Tulum: Bacalar 7 Colors Lagoon Day Trip with Transport

If you’re eyeing a full-day escape from the bustling streets of Tulum to a spot of tranquil, natural beauty, the Tulum: Bacalar 7 Colors Lagoon Day Trip with Transport might be just what you need. While I haven’t taken this tour myself, I’ve gathered plenty of details from travelers and the tour provider to give you a picture of what you can expect. Whether you’re a lover of stunning landscapes, a curious explorer of local culture, or simply in need of a relaxing day by the water, this trip offers quite a bit.

What I appreciate about this experience are two key features: first, the chance to see Bacalar’s famous lagoon, known for its mesmerizing seven shades of blue, and second, the intimacy that comes with a small group—limited to just 14 people. It feels more personal and less rushed than larger tours. On the flip side, a possible consideration is that it’s a long day—around 10 hours—and involves some driving, so if you’re prone to travel fatigue or prefer more relaxed mornings, this might be something to keep in mind. This tour is best suited for those wanting a combination of natural beauty and cultural discovery without the crowds.

Key Points

• Limited to 14 travelers for a more personalized experience
• Includes round-trip transportation from Tulum for convenience
• Visits Bacalar’s famous lagoon with its seven distinct shades of water
• Offers time to swim, relax, and explore the charming village
• Lunch is included, making it a hassle-free day
• Requires bringing essentials like swimwear, sunscreen, and a camera

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why This Tour Stands Out

The main attraction here is the 7 Colors Lagoon of Bacalar, often dubbed the “Lake of Seven Colors” because of its incredible water hues. We loved the way this tour takes you away from the crowds, thanks to the small group size. With only up to 14 people, the atmosphere is more relaxed, the guide can be more attentive, and you’ll get a better chance to soak in the scenery at your own pace.

The round-trip transport is another perk, especially because getting to Bacalar independently can be a bit of a hassle—you’re traveling three hours each way in a comfortable private van. This means you can simply relax, enjoy the scenery, and not worry about navigating or parking. The scenic drive itself is part of the experience, giving you a taste of the landscape as you switch from the Tulum jungle to the more open vistas near Bacalar.

What the Itinerary Looks Like

The day kicks off at Starbucks Tulum Downtown, your designated meeting point. From there, it’s about a three-hour drive, during which you can chat with your fellow travelers or just enjoy the views out the window. Once you arrive in Bacalar, you’ll spend roughly four hours exploring the lagoon and the nearby village.

The highlight, naturally, is the guided tour of Bacalar’s lagoon. Expect plenty of opportunities to swim in the crystal-clear water, relax on the shores, and take photos of the vibrant shades of blue. The guide provides insights into the lagoon’s formation and local environment, which adds a layer of understanding to the natural beauty.

After exploring Bacalar, you’ll hop back into the van for the three-hour return journey, arriving back at Starbucks Tulum in the late afternoon or early evening.

What You’ll Do at Bacalar

Once at the lagoon, your guide will lead you through an experience that balances natural beauty with a bit of local culture**. You’ll have ample time to swim in the lagoon, which is generally calm and inviting, perfect for a refreshing dip. Many reviews mention how “stunning” and “beautiful” the views are—it’s a photography haven, so bring your camera.

Along With the water activities, there’s time to wander the charming village of Bacalar. The town itself has a laid-back vibe, with colorful streets, local shops, and cafes where you can soak in the culture. It’s a good chance to learn a little about the area’s history and meet some friendly locals.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $180 per person, your ticket covers round-trip transportation, a small group experience, lunch, and the guidance of a local guide. That’s quite reasonable considering the full-day adventure and the private transport. The included lunch is a nice touch, removing the need to hunt for food on your own.

However, there are a few things not included: hotel pickup and drop-off (meaning you’ll need to get yourself to the meeting point), and a $25 USD environmental port fee. The latter is standard for eco-sensitive sites but worth noting, especially if you’re on a tight budget.

You’ll also want to bring your own swimwear, towel, sunscreen (preferably biodegradable to protect the lagoon), and a camera. Insect repellent is recommended as well, given the natural surroundings. Remember, no smoking is allowed during the tour.

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Transportation and Group Size

The comfortable private van makes the long drive more enjoyable, allowing you to relax and take in the scenery. The group size, capped at 14, strikes a nice balance between socializing and feeling like you’re on a personalized adventure. Some reviews mention that smaller groups make it easier to ask questions and get tailored recommendations.

Timing and Duration

The 10-hour duration includes travel time, lagoon exploration, and some free time in Bacalar. The tour typically runs in the morning, which gives you the whole day to enjoy the sights. Keep in mind that it’s a full-day commitment, so if you prefer more leisurely mornings or are traveling with young children, plan accordingly.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This experience suits travelers who love stunning landscapes, want to escape the crowds, and appreciate small-group intimacy. It’s also good for those who prefer a well-organized day with transport included, so they can focus on enjoying the scenery without logistics stress. Since it involves a fair amount of walking and water activities, it’s best for people in decent health and comfortable with a busy schedule.

Potential Drawbacks or Considerations

The main downside is the long travel time—three hours each way—which might be tiring for some. If you’re sensitive to long bus rides or have limited stamina, this tour might feel a bit exhaustive. Plus, the lack of hotel pickup means you need to plan your transportation to the meeting point in Tulum.

Some travelers have mentioned that the price includes lunch but not the environmental fee, which adds about $25 USD per person. While standard in many eco-sites, it’s an extra cost to keep in mind.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a picture-perfect day trip with a small group, stunning natural scenery, and a mix of relaxation and cultural discovery, this Bacalar lagoon tour checks most boxes. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want to avoid the hustle of larger tours and prefer a more personal experience.

While the long drive might be a consideration, the spectacular views and peaceful lagoon make it worthwhile for many. Just be sure to bring your essentials, prepare for a full day, and enjoy one of Mexico’s most beautiful natural treasures.

FAQ

Do I need to pay extra for the environmental port fee?
Yes, there’s a $25 USD fee not included in the tour price. It’s standard for visiting Bacalar’s lagoon and helps preserve the area.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The information doesn’t specify, but since it involves swimming and walking, it’s best suited for older children or teenagers. Check with the provider if traveling with kids.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen (biodegradable recommended), insect repellent, and a camera are advisable.

Are hotel pickups included?
No, you’ll need to meet at the designated Starbucks in Tulum Downtown. Alternate meeting points are available for guests staying in La Veleta or the Beach Zone.

How long is the drive from Tulum to Bacalar?
Approximately three hours each way in a comfortable private van.

What’s the group size?
Limited to 14 participants, which helps create an intimate, personalized experience.

Is lunch included?
Yes, the tour provides a meal, making the day more convenient.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This tour offers a lovely balance of natural beauty and cultural exploration, perfect for travelers looking to see Bacalar’s famous lagoon without the fuss of large tour groups or complicated logistics. If the thought of vibrant waters and a peaceful village appeals to you, this could be a memorable day out.

You can check availability for your dates here: