The pink lakes of Las Coloradas are quite a spectacle in the proper weather conditions, getting their vibrant colors from the pink-colored bacteria, brine shrimp, and algae in the water. It’s become quite popular over the last few years, mostly fueled by picture-perfect Instagram photos.

But along with the lakes becoming famous, the owners started employing various tricks to make people pay a steep price for the “experience”, the move considered by many locals unethical. If you do wish to see these lakes, we recommend either discussing it with your guide on a Ria Lagartos boat tour (that you are most likely doing earlier in the day) or driving to Las Coloradas and purchasing tickets directly from the owners.

Las Coloradas

Discover the remarkable beauty and diversity of the Ria Lagartos Bio Reserve which is home to Mexico’s largest flock of Flamingos, along with thousands of other species. The boat trips are the only way to explore the preserve, so we recommend booking a private boat tour with experienced nature guides.

The tours usually consist of navigating deep into the mangroves, seeing many species of birds, crocodiles, and occasionally mammals, visiting the feeding grounds of the flamingos, and optional stops for beautiful beaches and mud baths. Check the links section for our vetted local vendor options.

Nature tour by boat in Río Lagartos

Ria Lagartos Boat Tour

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I’d consider Piña Coloradas Ecolodge if you want a stay with a spa.

We couldn't believe that a small nearby destination can offer such a diverse and epic adventure. But Yucatan delivered, with its unique mix of beautiful white-sand beaches, stunning nature with wildlife, and Mayan ruins with one of the seven wonders of the world – Chichen Itza. Enjoy!

Piña Coloradas offers eco-lodging in individual bungalows surrounded by the natural beauty of the Yucatan Peninsula. Each bungalow is designed to blend in with the environment and has its own unique decor.

Piña Coloradas prides itself on being a sustainable and environmentally friendly accommodation option so you can enjoy a peaceful and natural retreat while minimizing its impact on the environment.

Piña Coloradas Ecolodge

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A haven for nature lovers, famous for its flamingo colonies and rich biodiversity. Take a boat tour to witness the flamingos in their natural habitat and marvel at the pink lakes of Las Coloradas.

Ria Lagartos

Piña Coloradas Ecolodge

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