Coloradas & Rio Lagartos Excursion from Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen , Mexico

Coloradas & Rio Lagartos Excursion from Playa del Carmen

Active

(1 reviews)

11h - 12h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

If you love nature and are interested in viewing unique Mexican wildlife, this tour is for you. On this tour we will visit the Rio Lagarto Nature Reserve located on the Yucatan Peninsula, this place is characterized by its beautiful landscapes, flora and fauna such as the famous flamingos that come to this place to feed and nest, generating a unique spectacle painting the sky pink with their flight. Also, you can see other endemic birds of the region such as herons, eagles ospreys and even migratory species.

We’ll also stop by Las Coloradas, an area of the lagoon where salt has been extracted from the seawater for decades. You’ll definitely want to have your camera ready since this area is known for its breathtakingly beautiful pink lagoon water. In the same way, you can exfoliate the skin with a mud bath if you wish. After exploring the Rio Lagartos, you’ll probably be hungry.

Your guide will take you to a local restaurant where you can enjoy a delicius lunch.

Available options

Coloradas & Rio Lagartos Excursion from Playa del Carmen

What's included

Mayan Bath (Exfoliation)

A dish to choose at restaurant

Box Breakfast (sandwich, juice and fruit)

Boat ride for 2 and a half hours in the Rio Lagartos biosphere reserve

Round transportation only from Playa del Carmen

Know the salt process, salt harvests, native guide of Las Coloradas

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Grab your camera and prepare to witness one of Yucatán’s most breathtaking natural wonders! This extraordinary excursion takes you to Las Coloradas, where a series of vibrant pink lagoons create a surreal, dreamlike landscape that seems plucked from another world.

The waters dazzle with their intense rosy hue - a natural phenomenon caused by unique salt concentrations and pigmented microorganisms. Under the golden Mexican sun, these cotton-candy colored lakes transform into the ultimate photographer’s paradise, offering once-in-a-lifetime shots at every turn.

This ecosystem serves as a vital sanctuary for magnificent flamingos, whose iconic pink plumage comes from feasting on the lagoon’s brine shrimp and algae. Watch in awe as these elegant birds wade through their colorful habitat.

Climb aboard and set off on the second leg of your journey, gliding through the canals and lagoons of Ría Lagartos Biosphere Reserve. Keep your eyes peeled for majestic pink flamingos wading through the shallows and stealthy crocodiles basking along the banks—a true wildlife spectacle!

Then, prepare for pure relaxation as you arrive at a hidden beach, where nature provides the ultimate spa experience. Here, you’ll indulge in a natural exfoliation treatment, using the region’s mineral-rich mud to rejuvenate your skin. Surrounded by wild vegetation and the tranquil sounds of the reserve, this is wellness at its most authentic—no frills, just the raw beauty of the Mayan wilderness.

What's not included

Beverages in the restaurant

Tax for preservation

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

We recommend book this tour one week in advance

You can bring snacks

Use biodegradable sunscreen and sunglasses.

This tour can be more than 12 hours due hotel location and traffic

We first pick up and gather everyone in smaller vehicles to take them to the last meeting point where the main bus will be waiting In the transport logistics operation we collect people in a first transport, it can be a van or a bus, spending time on the journey, the transport will be changed to a bus, this is because all the clients of the same tour meet again at a meeting point to reach the final destination.

Tax for preservation Rio Lagartos ($25 USD per person)

Meeting point

Coco Bongo
Calle 12 Norte, esquina con Av. 10 Norte, Col. Centro, Gonzalo Guerrero, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico

Another meeting points
Hm Playa del carmen
Fiesta inn Playa del Carmen

Important notes

Contact tour operator to get help to know the exact location of starting meeting point.

About Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen is a vibrant coastal city in Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, known for its stunning beaches, turquoise waters, and rich Mayan heritage. It's a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, offering everything from world-class resorts to ancient ruins and vibrant nightlife.

Top Attractions

Quinta Avenida (Fifth Avenue)

A vibrant pedestrian street stretching over 20 blocks, lined with shops, restaurants, bars, and street performers. It's the heart of Playa del Carmen's nightlife and shopping scene.

Cultural/Shopping/Entertainment Half day to full day Free to explore, shopping and dining vary

Xcaret Park

An eco-archaeological park offering a mix of natural beauty, cultural performances, and adventure activities. It's one of the most famous attractions in the Riviera Maya.

Nature/Adventure/Cultural Full day Moderate to Expensive (around $100-$150 USD)

Cenote Azul

A stunning natural sinkhole with crystal-clear turquoise waters, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. It's a popular spot for a refreshing dip in the jungle.

Nature/Adventure Half day Budget (around $5-$10 USD for entrance and gear rental)

Tulum Ruins

Ancient Mayan ruins perched on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a breathtaking blend of history and natural beauty.

Historical/Archaeological Half day to full day Budget (around $10-$15 USD for entrance)

Musa (Museo Subacuático de Arte)

An underwater museum featuring over 500 life-sized sculptures submerged in the waters off Playa del Carmen. It's a unique snorkeling and diving experience.

Art/Nature/Adventure Half day Moderate (around $50-$80 USD for snorkeling tours)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Cochinita Pibil

A traditional Yucatecan dish made with marinated pork, slow-cooked in banana leaves. It's tender, flavorful, and often served with pickled onions and habanero salsa.

Main Course Contains pork, gluten-free if no marinade contamination

Ceviche

A fresh seafood dish made with raw fish or shrimp marinated in lime juice, mixed with tomatoes, onions, and cilantro. It's a refreshing and light dish perfect for the tropical climate.

Appetizer Gluten-free, dairy-free, can be made vegetarian with vegetables

Tacos al Pastor

Marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit and served on corn tortillas with pineapple, onions, and cilantro. It's a popular street food dish with a unique blend of sweet and savory flavors.

Street Food Contains pork, gluten-free if no marinade contamination

Panuchos

A Yucatecan specialty made with fried tortillas stuffed with refried beans and topped with shredded chicken, pickled onions, and habanero salsa. It's a flavorful and satisfying snack.

Appetizer Contains chicken, gluten-free if no cross-contamination

Popular Activities

Snorkeling Scuba diving Cenote exploration Zip-lining ATV tours Beach relaxation Spa treatments Yoga

Best Time to Visit

December to April

This is the most popular time to visit with perfect weather, low humidity, and minimal rain. It's ideal for beach activities, exploring ruins, and enjoying outdoor adventures.

24-30°C 75-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: English
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in other parts

Currency

Mexican Peso (MXN)

Time Zone

Eastern Standard Time (EST) (GMT-5), Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) (GMT-4) during daylight saving time

Electricity

127VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe for tourists, but exercise caution

Playa del Carmen is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Use official taxis or pre-arranged transportation
• Be cautious of strangers approaching you with offers or requests
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight

Getting there

By air

Cancun International Airport • 70 km (43 miles)

By bus

ADO Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common and affordable way to get around. They are frequent and cover most areas.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Didi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown (Centro) Playacar Zona Hotelera Colosio

Day trips

Cozumel

80 km (50 miles) off the coast • Full day

A beautiful island known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and world-class diving and snorkeling. It's a popular day trip from Playa del Carmen.

Tulum

60 km (37 miles) south • Half day to full day

A charming town with ancient Mayan ruins, beautiful beaches, and a bohemian vibe. It's a popular destination for history lovers, beachgoers, and nature enthusiasts.

Akumal

30 km (19 miles) south • Half day

A small coastal village known for its beautiful beaches and clear waters, as well as its population of wild sea turtles. It's a great spot for snorkeling and relaxation.

Festivals

Festival of the Mayan Culture • November Playa del Carmen International Film Festival • November Carnaval de Playa del Carmen • February or March (dates vary)

Pro tips

Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and heat at popular attractions
Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals
Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun with sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses
Use official taxis or pre-arranged transportation to avoid scams and ensure safety
Explore beyond the tourist hotspots to discover the authentic culture and beauty of Playa del Carmen