Bacalar Magic Town! With Transportation from Playa Del Carmen

When you think about Mexico’s most captivating natural spots, Bacalar often doesn’t get the attention it deserves. Known as the “Lagoon of Seven Colors,” this peaceful town offers some of the most mesmerizing waters in the country. This tour from Playa del Carmen, priced at $135, takes you on a full-day adventure—roughly 12 hours—that promises a mix of scenic beauty, history, and laid-back charm.

Our guide, whose knowledge made the history come alive, along with a boat ride through the lagoon, makes this trip appealing. We love the opportunity to see the different shades of blue in the lagoon, and explore the Fuerte San Felipe, offering panoramic views over Bacalar. The free time to walk around the town, shop for local crafts, or snap photos at the Bacalar sign adds a nice touch of authenticity.

One thing to keep in mind: the tour involves long hours—about 8 hours of transportation—so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a full day on the road. If you enjoy scenic drives and are curious about Mexico’s quieter, more authentic spots, this tour might be a good fit. However, if you’re seeking a shorter or more relaxed experience, you might want to consider other options.

Key Points

• Natural beauty: The lagoon’s seven distinct shades of blue are truly captivating.
• Historical highlights: The San Felipe Fort offers excellent views and a peek into the area’s pirate past.
• Boat tour: A scenic boat ride through Bacalar’s waters adds to the immersive experience.
• Local charm: Free time in Bacalar gives you a chance to explore at your own pace, shop for crafts, or relax.
• Long day: Expect around 8 hours of travel; some travelers found this a bit tiring.
• Language considerations: The tour is bilingual, but reviews suggest some communication issues may occur.

Visiting Bacalar: What Makes It Special?

Bacalar, in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo, is often called a hidden gem. It’s not filled with bustling resorts or crowded beaches; instead, it boasts a peaceful, authentic vibe that makes it perfect for travelers seeking tranquility and natural beauty. The highlight here is the Laguna de Siete Colores, which lives up to its name with seven different shades of blue, thanks to varying depths and mineral content. We loved how the guide explained the science behind the changing colors—this isn’t just a pretty picture but a place with real geological interest.

The town itself has a laid-back atmosphere, with colorful streets and handicraft shops that sell handwoven hammocks, dream catchers, and local souvenirs. After your main activities, you’ll have free time to stroll around, soak in the views, or just enjoy a quiet moment by the water.

The Itinerary: What’s Included and What to Expect

Stop 1: Bacalar Town (Approx. 2 hours)

This initial stop provides a gentle introduction to Bacalar’s charm. It’s an excellent opportunity to get a feel for the town’s slow pace and natural surroundings. You’ll see the beautiful lagoon from the shore and might enjoy browsing local markets for handmade crafts. The guide will share stories of Bacalar’s history and culture, especially if you pay attention—some reviews mention that information can be hard to catch if you’re not fluent in Spanish or attentive.

Stop 2: Fuerte San Felipe (Approx. 1 hour)

The San Felipe Fort is a key highlight, offering a panoramic view of Bacalar and its waters. Built during colonial times, the fort is a window into the area’s past, including pirate activity and colonial defenses. The guide’s historical commentary enhances the experience, and many travelers appreciate the photo opportunities here. The entrance fee is included, which is a plus.

Stop 3: Lago Bacalar (Approx. 2 hours)

The star of the tour, this stop involves a boat ride through the lagoon, giving you a firsthand look at the seven colored waters. The boat tour also takes you through the Pirates Channel, which is famous for its high mineral content and clay-like sand—perfect for exfoliating your skin. We found that the boat ride was relaxing, and it’s a chance to see parts of the lagoon that are inaccessible from land.

The guide explains how the depths influence water color, adding educational value. Many find this part of the tour the most memorable, thanks to the stunning scenery and the calming effect of the water.

Free Time and Shopping

After the boat tour, you’ll have free time in Bacalar—about an hour or more—to explore the town, buy souvenirs, or simply enjoy the quiet ambiance. This flexibility is appreciated by travelers wanting to connect more with the local culture.

Lunch and Other Inclusions

The tour provides lunch, which typically includes local flavors, though beverages are not included. The tour also covers hotel pickup and drop-off from Playa del Carmen, making logistics simple.

The Good and the Not-So-Good

We found the guided portions to be informative—the guide was knowledgeable, passionate, and made the history engaging. The boat ride was scenic and peaceful, offering some of the best views of the lagoon’s colors.

However, the long hours of transportation—around 8 hours one-way—are a notable downside. One reviewer, Frank, mentioned the bus breaking down and a 16-hour trip, which he felt wasn’t worth the effort. The tour is a full-day commitment, and some travelers may find the transit time tiring, especially given the length of the day.

Another aspect to consider is the bilingual nature of the tour. While the guide attempts to speak in both English and Spanish, some reviews highlight that most of the commentary is in Spanish, which might be challenging for non-Spanish speakers. Paying close attention and being open to some language barriers can enhance your experience and understanding.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $135, the tour offers a comprehensive package: transportation, boat ride, guided history, and free time. For travelers eager to see Bacalar without the hassle of planning, it provides good value—if you’re comfortable with a long day and some logistical considerations. The inclusion of lunch and entrance fees adds convenience, and the scenic beauty alone makes it worth considering.

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers who don’t mind a lengthy day on the road and want to see one of Mexico’s less touristy spots. It suits those interested in nature, history, and authentic local culture. If you’re a history buff, the Fuerte San Felipe will pique your interest. For nature lovers, the lagoon’s changing shades and peaceful boat ride are a highlight.

However, if you prefer shorter trips or are sensitive to long bus rides, you may want to look for alternative options or consider breaking up the journey. Also, travelers who desire more English-language content might find the bilingual aspect challenging, so being prepared for some Spanish communication will help.

This Bacalar tour offers a rich blend of natural beauty, history, and local flavor, making it a great choice for those who want an immersive experience. The stunning lagoon, coupled with the historic fort and relaxed town atmosphere, creates a memorable day. The boat ride is especially unforgettable, providing a chance to truly appreciate the lagoon’s unique colors.

While the long hours of travel and occasional language barriers are considerations, the overall value and authentic experience make this tour appealing for curious explorers comfortable with a full-day commitment. If you’re eager to escape the crowds and discover one of Mexico’s quieter treasures, Bacalar deserves your attention.

How long is the total trip?
The tour lasts approximately 12 hours, including about 8 hours of transportation.

Is pickup from Playa del Carmen included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off from Playa del Carmen are included in the package.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimsuit, towels, extra clothes, biodegradable sunscreen, insect repellent, and comfortable shoes and clothes.

Is food included?
Lunch is included, but beverages at the restaurant are not. You might want to bring extra water or drinks.

Who is the guide?
The guide is professional and knowledgeable, but reviews mention that some explanations are in Spanish, which might be challenging for non-Spanish speakers.

What are the main highlights of the tour?
The highlights include the beautiful Bacalar lagoon with its seven unique shades, the Fuerte San Felipe, and a scenic boat ride through the lagoon.

Can I buy souvenirs during the tour?
Yes, there is free time in Bacalar to purchase handicrafts, handmade hammocks, and other local souvenirs.

Whether you’re a nature lover, history enthusiast, or just craving a peaceful escape, Bacalar offers a quiet slice of paradise. Just be prepared for the long day and language considerations, and you’ll find a trip packed with memorable sights and authentic experiences.