Chacchoben Mayan Ruins and Bacalar Lagoon Boat Excursion

Imagine stepping into a world of ancient stones and vibrant water—a journey that combines the silent grandeur of Mayan ruins with the vibrant, shifting shades of Mexico’s most famous lagoon. For around $185, you’ll spend about six hours exploring the mysteries of Chacchoben with knowledgeable guides, followed by floating in the colorful waters of Bacalar Lagoon on a relaxing boat cruise. It’s an experience that balances history, nature, and delicious local cuisine—all in one day.

Two things really make this tour stand out: First, the expert guidance that makes the Mayan site come alive with stories and insights, and second, the spectacular views of Bacalar, famously called the “7-color lagoon” due to its stunning, ever-changing shades of blue. The relaxed pace allows plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed—a real plus for travelers who want to soak in their surroundings rather than just tick off a list of sights.

One potential consideration? The travel time between sites adds up—about 2 hours of riding in total. So if you’re not a fan of long bus rides, this might be a bit tiring. But overall, if you’re eager to combine cultural discovery with natural beauty and appreciate a well-organized, friendly environment, this tour could suit you perfectly.

This trip is ideal for history buffs, nature lovers, and foodies alike—especially those looking for an authentic experience that’s both engaging and leisurely.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary blending archaeological exploration and natural beauty
• Knowledgeable guides like Jhoana who bring history to life
• Relaxing boat tour with plenty of shade, drinks, and stunning views
• Authentic Mexican lunch with vegetarian and vegan options upon request
• Comfortable transportation with air conditioning and round-trip service
• Small group setting for a more personal, unrushed experience

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Heart of Mayan Civilization

When we think of Mexican ruins, Chacchoben may not be as famous as Chichen Itza, but its charm lies in its less crowded, more intimate atmosphere. The tour begins with a convenient pickup outside Costa Maya cruise ship terminal, where you’ll hop into a well-maintained, air-conditioned van. The about 50-minute drive to Chacchoben gives you a chance to get excited as your guide starts sharing snippets of Mayan history and what makes this site special.

Walking through the winding paths and ancient structures, we loved the way guides like Jhoana weave stories into the visit, making history accessible and engaging. The ruins are sprawling but not overwhelming, and there’s plenty of space to enjoy the sense of discovery. Plus, the site’s well-preserved buildings and natural surroundings make it a photogenic stop—perfect for snapping memories.

The one-hour guided tour offers a balanced overview, enough to appreciate the significance of the architecture and symbolism without feeling like you’re on a forced march. We especially appreciated that there’s a small fee of $5 USD for video recording—something to keep in mind if you want to document your visit.

The Scenic Drive to Bacalar Lagoon

After the ruins, it’s about a 40-minute drive to Bacalar Lagoon’s marina. The journey itself is a chance to reflect on the Mayan past and the vibrant natural scenery that surrounds the lagoon. The bus is comfortable, with enough space, and the guide keeps things lively with stories and tips along the way.

The Bacalar Lagoon Boat Tour

Once at Bacalar, the highlight is undoubtedly the 2-hour boat cruise. The crew takes care to ensure everyone feels pampered, offering drinks like beer, tequila, juice, sodas, and water. We loved how the boat’s deck is shaded, making it easy to relax and take in the spectacular views without the harsh sun beating down.

The main draw is the seven shades of blue water—an ever-changing palette that captures everyone’s attention. The lagoon’s name, often called the “7-color lagoon,” isn’t just a marketing phrase; it’s a visual feast that makes you understand why so many travelers fall for Bacalar’s charm. The crew even prepares a fresh fruit snack, perfect for recharging after splashing around or just soaking in the scenery.

Many reviews mention how stunning the lagoon is, with one guest noting, “you will be amazed by the different shades of blue and understand why is frequently referred as the 7 color lagoon.” The water is so clear and inviting, many choose to take a dip or just float and gaze at the sky.

Authentic Mexican Lunch and Final Wrap-up

Post-cruise, you’ll head to a local favorite restaurant for delicious tacos—pork, beef, or shrimp, with vegetarian and vegan options available upon request. The fresh, simple flavors of authentic Mexican tacos paired with guacamole are a perfect way to end the day’s adventure.

Finally, the journey back to Costa Maya takes around 75 minutes, giving you a chance to unwind and reflect on the day’s highlights. The tour concludes right on time for you to reboard your cruise ship, making it a smooth, hassle-free experience.

More Great Tours Nearby

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you appreciate small group experiences with a personal touch, you’ll enjoy the attentive guides and relaxed pace. History enthusiasts will find the ruins intriguing and well-presented, especially with local guides who share stories and details that bring Mayan civilization to life. Nature lovers will be captivated by Bacalar’s seven shades of blue, and those who like to combine cultural insights with leisure will find the boat cruise and lunch to be perfect highlights.

In addition, the value of this tour is evident, given that it includes transportation, guides, lunch, boat tour, and drinks—all for a reasonable price in a region known for high-quality excursions. The inclusion of vegetarian and vegan options makes it accessible for different dietary needs.

Practical Tips for Your Booking

• The total tour lasts about 6 hours, including travel time, so be prepared for some time on the bus.
• The tour is wheelchair accessible, which is important for travelers with mobility concerns.
• The guide is bilingual, speaking both Spanish and English, ensuring you’ll get good explanations regardless of your language preference.
• You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility.
• The meeting point is straightforward: after disembarking, walk to the terminal exit and look for a representative holding your name.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded day of exploring ancient Mayan ruins and enjoying one of Mexico’s most beautiful natural wonders. The combination of history, scenery, food, and relaxation makes it a compelling choice for many travelers visiting Costa Maya. The guides’ enthusiasm and the beauty of Bacalar’s waters shine through as some of the tour’s best aspects, according to many reviews.

While the journey involves a bit of travel time, the comfort of the transportation and the quality of the experiences make it worthwhile. The tour’s focus on authentic, meaningful encounters—rather than just ticking boxes—will resonate with those seeking a genuine taste of this region’s cultural and natural treasures.

If you love learning about history, savoring delicious local cuisine, and floating in crystal-clear waters, this trip is definitely worth considering. It’s a flexible, well-organized adventure that leaves plenty of space to enjoy Mexico’s stunning sights without feeling rushed.

FAQ

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts about 6 hours, including transportation, so you’ll want to plan for a full day.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers transportation round-trip from Costa Maya, entry to Chacchoben, a guided tour, boat cruise, snacks, drinks, and a taco lunch. Insurance is also included.

Are vegetarian and vegan options available?
Yes, the lunch includes vegetarian and vegan options upon request, making it accessible for different dietary needs.

How is the transportation arranged?
You’ll ride in an air-conditioned van, with pickup outside the Costa Maya cruise terminal. The journey involves about 50 minutes to the ruins, then roughly 40 minutes to Bacalar, and 75 minutes back.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, it’s generally suitable for most travelers, and wheelchair accessible. The boat cruise is relaxing and doesn’t involve strenuous activity.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, swimwear if you want to splash in the lagoon, and a camera. Some guests also bring a change of clothes for after the boat ride.

Can I record videos at the ruins?
Yes, but there’s a $5 USD fee for video recording.

What if my ship is delayed?
The tour starts based on your ship’s schedule, and the guide will adjust the timing if needed to ensure you’re back on time.

Is the guide bilingual?
Yes, guides speak both Spanish and English, ensuring clear explanations and a smooth experience.

In all, this tour combines culture, nature, and local flavors into a memorable day that’s well worth the investment. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply looking for a beautiful day on the water, it’s a journey worth considering during your stay in Costa Maya.

You can check availability for your dates here: