Full Day Tour to 7 Colors Bacalar Lagoon with Lunch

A Complete Look at the Full Day Tour to 7 Colors Bacalar Lagoon with Lunch

If you’re traveling in the Riviera Maya and crave a day away from the busy beaches of Playa del Carmen, this full-day tour to Bacalar offers a fascinating mix of natural beauty, history, and local culture. For around 12 hours, you’ll visit the town known for its mesmerizing Laguna de los Siete Colores — which translates to the Lagoon of Seven Colors — along with several other sites that bring the area’s past and present into focus. The tour costs about $150.49 per person and includes transportation, lunch, and entry to several attractions.

What really sets this experience apart are two things: first, the chance to cruise along the Pirate Channel and hear stories of pirates, Mayans, and conquistadors — adding a dash of adventure and history. Second, the opportunity to relax by cenotes and the bird sanctuary at Isla de los Pajaros, making it a well-rounded outing that combines nature, culture, and history.

A potential drawback? The eco tax of MXN 500.00 per person isn’t included in the initial price, so you’ll need to budget for that extra. Also, the full day pack means a long travel day, which might be challenging if you prefer a more relaxed pace. But if you enjoy a bit of everything and are ready for a full immersion in local sights, this tour will suit you well.

Ultimately, this tour is best suited for adventurous travelers and those interested in Mexican history and culture who don’t mind a full schedule. It’s a great pick if you want to see a different side of the Yucatán Peninsula — the quiet beauty of Bacalar, away from the hustle of Cancun or Playa del Carmen.

Key Points

• Natural beauty: The Lagoon of Seven Colors is a sight you won’t forget, with its vivid hues.
• Historical stops: Includes visits to San Felipe Fort and the Pirate Canal, offering insights into Bacalar’s past.
• Cultural and wildlife experiences: Bird sanctuary at Isla de los Pajaros and swimming in cenotes.
• All-inclusive convenience: Transportation, lunch, snacks, and bottled water are provided.
• Additional costs: Eco tax of MXN 500 per person payable on the day.
• Group size: Limited to 25 travelers, ensuring more personal attention.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins at Plaza Las Perlas in Playa del Carmen, a central and easy-to-find meeting spot. From there, you’ll hop into an air-conditioned vehicle, a comfort that’s appreciated after hours in the sun. The ride to Bacalar takes roughly 3 hours, so be prepared for a bit of a journey. The good news? The long drive is broken up with scenic views, and the vehicle is spacious enough for a group of up to 25 people, balancing socializing with comfort.

Bacalar Town: The Gateway to Colorful Waters

The first stop is the charming town of Bacalar, a place that still feels authentic despite its popularity. Known as a “Magic Town,” it’s famous for its lakeside setting and laid-back vibe. We loved the way our guide pointed out local landmarks and explained the town’s significance — from its Mayan roots to Spanish influence. Visitors can expect to walk around the quaint streets, soak in the local atmosphere, and get a sense of how Bacalar functions as both a peaceful retreat and a hub of history.

Canal de los Piratas: Tales of Pirates and Treasure

Next, the tour takes us to the Pirate Canal, where stories of buccaneers and buried treasure come alive. Our guide shared spirited tales of pirates who roamed these waters, fighting and hiding their loot, which added a sense of adventure to the day. It’s a fun, engaging stop that reveals a different layer of Bacalar’s past — one of danger and allure. The included one-hour visit allows plenty of time to hear stories, snap photos, and imagine what life was like for pirates centuries ago.

Isla de los Pájaros: Rest and Reflection

By midday, we headed to Isla de los Pajaros — an island sanctuary that provides a peaceful break from the busier sights. As you sit by the water, you’ll be treated to the sights of local birdlife and a quiet setting perfect for relaxing or taking a swim. This stop highlights Bacalar’s natural environment and offers opportunities for wildlife sightings, which many travelers appreciate. It’s a slow-paced, restorative part of the tour that balances out the historical and scenic spots.

Fuerte San Felipe Bacalar: Defending the Town

The final historical stop is Fuerte San Felipe, built in the 18th century to defend against pirates. The fort’s walls tell stories of battles and strategic importance, giving visitors a tangible link to Bacalar’s turbulent past. Our guide explained how the fort played a vital role in defending the town, and climbing its ramparts offers great views of the lagoon. It’s a fitting end to the historical leg of the day, anchoring the stories of pirates and defenders.

The Highlight: Lagoon of the Seven Colors and Cenotes

The crown jewel of the tour is the Laguna de los Siete Colores. The tour includes a boat ride, where your guide will point out the different shades of blue and explain why the water appears so vibrant. This part of the day is truly unforgettable — floating in clear waters and feeling the warmth of the sun is a highlight for many.

Afterward, you’ll visit two cenotes — Cocalitos and Esmeralda — where you can swim and cool off. These natural sinkholes offer refreshing escapes from the heat, with the added bonus of seeing star-shaped stromatolites at Cocalitos, which are among the oldest living organisms on Earth. It’s the perfect way to round out a day filled with exploration.

Practical Aspects and Tips

The tour provides snacks and bottled water, making sure you stay hydrated and energized. The included lunch is usually a set meal, giving you a taste of local flavors, which is great value considering the full day of activities. Keep in mind the MXN 500 eco tax that you’ll need to pay on the day — it’s an unavoidable fee that’s separate from the tour price.

The entire experience is designed for travelers with a moderate physical fitness level — you’ll be walking, some climbing, and swimming. The group size of up to 25 helps keep things manageable without feeling crowded.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This full-day adventure is best for those who enjoy a mix of culture, history, and nature. If you’re curious about the roots of Bacalar and want to experience it beyond just lounging lakeside, this tour gives you a well-rounded look. It’s also ideal for travelers who don’t mind a long day in transit and want a hassle-free way to see multiple sites with logistics taken care of.

If you’re a family or a group of friends who appreciate a combination of storytelling, scenic boat rides, and swimming in cenotes, you’ll find this tour offers excellent value. However, if you’re looking for a more relaxed, less packed day, or are wary of additional fees, this might not be the best fit.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For the price of around $150, you’re getting a comprehensive day of exploring one of Mexico’s most stunning lakes, learning about its past, and enjoying some natural swimming spots. The included transportation, guides, and meals make it a practical choice, especially if you prefer to avoid organizing separate transport and entry tickets.

The tour offers enough variety to satisfy both history buffs and nature lovers, with enough free time to indulge in swimming or simply soak in the views. We loved the way the guide’s stories brought history to life and how the boat ride made the vivid colors of the lagoon truly pop.

This experience is a great value for those wanting a deep dive into Bacalar’s sights without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. It’s particularly suited for travelers eager to explore beyond the typical beach scene and discover a place that’s rich in natural beauty and intriguing history.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle from Playa del Carmen.

How long is the tour?
The entire day, including travel and activities, lasts about 12 hours.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a hat. It’s also wise to carry some cash for the eco tax and any personal expenses.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a set meal is provided as part of the tour. Snacks and bottled water are also included.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, the MXN 500 eco tax per person for Bacalar Lagoon needs to be paid on the day.

What’s the group size?
The maximum group size is 25 travelers, which helps keep the tour intimate and manageable.

In essence, this Bacalar tour offers a solid mix of natural splendor, historical insights, and cultural flavor, making it a worthwhile day trip for curious travelers eager to see more of Mexico’s hidden gems.