Costa Maya: Bacalar Lagoon and Cenote Boat Adventure

Costa Maya: Bacalar Lagoon and Cenote Boat Adventure

Looking for a way to experience some of Quintana Roo’s most captivating sights without wasting hours on travel? This tour offers a solid mix of natural beauty, history, and relaxation, all wrapped into just over five hours. It’s a trip that seems well-suited for travelers who appreciate scenic views, a bit of cultural insight, and a chance to cool off in clear waters.

What we really like about this tour is its variety — you get to see Bacalar Lagoon’s stunning waters, visit the historic San Felipe Fort, and swim in two different cenotes that promise refreshing, crystal-clear waters. The fact that refreshments are included throughout the day makes it feel relaxed rather than rushed. But one thing to keep in mind is that this is a group activity with a maximum of 78 travelers, so it might not feel as intimate as some other adventures. Still, it’s a good option for those who want a bit of everything in one go.

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a balanced taste of history, natural beauty, and leisure. It’s especially suited for those who don’t mind being part of a larger group and are looking for a reasonably priced, well-organized day trip that’s quite straightforward. If you’re not into swimming or physical activity, this tour might have a few parts that aren’t perfect for you — but overall, it offers a good way to see Bacalar and its surroundings without overcommitting your time.

Key Points

• Convenient location: Just an hour from Costa Maya Port, making it easy to fit into a cruise or local itinerary.
• Varied highlights: Combines cultural, natural, and scenic stops for a well-rounded experience.
• Included refreshments: Snacks and drinks throughout keep you energized without extra costs.
• Accessible for most: Most travelers can participate, though non-swimmers should be cautious.
• Group size: Up to 78 travelers, which offers a social atmosphere but can impact intimacy.
• Pricing and value: At $159 per person, it offers good value considering the number of stops and inclusions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Bacalar Lagoon and Cenote Boat Adventure

When considering this tour, it’s helpful to understand what makes each stop worthwhile. Starting with the Bacalar Lagoon, known as the “Lagoon of Seven Colors,” it’s renowned for its striking, shifting shades of blue and its calm, inviting waters. While the tour doesn’t explicitly mention swimming here, many visitors find the boat ride itself a relaxing way to soak in the views. The lagoon’s natural beauty is a highlight you’ll definitely want to appreciate from the water, and the boat allows you to see more of its many corners.

Next, the visit to San Felipe Fort offers a taste of history. Built to defend against pirates and other invaders, the fort is a short stop that provides some insight into the area’s past. Visitors say the entrance fee is about $5 USD per person, payable in cash, which is a small extra to pay for a glimpse into local history. It’s a quick visit, but worth it if you’re interested in how the area has been shaped over the centuries. One traveler mentioned that the fort “gives a nice perspective on the local history,” making it a worthwhile addition for history buffs.

The boat trip also takes you to Pirate’s Channel, a fun spot that adds a splash of adventure and gives you a different perspective on the lagoon’s terrain. It’s a good way to feel like you’re exploring hidden corners, and the boat ride itself is comfortable, with a group size that keeps it lively but manageable.

Now, onto the cenotes — Cenote la Bruja and Cenote Cocalitos. These are the true gems for anyone craving that quintessential swim in clear, cool waters. Cenote la Bruja is often described as fascinating due to its natural surroundings and stunning water clarity. Many reviewers emphasize how peaceful and beautiful it is; one noted they loved the “crystal-clear waters perfect for cooling off.” Cenote Cocalitos is another popular spot, especially for its scenic setting and the chance to float in refreshing waters after a hot day of sightseeing.

What makes the cenotes stand out is their natural beauty and tranquility. The tour’s inclusion of two cenotes gives you ample time to relax and enjoy the surroundings. Keep in mind, these stops involve swimming, so comfortable swimwear and a towel are must-haves.

The Practicalities: What to Expect and How to Prepare

The tour starts with transportation from Costa Maya Port in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, which is a plus after a hot day exploring or just arriving. It lasts about 5.5 hours, so it’s a good half-day activity — enough time to see multiple sights without feeling overly rushed.

Your guide, who speaks both Spanish and English, will lead the way, offering insights and ensuring everyone stays on schedule. The group size maxes out at around 78 travelers, which can be lively but may also mean less personal attention from your guide. If you enjoy meeting new people or just prefer a relaxed, social environment, this setup can be quite fun.

The included snacks — cheese or turkey sandwiches, a granola bar, chips, and a piece of fruit — are simple but effective in keeping hunger at bay. Plus, you’ll have bottled water, sodas, juice, and beer to sip at your leisure. This makes it easier to stay refreshed during the day’s activities.

When packing, bring comfortable shoes, a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, snacks, sunscreen, and water. You won’t need to worry about lunch since the tour provides snacks and drinks, but bringing your own extra water or a camera is always a good idea.

The tour isn’t suitable for non-swimmers or those with serious medical conditions. If you’re comfortable in the water and enjoy a mix of history and nature, this trip offers a straightforward way to experience Bacalar’s highlights.

The Realistic View: What You Should Know

While this tour covers a lot, it’s worth noting that some travelers have expressed that the group size can make it feel a little crowded at times. Also, since there’s a fee for San Felipe Fort, it’s good to have a few extra dollars in cash on hand.

The tour’s cost of $159 per person is reasonable, considering all the stops and inclusions, but for those who are budget-conscious, you may want to compare with other options. Still, the convenience of roundtrip transportation and guided commentary makes it a good deal for many.

And if you’re someone who loves a scenic boat ride, this will hit the spot. The views of Bacalar Lagoon are often described as stunning, with water that seems to shift through shades of blue and green, making it a feast for the eyes.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure is best suited for travelers who want a mix of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and a bit of adventure. It’s a good pick if you’re comfortable with group activities, enjoy swimming in natural waters, and want to get a quick but comprehensive taste of Bacalar and its surroundings.

If you’re traveling with children who can swim and appreciate outdoor activities, they should enjoy the cenote stops. However, non-swimmers or those with mobility issues might find certain parts less accessible.

In summary, this tour offers a practical way to explore some of Quintana Roo’s most beautiful sights without overextending your day — perfect for a cruise day or a quick escape from the coast.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, roundtrip transportation from Costa Maya Port is part of the package, making it easy to plan without additional logistics.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs about 5.5 hours, which includes stops, travel time, and free time at each site.

What is included in the price?
You get just about everything — transportation, visits to San Felipe Fort, two cenotes, Pirate’s Channel, snacks, and drinks including beer.

Are there any extra costs?
Yes, the entrance fee to San Felipe Fort, which is about $5 USD per person, payable in cash.

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Most likely not, since swimming in the cenotes is part of the experience and non-swimmers might find that part challenging.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, hat, swimwear, towel, camera, snacks, sunscreen, and water.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility.

Is there a guide?
Yes, the tour is led by a live guide who speaks both Spanish and English.

This tour provides a nice balance of natural beauty, history, and leisure for anyone looking to get a true taste of what Quintana Roo offers. It’s not the most exclusive or intimate experience, but it’s well-organized and packed with sights that make it worthwhile — especially if stunning water views and a relaxed pace are what you’re after.

You can check availability for your dates here: