Las Coloradas and Río Lagartos tour from Mérida

The incredible pink waters and rich biodiversity in a single trip.

The longest day in the catalogue and one of the most distinctive: the pink salt flats of Las Coloradas, an untouched beach for swimming, and the boat ride through Río Lagartos among mangroves, flamingos and possible crocodiles.

Who is this tour for?

  • Anyone who wants to see the pink water of Las Coloradas (visited on foot: no swimming in the salt flats).
  • Travellers after flamingos, mangroves and, with luck, crocodiles on the Río Lagartos boat ride.
  • People ready for a long day: the schedule is 7:00 AM - 8:00 PM.

Day itinerary

  1. 1

    Las Coloradas

    approx. 40 min

    Visitor centre with a guided walking tour. These are working salt flats: you can look and photograph, but not swim.

  2. 2

    Cancunito beach

    approx. 1 hour

    Untouched beach with free time to swim.

  3. 3

    Río Lagartos

    approx. 1 h 15 min

    Guided boat ride through the mangroves, with possible crocodile and flamingo sightings. Along the way you are invited to the white clay bath, used as a natural exfoliant.

Times are approximate: they depend on traffic, weather and the group.

What’s included

What’s included

  • Transportation
  • Guide
  • Boat ride
  • Meal

Not included

  • Las Coloradas entrance (Mexicans $305 MXN - Foreigners $435 MXN Spanish / bilingual $465 MXN)

Before you go

Good to know

  • Swimming is not allowed at Las Coloradas: they are working salt flats.
  • The Las Coloradas fee is paid separately: $305 MXN nationals and $435 MXN foreign visitors ($465 MXN bilingual).
  • It is a thirteen-hour day: get a good night’s sleep beforehand.

What to bring

  • Light, comfortable clothing
  • Biodegradable sunscreen (required in cenotes)
  • Swimsuit and towel
  • Hat or cap and insect repellent
  • Cash for fees not included and personal expenses

Frequently asked questions

Can you swim in the pink water?
No. Las Coloradas are working salt flats and are only visited on foot, with a guide.
Are crocodiles guaranteed?
They are possible, not guaranteed: these are wild animals inside the reserve.
How do I book?
Choose the departure, message us on WhatsApp and confirm by paying at least 50% of the tour. The rest is settled on the day. You can also book in person at our office on Calle 61.
Which payment methods do you accept?
Bank transfer, OXXO deposit or credit and debit card through a secure link. Nothing is charged on the website and no card details are requested here.
Where does the tour leave from?
From downtown Mérida. The exact spot and time are confirmed when you book, as they change with the route and the group that day.
Can I change the date?
We can reschedule at no extra cost if you let us know early enough and there is availability. No refunds are issued: see the full cancellation policy.
Are there English-speaking guides?
Most departures have bilingual Spanish–English guides. For other languages, let us know in advance.

Book the way you prefer

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