From Merida: Tour to Las Coloradas with Lunch & boat

Exploring Yucatán’s Hidden Gems: A Detailed Look at the Mérida to Las Coloradas & Río Lagartos Tour

If you’re visiting Mérida and craving an authentic day trip to explore some of Yucatán’s most striking natural sights, this tour to Las Coloradas and Río Lagartos offers a compelling package. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the detailed reviews, itinerary, and features paint a clear picture of what travelers can expect from this full-day adventure.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to see the famous pink lagoons—a marvel of nature that many travelers find mesmerizing. Second, the opportunity for wildlife spotting, including flamingos and crocodiles—an ideal experience for nature enthusiasts. Third, the relaxed beach time at Cancunito, a pristine spot perfect for unwinding after sightseeing.

One aspect to consider is the long travel time—around 6 hours of total driving—which might be tiring for some. But for those eager to see multiple highlights in one day without the hassle of planning, this tour offers notable value.

This experience suits travelers who love nature, wildlife, and scenic landscapes, and are comfortable with a full-day trip that involves some travel. It’s especially ideal for those visiting Mérida who want to escape the city and embrace Yucatán’s natural beauty without the need for multiple bookings or logistics.

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Key Points

Stunning Pink Lagoons: The highlight of this tour, these vibrant waters are unlike anything else.
Wildlife Encounters: Look for flamingos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species in their natural habitat.
Relaxing Beach Time: Cancunito beach offers a peaceful spot to swim and unwind after busy sightseeing.
Expert Guides and Good Value: Informative guides and included meals add to the overall experience.
Long but Rewarding Day: A 12-hour journey, so prep for an early start and some travel fatigue.
Entry Fees Not Included: Budget extra for the local entrance ticket to Las Coloradas.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

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The Journey Begins: Pickup and Travel Logistics

The tour kicks off with hotel or hostel pickup in Mérida, usually between 7:30 and 8:00 am. This early start is perfect if you’re eager to maximize your day. The transportation is in a comfortable air-conditioned van, which is appreciated given the approximately three-hour drive to the first destination.

While the ride might be tiring—as one reviewer mentioned, “the 3-hour drive was tiring but worth it”—it’s a small price to pay for the sights ahead. Plus, with a knowledgeable guide leading the way, the journey becomes part of the experience rather than just a commute.

Las Coloradas: A Photographic Wonder

The first major stop is Las Coloradas, famous for its vivid pink lagoons. These salt flats and lagoons owe their unusual hue to microorganisms, algae, and salt deposits, creating a surreal landscape perfect for photos. Travelers often comment on the “bright and unusual pink color,” and many mention how the scenery exceeds expectations—something truly special in person.

Your guide provides insight into the process behind the color, making this more than just a sightseeing stop. Expect about an hour here, giving enough time to snap pictures, explore, and learn about the salt production process. However, be aware that entry fees are not included—they cost around 270 MXN for Mexicans and 320 MXN for foreigners, payable on-site.

Cancunito: Virgin Beach Relaxation

After the vibrant hues of Las Coloradas, the tour offers a chance to relax at Cancunito, a pristine beach far from crowds. With roughly an hour and a half here, you can swim, sunbathe, or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Reviewers have praised this stop as “fantastic” and appreciated the free time to swim as much as they liked.

The beach is described as “virgin,” meaning it’s less commercialized, offering a more authentic and tranquil experience. It’s a perfect spot to unwind and digest the morning’s sights, with clear waters inviting a refreshing dip.

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Boat Ride: Exploring Ecosystems and Wildlife

The highlight for many is the boat tour, which lasts about two hours. This isn’t just a scenic cruise; it’s a chance to see crocodiles and flamingos in their natural habitat. The boat ride helps you connect with the ecosystem, with guides explaining the flora and fauna you encounter.

Guests like Smiljana shared how they “saw flamingos, crocodiles, and various bird species,” noting that “everything was well organized” and that they didn’t have to wait around for anything. This part of the trip offers a hands-on experience, with the chance to spot these creatures in the wild, making it a memorable wildlife encounter.

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Río Lagartos for Lunch and Local Flavors

Next, the tour takes you to Río Lagartos for a breakfast and lunch (depending on the schedule), giving travelers a chance to sample local cuisine. The stop typically lasts around 55 minutes, affording time to enjoy regional dishes and soak up the local atmosphere. Reviewers appreciated the delicious food and the relaxed pace during this meal.

Return Journey and Reflection

After lunch, the journey back to Mérida takes about three hours. Though long, travelers often feel the day was “well worth it,” especially given the diverse experiences packed into one day. The tour wraps up at your hotel or hostel, leaving you with plenty of memories and stunning photos.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is tailored for adventurous travelers who enjoy nature, wildlife, and scenic landscapes. It offers a balance of sightseeing, relaxation, and education, making it ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

It’s also perfect if you prefer an organized day trip that minimizes planning and logistics, providing a guide who shares insights and local knowledge. However, those with mobility issues should note that the tour may not be suitable, given the long travel times and walking involved at some stops.

An Honest Look at the Value

For $104 per person, the tour offers a lot. Included are hotel pickup and drop-off, an air-conditioned vehicle, a knowledgeable bilingual guide, a boat ride, and a tasty lunch. The only extra costs are for entry tickets to Las Coloradas, which are paid on-site.

Considering the cost of independent transportation, park fees, and meals, this package provides excellent value. It’s a convenient, well-organized way to see some of Yucatán’s most distinctive natural sights, especially if you want a hassle-free experience with educational commentary.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re eager to see the vibrant pink lagoons and enjoy a wildlife-rich boat ride, this tour delivers. The guides—like Carlos, who is praised for his explanations and attentiveness—really enhance the experience, making the trip not just about the sights but about learning and appreciating the environment.

The beach break at Cancunito adds a relaxed element that balances the more active sightseeing parts. For those comfortable with a full day on the road and looking for value-packed adventure, this trip ticks many boxes.

However, if you prefer shorter trips or are limited by mobility, you might find the long drives challenging. Still, for most, this tour remains an enriching way to experience a lesser-known side of Yucatán, full of color, wildlife, and natural beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes hotel/hostel pickup and drop-off in Mérida, transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, a bilingual guide, a boat ride, and lunch. Entry tickets to Las Coloradas are not included but can be purchased on-site.

How long is the drive to Las Coloradas?
The drive from Mérida to Las Coloradas takes approximately three hours each way, making it a full-day commitment.

Is there free time at the beaches?
Yes, the stop at Cancunito offers about 1.5 hours of free time to swim, relax, or take photos.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring your passport or ID, swimwear, a towel, and cash for entrance fees or souvenirs.

Are food and drinks included?
Lunch is included, but drinks are not, so consider bringing water or purchasing beverages during stops.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. The booking allows you to reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility.

This tour offers a comprehensive way to experience the natural beauty of Yucatán, with a focus on vibrant scenery, wildlife, and relaxation. It’s a great way to add an unforgettable chapter to your Mérida adventure.