Las Coloradas in the Rio Largardos
YUCATAN, MEXICO
While cruising the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico, you must visiting the Las Coloradas (Pink Lakes) when cruising to or from the the state of Yucatan, Mexico. Of all the amazing places in the world, Las Coloradas in the Rio Largardos, Yucatan area may just be one of the top choices. The pink lakes are one of only 3 places in the world that has pink lakes (Mexico, Africa, and Australia). Las Coloradas is a salt production area and fishing village. |
What causes this intriguing phenomena? This pink paradise happens when the salt concentration is 26% or greater. The high salt concentration along with the algae is the primary reason the water is pink. The lake is not a natural lake, but instead pipes are run to and from the lake to supply it.
A nearby salt mountain can be seen, as well as salt on the banks of the beach that looks like a white foamy gel substance. The chilly water is pink year round, with darker shades of pink when salt concentration is higher. The water will also look most pink during the sunnier part of the day, with mid day being the best time to see it. The mud on the beaches is full of minerals and has healing properties which are often used by the locals. There are three different brands of Mexican salt produced here, however it is all the same salt.
There are multiple pink lakes in this area with miles of beautiful white sandy beaches. The pink lakes are separated by sandy roads on one side, and turquoise waters on the other side. At times, the water in some of the lakes will even take on different hues, which have helped the area earn the nickname “Rainbow Salt Flats”.
The area is a nature preserve and has a lot of wildlife in the area. Pink flamingos frequent this area because of the high shrimp content which they feed on.
This pink paradise is a fishing village with an abundance of fishing boats, and the streets made of sand. The cost of living here is very cheap as well as the cost to just visit. Swimming is prohibited however, if you find an area to dip your toes in, the fish will nip on your toes giving you a tickle you won’t forget.
Travel to Las Coloradas takes about 3 hours from Cancun or Tulum. You must hire a local guide to take you to see the lakes because they are located on private property. No pets are allowed in the area as well. When you are looking for an unusual and cool place with that Mexican vibe, check out the pink lagoons of Las Coloradas. Learn more about Yucatan tours and attractions and cruising the state of Yucatan, Mexico with Yucatan Cruises.
A nearby salt mountain can be seen, as well as salt on the banks of the beach that looks like a white foamy gel substance. The chilly water is pink year round, with darker shades of pink when salt concentration is higher. The water will also look most pink during the sunnier part of the day, with mid day being the best time to see it. The mud on the beaches is full of minerals and has healing properties which are often used by the locals. There are three different brands of Mexican salt produced here, however it is all the same salt.
There are multiple pink lakes in this area with miles of beautiful white sandy beaches. The pink lakes are separated by sandy roads on one side, and turquoise waters on the other side. At times, the water in some of the lakes will even take on different hues, which have helped the area earn the nickname “Rainbow Salt Flats”.
The area is a nature preserve and has a lot of wildlife in the area. Pink flamingos frequent this area because of the high shrimp content which they feed on.
This pink paradise is a fishing village with an abundance of fishing boats, and the streets made of sand. The cost of living here is very cheap as well as the cost to just visit. Swimming is prohibited however, if you find an area to dip your toes in, the fish will nip on your toes giving you a tickle you won’t forget.
Travel to Las Coloradas takes about 3 hours from Cancun or Tulum. You must hire a local guide to take you to see the lakes because they are located on private property. No pets are allowed in the area as well. When you are looking for an unusual and cool place with that Mexican vibe, check out the pink lagoons of Las Coloradas. Learn more about Yucatan tours and attractions and cruising the state of Yucatan, Mexico with Yucatan Cruises.
Photo Credit: Anna Everywhere
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Updated 1/7/21- lls