Bacalar Lagoon & Chacchoben Mayan Ruins from Costa Maya

If you’re considering a day trip from Costa Maya to explore the region’s ancient past and stunning natural beauty, this tour offers a balanced glimpse into both. It combines the archaeological intrigue of the Chacchoben Mayan ruins with the breathtaking colors of Bacalar Lagoon, providing a well-rounded experience for travelers craving history and scenery.

What we really like about this tour is how it manages to fit two major highlights into a manageable half-day. First, the guided exploration of the Mayan ruins promises insights and impressive structures, while the Lagoon visit offers relaxing water activities and spectacular views. Plus, the inclusion of lunch and kayaks makes the overall value quite appealing.

That said, one thing to keep in mind is the timing and organization — reviews suggest the itinerary can sometimes feel a little rushed or confusing, especially for those unfamiliar with the area. This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive taste of Costa Maya’s history and natural beauty without overextending their day or spending too much.

If you’re someone who appreciates engaging guides, scenic surroundings, and a good mix of activity and relaxation, this trip could be a solid choice. It’s perfect for travelers with a day dedicated to exploring and soaking up the best of the region, whether you’re interested in Mayan culture or just looking to unwind by the lagoon.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary featuring both ancient ruins and natural scenery
• Guided tour with knowledgeable, personable guides
• Includes lunch, bottled water, and kayaks, adding value
• Round-trip transfers from just outside Costa Maya Port make logistics easy
• Tour duration of about 5.5 hours is manageable for most travelers
• Some reviews highlight timing issues and initial difficulty finding the meeting point

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Visiting Chacchoben: A Hidden Mayan Treasure

Starting with Chacchoben, you’ll visit one of the least explored Mayan sites in Mexico, dating back to around 200 BC. The fact that it’s less crowded than other archaeological sites is a real plus — you can soak in the history with fewer travelers around. The site is located in the jungle, and the soundscape of nature combined with ancient structures makes for a memorable visit.

The guided tour is a key part of this stop. Reviewers mention guides like Rosie and Lorenzo, who are both praised for their knowledge and personable approach. According to one guest, Lorenzo was “incredible,” and another notes the guide’s ability to bring the history alive in a respectful and engaging way. The monuments and temples are fascinating to climb, offering spectacular views of the jungle and an opportunity to get a feel for how the Mayans lived.

However, some reviews point out that finding the starting point can be tricky, and the timing at the ruins might be a bit tight, especially if you’re running late or if the tour is delayed. The admission fee at Chacchoben, about $5.00 USD for camera use, is paid directly there — a small additional cost for the chance to capture your trip.

Exploring Bacalar Lagoon: The Seven-Color Wonder

After the ruins, you’ll head over to Bacalar Lagoon, famed for its seven distinct shades of blue. The water here is cool, refreshing, and calm — perfect for swimming, kayaking, or just floating around and taking in the scenery. The reviews frequently mention how stunning the views are, with visitors describing the lagoon as “absolutely amazing,” and “a must-see.”

The lunch at the lagoon generally consists of local fajitas, which are a hit among guests, especially given the delicious flavors and generous portions. Alongside the food, you get soft drinks and bottled water, which come in handy after the water activities.

Guests have also noted that kayaking is included, and it’s a great way to explore the lagoon’s peaceful waters. Even if you’re not an experienced paddler, the calm environment makes it easy to enjoy. One review mentions that the lagoon was “beautiful,” but also notes that recent weather conditions (heavy rains) can slightly affect the waters’ clarity or vibrancy.

Transportation and Group Size

The air-conditioned vehicle makes all the difference in comfort, especially when traveling between the ruins and the lagoon. The group size can be up to 80 travelers, but reviews suggest that most experiences are with small groups, often around a handful of guests, like in the case of a couple or a family.

Timing-wise, the tour departs about an hour after your cruise arrives, making it a convenient option for those arriving at Costa Maya. The 15-minute walk from the port to the meeting point is manageable, but travelers should be prepared for a little bit of walking and navigating.

Cost and Value

At just under $120 per person, the tour offers good value considering it includes guided sightseeing, lunch, bottled water, kayaks, and round-trip transport. For travelers wanting a snapshot of both cultural and natural highlights, this is a decent deal. However, keep in mind the additional $5 camera fee at Chacchoben, which is a small extra, but worth noting.

Real Traveler Insights

Many reviewers praise the guides, mentioning how knowledgeable and engaging they are. For example, one highlighted guide said, “Yoshi was very informative and took the time to answer all our questions,” making the experience more meaningful.

Guests also appreciate the overall organization, with some noting that everything ran smoothly. Others mention a little confusion upon arrival, so arriving early or following detailed instructions can help. The lunch is consistently praised as delicious and filling, and the views at Bacalar leave a lasting impression.

Some less favorable feedback points to shorter-than-expected durations or weather conditions impacting the lagoon’s appearance, but these are things you might experience with outdoor tours.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip works well for adventurous travelers who want a mix of history and relaxation. Visitors interested in Mayan culture will enjoy the guided tour of Chacchoben, especially if they appreciate less crowded sites. Nature lovers and water enthusiasts will find the lagoon visit relaxing and scenic, with plenty of opportunities to swim or kayak.

While it’s not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, families with older children or teens could find it enjoyable, especially if they’re interested in history and water activities. The tour’s manageable length makes it suitable for travelers who prefer not to be out all day.

The tour is also a good choice for cruise passengers wanting a comprehensive experience without overcommitting their time in port. It’s especially appealing to those who value expert guides and authentic local cuisine.

FAQ

How long is the entire tour?
It lasts approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes, making it a half-day adventure that fits well into a cruise schedule.

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transfers from just outside Costa Maya Port are provided in an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring comfort throughout the day.

Are kayaks included in the price?
Absolutely, kayaks are part of the package, offering a fun way to explore Bacalar Lagoon’s calm waters.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, water shoes, a towel, and your camera (note the $5 camera fee at Chacchoben). Some guests also recommend hats and sunglasses for sun protection.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, the water activities and scenic sights could appeal to older children and teens. Younger kids should be considered based on their comfort with walking and water.

What if my ship doesn’t call port?
The tour guarantees a full refund if your cruise ship fails to arrive or does not dock at Costa Maya, offering peace of mind for travelers concerned about timing.

Final Thoughts

For anyone looking to experience the essence of Costa Maya in a single trip, this tour offers a good balance of history, water, scenery, and local flavors. The combination of Mayan ruins and the Seven-Color Lagoon means you get both cultural insight and natural beauty, all in a manageable timeframe.

The guides’ knowledge and friendliness are a highlight, making the experience more engaging and memorable. The included lunch and water activities add value, especially for travelers aiming to make the most of their limited port time.

While some minor organizational hiccups are possible, overall, this tour provides a solid, enjoyable day for those wanting a well-rounded visit without overextending. It’s a good pick for cruise guests, history enthusiasts, and water lovers alike.

Enjoy your trip and make sure to capture those gorgeous lagoon views—Costa Maya’s natural beauty and ancient history await!