Las Coloradas: Why the Water Is Pink and How to Visit | GVC
Discover why Las Coloradas' waters turn pink, how to visit from Cancun, and where to see flamingos in Río Lagartos in one day.
Have you ever imagined finding vivid pink lagoons on the Yucatán Peninsula? Las Coloradas is a destination in northern Yucatán known for its pink waters, located within an active salt production facility in the Ría Lagartos Biosphere Reserve region.
If you're traveling from Cancun, this guide will explain why the water turns pink, how to visit the area, and why it's worth combining your trip with a boat tour to see flamingos and mangroves. And if you're planning your itinerary, discover other natural wonders near Cancun worth visiting during your stay.
What Is Las Coloradas and Where Is It Located?
Las Coloradas is a coastal community in northern Yucatán, within the municipality of Río Lagartos. It is known for its pink lagoons and salt production. Although the landscape may look otherworldly, the colors are the result of a natural process: the lagoons are evaporation ponds used to produce salt.
The pink color, which can vary in intensity depending on environmental conditions and salt concentration, makes this one of the most striking landscapes on the Yucatán Peninsula. Las Coloradas is located in an area rich in natural beauty, near the Río Lagartos Biosphere Reserve, which is known for its mangroves, wetlands, and diverse birdlife, including flamingos.
If you're planning a visit during your vacation, keep in mind that Las Coloradas is not right next to Cancun. The drive typically takes 3.5 to 4 hours, depending on the route and traffic conditions. You can also plan a visit from Valladolid or Mérida, although travel times will vary.
Thanks to its location, Las Coloradas can be combined with an excursion to Río Lagartos, where you can explore the mangroves by boat and observe local wildlife, depending on the conditions that day.
Why Is the Water at Las Coloradas Pink?
The pink color of Las Coloradas is caused by a combination of high salinity, microorganisms, and sunlight. In these waters, certain microorganisms, including microalgae and halophilic archaea, produce reddish or orange pigments. Salt concentration, evaporation, and the intensity of sunlight all influence the color you see, which can range from pale pink to orange and deep pink.
The Color Connection: Microorganisms, Brine Shrimp, and Flamingos
These microorganisms are also part of the region's food chain. Small crustaceans, such as brine shrimp, feed on microorganisms and can accumulate pigments from their diet. Flamingos, in turn, get some of their pink color from the pigments in the organisms they eat.
Although the color of the lagoons and that of flamingos are both related to natural pigments, this does not mean flamingos live exclusively in the salt production ponds. To see them in their natural habitat, it's best to visit the Ría Lagartos Biosphere Reserve with an authorized guide.
Is the Water Pink All Year Round?
Yes, the lagoons can have pink hues throughout the year, but the intensity changes with sunlight, salt concentration, and water conditions. Sunny days tend to bring out more vivid colors, so it's worth visiting when the lighting is good.
How to Visit Las Coloradas Today
Las Coloradas is not a traditional beach destination. It is an active salt production facility with a tourist park and guided tours. Visitors can admire the pink landscapes and learn about the salt production process while following the site's designated routes and rules.
Can You Swim at Las Coloradas?
You should not assume that swimming is allowed in the ponds. Access to the water is restricted in designated areas to protect salt production and the surrounding environment. Always follow the instructions provided by staff and your guide. If you want to swim, you can look into other water activities included in a tour of the region. For your visit, bring lightweight clothing, comfortable closed-toe shoes, a hat or cap, sunglasses, water, and biodegradable sunscreen. It's also helpful to carry cash for additional expenses and make sure your phone or camera is fully charged.
How to Get to Las Coloradas from Cancun
The best transportation option depends on how much driving you want to do and whether you'd like to visit other attractions along the way.
| Transportation | What to Consider |
|---|---|
| Rental Car | Lets you plan stops at your own pace, but involves several hours of driving each way. |
| Public transportation | May require connections and careful scheduling from towns such as Tizimín. |
| Tour with transportation | Makes logistics easier and may combine Las Coloradas with Río Lagartos and other stops, depending on the itinerary. |
| Private tour | Offers exclusive transportation for your group and greater flexibility when planning the day. |
If you want to visit both destinations on one trip, check out our Río Lagartos and Las Coloradas tour. Explore the natural beauty of the Yucatán coast and discover everything this experience has to offe
How to Make the Most of Your Day: What Else Can You Visit?
Visiting Las Coloradas and Río Lagartos can take up most of the day, especially if you're traveling from Cancun. If you have more time to explore the Yucatán Peninsula, you can use your trip as an opportunity to discover other places that combine nature, history, and culture.
One option is to visit Ek Balam, an ancient Maya city surrounded by vegetation, and then stroll through Valladolid, a colonial city known for its colorful streets and Yucatecan cuisine. If you're interested in this combination, take a look at the private Ek Balam and Valladolid tour.
You can also spend some time discovering Valladolid Magic Town. Since each excursion requires travel time, it's best to plan your visits according to the number of days you have and avoid squeezing too many stops into a single day. That way, you can enjoy each destination without rushing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Is the Water at Las Coloradas Pink?
The color comes from a combination of high salt concentration, intense sunlight, and microorganisms that produce reddish pigments. Brine shrimp feed on these organisms, and flamingos get their pink color by eating the shrimp.
Can You Swim at Las Coloradas?
Swimming is not allowed in the salt production ponds. The water is extremely salty, and sunscreens and other creams can interfere with salt production. Always follow the instructions provided by your guide at the Tourist Park.
How Long Does It Take to Get from Cancun to Las Coloradas?
The drive takes approximately 3.5 to 4 hours each way. It's best to leave early and consider a tour with transportation, or combine the trip with a visit to Ek Balam or Valladolid.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Las Coloradas and Río Lagartos?
The water at Las Coloradas can appear pink throughout the year, although the color often becomes more intense during the hotter months. Spring and summer are good times to look for flamingos in Río Lagartos, but sightings are not guaranteed. Ideally, explore the mangroves in the morning and visit Las Coloradas when the sunlight is good.
