Bacalar Lagoon & Chacchoben Mayan Ruins Combo from Costa Maya

A Day of Discovery in Costa Maya: Chacchoben Ruins and Bacalar Lagoon

If you’re cruising into Costa Maya with a desire to explore both history and natural beauty, this tour offers a solid blend. For $116.10 per person, you’ll spend around five and a half hours soaking in some of the region’s most captivating sights. The day begins with a visit to Chacchoben, an archaeological site dating back to 200 BC, where you’ll encounter impressive monuments and learn about the ancient Maya civilization. Then, you’ll unwind at Bacalar Lagoon, famous for its seven shades of blue, where swimming, kayaking, and delicious local food await.

Two features stand out for us: First, the guided tour at the Chacchoben ruins is led by knowledgeable guides who bring the ancient Maya to life with engaging stories. Second, the breeze and stunning scenery of Bacalar Lagoon make it the perfect spot for relaxing after exploring history.

One consideration to keep in mind is that the timing can feel a bit rushed, especially at the ruins. If you’re a slow explorer or a history buff wanting more in-depth time at each stop, you might find the schedule tight.

This tour suits first-time visitors or cruise passengers eager to cover both cultural and natural highlights without spending a fortune on separate excursions. It’s particularly good for those who enjoy a mix of walking, sightseeing, and leisurely waterfront time.

Key Points

• Balanced Experience: Combines Mayan archaeology with a stunning freshwater lagoon.
• Guided Insight: Knowledgeable guides help bring the ruins and local culture to life.
• Affordable Value: At just over $100, it offers a full half-day of activities and scenery.
• Includes Food & Equipment: Lunch with drinks and kayaking gear are part of the package.
• Comfortable Transport: Air-conditioned vehicles make the trip more pleasant.
• Ideal for First-Timers: Perfect if you want a quick but thorough taste of Costa Maya’s highlights.

Exploring the Chacchoben Mayan Ruins

Your adventure begins with a roughly 1.5-hour guided walk through Chacchoben, one of the less-visited yet fascinating Mayan archaeological sites in the region. Dating back to 200 BC, this site offers a glimpse into ancient civilization with its monuments, plazas, and structures largely hidden in lush jungle.

From the reviews, it’s clear guides like Yoshi and Joel earn praise for their storytelling and knowledge. Chrisette_S specifically mentions how Yoshi’s understanding of Mayan history made the experience memorable. Unlike more popular sites, Chacchoben feels like a secret—less crowded, more authentic, and surrounded by rich flora and fauna. Be prepared for some walking, and remember that an extra $5 USD camera fee is payable onsite, which is standard at many archaeological sites.

The guides do a good job of explaining what you’re seeing, but the overall pace is somewhat brisk. Daniel_C suggests that a little more time at the ruins would be appreciated, especially if you’re keen to photograph or take a closer look at each monument. The site is a treasure for history enthusiasts wanting an intimate, less touristy Maya experience.

The Scenic Drive and Local Flavor

The journey from Costa Maya to Chacchoben is around an hour, giving you a chance to observe the local lifestyle along the way. You might notice humble homes and the everyday life of locals, which can be quite eye-opening if you’re used to tourist-heavy destinations. The air-conditioned transport keeps the ride comfortable, and group sizes are likely to be manageable, with a maximum of 80 travelers.

Bacalar Lagoon: A Refreshing End to Your Day

After the ruins, your tour heads to Bacalar Lagoon, a place renowned for its seven shades of blue water and historical pirate hangout status. For two hours, you’re free to swim, kayak, or simply lounge by the water. The lagoon’s gentle breeze and stunning scenery make it a top highlight.

From reviews, we gather that the lagoon’s tranquility and beauty leave a lasting impression. Yoshi’s team even includes a stop at a local vendor for some delicious fajitas and drinks—a highlight for many, with Chrisette_S mentioning how tasty the food was. Kayaking is included, with the weight limit being 220 pounds for a single kayak and 270 pounds for a double. Kayaking in the lagoon is a fun way to experience the calm waters and appreciate the landscape from a different perspective, all while enjoying some lighthearted activity.

The lagoon experience is more than just a dip; it’s an opportunity to relax, take photos, and enjoy authentic local cuisine. As Tobey_S notes, the private lagoon makes the experience feel exclusive and special, adding to its appeal.

Practical Tips for Your Day

• Timing: The tour departs about an hour after your cruise arrives, ensuring you maximize your port time.
• What to Bring: Comfortable shoes for walking ruins, swimsuit and towel for the lagoon, camera or phone for photos, and a hat or sunscreen for sun protection.
• Food and Drinks: Lunch at Bacalar Lagoon is included, but you can bring extra snacks or water if desired.
• Cost Considerations: The camera fee and optional souvenirs are extra, so budget accordingly.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the price are bottled water, lunch with soft drinks, guided tour at Chacchoben, access to kayaks, and air-conditioned transportation. These inclusions make the experience well-rounded and comfortable.

However, keep in mind that $5 USD camera fee is paid directly at the site, and souvenirs or alcoholic drinks are not included. If you’re planning to take lots of photos, it’s worth bringing cash for the camera fee and tips.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This excursion is ideal for first-time visitors to Costa Maya who want a taste of Maya history combined with a relaxing water experience. It suits those who appreciate authentic guides and scenic views, and who don’t mind a busy schedule. Families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a balanced mix of culture and nature will find this tour hits the right notes.

Travelers who enjoy kayaking, local cuisine, and learning from engaging guides will appreciate the variety. But if you’re seeking a more leisurely or in-depth archaeological experience, you might want to consider spending more time at each stop or choosing a different tour.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

This combo tour strikes a fine balance between cultural discovery and natural beauty. With friendly guides and a well-organized itinerary, it provides good value—especially considering the included lunch and activities. The ruins are less crowded and more authentic, offering a glimpse into Maya civilization without the fuss of major tourist hubs. The Bacalar Lagoon is a true highlight, offering serene waters, beautiful scenery, and tasty local food.

This tour is best suited for cruise passengers with limited time who want a comprehensive taste of Costa Maya’s history and landscape. It’s also ideal if you enjoy a mix of active and relaxing moments in one day, making it a solid choice for those eager to get a broad experience without overextending.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The total experience lasts about five and a half hours, with approximately 1.5 hours at the ruins and 2 hours at Bacalar Lagoon.

Is transportation included?
Yes, you’ll travel in an air-conditioned vehicle, with the pickup point close to the cruise port.

Do I need to pay extra at the site?
There is a $5 USD camera fee at Chacchoben, payable directly at the entrance.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour accommodates up to 80 travelers, which keeps it lively but manageable.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, swimsuit and towel, camera, and a small amount of cash for extras.

Is food included?
Yes, a lunch of fajitas and soft drinks is provided at Bacalar Lagoon.

Can I kayak if I weigh more than 220 pounds?
For single kayaks, the limit is 220 pounds; for doubles, 270 pounds. If you’re over the limit, you might want to consider other water activities or just enjoy the lagoon from the shore.

This Costa Maya tour offers a rewarding blend of history and natural beauty, perfect for travelers who want to make the most of their limited port time. With friendly guides, authentic experiences, and scenic views, it’s a day that can leave lasting memories—just be ready for a busy but fulfilling adventure.