Seven Colours Bacalar Lagoon with Pontoon Ride only from Tulum

If you’re eyeing a day away from the busy beaches of Tulum and want to experience some of the most breathtaking natural scenery in Mexico, a Bacalar Lagoon tour might just be the right choice. This particular tour, offered for $144 per person by Cancun Star Agency, promises a full day of swimming, sightseeing, and relaxing adventures. While we haven’t taken this exact trip ourselves, we’ve gone through the details, reviews, and itinerary to give you a clear picture of what to expect.

What we love about this tour is how it combines the stunning visuals of Bacalar’s legendary seven-shade lagoon with engaging stops like cenote swims and a history-rich fortress visit. Plus, the inclusion of a pontoon ride over the lagoon is a highlight that seems to leave travelers in awe. One potential consideration? The full-day length means you’ll need to be up early and ready for a busy schedule, so it’s best for those who enjoy active, sightseeing-packed days.

This tour suits travelers who adore nature and fresh waters, want to see iconic sights without the hassle of planning, and appreciate guided experiences with transport included. It’s particularly appealing if you’re looking for a balance of adventure, relaxation, and cultural touches without venturing too far off the beaten path.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Comfort: Your price covers breakfast, lunch, and entrance fees to key stops, making it a hassle-free day.
• Stunning Scenery: The highlight is the Lagoon of Seven Colours, which truly lives up to its name.
• History and Nature Mix: Visit the historic Fuerte de San Felipe and swim in beautiful cenotes.
• Group Size and Transportation: Small groups (max 15) and round-trip transport from Tulum keep things personal and convenient.
• Active Day: Expect a busy schedule with multiple stops, ideal if you love packed days.
• Well-Rated Guide: Bilingual guides help you understand the significance of each site.

A Full-Day Adventure in Bacalar: What to Expect

Starting Bright and Early

The day kicks off at 6:00 am at Súper Akí in Tulum. This early start might seem daunting, but it’s necessary to maximize your time in Bacalar. You’ll be picked up in smaller vehicles that lead to a larger bus, ensuring everyone is comfortably transported. Expect a journey of roughly 11 to 12 hours, which means you’ll need to be prepared for a long but rewarding day.

Cenote Azul – A Refreshing First Stop

Your first destination is the Cenote Azul, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and stunning location right beside the lake. Here, you’re encouraged to take a swim in the cool, inviting waters. The cenote’s natural beauty makes it a favorite among travelers, and you’ll appreciate the chance to kick off the day with a refreshing dip. All entrance tickets are included, so no surprise expenses here.

Balneario Ejidal Mágico Bacalar – Water and Relaxation

Next, the tour takes you to Balneario El Mármol. From a private dock, you’ll hop on a two-hour pontoon cruise through the Pirate Channel of Bacalar, sailing over clear waters that reveal the rich mineral sand below. This is the star of the trip—cruising through waters that display seven distinct shades of blue, a view that many describe as simply unforgettable.

During the pontoon ride, you’ll get a panoramic view of the Fuerte de San Felipe, a fortress with a history dating back to pirate times. While the tour doesn’t include a detailed archaeological visit, the views and photo opportunities are plentiful. According to reviews, the scenic ride makes this segment worth every penny, with travelers praising the “stunning views” and “amazing photo ops.”

Discovering Bacalar’s Charm and History

Beyond the lagoon, you’ll visit the historic Fuerte de San Felipe, where you can soak in the view and learn a little about Bacalar’s past. This fortress has seen pirate invasions and colonial skirmishes, and standing there gives you a tangible connection to the town’s story.

A Natural Spa and Relaxation Time

After exploring, it’s time to unwind at Club de Playa El Mármol. Here, you’ll have some free time to sunbathe, swim, or simply relax while soaking up Bacalar’s peaceful vibe. The mineral-rich waters of the lagoon are known for their therapeutic qualities, making this a natural spa experience. It’s a well-liked part of the tour, with many guests noting the tranquil setting and beautiful surroundings.

Includes and Extras

The tour includes breakfast and lunch with a choice of dishes, so you won’t go hungry. The guide is bilingual, ensuring you get context and interesting facts along the way, especially about the pirate history and the natural wonders you see. Round-trip transportation adds to the convenience, especially since traveling from Tulum to Bacalar can be tricky to organize on your own.

Things to Keep in Mind

While most reviews are positive, a few travelers mention that the day is quite full, and some wished for more time at each stop. Also, beverages in the restaurant are not included, so bring some extra cash if you want drinks beyond water. The tour is capped at 15 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate but means you should book ahead if you’re interested.

Evaluating the Value

At $144, this tour offers a lot for the price. Included are several key activities—cenote swimming, the pontoon ride, a fortress view, and meals—which all add up to a comprehensive experience. For travelers who love natural beauty and want an effortless way to see Bacalar, the cost appears fair, especially considering the transportation and guide are covered.

However, it’s a long day, and if you prefer slower-paced visits or want more time at each site, you might find it a bit rushed. But if you’re after a stunning visual journey with some history and water fun thrown in, this tour ticks many boxes.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who crave a full immersion in Bacalar’s most iconic sights without the hassle of planning. It’s a good pick for those comfortable with early mornings, as well as anyone eager to see the famous Lagoon of Seven Colors along with some cultural context. If you enjoy guided tours, scenic boat rides, and natural swimming spots, you’ll find plenty to love here.

It’s less ideal for anyone looking for a leisurely, unstructured day or those with mobility issues—since there’s a lot of walking, swimming, and boat riding packed into the schedule.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from Tulum is included, starting from Súper Akí at 6:00 am.

How long is the tour?
The entire day lasts about 11 to 12 hours, so prepare for a full day of sightseeing and activities.

Are meals included?
Yes, you’ll have breakfast and lunch included, with a choice of dishes. Beverages in the restaurant are not covered.

What stops are part of the tour?
Stops include Cenote Azul, Balneario Ejidal Mágico Bacalar with the pontoon ride, Bacalar lagoon, and the Fuerte de San Felipe.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While the tour isn’t specifically marketed as family-friendly, the activities like swimming and sightseeing could work well for older kids. Consider the long day and early start if traveling with children.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimwear, sunscreen, extra cash for drinks, and a hat or sunglasses for sun protection.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Most activities involve walking, swimming, or boat riding, so it may not be ideal for those with mobility challenges.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a full-day exploration of one of Mexico’s most stunning natural spots, this Bacalar Lagoon tour offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, activity, and history. The scenery, especially the seven-shade lagoon, is genuinely striking and worth seeing in person. The inclusion of a pontoon cruise and visits to cenotes makes it a well-rounded experience for nature lovers.

While it’s a long day, the logistics are handled smoothly, and the small group size provides a more personal feel. It’s perfect for travelers who want to tick off Bacalar’s highlights without the stress of organizing transport or guides themselves.

If your trip to Tulum calls for a bit of water-based wonder and a dose of history, this tour is likely to be a worthwhile splurge. Just gear up for an adventure-filled day and some truly beautiful views.