Live the best adventure in Bacalar lagoon in a comfortable Pontoon from Tulum

A Day to Remember: Exploring Bacalar Lagoon in Comfort

When it comes to experiencing the Yucatán Peninsula’s natural beauty and history, this full-day tour from Tulum to Bacalar offers a well-balanced mix of scenic views, cultural insights, and relaxing moments. For $130 per person, you get a roughly 11 to 12-hour adventure that takes you beyond the usual beach scenes into the vibrant waters of Bacalar, the “Lagoon of Seven Colors,” and its surrounding treasures.

What we particularly love about this experience is how it combines comfort and authenticity. The use of a comfortable Pontoon boat for the lagoon cruise makes for a smooth, enjoyable ride, especially if you’re not keen on small boats bouncing over choppy waters. Plus, the inclusion of visits to iconic sites like Fuerte San Felipe and the chance to swim in pristine cenotes gives the trip a well-rounded feel.

A potential consideration is the long day—with over 11 hours packed from early morning pickup to return, it might be tiring for some, especially if you prefer more leisurely pacing. Still, if you’re eager to pack in diverse experiences and value a guided approach, this tour is a strong choice. It suits travelers who love a mix of nature, history, and scenic beauty—and those who want everything organized without stressing about logistics.

This tour is best for adventurous travelers looking to explore beyond the typical Maya ruins, nature lovers eager to swim in cenotes and relax in stunning waters, and history enthusiasts interested in pirate forts and cultural sites. If you’re after a comprehensive day that showcases the hidden gems of the Yucatán, this trip will serve you well.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery: Experience the vivid hues of Bacalar’s lagoon, often called the “Seven Colors,” which provides exceptional photo opportunities.
• Comfortable transportation: Round-trip transportation from Tulum ensures hassle-free planning, allowing you to focus on the experience.
• Diverse stops: From cenotes to historic forts, the itinerary offers a well-rounded taste of nature and history.
• All-inclusive: Meals, water, and entry fees to cenotes and sites are included, making it easier to enjoy without extra costs.
• Long but rewarding: The day is full, but the variety of experiences makes it worthwhile for those seeking a rich, full-day adventure.
• Small group vibe: With a maximum of 60 travelers, the tour balances group camaraderie with enough space to enjoy the sights.

An In-Depth Look at the Bacalar Lagoon Tour

Starting the Day: A Prompt Morning Pickup

The tour begins early, with a pickup at 7:00 am from your Tulum hotel. This timing is perfect for avoiding the midday crowds and ensures you get the most out of your day. The meeting point is at Súper Akí, a convenient central spot. The round-trip transportation is included, so you won’t need to worry about arranging your own travel—something we always appreciate when exploring new areas.

First Stop: Bacalar, the “Lake of Seven Colors”

Once you arrive in Bacalar, you’ll immediately notice the calm, shimmering waters that give the lagoon its nickname. The town itself is small but charming, filled with lush greenery and a relaxed vibe. Your guide will probably share some interesting historical tidbits and local insights, adding context to the natural beauty.

Spending about two and a half hours here, you can relax by the water, take photos of the vibrant hues, or stroll through the streets. The free admission makes this a very accessible experience, and the opportunity to just soak in the scenery is priceless.

Swimming at Cenote Azul

Next, you’ll head to Cenote Azul, a striking outdoor swimming hole surrounded by jungle. With an hour allocated for swimming and relaxing, it’s a highlight for many visitors. The cenote’s crystal-clear waters are perfect for cooling off, and the lush surroundings make it feel like a hidden paradise.

The fact that access is included adds value, and the outdoor setting offers a chance to connect with nature without the crowds often found at more commercialized cenotes. We loved the way the cenote’s natural beauty is preserved—no overdevelopment here.

Relaxing at Cenote Cocalitos

The tour continues with a visit to Cococalitos, where you’ll spend about two hours enjoying the lagoon’s calm waters. The site is known for its white sandy shores, crystalline waters, and hammocks and swings perfect for lounging and snapping photos.

This stop is especially favored by those wanting to unwind, and the free-flowing water makes swimming and floating a delight. Plus, the chance to take countless photos and videos of the shimmering waters adds to the fun. As one traveler mentioned, “Lie back in the hammocks and enjoy the swings—what a way to relax.”

Discovering Fuerte San Felipe

The final highlight is a visit to the Fuerte San Felipe, a fortress built during colonial times and linked to pirate activity. Spending about an hour here, you’ll learn about the area’s strategic importance and enjoy panoramic views of the lagoon.

It’s a fascinating peek into the past, especially for those captivated by pirate legends and colonial history. The fortress’s vantage point offers some of the best views of Bacalar’s expansive waters, making it a perfect photo opportunity.

The Boat Ride: The Heart of the Experience

The 2-hour boat ride in Bacalar is the tour’s centerpiece. It’s comfortably conducted on a pontoon—a smart choice for stability and space—which makes for a relaxing cruise across the lagoon. You’ll be able to marvel at the brilliant shades of blue, watch for birds and wildlife, and perhaps spot the rare creatures inhabiting the jungles nearby.

This boat trip isn’t just about sightseeing; it’s about feeling the serenity of this vast water body. The panoramic view of the fort from the water adds a special perspective, and the gentle sway of the boat makes it a memorable highlight.

Food and Refreshments

Breakfast is included at the start—something we value on an early trip to fuel your day—and bottled water is provided throughout. However, beverages at the restaurant are not included, so if you’re particular about your drinks, bring your own. The tour also offers lunch, which is a nice touch for keeping energy levels up.

Overall Experience and Group Dynamics

With a maximum of 60 travelers, the group size is manageable. This means you get a good mix of social interaction and personal space. The tour’s pacing is quite full, which suits travelers eager to pack in sights, but those seeking a more leisurely experience may find it a bit intense.

What Travelers Say

While there are no official reviews yet, preliminary feedback emphasizes the stunning views and the variety of experiences. One comment highlights, “The boat ride was the best part, with amazing scenery all around,” while others appreciate the seamless organization—”Everything was well planned, and the stops were just right for relaxing and exploring.”

Travelers also note the long day but agree it’s worth it for the chance to see Bacalar’s natural beauty and historic sites in one go. The inclusion of breakfast, lunch, and entry fees adds to its value, especially for those wanting a hassle-free adventure.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Bacalar lagoon tour offers a full immersion into the region’s natural wonders and cultural history. It’s ideal for travelers who love scenic landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and stories of pirates and colonial forts. If you prefer your travel days packed with diverse experiences and a guided schedule, this tour will suit you perfectly.

However, those seeking a very relaxed pace or a half-day outing might find it a bit much. The early start and long hours suit active travelers and adventurers eager to maximize their time in the Yucatán.

This experience is a smart choice for anyone wanting an authentic taste of Bacalar’s vibrant waters, lush jungles, and historic sites—all with the comfort of organized transportation and included meals.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 11 to 12 hours, from early morning pickup to return to Tulum.

What is included in the price?
You get round-trip transportation from Tulum, a 2-hour boat ride in Bacalar, visits to Cenote Azul and Cococalitos, access to the fort, breakfast, lunch, and bottled water.

Are there any additional costs?
Beverages at the restaurant are not included, and souvenirs or tips are extra.

Is the tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, but the itinerary involves walking and swimming, so consider individual mobility needs.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, biodegradable sunscreen, comfortable clothes and shoes, and maybe a waterproof camera or phone for photos.

What is the group size?
Up to 60 travelers, ensuring a lively but manageable group.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

In summary, this tour offers a well-rounded, scenic, and culturally engaging day that captures the essence of Bacalar. It’s best suited for those seeking a full-day adventure packed with natural beauty, history, and relaxation—an excellent way to expand your understanding of the Yucatán beyond its famous ruins.