Las Coloradas (Pink Lakes)

The Basics

Las Coloradas is located within the Ría Lagartos Biosphere Reserve, so many half- and full-day tours let you tick off both of these outdoor attractions in one trip. Besides flamingos, the wider region is known for its crocodiles, turtles, and birdlife, making it a popular destination for nature lovers. The pink lakes themselves are no longer accessible to the public, though on-site guides are available to escort you to the flamingo lakes and photo spots.

Things to Know Before You Go

• There’s a fee to enter the lakes—some tours include admission tickets to Las Coloradas.
• Toilets can be found in the on-site visitor center.
• Drone photography and lake bathing is strictly prohibited.

How to Get There

You can only access Las Coloradas by road. On arrival, the lakes are only explorable on foot with a guide. Day trips depart regularly from Mérida, Cancun, and other resorts along the Quintana Roo coastline, including coach tours and private transfers.

When to Get There

The lakes are regularly flooded with sea water, which makes them lose their pink hue for a few days. Check with your tour provider when the salt harvest is taking place, aiming to arrive just before to see the lakes in all their rosy glory. Flamingos can be seen throughout the year, though they tend to take cover during the wet season.

Ría Lagartos Biosphere Reserve

This UNESCO-listed wetland is an emerging destination for ecotourism, offering boat trips, cenote tours, jungle excursions, and a glimpse of the region’s diverse wildlife and ancient Maya culture. There’s also plenty of accommodation dotted around the fishing villages, including eco-lodges and boutique hotels, making this a great spot to stop for a night or two.