Wildlife encounters include boat trips to spot flamingos and feeding crocodiles, adding a fun, interactive element.
• Regional cuisine is highlighted with regional-style lunch at a local restaurant, showcasing authentic flavors.
• Long day trip with around 15.5 hours of travel, which might require good stamina and patience.
• Includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, making the long journey more comfortable.
• Additional costs such as reserve taxes are not included in the base price, so budget accordingly.

Starting Point and Morning Routine

The tour kicks off with a convenient pickup from your Playa del Carmen hotel. This is a big plus—no need to worry about navigating or arranging transport, especially since the journey to the Yucatán’s lesser-known attractions can be lengthy. Once onboard an air-conditioned vehicle, you’ll head south towards the Rio Lagartos region.

Most travelers find that the day begins with a light breakfast, often a provided box with juice, a sandwich, an apple, and a snack bar. This simple start helps fuel your energy for the roughly 15-and-a-half-hour adventure ahead. It’s worth noting that the timing of pickups can be early, so plan to get ready accordingly.

Rio Lagartos Boat Tour: Nature’s Marvels

The first major stop is Rio Lagartos, a protected wildlife reserve famous for its flamingos, mangroves, and vibrant birdlife. You’ll hop into a boat and glide through the mangroves, getting close to the flora and fauna that thrive in this lush environment.

Expect to see flamingos up close—something that frequently leaves visitors in awe. The boat tour lasts around 2 hours and 30 minutes, providing ample time to enjoy the scenery and snap photos. A review mentions that the guide, Frank, was particularly helpful, making the experience more engaging.

The boat allows you to see the natural habitat from a comfortable vantage point, but don’t forget your camera—this is one of the most visually stunning parts of the trip. The boat ride is included in the tour price, but be prepared for an additional small fee if you decide to buy souvenirs or snacks onboard.

Tizimín and the Crocodile Farm

Next, the tour moves to Tizimín, a quiet town with charming colonial architecture and a relaxed vibe. Here, you get a brief 40-minute stop to soak in the local atmosphere and perhaps browse some small shops.

Nearby is the crocodile farm, where you can take photos feeding the reptiles and learn about their role in regional ecosystems. Visitors have noted that this part is especially fun for wildlife enthusiasts. You’ll have the chance to get close to the crocodiles, which makes for exciting photos—but always follow safety instructions provided by the guides.

A review from a participant highlighted how they appreciated the opportunity to interact with the animals and learn from informative guides, enhancing the experience beyond just viewing.

The Highlight: Las Coloradas

The centerpiece of the tour is Las Coloradas, known worldwide for its stunning pink lakes. You’ll have around 1 hour here to walk along the salt flats, admire the surreal hues, and take plenty of photos.

An important note: the tour includes an explanation of the salt harvesting process and the significance of the lake’s coloration. It’s fascinating to see how natural minerals create the vivid pink shades, and the guide will help you understand the scientific and regional context.

From reviewers, we learn that the waters are genuinely vibrant, and the scene makes for incredible photographs. Keep in mind that the salt flats are also a working salt production site, so there may be some industrial equipment nearby, adding a contrasting backdrop.

Meal and Regional Flavors

Lunch is a highlight for many travelers, as it offers a taste of regional cuisine. The tour provides a restaurant stop where you can sample local dishes seasoned with regional herbs and spices. The meal is usually a cooked dish made by local people, and the reviews mention it being delicious and authentic.

The included lunch box with juice, a sandwich, an apple, and a snack bar is also provided, ensuring you’re energized for the day’s activities. Be aware that drinks outside of the provided bottled water and lunch are not included, so budget for additional beverages if desired.

Crocodile Feeding and Return Journey

The final stop is the crocodile farm, where you can feed the reptiles and take photographs with them. This hands-on experience is often cited as a memorable part of the trip, especially for animal lovers. The guides tend to be friendly and knowledgeable, making sure guests stay safe while interacting with the crocodiles.

The journey back to Playa del Carmen involves a longer bus ride, but the air conditioning helps maintain comfort. The entire trip wraps up after about 15.5 hours, so be prepared for a long day on the road.

Value for money is a key consideration. At $124 per person, the price includes transportation, boat tours, regional lunch, and the chance to see wildlife and colorful lakes. However, additional costs like the $22 USD reserve tax for the natural reserves aren’t included, so it’s wise to carry some extra cash.

The trip’s length might be a downside for some, but it’s also an opportunity to see multiple sites in one day. The tour hits some of the most photogenic and wildlife-rich locations around Playa del Carmen, making it practical for travelers who want a comprehensive experience without multiple bookings.

The guided elements—especially the explanations of salt harvesting and wildlife—add educational value, and many reviews mention helpful, friendly guides. The boat and vehicle comfort also contribute to the overall experience, especially considering the long hours.

What could be improved? Some travelers might find the schedule tight, with limited time at each stop. If you’re after a more relaxed pace or in-depth exploration, this might feel rushed. Also, the tour’s maximum group size of 50 can mean some crowded moments.

This experience is most suitable for nature lovers, photographers, and animal enthusiasts eager to see flamingos, crocodiles, and the surreal pink lakes. It’s also ideal for those wanting a full-day adventure that covers multiple attractions without the hassle of separate bookings.

If you’re comfortable with long days of travel and walking, and value guides who provide educational insights, you’ll likely enjoy this trip. It’s a good choice for travelers seeking authentic regional flavor and memorable wildlife encounters, especially if capturing stunning photos is a priority.

In essence, this tour offers a comprehensive look at some of Mexico’s most colorful and wildlife-rich sites. The boat rides through Rio Lagartos provide close-up views of flamingos and lush mangroves, while the salt flats of Las Coloradas create mesmerizing photo opportunities. The chance to feed crocodiles and explore Tizimín adds an interactive element that many find rewarding.

While the day is long and the schedule packed, the variety of landscapes, wildlife, and regional culture make the experience worthwhile for those wanting to maximize their visit in a single trip. The included transport, meals, and guided explanations add good value for the price, though travelers should be prepared for the extra reserve tax and the full-day commitment.

Overall, if you’re looking for an authentic, photo-worthy adventure packed with wildlife and regional sights, this tour from Playa del Carmen is a solid option.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 15 hours and 30 minutes, including travel, stops, and activities.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes air-conditioned transportation from and to your Playa del Carmen hotel.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers transportation, a boat tour in Rio Lagartos, regional lunch, bottled water, and entry to Las Coloradas.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, the natural reserve tax of around $22 USD per person is not included and must be paid on-site.

Is the tour suitable for children or people with moderate fitness?
Yes, the tour is designed for travelers with moderate physical fitness and includes some walking and boat riding.

Can I take photos at Las Coloradas?
Absolutely, the lakes are famous for their vibrant pink hue, making them perfect for photography.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, camera, sunscreen, and cash for extra expenses or tips.

Is the crocodile farm experience safe?
Yes, guides ensure safety while allowing guests to feed and take photos with the crocodiles.

In summary, this tour offers a chance to see Mexico’s wild side, enjoy stunning scenery, and taste regional specialties in a full-day adventure. It’s best suited for those wanting to pack their day with memorable sights and experiences, especially wildlife and photography enthusiasts.