Bacalar Lagoon 7 Colors Excursion from Costa Maya Cruise Port

Imagine stepping off your cruise ship in Costa Maya and finding yourself whisked away to one of Mexico’s most breathtaking spots: Bacalar Lagoon. For about $110.50 per person, this 5-hour adventure takes you on a scenic ride to the famous Seven Colors Lagoon, where turquoise waters shimmer in seven distinct shades. Alongside this, you’ll visit Fuerte San Felipe, sample fresh pineapple, and finish with a delicious Mexican lunch. The tour is designed to be worry-free, offering round-trip transportation, a bilingual guide, drinks, and guaranteed return to your ship—perfect for families, couples, or groups looking for a hassle-free taste of local beauty.

Two things we really appreciate about this experience: First, the authentic local vibe, with stops at a pineapple village and authentic tacos served by the lagoon. Second, the knowledgeable guides who bring history and culture alive, making the trip not just scenic but also meaningful. A possible consideration is the limited time at each stop—this is a quick, well-structured tour, but if you’re craving a more in-depth exploration, you might want to plan a longer stay in Bacalar itself.

This tour suits travelers who want a balanced mix of nature, history, and local cuisine without the stress of planning every detail. It’s especially great if you value authentic experiences and reliable logistics—as reviews highlight, smooth transportation and knowledgeable guides make all the difference. If you have limited time during a cruise and want a snapshot of real Mexico’s natural beauty, this could be your ideal outing.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Combines scenic boat rides, cultural stops, and local cuisine.
• All-Inclusive: Transportation, guides, drinks, and Mexican lunch included.
• Well-Organized: Guaranteed return to your ship with flexible scheduling.
• Authentic Guides: Bilingual, friendly, and informed guides enhance the experience.
• Beautiful Scenery: The Seven Colors Lagoon delivers stunning, photo-worthy views.
• Limited Time: The tour is quick, so it’s best for a snapshot rather than a deep dive.

Exploring the Bacalar Lagoon 7 Colors Excursion from Costa Maya

When considering a shore excursion from Costa Maya, the Bacalar Lagoon 7 Colors tour offers a compelling mix of natural beauty, history, and local flavor. It’s crafted with cruise travelers in mind—meaning you’ll experience the highlights without the hassles. Starting from Nuevo Mahahual, the journey takes roughly 45 minutes each way, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the lagoon, and a few other stops along the way.

The Scenic Drive and Arrival in Bacalar

We loved the way the bus ride sets the tone for the day—relaxing and picturesque, with glimpses of the coastal landscape and small villages. Once in Bacalar, the highlight is the boat ride on the Seven Colors Lagoon. The boat, a sturdy pontoon, glides smoothly over the water, giving you an unobstructed view of the shifting shades of blue and green.

This part of the tour is a real standout. As one reviewer mentioned, “The lagoon was beautiful,” and you’ll quickly see why. The crystal-clear waters invite you to swim, take photos, or just relax on the boat. Depending on the weather, the guide may also take you to visit Pirates Channel, adding a touch of local legend and exploration.

Visiting Fuerte San Felipe

Next, a quick stop at Fuerte San Felipe adds a sprinkle of history. Built in the 18th century to guard the lagoon, this fort offers a glimpse into the area’s past, with views that overlook the water and surrounding landscape. The visit is brief—about 10 minutes—but informative enough to spark curiosity about the pirate tales and colonial defenses.

Taste of Local Culture at Pedro Santos Pineapple Village

The tour then makes a delightful detour to Pedro Santos Pineapple Village. Here, you can sample the freshest, sweetest pineapples—a simple but memorable taste of regional agriculture. Several reviews mention how tasty and juicy the fruit is, making it a perfect refreshment during the trip.

Optional Stop at Mahahual and Return

While optional, many travelers take the opportunity to visit the iconic Mahahual Lighthouse, a symbol of the coastal town. Afterward, the journey heads back to the cruise port, with a guaranteed timely return, avoiding the stress of missing your ship.

What’s Included and What to Expect

This tour offers great value by bundling transportation, a bilingual guide, drinks, a traditional lunch, and activities, all in one package. Expect air-conditioned transport, making the long drive comfortable, and friendly guides who are both knowledgeable and personable.

The lunch is a highlight—authentic Mexican tacos with vegan options, served lakeside, adding to the genuine feel of the experience. Drinks—alcoholic and non-alcoholic—are available throughout, keeping everyone refreshed.

Authenticity and Local Flavor

What truly sets this tour apart is the authenticity. From tasting fresh pineapple in a colorful village to enjoying local Mexican tacos, you get a genuine taste of the region. Several reviewers raved about the delicious food and friendly staff, emphasizing how these simple touches make the trip memorable.

Guides and Group Size

With a maximum of 14 travelers, the tour maintains an intimate atmosphere. Guides like Selina and Iris get special mentions for their enthusiasm, knowledge, and friendliness. Their ability to engage and inform elevates the experience beyond just sightseeing.

Transportation and Punctuality

While most reviews praise the smooth transportation and timely returns, a few mentions of canceled boat trips due to weather remind us that outdoor activities depend on good weather, and schedules may shift accordingly. The company’s flexibility to offer alternatives or full refunds when necessary is a reassuring aspect.

The Authentic Experience: What Travelers Really Think

Reviewers repeatedly mention the stunning scenery of Bacalar, with one describing it as “beautiful” and “spectacular.” The guides, especially Selina and Iris, receive high praise for their informative, friendly, and respectful demeanor. Their knowledge turns a simple boat ride into a memorable learning experience.

Food is another highlight. Multiple reviews describe the tacos as “delicious,” with vegan options available, adding inclusivity to the meal. One traveler remarked, “The food was very good, and the staff very friendly,” reinforcing how important good local food is to the overall experience.

Customer service seems to be a priority for the tour operator, with many reviews praising timely returns and clear communication. However, some reviews note past issues with schedule adjustments or weather cancellations, which underscores the importance of flexible expectations.

Authentic Interactions and Photo Opportunities

Guests appreciate the friendly guides who often take extra time to capture photos or make personalized stops. One reviewer even described leaving the tour feeling “like family,” highlighting the personable nature of the guides.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour

This Bacalar Lagoon tour is a fantastic choice for cruise passengers wanting a balanced, authentic taste of Mexico. If you value stunning scenery, knowledgeable guides, good food, and a well-organized schedule, this experience hits the mark. It’s ideal for those who want a relaxing day with cultural and natural highlights without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

However, if you’re seeking deep dives into history or extended stays in Bacalar, this tour might feel a bit rushed. The limited time at each stop means you’ll get a snapshot rather than a comprehensive exploration. Also, be aware that outdoor activities like boat rides depend on weather conditions, so flexibility is key.

In short, for first-time visitors or those who want to see the iconic lagoon with ease and comfort, this trip delivers a beautiful, authentic, and hassle-free experience.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 5 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and lunch.

What’s included in the price?
Round-trip transportation, bilingual guide, drinks, tequila tasting, Mexican lunch (including vegan options), and a boat ride on Bacalar Lagoon.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and it’s family-friendly, especially with the relaxed pace and engaging guides.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothes, swimwear if you want to swim, sunscreen, a hat, and a camera for photos.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Activities like the boat ride may be canceled, but the tour operator offers alternative options or full refunds if necessary.

Are tips expected?
Tips are not included but appreciated for excellent service.

Where do we meet?
At Av. P.º del Puerto 1300, Nuevo Mahahual, near the cruise port.

Is the tour bilingual?
Yes, guides speak both Spanish and English.

How many people are on each tour?
Maximum group size is 14 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

Can I customize the tour?
The itinerary is fixed, but guides often accommodate special requests if possible.

By choosing this Bacalar Lagoon 7 Colors excursion, you’re signing up for a memorable, rich experience that captures the essence of this beautiful Mexican destination while providing comfort and convenience. It’s a trip that combines stunning scenery, engaging stories, and authentic flavors—a perfect way to make the most of your cruise stop.