Bacalar Lagoon & Kayak Tour in Club Marmol from Playa del Carmen

Exploring the Bacalar Lagoon & Kayak Tour from Playa del Carmen

Imagine spending a day soaking in some of Mexico’s most stunning scenery—crystal-clear waters, multiple shades of blue, and a low-key, tranquil vibe. For about $139 per person, this 12-hour adventure takes you from Playa del Carmen into the heart of Quintana Roo to explore Bacalar, a true hidden gem known as the Laguna de Siete Colores. With pickup offered, comfortable transportation, and visits to iconic spots like Cenote Azul and Fuerte de San Felipe, this trip promises a mix of natural beauty, history, and fun activities.

What we love about this experience is the opportunity to kayak on the lagoon, giving you an up-close view of the changing hues of blue—an unbeatable way to connect with nature. Also, the visit to Cenote Azul offers a refreshing swim in uniquely formed waters that seem to glow, making it a highlight for anyone craving an authentic outdoor adventure.

However, it’s worth noting that this tour involves a long journey—around 4+ hours each way—which can be tiring if you’re not used to extensive bus rides. The tour is best suited for those who enjoy full-day trips and are eager to explore beyond the usual tourist spots. If you’re looking for a relaxing, scenic day with a good mix of activity and downtime, this tour could be just the ticket.

Key Points

• Natural beauty is front and center with stunning views of Bacalar Lagoon’s seven shades of blue.
• Includes kayaking on the lagoon, giving an active and memorable experience.
• Historically rich visits like the San Felipe Fort add depth to the trip.
• Long travel times mean you should be prepared for a full-day commitment.
• All necessary transportation and some meals are included, making it convenient for travelers.
• Reviews highlight friendly guides and good value for money despite the lengthy travel.

An In-Depth Look at the Bacalar Lagoon & Kayak Tour

Starting Early, Exploring All Day

The adventure kicks off around 6:30 am, with pickup from your Playa del Carmen hotel. The journey itself, as one reviewer notes, can be “a 4+ hour trip,” which is quite substantial but often unavoidable for this kind of full-day excursion. You’ll be transported in smaller vehicles first, then transferred to a larger bus, which some travelers find a bit tiring but manageable if you’re prepared.

Once you arrive, the focus shifts immediately to the natural and historical highlights. The tour is designed to balance water activities, sightseeing, and leisure—perfect if you’re eager to pack a lot into one day.

Cenote Azul: A Natural Wonder

Your first stop is the Cenote Azul, a unique formation of nature situated next to Bacalar Lagoon. Here, you’ll get about two hours to cool off in its clear waters, which are often described as “outdoors quality” and “breathtaking” by travelers. The cenote’s natural beauty lies in its deep blue hue, contrasting sharply with the surrounding greenery. It’s a great spot for swimming and taking photos.

The tour includes breakfast, which adds value to this stop, especially if you’re traveling early. Many visitors comment on how this early immersion in nature really sets the tone for the rest of the day.

El Cielo Beach Club and the Lagoon’s Shades

Next, you’ll visit the El Cielo Beach Club for about two hours. This is where you’ll witness the lagoon’s different shades of blue, which are caused by varying depths and underwater formations. The presence of three cenotes within the lagoon adds unique points of interest—you might find the waters overflowing from these cenotes particularly fascinating.

This stop is also a chance to relax on the beach, enjoy the amenities, and marvel at the spectacular views. The inclusion of admission tickets means you don’t have to worry about extra costs at this stage.

Bacalar Town and Its Fort

The town of Bacalar itself is charming—a quiet place perfect for those interested in natural beauty and history. You’ll spend about 90 minutes here, exploring at your own pace. The Fuerte de San Felipe offers a panoramic view of the lagoon and a peek into the area’s past, especially its pirate connections. One reviewer appreciated this part, noting that “Knowing this fortress and its history goes back to the times of pirates” adds a layer of storytelling to the experience.

The Kayak Experience and Club Mar&Mol

The highlight for many is the 1-hour kayak adventure at the Mar&Mol Club, located directly on the lagoon. This is your chance to glide across the water, truly enjoying the scenery. The club offers all amenities, allowing you to relax after the kayaking with some comfort and refreshment.

Being in this setting, with the seven shades of blue all around, makes the kayak trip feel like a personal exploration. Many travelers mention the kayak as a “memorable” part of the trip, giving a sense of connection with this peaceful natural environment.

Lunch and Final Views

The tour includes lunch and bottled water, helping you refuel after a long day of sightseeing. As you approach the end, you’ll get a final look at Fuerte de San Felipe from a panoramic point—a great photo opportunity to wrap up your experience.

What Travelers Are Saying

Reviews offer a lot of insight into what you can expect. One traveler, Maurice H., mentioned that the “transportation was awesome” and the staff friendly, which makes a big difference in a full-day trip. However, he also pointed out the long hours of travel—a “4+ hour trip from Playa”—which may not suit everyone’s itinerary or energy levels.

Others appreciate the natural beauty and the value for money, especially with the inclusion of entrance fees, kayak, and meals. The guides are often praised for their friendliness and knowledge, helping to make the long journey more enjoyable with interesting commentary.

Some travelers feel that the long travel time might be a drawback—they suggest that this is best for those eager for a comprehensive day trip rather than someone looking for a quick escape.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

While $139 sounds like a lot, it covers transportation, entrance fees, meals, kayaking, and guided insights. For travelers eager to explore Bacalar’s natural and historical charm without the hassle of organizing their own transport or figuring out entry tickets, this tour offers good value.

The full-day schedule might be tiring, but it also guarantees you see multiple sights, enjoy water activities, and learn about the area’s pirate past. The guided aspect helps keep the experience informative and engaging.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This experience suits adventurous travelers who don’t mind a long day on the road and want to experience Bacalar’s natural beauty and history firsthand. It’s ideal if you appreciate water-based activities, scenic views, and learning about the local past through guided commentary. If you’re not keen on long bus rides or prefer more relaxed, shorter trips, this might not be your best fit.

The Sum Up

The Bacalar Lagoon & Kayak Tour from Playa del Carmen offers a comprehensive view of one of Mexico’s most beautiful natural spots. From swimming in cenotes and kayaking in vibrant waters to exploring historic forts, it provides a well-rounded day packed with activity and culture. The friendly guides and all-inclusive pricing make it a worthwhile option for those ready for an adventure beyond the usual beaches.

While the long travel times might be a concern, most travelers find that the stunning scenery and unique experiences make it worthwhile. If you’re eager to see Bacalar’s famous seven shades of blue, appreciate historical sites, and enjoy water activities, this tour offers a great combination of all three.

FAQ

How long is the trip from Playa del Carmen?
It’s approximately 4+ hours each way, so plan for a full-day commitment.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, round transportation from Playa del Carmen hotels is included, starting early in the morning.

What activities are included?
You’ll visit Cenote Azul, El Cielo Beach Club, Bacalar town, and enjoy a 1-hour kayak adventure at Club Mar&Mol.

Are meals provided?
Yes, breakfast at Cenote Azul and lunch are included in the tour package.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothes, swimwear, towels, extra clothes, and sun protection (not sunscreen for stromatolites).

Can I participate if I don’t kayak?
Yes, kayaking is an activity you can opt into; you are free to relax by the lagoon instead.

Is there a guided component?
Yes, guides are present to explain the sites and help you make the most of each stop.

What are the main highlights?
The natural beauty of the lagoon, the cenote swims, the historic fort, and the kayaking experience.

Who is this tour best suited for?
Adventurous travelers willing to spend a full day exploring scenic, natural, and historic sites.

Is it suitable for children or families?
While not explicitly stated, families comfortable with long trips and water activities may enjoy it; always check with the provider for age restrictions.

This Bacalar Lagoon & Kayak Tour balances adventure, history, and scenic beauty, making it a compelling choice for those eager to explore one of Mexico’s most captivating spots. Just prepare for a long day, and you’ll be rewarded with unforgettable memories.