Bacalar: Seven Colors Lagoon Boat Tour

Exploring Bacalar’s Seven Colors Lagoon Boat Tour: A Detailed Look

Thinking about visiting Bacalar and wondering if a boat tour is worth your time? While I haven’t personally taken this specific trip, I’ve researched it thoroughly and talked to travelers who’ve done it. The Bacalar: Seven Colors Lagoon Boat Tour offers a full day immersed in the stunning scenery and fascinating history of this charming Mexican town.

What makes this experience particularly appealing are the breathtaking views of the lagoon’s vibrant blues and the mix of natural and cultural highlights. Plus, the tour’s structure—covering cenotes, a historic fortress, and Bacalar’s lively town center—means you get a well-rounded look at the area in just one day.

However, keep in mind that the price of $138 per person might seem steep for some, especially considering the tour lasts around 12 hours. If you’re on a budget or prefer more flexible, independent excursions, this might feel a bit pricey. But if guided experiences with transportation, meals, and multiple stops appeal to you, this tour could be a solid choice.

This tour is best suited for travelers who love stunning scenery and want a mix of relaxation, adventure, and culture. It’s also suitable if you enjoy organized, comprehensive days with a knowledgeable guide, especially if you’re interested in history and natural beauty combined.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery: The lagoon’s seven distinct blue shades make it a visual highlight.
• Historical insights: Visits to San Felipe Fort add a layer of cultural depth.
• Full-day experience: From early morning pickup to evening return, expect a long but rewarding day.
• Variety of stops: Natural wonders like cenotes, quiet lagoons, and lively Bacalar town.
• All-in-one package: Transportation, meals, and entry fees are included, simplifying planning.
• Group size: Tours are capped at 45 travelers, balancing social atmosphere and comfort.

What You Can Expect on This Bacalar Tour

Starting the Day: Cenote Azul

Your adventure kicks off with a visit to Cenote Azul, a highlight for many travelers. This cenote is known for its crystal-clear, refreshing waters and impressive depth. Imagine swimming in a natural pool surrounded by lush jungle greenery—it’s a perfect way to shake off travel fatigue and get into the mood for exploring. The admission fee is included, and you’ll spend about an hour here.

From what travelers have shared, this spot sets the tone for the day. It’s a peaceful place to relax, take photos, and soak up the vibrant blue hues that Bacalar is famous for.

Xul-Ha Lagoon: Quiet Moments in Nature

Next, you’ll make a quick stop at Laguna Xul-Ha. This lagoon isn’t as famous as the main lagoon, but it offers a calm, shaded setting ideal for unwinding. Surrounded by gardens and peaceful scenery, it’s a prime spot for connecting with nature, and the best part is it’s free to access. Expect around 45 minutes to enjoy the tranquil waters and serene atmosphere.

Although it’s a shorter stop, many appreciate this pause as a breath of fresh air before heading into the main attractions.

The Heart of Bacalar: The Seven Colors Lagoon

The centerpiece of this tour is, of course, Lago Bacalar, the lagoon that gives this town its nickname. Known for its multiple shades of blue and turquoise, it’s a true sight to behold. You’ll spend about two hours exploring, swimming, and enjoying the scenery.

We loved the way the tour showcases the lagoon’s natural beauty. The varying depths create those magical shifting hues, and you’ll get ample time to dip into the waters, take photos, and just marvel at the view. Many travelers mention how stunning and unique this spot is—it’s a highlight for sure.

A Dose of History: San Felipe Fort

History buffs will appreciate a panoramic visit to Fort San Felipe, built in the 18th century to protect the town from pirates. The fort’s thick stone walls and commanding position offer a glimpse into Bacalar’s past defensive strategies. Although the visit is around 40 minutes, it adds valuable context to your day, especially if you’re interested in local stories and architecture.

Free Time in Bacalar Town

After the fort, you’ll have about 30 minutes to explore the town’s main square. It’s a lively area with colorful murals and the iconic Bacalar letters perfect for photos. This free time lets you stroll, grab a snack, or simply people-watch before heading back to the boat.

The Boat Ride: Exploring Hidden Gems

One of the tour’s standout features is the two-hour boat ride around the lagoon. The boat takes you to places like the stromatolites—some of the oldest living fossils visible in the area—as well as Cenote Esmeralda, Cenote Negro, and Cocalitos, each with its own unique charm.

During this ride, you’ll also visit the Pirates Channel—a historic waterway—and Bird Island, a haven for local birdlife. Many reviews highlight the stunning views from the boat, with travelers mentioning how the shifting colors of the water pop even more from the water level.

You’ll also have opportunities to swim in the turquoise waters during this part of the tour, adding a refreshing element to your day. The boat ride offers both sightseeing and relaxation, making it a well-balanced experience.

Lunch by the Lagoon

No full-day tour would be complete without good food. You’ll enjoy a lakeside lunch at a restaurant facing the lagoon. Though the menu details aren’t specified, most find the meal satisfying and a nice break after the morning’s activities. Remember, drinks like soda or pop during the meal aren’t included, so bring some cash if you want additional beverages.

Final Stops and Relaxation

After lunch, you’ll visit the main park of Bacalar and the town’s colorful square. This is a great chance to soak in the local vibe, admire murals, and snap some photos at the Bacalar letters.

What Travelers Say: Honest Insights

While overall reviews are positive, with a rating of 4 out of 5 based on one review, some points come up repeatedly. For example, travelers love the visual spectacle of the lagoon, calling it “a must-see” with “stunning views.” They also appreciate the organized nature of the trip, with transportation, meals, and entry fees handled smoothly.

However, one reviewer pointed out a potential drawback: “the photos” might not always turn out as expected. They also mentioned that the price is above average for what’s included—so if you’re budget-conscious, you may want to weigh whether the full-day experience aligns with your trip priorities.

Regarding the Experience

The tour’s long duration—around 12 hours—might be a lot for some, especially if you prefer shorter excursions or more flexibility. But many find the comprehensive nature worth it, as it hits all the highlights in one go.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

• Cost: $138 per person, which covers transportation, meals, entrance fees, and guided commentary.
• Duration: About 12 hours, from 7:00 am pickup to late afternoon/early evening return.
• Group Size: Limited to 45 travelers, balancing social interaction and comfort.
• Meeting Point: Pickup is offered, so be ready early in the morning.
• Inclusions: Air-conditioned vehicle, breakfast, admission to Cenote Azul, lagoon stops, boat ride, lunch, and a guide.
• Not Included: Drinks during lunch (soda/pop), tips, personal expenses.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re after a comprehensive day of natural beauty and history with a bit of adventure, this trip is a solid pick. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy guided excursions that handle logistics, so you can focus on enjoying the scenery rather than planning the details.

Travelers who want to see the most iconic sights in Bacalar—like the lagoon’s stunning colors, ancient cenotes, and historic fort—will find this tour covers all the bases. Keep in mind, it’s a full-day commitment, so if you prefer more relaxed or independent exploration, you might want to consider other options.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 12 hours, starting around 7:00 am and ending in the late afternoon or early evening.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, breakfast, all entrance fees (like Cenote Azul and San Felipe Fort), the boat ride, lunch, a guided tour, and traveler insurance.

Is there free time to explore Bacalar town?
Yes, the tour includes about 30 minutes of free time in Bacalar’s main square, where you can stroll, take photos at the colorful letters, or grab a snack.

Can I swim during the tour?
Absolutely. You’ll have several opportunities to swim—at Cenote Azul, during the boat ride in the lagoon, and in the Pirates’ Channel.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimsuit, towel, sun protection, water shoes if you like, cash for extra drinks or souvenirs, and a camera to capture the views.

Is this experience family-friendly?
While the tour is suitable for most travelers, it’s a long, full-day trip, so consider young children’s stamina and interest in outdoor activities.

What about tips and additional expenses?
Tips are not included, so if you receive excellent service, a gratuity is appreciated. Also, soda or pop during lunch isn’t included, so bring extra cash if you want more drinks.

Wrapping Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Bacalar boat tour offers a well-rounded, scenic, and educational experience that’s perfect if you want to see Bacalar’s key sights with ease. It combines natural beauty with a touch of history, making it ideal for travelers who enjoy a little bit of everything in one day.

If you’re looking for stunning visuals, a guided experience, and everything taken care of, this tour is worth considering. On the other hand, if you prefer exploring at your own pace or are on a tight budget, you might want to look at other options or mix and match your own itinerary.

Overall, if you’re in the mood for a memorable day that captures Bacalar’s unique charm and vibrant waters, this tour could be just the ticket. Just be prepared for a long day, and you’ll likely come away with plenty of beautiful photos and stories to tell.