Las Coloradas: Explore Mexico’s Dazzling Pink Lakes

Las Coloradas — which is a collection of cotton candy pink lakes located in Mexico‘s Yucatan Peninsula — became Instagram famous once viewers realized that the vibrant pink hues that they were seeing were not created by a filter. Ancient Mayans knew that the salt which is naturally present in the Yucatan was worth its weight in gold. Modern salt miners have carried on the work started by the Mayans by creating man-made salt pools that appear pink due to an abundance of algae, brine shrimp, and bacteria.

Las Coloradas have become so popular in recent years that access to the vibrant pools is currently restricted. Visitors can view the pink pools via a lookout point. There are several tour companies which allow visitors to explore the perimeter of the pools and learn about the history and unique ecosystem of the Barbie pink waters.

Swimming in the Las Coloradas pools is not allowed, but making the trek to see the pools is still very much worthwhile. Seeing robust clouds reflected in a swallow pink lake is a surreal experience that will leave a lasting impression. Las Coloradas is also a photography hotspot for those searching for a unique photo that is a conversation starter.

Located a short distance form Las Coloradas, the Rio Lagartos Biosphere is home to pink flamingos who get their distinctive coloring from snacking on brine shrimp in Las Coloradas. For a moderate fee, visitors can explore the Rio Lagartos Biosphere by boat. Expect to see an abundance of seabirds and a sly crocodile or two slowly floating by.

If you’re searching for accommodations in Yucatan, The Pina Coloradas Ecolodge offers comfortable, affordable rooms infused with the charm of an establishment owned by a family with a special love for Las Coloradas. The grandfather of the owners of Pina Coloradas worked as a salt miner in Las Coloradas and always invited his grandchildren to visit in the summer. The pink pools of Las Coloradas seemed magical to the owners of Pina Coloradas. The Ecolodge was founded so that visitors from around the world could enjoy the enchanting pink pools.

Tulum, Cancun, and other glitzy beach towns certainly come to mind when booking a trip to the Yucatan Peninsula. Las Coloradas may not be as glamorous as other parts of Yucatan, but the magic and mystery of colorful salt pools that have been a hot commodity since the time of the Mayans is well worth exploring.