Bacalar: Calakmul Ruins Day Trip with a Stop In The Jungle

Planning a trip from Bacalar to explore the ancient Mayan city of Calakmul? This full-day tour has been getting rave reviews, and for good reason. It promises a mix of archaeological marvels and natural beauty, all delivered by knowledgeable local guides who really know their stuff. Whether you’re into history, wildlife, or just want to see the jungle from a different perspective, this trip might just be worth adding to your itinerary.

Two things we really like about this experience are the chance to climb the towering pyramids and the guided walk through the jungle that ups your chances of spotting wildlife. Plus, the tour includes hotel pickups, making logistics super straightforward.

One thing to keep in mind? The price doesn’t include entry tickets to the reserve and ruins, which adds around $405 pesos (~$22 USD) per person. It’s an extra step, but given what you get in return, most seem to think it’s a fair deal. This trip suits travelers who don’t mind a long day and want an in-depth look at Mayan history with a sprinkle of nature and adventure.

Key Points

• Comprehensive experience: Combines archaeological sites with a jungle trek and wildlife spotting.
• Expert guides: Native guides with well-reviewed knowledge and friendliness.
• Convenient logistics: Hotel pickup and drop-off included.
• Focus on nature: Short jungle walk offers good chances of seeing local fauna.
• Cost considerations: Entry tickets are extra, totaling about 405 pesos.
• Long but rewarding: The full 12-hour day is packed, so expect an early start and late finish.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Calakmul Day Trip

If you’re thinking about making this trip, here’s what you can generally expect—and what might influence your decision.

The Itinerary and Travel Time

The tour starts with pickup from your hotel or Airbnb in Bacalar, Chetumal, or Xul-Ha—whichever spot you’re staying in. The journey itself is about three hours in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, which is pretty efficient for this kind of trip. Once you arrive at the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve, it’s about an hour and a half scenic drive deeper into the jungle, setting the perfect scene for your exploration.

The real highlight begins with a guided tour of Calakmul’s ruins, which takes around three hours. Expect to see some of the tallest pyramids in Mesoamerica, including Temple I and Temple II, and learn about the significance of this ancient city that once ruled the region. Your guide will help you understand the stories behind these structures, many of which you can climb, offering sweeping views across the jungle canopy.

After exploring the ruins, the journey back includes another scenic drive, giving you a chance to reflect on the day’s discoveries before returning to Bacalar.

What Makes the Ruins Special?

From reviews, it’s clear that Calakmul’s enormous pyramids and its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site make it a must-see. Many travelers have expressed how impressive it is to stand atop these ancient structures, imagining the civilization that built them. The site’s relative remoteness adds to its charm—you’re not crowded, and the atmosphere feels quite authentic.

The Jungle Walk and Wildlife Spotting

A major part of this tour is the 30-minute walk in the jungle, which is designed to boost your chances of seeing wildlife. Guides are quite adept at calling out for animals like monkeys or birds, and several reviews mention successful sightings of tucans, monkeys, and even deer. One reviewer noted that their guide “successfully imitated the monkey noises to encourage them to roar,” which really highlights the interactive element of this experience.

Travelers who love nature will appreciate the chance to see fauna in their natural habitat, though it’s not guaranteed—wildlife is unpredictable. Still, the walk adds an enriching layer that elevates this trip beyond just a sightseeing tour.

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The Guides and Service

Throughout the reviews, guides consistently receive praise for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to make the experience enjoyable. For example, one reviewer said, “Armando was a brilliant and amazing guide; he kept our pace in a smart manner.” From storytelling at the ruins to calling animals in the jungle, guides seem to be a core part of why this tour stands out.

The Cost and What’s Included

At $152 per person, this trip offers a lot—if you consider the full experience. The price covers transportation, a local guide, and traveler insurance. The tour also provides a cooler with drinks, which is a nice touch on a hot day.

However, entry to the Biosphere Reserve and Mayan ruins is not included, adding about 405 pesos (~$22 USD) per person, plus optional fees for filming or photography equipment. Many reviewers mention these extra costs upfront, so it’s wise to budget accordingly.

The Long Day and Practicalities

This is a 12-hour trip with early pickup and late return, so prepare for a full day. Some reviewers wish the jungle stop was longer, as one noted, “the jungle stop could be longer and deeper into the forest.” Still, most agree that the schedule is well-organized and the journey comfortable.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re into archaeology and history, you’ll love the chance to climb pyramids and learn about Calakmul from passionate guides. Wildlife enthusiasts will enjoy the jungle walk and the possibility of spotting animals. It’s also a good choice if you prefer to avoid driving long distances yourself, as transport is taken care of.

But if you’re after a leisurely day or traveling with very young children, this might be a challenge due to the long hours and physical activity involved.

A Balanced Perspective

This tour strikes a good balance between adventure and education. The guides’ expertise clearly enriches the experience, helping you appreciate the significance of Calakmul and its surroundings. The jungle walk adds a spontaneous element—if you’re lucky, you’ll see some wildlife, which many reviewers have enjoyed.

On the downside, the cost of entry fees isn’t included, which can feel like an extra hurdle, especially if you’re on a tight budget. Some travelers also mention that the activity can be quite long, but if you’re prepared for a full-day adventure, it’s manageable.

In terms of value, many say the experience is worth it, especially considering the convenience of pickup and the inclusion of drinks. Others feel the activity might be pricey compared to similar tours, but most agree the guides’ knowledge and the site’s grandeur justify the expense.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This trip is ideal for travelers who want a full-immersion archaeological and nature experience without the hassle of planning logistics. It suits those who are comfortable spending most of the day outdoors and walking in the jungle. Photography enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunity to capture the pyramids and wildlife, though professional equipment like drones or tripods is not permitted.

If you’re visiting Bacalar and are interested in seeing one of the most significant Mayan archaeological sites, this tour provides a well-rounded, knowledgeable introduction. It’s also suitable if you’re traveling with a group that enjoys guided experiences with small groups, as the tour is limited to 13 participants.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional guide in English and Spanish, a cooler with drinks, insurance, and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle. Entry tickets to the biosphere reserve and ruins are not included but can be purchased separately.

How long is the total trip?
The entire day lasts about 12 hours, beginning with early pickup and ending with drop-offs back in Bacalar or your chosen location.

Do I need to bring my own food?
Yes, it’s recommended to bring a packed lunch, as the tour does not include meals or snacks. Also, bring water, snacks, and insect repellent for the jungle walk.

How challenging is the jungle walk?
The walk lasts around 30 minutes and involves some uneven terrain, so comfortable walking shoes are advisable. It’s a short walk designed to increase wildlife sightings.

Are children allowed on this tour?
While not explicitly stated, the tour’s physical nature and length suggest it’s better suited for older children or teenagers who can handle a full day outdoors.

What are the main costs outside the tour fee?
You should budget around 405 pesos (~$22 USD) for entrance tickets to the reserve and ruins. Additional fees for filming or professional photography are extra.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Probably not ideal, given the walking involved in exploring the ruins and the jungle walk.

How do I get the tickets for entry?
Tickets are purchased separately, either in advance or on the day of the visit, at the entrance. Your guide can advise or assist if needed.

Can I climb the pyramids?
Yes, several structures are climbable, offering great views and photo opportunities, as noted by travelers who appreciated the chance to explore the pyramids firsthand.

Is wildlife guaranteed to be seen?
No, wildlife sightings depend on luck and timing, but guides do their best to call and encourage animals to come into view. Many reviews mention successful sightings.

If you’re intrigued by combining history and nature, and you’re prepared for a full, active day, this tour from Bacalar offers a rewarding peek into Mayan civilization amid its lush jungle setting. It’s a good pick for curious travelers who want a guided experience that balances archaeological discovery with wildlife spotting and scenic drives.

You can check availability for your dates here: