In short
- Pay a about 100–200 MXN Ría Lagartos Biosphere Reserve tax.
- Book a mandatory guided tour (starting at 300 MXN).
- Choose between walking, biking, or a safari truck.
In this article
The salt flats are privately owned by Industria Salinera de Yucatan and sit inside a federal nature reserve. Because of this, independent entry is not allowed. You will pay for reserve access and an official guide to see the pink lakes up close.
How much is the Las Coloradas entrance fee?
The total cost starts at roughly 425 MXN per person.
Access to the lakes is completely fenced off. You cannot just walk up to the water. At the visitor center, staff will collect the Ría Lagartos Biosphere Reserve tax. After paying this government fee of approximately 100–200 MXN, you must select one of the mandatory guided tours.
Why is there a two-part ticket price?
The pink lagoons are a working salt factory located inside a protected national wetland.
The Ría Lagartos reserve surrounding the lakes is home to tens of thousands of flamingos. The government tax helps fund the protection of this wetland. The private tour fee goes to Parque Turístico Las Coloradas. Guides ensure visitors stay on designated sandy pathways and do not touch the water.
What happens if I book a day trip from Cancun?
Most full-day bus tours do not include the local reserve tax or specific entrance fees.
If you book a guided excursion, read the exclusions carefully. Day trips generally cost between $100 and $150 USD for transport and lunch. However, many require you to pay the reserve tax and salt park fees in cash upon arrival. Bring plenty of Mexican Pesos to cover these extras.
Can you visit Las Coloradas without a tour?
No, you cannot visit the pink lakes without a guide.
The facility strictly enforces this rule to protect the purity of the salt and the delicate ecosystem. You must remain with your official tour guide at all times. Wandering away from the group or skipping the tour is entirely prohibited.
Are card payments accepted at the visitor center?
Card machines frequently lose signal in this remote area.
Always bring enough cash in Mexican Pesos (MXN) to pay for your tickets and the reserve tax. You will also need cash if you plan to tip your guide or buy snacks. Food options directly at the lakes are very limited.
Which tour option offers the best value?
The 45-minute walking tour is the cheapest option at 300 MXN.
If you want to see more of the facility, the Safari truck tour costs 890 MXN. It takes 90 minutes and drives into active harvesting zones that walkers cannot reach. The bicycle tours cost between 320 and 390 MXN and offer a middle-ground option.
Questions travellers ask
Do I need to book Las Coloradas tickets in advance?
You do not need to book the basic walking tours in advance. You can purchase these directly at the Parque Turístico Las Coloradas visitor center. It is officially open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
How much does it cost to get to Las Coloradas?
If you rent a car, expect to pay $30 to $50 USD per day. Taking local buses from Valladolid or Mérida to Tizimín and then to the lakes costs 150 to 370 MXN each way.
Can I fly a drone to avoid paying the entrance fee?
No. Drones, tripods, and professional camera equipment are strictly prohibited around the lakes without prior commercial authorization.
