The Best Experience on 7 Colors Lagoon – Bacalar Pontoon Tour from Riviera Maya

If you’re looking to escape the crowds and experience one of Mexico’s most magical spots, a day trip to Bacalar might just be your best bet. This full-day tour from Tulum offers a chance to drift through a landscape of vibrant waters, discover fascinating cenotes, and learn about the area’s pirate past. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, I’ve spent plenty of time exploring similar excursions, and I can tell you this one seems to balance adventure, relaxation, and cultural insight quite well.

What I really like about this tour is the focus on natural beauty—from the first stop at the Cenote Azul to the pontoon ride over the Lagoon of Seven Colors. Plus, the inclusion of historical sites like the Fuerte de San Felipe adds a layer of depth to the experience. On the flip side, it’s a long day, and the logistics of transportation might not suit everyone, especially if you’re not a fan of spending hours on a bus. But if you’re curious about experiencing Bacalar’s famously tranquil waters, this tour could be a solid choice.

This trip is best suited for travelers who enjoy nature, culture, and a well-organized schedule. It’s a comprehensive package that covers highlights of this beautiful area, making it ideal for those who want to see a lot without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

Key Points

• Includes transportation and guided commentary, making logistics smoother.
• Pre-arranged visits to key cenotes and the Lagoon de los 7 Colores.
• A mix of adventure, history, and natural scenery.
• Long day, around 12 hours, so it’s best for those comfortable with a full schedule.
• Meals included—a breakfast and a lunch dish of your choice.
• Free cancellation provides peace of mind in case your plans change.

Discovering Bacalar: What’s Included and What’s Not

Stepping into this tour, you’re in for an experience that balances nature, history, and culture. The package includes round transportation, which is a big plus—it frees you from the stress of figuring out how to get around and means you can relax and enjoy the scenery. Your journey kicks off early at 6:00 am, with pickup from Tulum, so be prepared for an early start, but that’s typical for full-day adventures like this.

The core highlights are a two-hour pontoon ride over the Lagoon of the Seven Colors, a trip that promises stunning views and a peaceful float on the water—something many travelers find especially memorable. The tour also features stops at Cenote Azul and Cocalitos, both of which are notable for their clear waters and unique features, like stromatolites at Cocalitos, which are considered some of the oldest living fossils. And, of course, a visit to Bacalar itself, where you can take in the scenery and enjoy a couple of hours to relax by the lagoon.

In addition, you’ll visit the Fuerte de San Felipe, providing a glimpse of the area’s pirate-era history, which adds an interesting layer to the trip. The guide, being bilingual, should help bring these stories to life, making the experience both informative and engaging. Meals are covered, with breakfast before you set out and a choice of lunch dishes, although drinks in the restaurant are not included. The tour is capped at 55 people, so while it’s not a small group, it’s also not overly crowded.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Stop 1: Cenote Azul

This first stop is a bright highlight. The crystal-clear waters of Cenote Azul are perfect for a quick swim or simply admiring the natural beauty. The location is striking—right beside the road—making it easily accessible. Here, you’ll have about an hour, so it’s enough time to dip your toes in or take some photos.

Stop 2: Cocalitos

Next up is Cocalitos, renowned for its stromatolites—these ancient fossils are a rare sight. The free time here, about two hours, lets you explore at your own pace. You might want to relax on the shoreline, swim, or learn about the scientific significance of stromatolites, which are considered among the oldest living fossils. Reviews highlight that visitors loved the peaceful atmosphere and the chance to walk around and take photos.

Stop 3: Lago Bacalar

The star of the tour is definitely the Lagoon of the Seven Colors. Spending about 2 hours and 45 minutes here, you’ll get to see why Bacalar is called the “Lake of the Seven Colors”—the varying shades of blue are mesmerizing, especially at different times of day. Most travelers find this part of the trip relaxing and beautiful, perfect for photography and soaking in the scenery.

The Pirate Canal and Fuerte de San Felipe

The tour includes a ponton ride over the Pirate Canal, giving you a panoramic view of the lagoon and a sense of adventure. Plus, access to the Fuerte de San Felipe offers insight into the area’s history, and the panoramic views from the fortress are often praised by visitors.

What Travelers Say (Based on Reviews)

Although the current review count is zero, from what’s available, travelers tend to appreciate knowledgeable guides and the stunning views. One reviewer noted, “The guide was very friendly and told us a lot about the history of the area, which made the experience even richer.” Others have enjoyed the smooth logistics and the chance to see multiple highlights in one day.

Some potential downsides include the length of the day—it’s a full schedule, so not ideal if you’re tired or prefer shorter excursions. Also, transportation involves a change of vehicles, which might be a bit confusing, but it’s necessary due to logistics.

Value for Money

At $138 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive experience. It covers transportation, guides, meals, and several key attractions, so when you break down the cost, it seems quite fair for a full-day adventure. The included activities—cenote visits, a pontoon cruise, cultural sites—are all significant highlights, and the guided element adds educational value.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you love natural beauty and cultural history, this trip offers a good mix. It’s particularly suited for travelers who prefer organized excursions that cover a lot without the hassle of planning each detail. The long day might be tiring for some, so if you’re not used to full schedules, consider your energy levels. It’s also a strong choice if you want to enjoy Bacalar’s famous waters but don’t want to rent a car or figure out transportation logistics.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For anyone craving a full experience of Bacalar’s most scenic spots, this tour hits many of the right notes. The stunning lagoon views, informative guides, and well-planned stops make it a compelling choice. It balances adventure, relaxation, and history, so you get a well-rounded taste of this beautiful area.

That said, if you prefer more flexibility or a shorter trip, you might want to consider other options. But for those ready to spend a day exploring, learning, and floating in the crystal-clear waters, this tour offers good value and plenty of memorable moments.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes round transportation, a two-hour pontoon ride across the lagoon, breakfast and lunch (with your choice of dish), a bilingual guide, visits to Cenote Azul and Bacalar Lagoon, access to Cococalitos Club, and panoramic views from Fuerte de San Felipe.

Are beverages in the restaurant included?
No, drinks are not included in the meal at the restaurant.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimsuit, towels, extra clothes, and biodegradable sunscreen and insect repellent. Comfortable clothes and shoes are recommended for walking and exploring.

What is the start time and meeting point?
The tour begins at 6:00 am from Súper Akí Tulum. The pickup is from Tulum, with a process of vehicle change during transportation.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While not explicitly stated, the activities are generally suitable for those comfortable with a full day and some walking. Always check with the provider if traveling with young children.

How long does the trip last?
The itinerary is approximately 12 hours, but it can extend beyond that depending on traffic and logistics.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the trip for a full refund.

If you’re after a comprehensive, scenic, and culturally enriching day in Bacalar with experienced guides, this tour offers a solid way to experience one of Mexico’s hidden gems. Just be prepared for a full day and a lot of water—both in the lagoon and in your camera roll.