Bacalar Lagoon & Kayak Tour in Club Marmol from Playa del Carmen

If you’re looking to escape the busy beaches of Playa del Carmen and experience one of Mexico’s truly special spots, this Bacalar Lagoon & Kayak Tour might catch your eye. While I haven’t done this exact tour myself, I’ve gathered plenty of details to help you decide whether it’s the right fit for your travel plans.

What stands out immediately are the stunning views of Bacalar’s ‘Laguna de Siete Colores’ and the chance to kayak on this beautiful water body. Plus, the inclusion of a visit to a historic fortress adds a bit of local flavor and history to the day. The tour is designed to give you a well-rounded glimpse of what makes Bacalar such a magical town—perfect if you’re craving a mix of nature, culture, and adventure.

However, it’s worth noting that this tour involves quite a long day—about 12 hours—and the drive from Playa del Carmen is over four hours one way. For some, that might be a bit of a stretch, especially if you prefer shorter excursions. But if you’re comfortable with a full-day trip and appreciate well-organized logistics, this could be a great way to see Bacalar without the hassle of planning it yourself.

This tour is really suited for travelers who love scenic outings, enjoy water activities, and want to explore a less touristy part of Mexico. It’s not ideal if you’re short on time or prefer a more relaxed, less scheduled experience. That said, if you’re after a full immersion into Bacalar’s natural beauty and history, this tour covers most of the highlights efficiently.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: You’ll enjoy panoramic sights of Bacalar’s famous seven shades of blue and the Fort of San Felipe.
• All-Inclusive Convenience: Transportation, meals, kayak access, and a visit to a charming club are included, making it easier to relax.
• Long Day, Rich Experience: Around 12 hours, including travel, but packed with diverse stops.
• Good Value for Money: At $139 per person, it offers a lot—especially considering the included activities.
• Tour Logistics: Pickup is offered, and small-group transport helps keep things organized.
• Potential Long Drive: Over four hours each way, which might be tiring for some.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Transportation and Timing

One of the standout features of this tour is the transportation. We’ve seen reviews noting the “awesome transportation” and friendly staff, which really makes the long day more manageable. The logistics involve gathering everyone in smaller vehicles, then transferring to a larger bus—this can mean a bit of waiting and some time on the road, but it’s generally well-organized.

Start time is early, at 6:30 am, so be prepared for a full day. The drive from Playa del Carmen to Bacalar is about 4+ hours, and travelers report that the scenic ride is generally comfortable, although it’s a long haul. As one reviewer pointed out, “this is a 4+ hour trip from Playa del Carmen,” and whether it’s worth it depends on your travel style. If you love road trips and seeing the countryside, this won’t be a problem; if you’re more time-sensitive, it’s good to know upfront.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Cenote Azul
This is a highlight. The tour kicks off with a visit to this unique natural formation, where you can cool off in clear, refreshing waters right next to Bacalar Lagoon. The inclusion of breakfast here adds a nice touch, allowing you to start your day energized. The cenote is known for its natural beauty, and the water clarity is often praised by visitors. Expect roughly two hours here, giving you ample time to swim, take photos, or simply relax.

Stop 2: El Cielo Beach Club Bacalar
Next, you’ll visit the beach club, where the lagoon’s different shades of blue truly come alive. The tour allows for two hours at this stop, which is perfect for lounging, swimming, and soaking in the scenery. The club also provides amenities so you can enjoy the setting comfortably. The three cenotes within the lagoon make this area especially fascinating, with waters overflowing into the lagoon, creating those iconic color variations.

Stop 3: Bacalar Town
You’ll spend about an hour and a half in the town itself, a peaceful place filled with natural beauty and history. This quick visit offers a chance to stroll around, take photos, and enjoy the tranquil vibe. It’s a nice breather and a chance to soak in the local atmosphere without feeling rushed.

Historic Fortress
A highlight for history buffs—visiting the Fuerte de San Felipe. The fortress dates back to pirate times, and the tour includes panoramic views of Bacalar Lagoon. The chance to view the fort and learn a little of its past adds depth beyond just water and scenery.

Water Activities and Club Access

The real highlight for many is the kayak adventure at Mar&Mol Club, included in the tour. You get one hour of kayak time, allowing you to paddle across the calm waters and see Bacalar from a different perspective. The club’s location on the lagoon offers fantastic amenities, making it a relaxing spot to unwind after the water activities.

Lunch and bottled water are included, which is a nice touch, and you can purchase additional drinks separately. While drinks at the restaurant aren’t included, the overall package offers good value, especially considering the scenic location.

The Experience & Reviews

The tour is well-rated, with a 4-star average from a small sample of reviews. One reviewer, Maurice_H, said, “Awesome transportation. Friendly staff and delivered as advertised. The only downside was the long drive.” This honesty about the lengthy journey is helpful for planning. It’s clear that the quality of the transport and staff makes the trip smoother, but the long hours on the road are something to consider.

Another point to note is that this tour is designed to give you a complete Bacalar experience in one day, which means the schedule is tight. If you’re someone who prefers a leisurely pace, you might find it a bit rushed, especially with so much ground to cover.

Price and Value

At $139 per person, including all the activities, meals, and transport, this tour offers solid value. You’re essentially paying for a full day of varied experiences—nature, history, water sports—without the hassle of planning each element separately. However, keep in mind that you’re paying for the convenience and the guided experience. If you’re budget-conscious and enjoy doing things independently, you might find this a bit pricey compared to DIY options.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a full-day adventure that combines scenic beauty, water activities, and cultural history. It’s suited to those who don’t mind a long travel day—if you’re comfortable with a car ride of over four hours each way, you’ll find this trip rewarding.

It’s especially great for those who value organized logistics and guided insights. Families with older kids, groups of friends, or solo travelers who enjoy structured tours will appreciate the ease. If you’re after a relaxing day lounging on the beach, this might be a little packed for your taste, but for active travelers, it hits most of the highlights.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a well-organized way to see Bacalar’s most beautiful spots, this tour is worth considering. The inclusion of kayaking, panoramic views, and a historic fortress balances nature with culture, making for a well-rounded day. The price reflects the comprehensive nature of the experience—transport, meals, activities, and access to a lovely club—offering good value for those wanting an all-in-one adventure.

Just be prepared for the long drive and a busy schedule. If you’re comfortable with spending most of the day on the road, and you want to see Bacalar’s famous colors and historical sites without the hassle of planning, this tour could be a highlight of your trip.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes round transportation from Playa del Carmen hotels, with pickup offered to make things easier.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 12 hours, with the possibility of it taking longer depending on your location and traffic.

What activities are included?
You get access to Cenote Azul, a kayak adventure for one hour at Mar&Mol Club, and visits to the lagoon, beach club, and Fort of San Felipe.

Is food provided?
Yes, breakfast at Cenote Azul and lunch at the club are included, along with bottled water.

Can I buy drinks at the restaurant?
Beverages are not included, but you can purchase drinks separately.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, it can be suitable for older children who enjoy water activities. Keep in mind the long day involved.

What should I bring?
Wear comfortable clothes and shoes, bring your swimsuit, towels, extra clothes, and your belongings. Remember no sunscreen if you plan to see stromatolites.

How many people are in a group?
The tour accommodates a maximum of 60 travelers, but logistics help keep the group manageable.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers some flexibility in case plans change.

In the end, this Bacalar Lagoon & Kayak tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of what makes this town special—if you’re prepared for the long day and want everything organized for you, it’s a solid choice. For those craving a blend of nature, history, and water fun, Bacalar’s famous colors await.