These unusual and truly amazing lakes are located on the Mexican peninsula Yucatan. The pink color of the water is not an invention or legend of the local population. Thousands of tourists from all over the world come to this place to be convinced of the reality of such beauty.
Aerial photo of Las Coloradas Pink Lake 
Aerial photo of Las Coloradas Pink Lake 
Road from Rio Lagartos to Las Coloradas Pink Lake
Las Coloradas Pink Lake characteristics
- The coastline is 8. 35 miles
- Length is 3.6 miles
- Width is 1267 feet at the narrowest place and 3631 feet at the widest place
- Square is 1781
| What it is | Vivid pink salt-evaporation lagoons on the far north-east coast of the Yucatán, inside the Ría Lagartos Biosphere Reserve |
| Why it’s pink | Red micro-algae and brine shrimp that thrive in the super-salty water and release a rosy pigment |
| Can you swim? | It’s private salt-company land — you visit on a paid guided tour; free swimming is restricted (some operators allow a short supervised dip if booked ahead — confirm first) |
| Getting there | About 1.5 hrs from Valladolid, 3–3.5 hrs from Cancún or Mérida; 16 km east of Río Lagartos town |
| Best time | The pink is most intense in the hot, dry months; flamingos around Río Lagartos peak roughly March–June |
| Pairs with | A Río Lagartos mangrove boat safari (flamingos, crocodiles) and a Maya clay bath |
Why is Las Coloradas pink?
The colour is pure biology, not a filter. These are working salt pans, where seawater is left to evaporate until it is many times saltier than the open ocean. Almost nothing can survive that, but a few extreme-loving organisms positively thrive: the micro-alga Dunaliella salina, salt-tolerant halobacteria, and clouds of tiny Artemia brine shrimp that graze on them. To cope with the fierce sun and salinity they pump out reddish carotenoid pigments — the same family of compounds that turns flamingos pink — and the more the water evaporates, the deeper the rose and magenta become. That is why the lagoons glow brightest in the hottest, driest stretches of the year and look almost neon under a high midday sun.
Can you swim, and how do you visit?
The pink lagoons sit on the private property of the salt company, so you cannot simply wander in and dive: access is by guided visit only, with a small entry fee (a few US dollars), and a guide keeps everyone on the safe paths between the working ponds. For several years swimming was banned outright to protect the fragile, hyper-salty ecosystem after the spot went viral on Instagram. The rules have since softened in places — some operators now allow a brief, supervised float of around ten minutes if you book ahead — but it varies season to season, so always confirm with your tour before you count on getting in. Wherever you go, skip the sunscreen and bug spray near the water, don’t touch or break the salt crystals, and bring a hat, water and reef-safe protection.
Flamingos and the Río Lagartos boat tour
Most people pair the pink lakes with a boat safari out of the fishing village of Río Lagartos, 16 km to the west, and it is well worth it. A small launch winds through the mangrove channels of the biosphere reserve past dozing crocodiles, herons, pelicans and ospreys to the shallow flats where greater flamingos feed in their hundreds — a wall of pink that lifts into the sky when the boat drifts too close. Many tours finish with a stop at a natural Maya clay bath, where you slather on mineral-rich mud, let it bake in the sun and rinse off in the lagoon. If turquoise water is more your thing, the seven shades of Lake Bacalar are a few hours south.
Best time to visit Las Coloradas
For the most saturated pink, come in the dry, hot season — the colour deepens as the ponds concentrate, and it is at its showiest from around March and again in mid-summer. For the wildlife, flamingo numbers around Río Lagartos build through the spring breeding season, roughly March to June. Whatever the month, aim for late morning to early afternoon: the overhead sun makes the water blaze, and the same bright light gives you those impossibly pink photos. Mornings are calmer and cooler for the boat tour, so a popular plan is the flamingo safari first, then the lagoons at midday.
History of the lake
What is the history of Las Coloradas Pink Lake? In fact, the history of its occurrence does not differ by something unusual. The lakes were formed by nature even long before the appearance of the first settlements near its shores. Also the salt factory took part in the creation of lakes.
Now the lake is the private property of a large salt factory. Salt factory Las Colorados brings the largest share of income in the local budget. The equipment pumps seawater to the plain. Over time, water evaporates and salt forms. Salt production is more than 500,000 tons per year. On the private territory of the factory, it is not so easy to get to tourists. You will learn more about this in another part of the article.
Las Coloradas Salt Factory
The lake has a pink color due to salts and minerals contained in the earth’s rocks at the bottom. At high temperature and salinity of water, the algae in the lake begin to emit a bright pink pigment, give the corresponding shade to the water. The Spanish name of the lake “Las Coloradas” means red, symbolizing the delicate color of pink waters.
Wild animals and plants on Las Coloradas Pink Lake
The lake is a part of the Rio Lagartos biosphere reserve. This is a fairly large area, covering more than 15,000 acres of land. There are a careful observation and protection of the entire flora and fauna of the lakes. Surprisingly, many wild animals can be found here:
- Flamingo
- Crocodiles
- Sea turtles
- Jaguars
- Many species of seabirds
Just imagine the beauty that opens before the eyes of tourists!
Baby croco on hands in Rio Lagartos. Photo by @verochattenoire 
Flamingo love. Photo by @revista_yucatan 
Seabirds. Photo by @vanlifepablo
Parks near Las Coloradas Pink Lake
8 miles from the lakes is Malecon Rio Lagartos. This is a small reserve, which is open to the public 24 hours a day. All tourists mark this place truly magical. There is access to the coast of the bay. So you will see a view of pure and emerald water. In addition, the locals are happy to show visitors all the advantages of local nature and conduct exciting excursions.
Malecón de Río Lagartos . Photo by @xiovb04 
Excelent place to make a pic on Malecón de Río Lagartos! Photo by @ecarcanog
How to weekend on the lake
On the lake, they usually do not go fishing, because salt production is of great value for the locals. The local population is about 1,000 people. Therefore, tourists are always loved and waited here. However, the entrance to the lake is not so simple.
The factory fenced the territory from outsiders. Therefore, the entrance for tourists is possible only with a special guide. He will check that you do not go where it is not necessary, since it can be dangerous. Guide services cost around 50 pesos.
There are also boat tours and for 100 pesos per person, you can get close to the real pink flamingos.
Of course, it is worth visiting the reserve Rio Lagartos. From the village of Rio Lagartos, you can take a tour and take you by bus to Las Coloradas Pink Lake, take a boat ride and show all the most beautiful places. Be sure it is worth it.
Beautiful pink beach 
Entrance road. It fenced now and you can pass only with “guide” 
Las Coloradas pink lake salt factory
Beautiful cities around Las Coloradas Pink Lake
The village of Las Coloradas itself is a landmark. Only about 1000 people live here. Almost all of them are engaged in salt mining and work in a salt factory. Some residents are engaged in fishing and organize excursions for tourists.
Las Coloradas village
The village is located on the territory that separates the Gulf of Mexico and the lagoon. From the monuments of architecture, be sure to visit Iglesia Católica De Rio Lagartos. He will conquer you with his beauty.
In general, devote most of the time walking. Because everything around here is surrounded by untouched nature.
Welcome to Rio Lagartos. Photo by @trip_by_kasiusiunia 
Rio Lagartos photo-place. Photo by @pomy_x 
Beutiful views from the balcony. Photo by @villadepescadores 
Photo by @trip_by_kasiusiunia 
Photo by @trip_by_kasiusiunia 
Photo by @trip_by_kasiusiunia 
Photo by @trip_by_kasiusiunia 
Rio Lagartos street art. Photo by @spaceyvicky 
Rio Lagartos soul place to chill. Photo by @5tefanu
Comfortable life on Las Coloradas Pink Lake
When you plan to spend time on the lake, you have to think about where to stay. Prices in Las Coloradas hotels do not bite and are quite affordable. A night’s stay will cost you less than $ 30 per person, including a delicious breakfast.
You can also consider the option of accommodation in Rio Lagartos. This is a livelier city with a large number of restaurants, cafes and entertainment venues. Here, in a hotel you can stay for a day for $ 20 per person.
Las Coloradas does not have a well-developed infrastructure to which residents of large cities are so accustomed. But there is everything: restaurants, cafes, hotels, churches, schools and much more. So if you want to stay here forever, then try. Accommodation here is the modest and affordable price range. Here is a good housing will cost you $ 52000.
Las Coloradas budget house for only $52 000
In the crowded Rio Lagartos, there are also good housing options. Here you can buy a house right on the coast. For example, such a coastal estate, consisting of three separate buildings can be bought for 875,000 dollars. This is a chic option for lovers of space and beautiful views.
Luxury house near the coast in Rio Lagartos. Price is $875 000
The best way to get to Las Coloradas Pink Lake
For locals
In Las Coloradas Pink Lake from Cancun on a local bus. However, with all the stops and refueling your journey may take more than 7 hours. So try renting a car. Then you will spend on the road no more than 3 hours.
The second option is to take the Oriente or Mayab class bus to Valladolid and stay overnight. And from there already drive by car to the coast of the lake.
For foreigners
First, you should fly by plane and fly to Cancun International Airport. From the airport, there are buses to the city center. All information can be found at the information desk in the airport lounge. Then from the center of Cancun, you can also take the Oriente bus or the more expensive ADO bus and get to Valladolid and go by car or taxi the next day.
And if you want to get to Las Coloradas Pink Lake as quickly as possible, then rent a car immediately upon arrival in Cancun. Then in 2-3 hours, you will reach the lake. Rent a car in Cancun costs from $ 1 per day for two adults.
Helpful links for trip
- Cancun International Airport – https://cancun-mexico.ru/cancun-international-airport.html
- Cancun Car Rentals – https://www.kayak.com/Cheap-Cancun-Car-Rentals.34713.cars.ksp
- Tours to Las Coloradas Pink Lake – https://las-coloradas.com/
Frequently asked questions about Las Coloradas
Why is Las Coloradas pink?
Because of the life in its super-salty water: red micro-algae (Dunaliella salina), salt-loving bacteria and brine shrimp release rosy pigments that turn the evaporating salt ponds shades of pink and red.
Can you swim in Las Coloradas?
Not freely. The lagoons are private salt-company land and you visit with a guide; open swimming was banned to protect the ecosystem, though some operators now allow a brief supervised dip if pre-booked. Always confirm the current rules with your tour.
Is there an entry fee, and do I need a tour?
Yes — there is a small entry fee of a few US dollars, and because the site is private you must enter with a guide or organised tour rather than on your own.
How do you get to Las Coloradas?
It is about 1.5 hours from Valladolid, and roughly 3 to 3.5 hours from Cancún or Mérida, via Tizimín and Río Lagartos. Most visitors drive, join a day tour, or base themselves in Río Lagartos, 16 km away.
When is the best time to visit Las Coloradas?
The pink is strongest in the hot, dry months (it is especially vivid around March and mid-summer), and flamingos peak near Río Lagartos from about March to June. Go around midday for the brightest colour.
Are there flamingos at Las Coloradas?
Yes — the surrounding Ría Lagartos Biosphere Reserve is one of Mexico’s great flamingo habitats, and a mangrove boat tour from Río Lagartos is the best way to see them up close.
Can you visit Las Coloradas as a day trip from Cancún?
You can, but it is a long day — around 3 to 3.5 hours each way. Many travellers prefer to stay overnight in Río Lagartos or Valladolid, or to take an organised tour that handles the driving.
Is Las Coloradas worth visiting?
If you love surreal landscapes and wildlife, yes. There is nowhere else quite like the glowing pink salt lagoons, and pairing them with the flamingos and crocodiles of Río Lagartos makes for a memorable day in the Yucatán.
