Bacalar Tour: Magical Town and Lagoon of the 7 Colors

Traveling to the Yucatán Peninsula offers so many choices, but if you’re after a trip that combines breathtaking scenery, local flavor, and a bit of history, this Bacalar Tour from Playa del Carmen might just be worth considering. While I haven’t done this specific tour myself, I’ve looked into the details to help you decide whether it’s right for your travel plans.

What drew me in are two standout features: first, the chance to see Bacalar’s famous Lagoon of the 7 Colors, renowned for its vibrant hues and crystal-clear waters, and second, the variety of experiences packed into one day—from swimming in cenotes to exploring historic forts. However, the tour runs long—about 13 hours—and involves quite a bit of walking and moving from site to site, so it’s not ideal if you’re looking for a more relaxed pace.

This tour feels best suited for travelers who are eager to pack in a lot of sights, enjoy outdoor activities, and don’t mind a full day on the move. If you’re traveling with family or friends who love nature and history, it offers a solid mix of both, with enough structure to keep you engaged throughout the day.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Convenience: The tour includes transportation, guides, meals, and activities, making it a straightforward option for sightseeing.
• Variety of Stops: From cenotes to forts and lagoon boat rides, you’ll get a well-rounded experience of Bacalar.
• Time Commitment: Expect a full day, roughly 13 hours, with early start times and lots of walking.
• Cost-Value Balance: At $56 per person, including meals and activities, it offers good value, though drinks at the restaurant and taxes are extra.
• Tour Size & Flexibility: Limited to 39 travelers, with shared transportation that makes logistics easier.
• Photo Opportunities: The Bacalar letters spot is perfect for capturing memories of this charming town.

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point: Bacalar Town & Breakfast

The day kicks off early at 6:00 am with pickup in Playa del Carmen, which is pretty convenient since it takes the hassle out of logistics—your ride is sorted. We loved the idea of beginning the day with a local breakfast in Bacalar, choosing from dishes like chilaquiles, eggs with chaya, or hot cakes. The breakfast is a nice way to fuel up before the long day ahead, and it sets a friendly, local tone.

Visiting Cenote Azul

Next, you’ll head to Cenote Azul, a highlight for many. This cenote is a natural sinkhole with striking blue waters, perfect for a swim or just soaking in the scenery. The description mentions enjoying nature’s magic, and honestly, it lives up to that—bright waters, lush surroundings, and a chance to cool off from the tropical heat. It’s worth noting that admission here is free, so the focus is on the experience and swimming.

A common comment from travelers is how stunning the views are—it’s a place that makes you wish you had more time to linger. The tour allows about three hours here, so you can enjoy swimming, snapping photos, or just relaxing by the water.

Mármol Water Park & Lagoon Adventure

After breakfast and cenote fun, the tour moves onto Balneario Mármol, a water park spot where visitors can wade in clear waters amidst beautiful marble-like formations. It’s more relaxed but still visually striking. The next stop is the Bacalar Lagoon, the star of the trip.

Here, you’ll enjoy a boat tour across the lagoon, which is probably the most talked-about part of the day. The views of the seven different shades of blue are breathtaking, and the boat ride offers a chance to see the lagoon from a different perspective. You’ll also have time to glide across the waters on a pontoon, soaking in the scenery—an experience many say is truly memorable.

One thing to keep in mind: the lagoon’s beauty is the main draw, and the pictures you’ll capture here will be some of your favorites. The tour’s schedule allocates around four hours for this section, which feels just right to take in the sights without feeling rushed.

Historic & Cultural Stops: Fort San Felipe & Bacalar Letters

The tour also includes visits to Fuerte San Felipe, an old fortress built to defend against pirates. We loved how it offers a glimpse into Bacalar’s past, with the added benefit of panoramic views of the lagoon from the fort. It’s a quick stop—about two hours—but worth the time for history buffs or anyone interested in the region’s stories.

The last stop is the Bacalar letters—a bright, colorful landmark perfect for photos. It’s a fun, lighthearted way to cap off the day and collect a visual souvenir of your adventure.

Meals & Refreshments

Meals are included, with a choice of seven different dishes for lunch—fish fillets, grilled options, chicken, and more. This is a practical way to keep energy up after all the activity. The inclusion of bottled water throughout keeps you hydrated, which is especially important on a full day of outdoor exploration.

What’s Not Included & Additional Costs

One important detail: drinks at the restaurant aren’t included, so if you want alcohol or extra beverages, you’ll need to budget for that. Plus, taxes are an additional MX$765 per person, which adds up, so be prepared for that extra expense.

Transportation & Group Size

The tour offers round-trip transportation in luxury air-conditioned buses, which is great for comfort and convenience. The group size caps at 39 travelers, so it’s a manageable experience where you can expect some socializing but also room to breathe. The early start means an early wake-up, but also more time to enjoy the day.

The Logistics

Starting at 6:00 am, the tour makes sure you’re back around the evening, allowing for a full day of sightseeing. Be ready for lots of walking and standing, especially at sites like the fort and lagoon, so wearing comfortable shoes and clothing is a smart move.

From the Reviews & What You Should Know

While there are no reviews posted yet, the detailed itinerary paints a picture of a well-organized, activity-packed day. The free cancellation policy offers peace of mind, and the small group size should enhance the experience.

One thing to consider: this is a busy, full-day adventure. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, or if traveling with young children or those with mobility issues, you might find it a bit exhausting. But if you’re eager to see as much as possible in one day and enjoy outdoor activities, this could be a great fit.

Is This Tour Worth It?

When you break down the value—$56 including transportation, guided tours, meals, and multiple activities—the price seems reasonable for a full day of diverse experiences. However, keep in mind that drinks and additional taxes are extra. The included meals and guided insights add convenience, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area.

This tour is especially suited for those who want to maximize their time in Bacalar without the hassle of planning each stop individually. It’s a good choice if you want to see the lagoon’s famous waters, learn about local history, and enjoy some of the best natural sights in one day.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers who love outdoor adventures and scenic views. If you’re after a comprehensive day of exploring, the itinerary offers a balanced mix of nature, culture, and fun photo ops. It’s also suitable for those comfortable with a full schedule and walking. Families with older children and teenagers who enjoy water activities and history might find it especially appealing.

In contrast, if you prefer more leisurely, flexible outings or are traveling with very young kids, you may want to consider other options or smaller, more relaxed tours.

FAQ

Q: What is included in the tour?
A: The tour includes shared transportation, certified guides, swimming at Cenote Azul, breakfast, a boat tour of Bacalar lagoon, a visit to San Felipe Fort, bottled water, a visit to the Bacalar letters, and a lunch with a choice of seven dishes.

Q: How long is the tour?
A: The entire experience lasts approximately 13 hours, starting early at 6:00 am and returning in the evening.

Q: Are meals provided?
A: Yes, breakfast and lunch are included, with multiple menu options to choose from for each meal.

Q: What’s not included?
A: Drinks at the restaurant are not included, and there is an additional tax of MX$765 per person.

Q: Is pickup included?
A: Yes, pickup in shared transportation is included in the tour price.

Q: How many people are in each group?
A: The maximum group size is 39 travelers, ensuring a relatively intimate experience.

Q: Is this tour suitable for families?
A: While families with older children who enjoy outdoor activities and walking will find it enjoyable, the full-day schedule might be tiring for very young children.

Q: Do I need to bring anything?
A: Wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for walking and water activities. Bringing sunscreen and a hat is also advisable.

Q: Will I have free time?
A: The schedule is quite packed, but there’s some flexibility during activities like swimming and photo stops.

Q: Can I cancel this tour?
A: Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This Bacalar tour offers a fulfilling, well-rounded day that showcases the best of this stunning region, from its vibrant waters to historic sites. It’s a solid pick for travelers eager to see a lot in one day without worrying about logistics, with enough natural beauty, cultural insights, and photo opportunities to make it memorable.

However, be prepared for a long, active day—if you’re after a more relaxed experience or traveling with very young children, you might want to explore other options. For those ready for a full immersion into Bacalar’s natural and historical highlights, this tour provides a good balance of adventure and comfort, wrapped up in a convenient package.