Bacalar Tour of the Lagoon of 7 Colors from Costa Maya

Bacalar Tour of the Lagoon of 7 Colors from Costa Maya

If you’re looking for a day that combines natural beauty, history, and a touch of adventure, this Bacalar Lagoon tour from Costa Maya might just fit the bill. Priced at $115 per person, it lasts about five hours, giving you enough time to soak in the pristine waters of the ‘Lagoon of 7 Colors’, visit historic forts, and explore cenotes without feeling rushed.

What we love about this experience is how it balances cultural insights with beautiful scenery. The visit to Fort San Felipe offers a glimpse into the town’s past, while the boat trip across Bacalar’s famous lagoon reveals some of the most striking natural formations in the region. Plus, the inclusion of Mexican tacos and drinks makes it feel like a full-day adventure rather than just a sightseeing trip.

One thing to consider is that this tour involves multiple stops and activities, which can be a lot if you prefer a more relaxed, single-focus experience. It’s best suited for travelers who want a rundown of Bacalar in a manageable time frame. If you’re after a peaceful, solo day at the lagoon or want a more leisurely pace, you might want to consider spending more time in each spot on your own.

This tour is ideal for those who appreciate a blend of history, nature, and local flavor—great for active families, curious couples, or anyone eager to see Bacalar’s highlights without the hassle of organizing transport and visits independently.

Key Points

• Affordable and well-organized: At $115, it offers a solid mix of experiences.
• Historical insights: Fort San Felipe provides context about pirate defenses and local history.
• Natural beauty: The boat trip takes you past cenotes, stromatolite reefs, and bird islands, perfect for nature lovers.
• Family-friendly: Activities like kayaking and swimming make it suitable for all ages.
• Inclusive snacks and drinks: Tacos, sodas, water, and two alcoholic drinks add value.
• Convenient logistics: Mobile ticket and near public transportation make access easy.

A Detailed Look at the Bacalar Lagoon Tour

When you book this tour, you’re signing up for a multi-faceted experience that starts with a scenic drive and ends with a splash in some of the most captivating waters of Mexico. The tour begins with a transport transfer from Costa Maya, giving you a chance to learn about the local community of Pedro Antonio De los Santos. It’s a small touch but adds authenticity—your guide might share stories about the local economy and culture before you reach Bacalar.

Visiting Fort San Felipe: A Glimpse into the Past

The first stop is Fort San Felipe, a structure built between 1725 and 1733. It was originally designed to defend against pirates and colonial threats, a reminder of Bacalar’s strategic importance. The fort’s stone walls and artillery remnants offer a tangible connection to the town’s past, and your guide is likely to share tales of pirates and battles that shaped the region. For history buffs, this is a highlight; for others, it’s a good primer before heading to the natural attractions.

The Private Club and Lagoon Access: Comfort Meets Adventure

After strolling through history, you’ll head to a private club where amenities include bunk beds, Wi-Fi, and kayaks. Here, you can relax, enjoy some authentic Mexican tacos, and plan your lagoon exploration. The access to the lagoon itself is the real treat—crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming, kayaking, or just floating around. The peace and quiet here are a stark contrast to busier tourist spots, making it a peaceful base for your day.

Exploring the Cenotes and Bird Island

The boat will take you to visit three cenotes: Black, Emerald, and Cocalitos. These natural sinkholes are famous for their colorful waters and unique ecosystems. The Black Cenote, for example, offers a darker, mysterious allure, while the Emerald is renowned for its vibrant hue. Cocalitos is especially known for its stromatolite reef—one of Latin America’s most important—providing a fascinating glimpse into ancient microbial life.

Bird lovers will enjoy the Bird Island, home to migratory species that bring lively activity to this calm sanctuary. The boat ride itself is a highlight, offering stunning views of the lagoon’s turquoise waters, framed by lush greenery.

The Pirate Canal and Local Lore

One of the most charming parts of this tour is cruising through the Pirate Canal. Your guide will tell stories of pirates and wars, which help contextualize the area’s turbulent history. The waters here are so clear you can see straight to the bottom, making it ideal for swimming or just soaking up the scenery.

Final Tips and Practicalities

The tour provides two alcoholic drinks, along with bottled water, sodas, and tacos, so you’ll stay refreshed and fueled. It’s a family-friendly outing, but keep in mind that the duration and activity level might not suit someone looking for a totally leisurely day. Plus, the group size is not specified, but a shared boat trip means you’ll meet other curious travelers.

Given that the tour is booked on average 16 days in advance, it’s wise to reserve early, especially in peak seasons. And with free cancellation up to 24 hours before, there’s reassurance for any last-minute changes.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those who want a balanced day combining history, natural beauty, and local flavor. It’s ideal for active travelers who enjoy water activities and exploring. Families with children will appreciate the kayaking and swimming, while history enthusiasts will enjoy the fort and pirate stories.

If you’re looking for a well-organized, single-day adventure that hits the highlights without requiring a lot of planning, this tour delivers excellent value. But if you prefer a more relaxed pace or want to spend time in each location independently, you might want to allocate extra days to Bacalar on your own.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s included in the tour?
The tour includes visits to Fort San Felipe, access to the lagoon with kayak rentals, stops at three cenotes, Bird Island, stromatolite reef, and the pirate canal. It also offers Mexican tacos, two drinks with alcohol, bottled water, sodas, and natural waters.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately five hours, providing enough time to enjoy the key sights without feeling rushed.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, a mobile ticket indicates that transportation is organized from Costa Maya to Bacalar, making travel hassle-free.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it is suitable for most travelers, including families, especially because of the kayaking and swimming activities. However, young children should be supervised around water.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and perhaps a waterproof camera or phone case to capture the stunning views.

To sum it up, this Bacalar Lagoon tour from Costa Maya offers a rich mix of history, natural beauty, and local culture in a manageable half-day format. Expect scenic boat rides, snorkeling in cenotes, and stories of pirates and microbial reefs, all wrapped up with local snacks and refreshing drinks. It’s a great fit for active, curious travelers looking to make the most of their time in the Yucatán Peninsula—an authentic experience that balances adventure and education.

Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or family out for a fun day, this tour provides a solid value and a chance to see one of Mexico’s most stunning lagoons in all its glory.