7 Colors Bacalar Lagoon Tour from Playa del Carmen & Tulum

Planning a trip to Mexico and craving a mix of nature, culture, and a touch of adventure? The 7 Colors Bacalar Lagoon Tour from Playa del Carmen & Tulum offers a compelling way to experience one of the region’s most beautiful spots. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, we’ve gathered plenty of details to help you decide if it fits your travel vibe.

What immediately catches the eye about this experience are the stunning views of Bacalar’s famously colorful lagoon and the fact that it’s a full-day adventure with a convenient hotel pickup. Plus, the included lunch and activities like swimming in cenotes make it seem like a solid value. That said, the drive to Bacalar can be lengthy — around 3.5 hours each way — so be prepared for some travel time if you’re staying in Playa del Carmen or Tulum.

This tour appears best suited for travelers who want to see a stunning natural wonder without a ton of hassle, enjoy a mix of relaxing boat rides and cultural stops, and aren’t afraid of a longer day on the road. If you’re into nature, photography, or just want a break from beaches and city life, this could be a good pick—but keep in mind the mixed reviews.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery: Bacalar lagoon’s seven shades of blue are breathtaking and ideal for photos and relaxation.
• Well-organized guides: Many reviews praise the bilingual guides for their knowledge and friendliness.
• Inclusive experience: Lunch, cenote visits, and a boat cruise make for a full day of activities.
• Travel time: Expect about a 3.5-hour drive each way, so pack snacks and be ready for a long day.
• Varied reviews: Some travelers rave about the sights and value, while others mention safety concerns and limited water time.
• Limited free time in the water: One review notes only about an hour of actual swimming, so don’t expect extensive water activities.

A Detailed Look at the Bacalar Lagoon Tour

Starting the Day: Hotel Pickup and Long Drive

The tour kicks off early at 7:00 am from Playa del Carmen, with a hotel pickup included, which is a big plus if you’re staying nearby. The drive to Bacalar takes about 3.5 hours, so it’s a good idea to bring some snacks, water, or music to pass the time.

The group size is limited to 18 travelers, which helps keep things intimate and manageable, especially when listening to the bilingual guide. We like that the transportation is round-trip, so there’s no need to worry about organizing your return.

Exploring Lago Bacalar: The Lagoon of Seven Colors

Once you arrive at this Pueblo Mágico, the main highlight is the cruise on the lagoon. The guide will explain the history and significance of Bacalar, from its Maya roots to its pirate stories — an aspect that adds depth to the natural beauty.

During the boat ride, you’ll sail along Pirates Channel, taking in the vivid contrast of blues and greens. The views are described as extraordinary, and the photos you’ll get here are worth the trip alone. The boat ride lasts about four hours, giving you plenty of time to relax and soak in the scenery.

Cenote Visits: Esmeralda and Cocalitos

Next, the tour includes stops at two cenotes: Esmeralda and Cocalitos. These freshwater swimming spots are perfect breaks from the boat, offering clear waters to cool off and unwind. The stops are brief but refreshing, and the cenotes are often praised for their natural beauty.

Learning and Cultural Stops: Pirate Route and Village Insights

The guide’s role is to enrich your experience with cultural context — the history of the area, stories of pirates, and Maya traditions. If you’re into learning about the local area beyond the scenery, this aspect of the tour delivers.

Lunch and Flexibility

An included a la carte lunch ensures you won’t go hungry during your long day. The specifics of the menu aren’t detailed, but reviews suggest it’s a decent meal, adding to the overall value. Remember, alcoholic drinks aren’t included but are available for purchase.

The Downsides: What to Watch Out For

While the experience is generally well-rated, one review stands out for pointing out some safety concerns and limited water time. The trip that reviewer took was poorly organized, and they felt the boat was unsafe — with water seeping in during the ride. Always double-check safety protocols when booking, especially if you’re sensitive to boat safety.

Also, the water activities might be brief. One traveler mentioned only about an hour in the water, so if swimming or extensive water time is your priority, this might be a consideration.

How Does the Price Stack Up?

At $169 per person, the tour isn’t cheap, but when you factor in transportation, guided tours, cenote visits, boat cruise, and lunch, it offers a lot of value. The full-day experience allows you to cover a lot of ground — scenic, cultural, and relaxing moments all in one package.

Who Is It Best For?

This tour is ideal for travelers looking for a comprehensive day trip that combines stunning visuals with cultural insights. It’s great if you’re based in Playa del Carmen or Tulum and want to see Bacalar without the hassle of planning transportation and activities yourself. If you’re comfortable with a longer drive and enjoy guided experiences, you’ll likely find this worthwhile.

Final Thoughts

The 7 Colors Bacalar Lagoon Tour offers a mix of natural beauty, cultural stories, and relaxing activities. Many travelers rave about the guides’ knowledge and the breathtaking views, making it a solid choice for those who want to experience Bacalar’s famed lagoon without the logistics hassle.

However, keep in mind that some reviews mention safety issues and limited water time, so if your priority is extensive swimming or a worry about boat safety, you might want to explore other options or clarify safety measures beforehand.

In all, if you’re after a well-rounded, scenic day trip that hits the highlights of Bacalar, this tour could be a good fit. Just prepare for a long day on the road, and maybe pack a little patience along with your swimwear.

FAQ

How long is the drive from Playa del Carmen to Bacalar?
The drive takes about 3.5 hours each way, so plan accordingly. It’s a significant time investment but allows you to see a remarkable part of Mexico’s landscape.

What’s included in the tour?
The tour includes round-trip transportation, a bilingual guide, visits to two cenotes (Esmeralda and Cocalitos), a boat cruise on Bacalar lagoon, and a complimentary lunch.

Are drinks included?
No, alcoholic drinks and other beverages are available for purchase but are not included in the price.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, a change of clothes, comfortable shoes, and sunscreen. A water bottle and snacks may make the long drive more enjoyable.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult, but beyond that, it’s best to consider if your kids are comfortable with long drives, boat rides, and the physical activity involved.

How long do we spend in the water?
One review mentions about an hour of water time, so if swimming or relaxing in the cenote is a priority, keep that in mind.

What is the tour’s rating?
It has a solid 4.5 out of 5 based on 19 reviews, with 95% recommending it, which indicates generally positive feedback.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, allowing flexibility if needed.

Who operates the tour?
It’s operated by Cancun Bay Tours, with contact info available for any specific questions or concerns.

If you love scenic lakes, cultural stories, and a well-organized day trip, this Bacalar lagoon tour might be just what you’re looking for. Just go in knowing it’s a full-day commitment with some travel time, but with the potential for incredible sights and memories.