Las Coloradas: Day Trips and Tours from Cancún

Deserving of a spot on a postcard, Las Coloradas is a small fishing village located on the Yucatán Peninsula known for its stunning, vibrant pink lakes.

The unique color of the lakes is due to the high concentration of salt and algae present in the water — as a result, Las Coloradas day trips from Cancun are an unsurprisingly popular destination, allowing visitors to explore the village and marvel at the beauty of this rare natural landscape.

Here's all you need to know about Las Coloradas, one of the most exciting day trips from Cancún.

How to get to Las Coloradas from Cancún?

Las Coloradas is a small fishing village located on the northern coast of the Yucatán Peninsula, about a 3-hour drive from Cancún. It is situated on the edge of the Ria Lagartos Biosphere Reserve, a protected area home to a diverse array of wildlife.

From Cancún to Las Coloradas by car

The 3-hour drive from Cancún to Las Coloradas takes you through small towns and rural areas, with the last portion being on a bumpy dirt road. For the most part, simply head west to Valladolid, then north up to Rio Lagartos.

Guided tour to Las Coloradas from Cancún

A guided tour to Las Coloradas from Cancún has several benefits.  You'll have a knowledgeable guide who can provide information about the history and ecology of the area, enhancing your overall experience.

Additionally, guided tours often include stops at other attractions along the way, such as Rio Lagartos or Valladolid, giving you a more comprehensive experience of the region.

What is the typical itinerary?

A typical guided tour to Las Coloradas from Cancún begins with a pickup from your hotel in the morning. The tour group then makes its 3-hour journey towards the northern peninsula, passing through small towns along the way.

Once you arrive in Las Coloradas, you'll go on a guided tour of the pink lakes. Your guide will provide information about the formation and ecology of the lakes, as well as the history of the surrounding area.

After visiting the pink lakes, the tour often includes a stop in the nearby town of Rio Lagartos. Here, depending on your tour, you can take a 2-hour boat tour through the Ria Lagartos Biosphere Reserve, home to a variety of wildlife, including flamingos, crocodiles and sea turtles.

Following a delicious lunch, you're taken back to Cancún with a few optional stops along the way, such as the town of Valladolid.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Las Coloradas?

Day trip to to Las Coloradas and the Rio Lagartos from Cancún

Great for nature lovers, this small group tour takes you to the stunning Rio Lagartos, where you can see flamingos, crocodiles, and other wildlife. Afterwards, head to Las Coloradas to witness the incredible pink salt flats and learn about the salt mining process.

Private tour of Las Coloradas and Rio Lagartos from Cancún

For a more personalized experience, consider a private tour of Las Coloradas and Rio Lagartos. With this tour, you have the flexibility to customize your itinerary according to your own interests. You can choose when and where to go, while your knowledgeable guide provides you with all the information you need to make the most of your day.

Las Coloradas pink lake tour with boat ride

Suited for those who love adventure, this tour combines the beauty of the pink lakes with a boat ride on Rio Lagartos. You'll explore the mangroves and wildlife of Rio Lagartos while enjoying stunning views of Las Coloradas in the distance. Lasting around 12 hours, you will have plenty of time to relax and explore the area.

Las Coloradas pink lake plus Valladolid city tour

For those who are eager to explore more than just the pink lakes, this tour is perfect. En route to Las Coloradas, you'll visit the city of Valladolid to explore its cultural and historical attractions — expect to see colonial-era buildings, Mayan ruins, and more.

You'll then continue on to Las Coloradas for a guided tour of the pink lake area. With this tour, you get to experience two of Mexico's most remarkable destinations in one day!

How much does a day trip to the Las Coloradas from Cancún cost?

Day tours from Cancún to Las Coloradas – including those with a boat ride – typically range between US$90 and US$120 per person.

Meanwhile, guided excursions that include a Valladolid city tour cost between US$370 and US$480 – although these become cheaper the bigger your group size.

Private tours are most expensive, ranging between US$500 and US$600. However, these are usually per vehicle, so it’s not as expensive if traveling as a group.

What will you see and do?

The pink lakes

The main attraction of the area, the pink lakes, is a sight to behold. You'll get to explore the salt flats up close and take in views of its remarkable hue from afar. The vibrant pink hue of the lakes is caused by the presence of microscopic organisms and high salinity levels.

Rio Lagartos Biosphere Reserve

Diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes await you at the Rio Lagartos Biosphere Reserve. Here, you can expect to see a wide variety of birds such as flamingos, egrets, herons, and pelicans. Plus, if you’re lucky enough, you might even spot some crocodiles!

Learn about the salt mining process

Besides the captivating scenery, Las Coloradas is also known for its salt mining industry. Here, you'll learn about how the locals harvest and process the pink salt in traditional ways.

Valladolid

If you opt for the Valladolid city tour option, you'll get to explore its colonial-era buildings and cobblestoned streets. You'll also visit the Convent of San Bernardino de Siena, a stunning 16th-century Catholic convent, and get to browse local markets and eateries.

When is the best time to visit Las Coloradas?

The best time to visit Las Coloradas is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. During this time, the weather is sunny and dry, making it perfect for outdoor activities.

As for time of day, it’s recommended to start early in the morning so that you can make the most of your day trip.

Travel tips

• Book your tour online and in advance to secure your preferred date.
• The area around Las Coloradas can be uneven and rocky, so make sure to wear sturdy shoes.
• The Rio Lagartos Biosphere Reserve is a natural habitat for insects and mosquitoes, so bring insect repellent to avoid getting bitten.
• Do not swim in the lakes or disturb the wildlife and dispose of your trash properly to help preserve the unique ecosystem.