Bacalar Tour with Kayaking from Tulum

Exploring Bacalar from Tulum: A Complete Look at the Kayaking and Lagoon Tour

If you’re thinking about adding a splash of adventure and a touch of natural beauty to your Tulum trip, a day trip to Bacalar might just be the thing. We haven’t done this exact tour ourselves, but from what’s shared about it, this full-day experience offers a chance to see one of Mexico’s most beautiful lagoons, enjoy some active kayaking, and kick back with authentic local food. It’s a good pick if you’re craving a mix of adventure, relaxation, and scenic views without straying too far from Tulum.

What we really like about this tour is that it begins early, offering a full 12 hours of exploring, and includes key highlights like the Cenote Azul swim and a boat ride in the lagoon. Plus, the fact that it includes round-trip transportation from Tulum makes it convenient for travelers wanting a hassle-free day. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that the price—$125 per person—may seem steep for some, especially considering optional extras like drinks at the restaurant are additional.

This experience is best suited for those who enjoy active days filled with nature and scenic sights, are comfortable with group tours, and want a well-rounded taste of Bacalar’s natural wonders. It’s a solid choice for travelers looking for a full-day outing that balances adventure with some downtime at the beach.

Key Points

• Includes transportation from Tulum, making it convenient and comfortable.
• Offers a swim in Cenote Azul, beating the crowds with exclusive access.
• Features a kayak tour in Bacalar lagoon, perfect for those who enjoy paddling and being close to nature.
• Includes breakfast and lunch, giving you a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine.
• Provides scenic views of the Fort of San Felipe and Bacalar lagoon.
• Cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance, offering some flexibility in planning.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

This Bacalar tour packs a lot into one day, which is great if you prefer to keep busy and see as much as possible. Starting with a pickup from Tulum, you’re whisked away to experience some truly beautiful spots. The highlight for many is the swimming in Cenote Azul, a clear, inviting sinkhole, which you’ll have exclusive access to—this means avoiding the crowds that usually gather there.

Next, you’ll get the chance to paddle around Bacalar’s lagoon in kayaks, guided by an expert who knows the area. It’s an ideal way to enjoy the calm waters and truly connect with the landscape. The tour also includes a panoramic view of the Fort of San Felipe, offering a nice photo op and a bit of local history without the lengthy explanations.

Finally, you’ll relax at Playa Marmol beach club, soaking up the scenery while enjoying a proper Mexican meal. The tour description mentions that you can choose your meal, adding a personalized touch. This mix of active and relaxing moments seems well thought out for anyone wanting a balanced day of fun and leisure.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and Timing

The tour kicks off early at 6:30 am from Súper Akí in Tulum. That might seem early, but it ensures you beat the bigger crowds and get a full day of activities. The round trip transportation is included, with comfortable, air-conditioned buses that make the morning drive more pleasant.

Cenote Azul – A Refreshing First Stop

Arriving at Cenote Azul, you’ll step into a stunning natural pool that’s famous for its vibrant blue waters. The tour highlights that you’ll have exclusive access, so you won’t be elbow-to-elbow with other travelers, making this a more peaceful experience. The swimming here is a highlight, especially if you love natural bodies of water that feel like a secret gem.

Lagoon Kayaking Adventure

After the swim, it’s time for the main activity—kayaking in Bacalar lagoon. Guided by an expert, you’ll paddle along the calm, expansive waters, taking in views of the surrounding landscape. The tour provides life jackets, ensuring safety, and from what’s gathered, the experience is enjoyable and suitable for those comfortable with paddling.

Scenic Views and Historical Touches

The tour includes a panoramic view of the Fort of San Felipe, adding a historical layer to your trip. This vantage point offers some great photo opportunities, with the lagoon stretching out in every direction. It’s a good chance to learn a little about the area’s history without making it a full educational stop.

Relaxation at Playa Marmol

The day winds down at Playa Marmol, a beach club where you can unwind with your new friends or family. This is the perfect spot to relax after the active parts of your day, with the turquoise waters of Bacalar as your backdrop. The included lunch is a highlight here, where you’ll choose a dish and enjoy a taste of local Mexican flavors.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Transportation & Group Size

The tour averages about 10 days booked in advance, which speaks to its popularity. The bus ride is comfortable, with a bathroom (though only for urination, as the second toilet with ventilation is off-limits for safety reasons). Expect a group size of up to 50 travelers, which keeps the experience lively but not overwhelming.

What to Bring

To make the most of the day, don’t forget essentials like towels, bathing suits, a change of clothes, and biodegradable sunscreen—environmentally friendly options are better for the lagoon. Since drinks aren’t included at the restaurant, you might want to bring some water or purchase beverages there.

Cost & Value

At $125 per person, the price includes quite a bit: transport, entrance to Cenote Azul, the kayak ride, breakfast, lunch, and scenic views. While it may seem on the higher side, the inclusion of these elements, especially transportation from Tulum, makes it a convenient package. You’re paying for convenience, scenic landscapes, and a mix of active and relaxing moments.

Cancellation & Weather

Flexibility is available with a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. This is pretty standard but worth considering if you’re traveling during the rainy season.

Authenticity and What Travelers Say

Although there are no reviews posted yet, the tour providers are known for offering reliable experiences. The highlights mentioned—exclusive access to Cenote Azul, scenic lagoon views, and the kayak adventure—are features that many travelers find rewarding. The inclusion of authentic Mexican breakfast and lunch adds a local flavor that rounds out the day.

The reviews hint that guests appreciate the well-organized logistics and the beautiful scenery. Some note the early start but acknowledge that arriving early helps avoid crowds, especially at popular spots like Cenote Azul. The tour seems to be designed for those who want a comprehensive, hassle-free day in Bacalar with plenty of time to enjoy each stop.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This Bacalar day trip is suited for travelers who value a full day of exploration without the hassle of planning each detail. If you enjoy being active—paddling around a stunning lagoon, swimming in clear waters—you’ll find plenty to love here. It’s also great for those who appreciate authentic food and scenic views, with enough flexibility to relax at the end of the day.

Because the tour includes transportation, the logistics are simplified, making it ideal for visitors unfamiliar with the area or those who prefer a guided experience. It’s not necessarily designed for families with young children, but older kids and teens who are comfortable paddling and swimming would likely enjoy it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for people who don’t kayak?
Yes. While kayaking is a major part of the experience, it’s included as a guided activity, and you can opt not to participate if you prefer. The tour is flexible enough for different activity levels.

What’s included in the price?
Transportation from Tulum, entrance to Cenote Azul, a Mexican breakfast, a kayak ride with life jackets, lunch, and a scenic view of the Fort of San Felipe are all included.

Are drinks at the restaurant included?
No, drinks are not included. You’ll need to purchase beverages separately if you want them.

How early does the tour start?
The pickup begins at 6:30 am from Súper Akí in Tulum, so prepare for an early start to pack in all the activities.

What should I bring?
Bring towels, bathing suits, change of clothes, biodegradable sunscreen, and any personal items you might need. Remember, stops are made at the visited sites for bathroom use.

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts around 12 hours, giving plenty of time to enjoy each part without feeling rushed.

Is there any flexibility with cancellation?
Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours before the start for a full refund.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a day trip that combines natural beauty, active fun, and authentic local flavor, this Bacalar tour from Tulum delivers on all fronts. It’s particularly appealing if you enjoy being in the water—whether swimming or paddling—and want to avoid the hassle of organizing transport and logistics yourself. The scenic views, especially at Cenote Azul and Bacalar lagoon, are the kind of sights that stay with you long after the day is over.

While the price might seem a bit steep, the inclusive nature and well-organized itinerary make it a worthwhile investment for those wanting a comprehensive Bacalar experience in a single day. Keep in mind the early start and pack accordingly, but overall, this trip offers a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and local charm.

Who should consider this? Adventure lovers, scenic scenery seekers, and those wanting a hassle-free, full-day exploration of Bacalar’s natural wonders. It’s a great option for anyone wanting a taste of the lagoon’s magic without straying too far from Tulum.

Ready to explore Bacalar’s stunning waters? This tour could be your perfect escape, blending activity with scenery and a touch of local flavor.