Chacchoben Mayan Ruins and Seven Colors Lagoon

If you’re heading to Costa Maya and looking for a balanced day trip that combines cultural exploration with a splash of natural beauty, the Chacchoben Mayan Ruins and Seven Colors Lagoon tour might just be worth considering. While we haven’t done this particular tour ourselves, the reviews and details paint a picture of a well-rounded experience that appeals to travelers who enjoy learning about ancient civilizations while also soaking in stunning scenery.

What immediately catches the eye about this tour is the combination of two major attractions—the archaeological site of Chacchoben and the fantastically colorful lagoon of Bacalar. Both spots are highlights in their own right: the ruins promise a glimpse into the past, and the lagoon offers a peaceful, picture-perfect setting for unwinding. Plus, the tour’s price point of $90 per person seems reasonable when you consider the included transportation, guided insights, and lunch.

A couple of things to keep in mind: the full day runs about 7 hours, and it involves some moderate walking and standing, so it’s best suited for those with decent physical fitness. Also, the tour is quite popular—most travelers book about 51 days in advance—and it’s capped at 20 participants, which helps keep things intimate and manageable. That said, if you’re not a fan of long bus rides or tight schedules, this might feel a bit rushed.

This tour tends to suit those who enjoy combining history, culture, and nature into one day, especially if you’re curious about the Maya civilization and want to see some of Mexico’s most beautiful landscapes. Families with older children or anyone with a moderate fitness level should find it manageable, but younger kids might need some extra encouragement for the walking parts.

Key Points

• Comprehensive experience blending ancient ruins and natural beauty
• Includes transportation and guided commentary, adding value
• Moderate physical activity, suitable for most travelers
• Well-reviewed guides who are knowledgeable and personable
• Long day with travel time, so plan for comfort and patience
• Good value considering all the inclusions and the scenery

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point: Costa Maya

As soon as you arrive at the Costa Maya port, you’ll head to the main exit where the tour begins. The organizer provides clear instructions and has staff with recognizable logos, which makes finding your group straightforward. The tour begins with about an hour of transportation—an air-conditioned vehicle that’s comfortable enough for a day with a fair bit of driving.

The Chacchoben Mayan Ruins

Once you arrive at the Zona Arqueologica De Chacchoben, you’ll step into a world that dates back to approximately 700 AD. The site is famous for its large temples and enormous platforms, which provide a palpable sense of history—and plenty of photo opportunities. The guides here are certified professionals who bring the ruins to life with stories and insights. One reviewer mentioned that their guide was very informative and helpful, especially for elderly travelers, which adds to the value if you’re traveling with family or older companions.

During the hour you’re at the ruins, you’ll explore structures that tell stories of a civilization that thrived centuries ago. We loved the way the guides explained the significance of the sites in a way that was accessible but still respectful of their importance. The site isn’t overly crowded, which means you can enjoy the experience without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

Transition to Bacalar’s Seven Colors Lagoon

After soaking in the history, your driver will take you roughly 45 minutes to Bacalar. Here, you’ll find the Lake of the Seven Colors, renowned for its stunning shades of blue and green, thanks to the varying depths and mineral content. You’ll have about two hours to relax, swim, or just take in the views. This part of the tour is very much about unwinding, and the scenery is genuinely as magical as the pictures suggest.

Returning to Costa Maya

After your lagoon experience, it’s about an hour back to the port. Most travelers find this a comfortable way to round out the day—by then, you’ll have seen impressive archaeological sites and enjoyed a peaceful natural wonder all in one go.

What We Liked (And What to Consider)

The guides are a standout—several reviews highlight how knowledgeable and friendly they are. One reviewer even noted that their guide, Carlos, was very helpful and informative, making the experience both educational and personable. Having a guide who can answer questions and enrich your understanding of the Mayan civilization makes a big difference, especially if you’re not familiar with the history beforehand.

The scenery at Bacalar is another big plus. The lagoon’s vivid colors are truly striking, and the two hours you get there are enough to relax and enjoy without feeling hurried. For anyone seeking a peaceful, scenic escape after the ruins, Bacalar offers that perfect balance.

The transportation, included in the price, is air-conditioned and comfortable, which is a relief given the two high-traffic stops. Plus, the lunch and drinks (including alcohol if you wish) are good touches that keep you energized throughout the day.

However, there are some considerations. The full-day duration and drive time mean some travelers might find the schedule a little packed, especially if they prefer more leisure and less moving around. Also, the activity is not designed for those who prefer light strolling or minimal walking, as you’ll be on your feet exploring the ruins and the lagoon.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best for travelers who want a balanced mix of culture and nature and don’t mind a full day of activity. It’s particularly suitable for those interested in history, as the guides provide detailed explanations of the Mayan ruins. The scenic stop at Bacalar makes it a great choice for anyone craving a peaceful retreat in addition to exploring ruins. Families with older children or teens, travelers with moderate fitness levels, and anyone looking to see two of the region’s top sights in one day will find this tour a good option.

Final Thoughts

The Chacchoben Mayan Ruins and Seven Colors Lagoon tour offers a genuine taste of Mexico’s cultural and natural riches in a single day. The included guides, comfortable transportation, and well-organized itinerary make it a convenient choice for many travelers. While it’s a pretty full schedule, the mix of ancient history and stunning scenery keeps the experience engaging from start to finish.

If you’re after a tour that balances learning with leisure, and you’re okay with a bit of travel between sites, this package could be just what you need. It’s especially appealing if you want to avoid overly commercialized or rushed excursions—this one seems to strike a decent balance.

FAQs

How long is the drive from Costa Maya to the ruins?
The drive from Costa Maya port to Chacchoben takes about 55 minutes, giving you enough time to settle in and enjoy the scenery on the way.

Is lunch included in the tour?
Yes, you’ll be provided with lunch, along with drinks—both alcoholic and non-alcoholic—making it easy to stay refreshed without needing to bring your own snacks.

What kind of vehicle is used for transportation?
An air-conditioned vehicle is used, which helps keep everyone comfortable during the roughly 2-hour total travel time within the tour.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour involves some walking and exploring, it’s best suited for travelers with a moderate fitness level. Kids who enjoy history and outdoor scenery may find it enjoyable, but very young children might find the pace a bit tiring.

How many people typically join this tour?
The maximum group size is 20, which helps keep things intimate and allows for personalized attention from guides.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, and water. Since the tour involves outdoor sites, dressing in layers is also a good idea.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance, making it flexible if your itinerary shifts.

Is there any special equipment needed?
No special equipment is necessary. Just be prepared for some walking and enjoy your camera for capturing the moments.

What are the main highlights of this tour?
The standout features are the well-preserved Mayan ruins with their large temples and platforms, plus the vivid colors of Bacalar’s lagoon, which offers a peaceful spot to relax after exploring.

If you’re after a day that mixes history, exploration, and relaxation, this tour could be a solid pick. Just keep in mind that it’s a full schedule, so pacing yourself will help you get the most out of it.