A lively dance in Bacalar: Salsa, guacamole, and margaritas
If you’re heading to Bacalar and looking to add a splash of rhythm and flavor to your trip, the Salsa dancing, Guacamole & Margarita experience is a must. For just around $28 per person, you get about an hour of dance lessons led by Jessica Yanis, right beside the stunning lagoon, with a sweet touch of local culinary delights and festive drinks. It’s a blend of activity, culture, and social fun, designed to make you smile, sweat, and maybe even dance a little more confidently.
Two things we really loved about this experience: first, the way Jessica makes salsa accessible for everyone, regardless of your dance background—her enthusiasm is contagious. Second, the location itself—dancing with a view of Bacalar’s iconic lagoon and then sharing homemade guacamole in a friendly, tropical environment makes the whole session special.
A possible consideration? If you’re shy about dancing or traveling solo, this lively group activity might feel a bit intimidating at first. Also, since it’s only about an hour long, it’s a quick hit of fun rather than an in-depth dance lesson or culinary tour.
This tour is best for social travelers, couples, or groups of friends who want to experience local music, dance, and food in a relaxed setting. It’s also perfect if you enjoy engaging activities that create memorable stories—like swapping partners and capturing moments on camera.
Key Points

- Authentic Experience: Learn salsa from a friendly local instructor in a relaxed tropical setting.
 - Cultural Flavor: Enjoy homemade guacamole, margaritas, and tips on Bacalar’s best bars for practicing salsa.
 - Scenic Setting: Dance right by Bacalar’s famous lagoon, adding visual beauty to your experience.
 - Social Atmosphere: Changing partners keeps the energy high and encourages mingling.
 - Value for Money: At $27.86, it’s a fun, affordable activity that combines learning, food, and drinks.
 - Family-Friendly: Suitable for most travelers, including younger adults and families with kids over 20.
 
A Practical, Honest Review of the Bacalar Salsa Tour

When we think about traveling to Mexico, especially to somewhere as stunning as Bacalar, we often focus on natural beauty—think clear lakes, cenotes, and lush scenery. Yet, there’s something uniquely engaging about blending local cuisine, music, and dance into your trip. This Salsa, Guacamole & Margarita experience offers just that—a lively, genuine taste of Bacalar’s warm, welcoming culture.
Planning more time in Bacalar? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
What You’ll Do and Why It Matters
The experience begins at a cozy house located at Av 5 1251, just a short walk from Bacalar’s main spots. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted with a welcome cocktail, which sets the friendly tone for the session. Jessica Yanis, the guide and instructor, is described by participants as super friendly, enthusiastic, and attentive. Her approach makes salsa accessible, even for absolute beginners.
The lesson starts with a warm-up—nothing fancy, just some simple exercises to get your body moving in rhythm. This helps break the ice, especially if you’re nervous about dancing in front of others. The instructor then teaches basic salsa steps, emphasizing how to move to Latin beats. From what reviewers say, Jessica makes it easy to pick up the steps, and she encourages everyone to have fun, regardless of skill level.
What really stands out is the partner work, where you switch partners multiple times. This isn’t a stiff classroom; it’s a social dance party where everyone gets to connect, try new moves, and share laughs. For many, this aspect elevates the experience from a mere lesson to a memorable social event. As one reviewer put it, “We shared a lot of joy and photos, and everyone left with a smile.”
The Food and Drinks
After the dance session, you’ll indulge in homemade guacamole—described as made with love—and enjoy margaritas or other drinks. The reviews frequently mention how delicious the guacamole is, with one traveler claiming it’s the best they’ve tasted. Jessica also provides tips on where to go afterward in Bacalar to practice your new salsa moves, often in lively bars with live music. This encourages you to extend the fun into your evening, soaking up the local festive atmosphere.
The Location and Views
The dance takes place right by the lagoon, giving you a real sense of place—dancing with Bacalar’s stunning waters as your backdrop adds a layer of magic. Participants rave about the beautiful location, highlighting how the view makes the experience more immersive and memorable. Photos taken during the session capture the joyful moments against the lush scenery—perfect souvenirs.
Practical Considerations
This activity is small—max 10 travelers—ensuring personalized attention. It runs about an hour, which makes it a flexible addition to your day. The price, at around $28, offers great value, considering the included drinks, food, and the chance to learn a new skill or just have fun.
Since the tour is near public transportation and is suitable for most travelers, it’s accessible for many. Jessica’s contact details, including phone and email, make it easy to organize or ask questions beforehand. Plus, free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance gives you peace of mind.
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Authenticity and Reviews
Reviewers consistently describe this as a warm, friendly, and fun experience. Dana mentions Jessica’s enthusiasm and the beautiful lagoon setting, while others highlight how the activity became a highlight of their Bacalar trip, even for kids in their 20s and 30s. The shared joy, photos, and tips for local bars show how this activity fosters genuine connections and a deeper appreciation for Bacalar’s lively culture.
Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re a traveler who loves a good laugh, enjoys trying local music and food, or simply wants a memorable activity that’s more than just sightseeing, this salsa session is perfect. It’s especially suited for those open to social interaction, and who don’t mind getting a little messy with dance moves. Families with older kids or couples looking for a fun, relaxed evening will find it appealing. It’s also a great way to meet fellow travelers and create stories to tell back home.
Final Thoughts
This salsa dance, guacamole, and margarita experience combines the best of Bacalar’s friendly spirit, lively culture, and stunning natural scenery. It’s a simple, affordable way to get out of the typical tourist routine and connect with locals and fellow travelers. Jessica’s warm attitude makes it feel more like a gathering of friends than a tour, which is exactly what makes it special.
The activity is designed to be accessible—no previous dance experience needed—and the location’s beauty enhances every moment. The inclusion of delicious homemade guacamole and refreshing drinks makes it a well-rounded, delightful experience. If you’re looking to add a fun, authentic, and social touch to your Bacalar trip, this is an activity we’d recommend wholeheartedly.
FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the instructor makes salsa easy to learn, and the warm-up exercises help everyone get comfortable regardless of skill level.
How long does the activity last?
It takes approximately one hour from start to finish, including the dance lesson, photos, and sharing guacamole and drinks.
What’s included in the price?
You get a salsa lesson, homemade guacamole, drinks (such as margaritas), and the chance to take photos and videos of your fun moments.
Can I participate if I don’t dance often?
Absolutely. The instructor focuses on making everyone feel relaxed and confident, and changing partners helps keep the atmosphere friendly and lively.
Where does the activity take place?
The session is held at a house near Bacalar’s lagoon, providing scenic views and a tropical ambiance.
Is the activity family-friendly?
Most travelers find it suitable for older teens and adults. The reviews mention it as a fun group experience, perfect for couples or friends.
How do I book or cancel?
You can book through the provided link, and cancellations are free if made 24 hours in advance, giving you flexibility if your plans change.
If you’re seeking an authentic, joyful way to experience Bacalar’s culture, this salsa, guacamole, and margaritas activity offers a lively, memorable addition to your trip. It’s about more than just dance; it’s about making genuine connections and sharing in the local spirit.
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More Bacalar experiences we've covered
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 - Catamaran Adventure: Sailing and Swimming in the Bacalar Lagoon
 - Guided historical tours at the Mayan cities!
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