Mahahual: Chacchoben Mayan Ruins and Seven Color Lagoon Trip

If you’re looking for a balanced mix of history, nature, and relaxation during your cruise stop in Quintana Roo, this Mahahual tour offers a compelling package. For around $93 per person, you’ll spend about six hours exploring the ancient Chacchoben Mayan ruins and cooling off in the Seven Color Lagoon of Bacalar. With guided tours in both English and Spanish, comfortable transportation, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy local scenery, this trip is designed for travelers wanting an authentic taste of the region’s archaeological and natural wonders.

Two things we particularly love are the chance to stand among large Mayan structures with informative guides who bring history alive, and the simply breathtaking views of Bacalar Lagoon’s vivid waters. The tour’s emphasis on authentic experiences—like learning about Mayan culture while wandering the impressive ruins and relaxing in a stunning, less crowded lagoon—is a real highlight.

That said, it’s worth noting that the trip involves a fair amount of driving (about 2.5 hours total), which might feel a bit long if your main goal is just relaxing by the water. Also, the time at Bacalar can be limited (around two hours), so if your priority is leisurely lounging, you might find it a tad rushed. This experience suits those who enjoy a bit of history and nature combined with active exploration, rather than just lounging on the beach.

Key Points

• Authentic Mayan Experience: Visit the Chacchoben archaeological site with knowledgeable guides, learning about one of the most visited Mayan cities.
• Stunning Lagoon Views: Swim and relax in the Seven Color Lagoon of Bacalar, renowned for its vibrant, multi-hued waters.
• Comfortable Transportation: Enjoy round-trip transfer in a well-maintained van, making the journey between sites straightforward.
• Informative Guides: Bilingual guides ensure you understand the significance of the ruins and the lagoon, enriching your visit.
• Balanced Itinerary: The tour combines history, nature, and local culture in a well-organized 6-hour experience.
• Value for Price: For $93, you get a comprehensive trip with entrance fees, drinks, and a meal, making it good value for those eager to explore beyond the usual.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point: The Mahahual Port

Your adventure begins right outside the cruise port, where Toucan Tours staff will greet you near the yellow taxis and golf carts. From there, a short walk to their office—located just a block ahead of the main exit—sets the tone for a well-organized trip. We appreciate that the check-in process is straightforward, and the tour includes round transportation—a comfortable, air-conditioned van—that makes the long drive more pleasant.

The Journey to Chacchoben

The drive to the Chacchoben archaeological site takes about 55 minutes. During this time, guides often offer insight into the Mayan civilization’s legacy, helping you appreciate what you’re about to see. The ruins themselves are among the most visited in the region, and for good reason. They’re large, impressive, and less crowded compared to other sites like Tikal or Chichen Itza, offering a more intimate experience.

Exploring the Mayan Ruins

Once at Chacchoben, your guide will lead you through the largest structures—pyramids, plazas, and temples. Expect about 70 minutes of walking, where you’ll hear stories about the site’s history, purpose, and architecture. Reviewers note that the site is full of history and tradition, making it a worthwhile stop for those interested in ancient cultures. One visitor shared, “The experience was more than unique, the ruins, the local fruit, and the drinks made it unforgettable, thanks to our guide Hwitzi.”

While the tour is generally well-paced, some mention that the ruins can feel rushed, especially if you’re eager to explore every corner. Still, guides do their best to balance storytelling with allowing some free time for photos and soaking in the atmosphere.

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The Highlight: Bacalar’s Seven Color Lagoon

After the ruins, you’ll head approximately 1.5 hours to the Lagoon of Bacalar, famed for its different shades of blue and green. Here, you’ll have up to two hours to swim, kayak, or just relax by the water. The lagoon’s vivid colors are especially striking—one reviewer described it as “stunning,” and many find it a peaceful contrast to the archaeological site.

You’ll also enjoy one meal and two drinks (alcoholic or non-alcoholic), which adds to the relaxed, vacation vibe. Tasting local dishes and sipping a cold drink while gazing at the lagoon is a simple pleasure that many travelers appreciate. However, some mention that the time at Bacalar can feel a bit tight, especially if the weather turns stormy or if you want to stay longer.

Return Journey and Overall Value

The journey back to Mahahual takes about 1.5 hours, giving you a chance to unwind and reflect on the day’s sights. The total duration of roughly six hours makes this a full but manageable trip, especially for cruise passengers looking to maximize their time ashore.

What’s Included and What You Should Consider

The tour includes round transportation, entrance fees, bilingual guides, unlimited water, soda, beer, or tequila shots, a meal, and two drinks at Bacalar. This makes it excellent value, especially when you consider that entrance fees and meals are often additional on similar tours.

However, additional costs outside what’s listed—like souvenirs, extra drinks, or optional activities—are not included. The tour is designed to be straightforward, but travelers should bring comfortable shoes, biodegradable sunscreen, and a change of clothes. Be aware that high-heeled shoes, weapons, and non-folding wheelchairs are not permitted.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This trip is ideal for those interested in Mayans and history, as guides work hard to share their knowledge. It’s also perfect for nature lovers eager to see a spectacular lagoon. If you enjoy a balanced mix of cultural sightseeing and outdoor relaxation, this will suit your style.

However, those with mobility issues or who want a slower, more leisure-focused day might find the shorter lagoon stay somewhat limiting. The drive times are significant, so travelers who dislike long bus rides might want to consider alternatives.

Final Thoughts

This tour from Mahahual offers a thoughtful combination of history and natural beauty, making the most of a single day ashore. It’s especially suited for travelers who value guided insights, want to learn about the Mayan civilization, and enjoy swimming in colorful waters. The inclusion of meals, drinks, and entrance fees makes it straightforward and good value, especially for those eager to explore beyond the ship.

While the timing can be tight at Bacalar, the overall experience balances historical discovery and scenic relaxation with a professional, friendly guide leading the way. For anyone wanting a well-rounded, authentic taste of Quintana Roo, this tour will likely check most boxes.

FAQ

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 6 hours, including transfers, sightseeing, and free time at Bacalar.

Are guides available in both English and Spanish?
Yes. The tour offers bilingual guides, ensuring you get detailed explanations regardless of your language preference.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers round-trip transportation, entrance fees to Chacchoben, a guide, unlimited water, soda, beer or tequila shots, one meal, and two drinks at Bacalar.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
It is generally suitable for most able-bodied travelers. However, it’s not recommended for those with mobility impairments, heart problems, or low fitness levels due to walking and bus travel.

How long do we spend at each site?
Expect about 70 minutes at the Mayan ruins and up to two hours at Bacalar Lagoon.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, biodegradable sunscreen, a change of clothes, beachwear, biodegradable insect repellent, and a sense of adventure.

Are drinks included?
Yes, you can choose from water, soda, beer, or tequila shots. Two drinks are included at the lagoon.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you peace of mind in planning your day.

In the end, this tour offers a meaningful glimpse into Mayan history paired with a relaxing swim in Bacalar’s striking waters. It’s a hands-on, well-organized trip that balances cultural discovery with leisure—perfect if you’re after a fulfilling day beyond the cruise ship.

You can check availability for your dates here: