Tulum: Coloradas & Rio Lagartos Biosphere! Crocodile farm

Trying to decide if the Coloradas & Rio Lagartos tour is worth your energy and time? From what we gather, this full-day adventure offers a mix of stunning landscapes, wildlife encounters, and local charm—all within a reasonable price point of $119 per person. It’s a perfect pick for nature enthusiasts eager for vibrant photo ops and wildlife spotting, but it’s also a long day packed with travel, so patience and comfort with long rides are a plus.

What really wins us over: the surreal pink lake, the chance to spot flamingos and dolphins, and the guided insight you get at each stop. The knowledgeable guides and the stunning scenery make this a meaningful outing. On the flip side, a 6.5-hour ride each way isn’t for everyone, especially if you prefer less time in transit. Still, for those craving an authentic, active experience outside Tulum, this trip delivers plenty of value.

This tour is best suited for travelers who love a full-day adventure, are comfortable with long transport hours, and want to see some of Mexico’s most photogenic natural sights. Be prepared for a busy schedule, but expect to come away with incredible images and unforgettable wildlife encounters.

Key Points

• Vibrant Photography: Las Coloradas’ pink lakes offer unique photo opportunities you won’t find anywhere else.
• Wildlife Encounters: Spot flamingos, birds, and possibly dolphins in the Rio Lagartos biosphere.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with local insights and help you spot wildlife.
• Long Transport: Expect around 6.5 hours of travel each way, so comfort and patience are essential.
• All-Inclusive Value: The tour includes transportation, guided visits, a boat ride, a crocodile farm visit, and a meal for one price.
• Limited for Small Children: Not suitable for children under 3 or seniors over 70, mainly due to the long hours in transit.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown and What to Expect

Starting Point and Transportation

The adventure kicks off in Tulum with a pickup at Super Aki Market, a familiar spot for many travelers. From there, it’s roughly a 6.5-hour ride to Las Coloradas, giving you plenty of time to nap, chat, or soak in the sights along the way. The air-conditioned bus or minivan (depending on group size) makes the journey as comfortable as possible, but be ready for a full-day commitment. Travelers have emphasized the importance of bringing snacks and water for the road, as the journey is long but scenic.

Las Coloradas Pink Lake

Once you arrive, it’s all about the spectacular pink waters. This area results from natural and industrial processes, creating an unusual hue that draws photographers from around the world. Reviewers highlight that the pink lakes are even more stunning in person than photos suggest. The guides are helpful in pointing out the best angles and times for photos, making it a perfect spot for social media-worthy shots.

Some visitors mention that the color can vary depending on the weather and sunlight, so flexible timing for photos can help. The area is well-organized, and the guides often share interesting snippets about how the salt production and mineral buildup contribute to the lake’s hue. The two-hour guided visit allows enough time to explore, take photos, and learn about the local salt industry.

Rio Lagartos Biosphere

After the lakes, it’s onto the boat ride at Rio Lagartos, a highlight for many. The motorboats take you into a realm of diverse flora and fauna. Expect to see a variety of bird species, with flamingos often stealing the show, thanks to their striking pink feathers. Guides are skilled at spotting and pointing out wildlife, and you might even catch a glimpse of dolphins if luck is on your side.

Reviewers rave about the expert guides, like Diego, who reportedly share their passion and knowledge, making the trip both fun and educational. The boat ride lasts about 2 hours, giving plenty of chances to snap photos of the lush mangroves, birdlife, and maybe even a crocodile or two. Some guests mentioned the boat rides can be bumpy, so bring a bit of motion sickness medication if needed.

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Crocodile Farm Visit

Next, the tour includes a 45-minute stop at a crocodile farm. While it’s not a breeding ground or highly interactive experience, it offers a close-up view of these impressive reptiles. For many, it’s a quick but worthwhile stop that adds an element of local culture and ecology to the day. Reviewers note that the farm is clean and well-maintained, with guides explaining crocodile behavior and conservation efforts.

Lunch and Relaxation

To cap off the day, you’ll enjoy a meal at a local restaurant, with the menu likely consisting of regional fare. The included box lunch—sandwich, juice, and a piece of fruit—keeps you fueled for the day’s activities. At the restaurant, you can relax and reflect on the day, with some reviewers mentioning the chance to chat with locals or browse souvenir stands nearby.

Return Journey

The return trip takes another 6.5 hours, meaning you’ll likely get back to Tulum late evening. While the long ride might sound daunting, many travelers say the scenery along the way, combined with the day’s highlights, makes it worthwhile. Arriving back exhausted but enriched, most agree the experience is memorable.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of This Tour

• Bring comfortable clothing and swimwear if you want to take a dip or enjoy the water at Las Coloradas.
• Pack biodegradable sunscreen—it’s essential to protect the environment and stay safe from sunburns.
• Carry a change of clothes and towel—especially if you plan to swim or get splashed during the boat ride.
• Wear sturdy shoes suitable for walking and uneven terrain around the lakes and farm.
• Keep your camera or phone charged at all times; the scenery demands capturing.
• Be prepared for a long day and long transportation times—bring snacks, water, and patience.
• Note the preservation tax of $25 USD per person at Rio Lagartos, which is not included in the tour price and payable on site.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for nature lovers who are eager to see Mexico’s striking natural beauty and wildlife. It’s perfect for those who enjoy photography, birdwatching, and wildlife spotting—especially flamingos and dolphins. If you’re comfortable with long hours in transit and crave a full-day experience packed with variety, this tour will suit you well.

However, it’s less suitable for travelers with mobility issues, young children under 3, or seniors over 70, due to the extensive time spent traveling and at activity stops. If you’re mainly looking for a relaxing day or a quick sightseeing trip, this might be more than you need.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

For travelers seeking a truly authentic and visually stunning experience outside Tulum, this tour offers a blend of natural beauty, wildlife encounters, and local culture. The guided tours make it informative, and the scenery—especially the pink lake—is genuinely unforgettable. The inclusion of a boat ride and crocodile farm adds variety, making it a well-rounded outing.

While the long transportation hours can be tiring, many guests find the effort justified by the breathtaking views and wildlife sightings. It’s a good choice if you want a full, active day with plenty of opportunities for memorable photos and nature interactions.

This tour provides excellent value, especially considering the included guide, transportation, and meals. It’s best suited for adventurous travelers who prioritize authentic experiences over quick sightseeing.

FAQ

How long is the overall tour day?
It lasts approximately 13.5 hours, including about 6.5 hours of transportation each way.

What is included in the price?
Transportation from Tulum, guided tour at Las Coloradas, a boat ride at Rio Lagartos, a crocodile farm visit, one meal at a local restaurant, and a box lunch.

Are beverages included?
No, beverages in the restaurant are not included, so bring your own drinks if you want more than water.

How much is the tax preservation fee?
The tax preservation fee in Rio Lagartos costs $25 USD per person and is payable on-site.

Is this suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 3 or babies under 1, due to the long hours and nature of activities.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Swimwear, change of clothes, towel, biodegradable sunscreen, and beachwear.

What if I want to take photos?
The lakes and wildlife are very photogenic—just ensure your camera or phone is charged and ready.

Is the tour bilingual?
Yes, the tour is conducted in Spanish and English.

How large are the groups?
The data doesn’t specify group size, but tours are typically small to medium, providing a more personal experience.

This full-day journey from Tulum to the pink lakes and Rio Lagartos offers an excellent mix of scenery, wildlife, and local culture—perfect for those wanting to see the natural side of Mexico in a single, memorable outing.

You can check availability for your dates here: