Bacalar

Written by Andreas Keller, Marika Maslanka, Miguel Lopez
01/08/2025
Adults swimming in a clear cenote with blue water and lush greenery in Halatun, Mexico.
Ali Alcántara, Pexels

Bacalar, a serene town in Mexico's Quintana Roo state, is celebrated for its stunning freshwater Lagoon of Seven Colors, known for its distinct blue and turquoise hues. This destination caters to those seeking a relaxed escape and connection with nature, offering a blend of eco-friendly water activities and opportunities to explore historical sites and ancient Mayan ruins.

The downtown area of Bacalar offers a selection of restaurants and a few lively bars for socializing. Backpackers and solo travelers often find vibrant social scenes at hostels like The Yak Lake House and Che Bacalar Hostel & Bar, which organize activities and host parties. Additionally, various beach clubs along the lagoon provide casual settings to relax and interact with other visitors.

Top 6 Things to do in Bacalar

Bacalar offers a range of water-based activities focused on its famous lagoon and surrounding cenotes, alongside opportunities to explore historical sites and natural wonders.

1. Lagoon Boat or Sailing Tour

Embarking on a boat or sailing tour is widely considered the best way to experience the Lagoon of Seven Colors. These tours typically navigate to key spots such as the Pirates' Channel, Bird Island, and the underwater cenotes that feed the lagoon, showcasing the striking shifts in water hues from turquoise to deep blue. It is a relaxing way to absorb the lagoon's expansive beauty.

Cost: Group boat tours often range from 450 MXN to 750 MXN per person (approximately $25-$40 USD). Private tours are also available at a higher cost, starting around 3000-3500 MXN for 1-4 people (approximately $170-$200 USD), with an additional fee per extra person.

Transport: Tours typically depart from various points in or near Bacalar's town center, often within walking distance of many accommodations.

2. Visit Cenote Azul

Cenote Azul is a vast, open cenote, resembling a large natural lake, located just outside Bacalar town. Its impressive depth gives the water a deep sapphire-blue hue, making it popular for swimming, snorkeling, and even scuba diving. While you can simply swim and relax, renting a kayak allows for more exploration of its expansive waters. It is recommended to shower before entering to protect the ecosystem and to avoid using sunscreen, even 'biodegradable' types.

Cost: The entrance fee for Cenote Azul is approximately 25-50 MXN (around $1.3-$2.5 USD). Life jacket rentals are available for about 40-50 MXN (around $2-$2.50 USD), and kayak rentals cost around 150 MXN (around $7.50 USD) per hour. Prices can vary, so it's advisable to have pesos, as it's often cash-only.

Transport: Cenote Azul is about an 8-10 minute drive or a 20-25 minute bike ride from Bacalar town center. Taxis typically cost between 50-75 MXN (approximately $2.50-$4 USD) each way. Free parking is available if driving.

3. Explore Cenote Cocalitos

Known as the 'Sanctuary of the Stromatolites,' Cenote Cocalitos is unique for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and the presence of stromatolites—ancient, delicate, coral-like microbial formations believed to be the oldest living organisms on Earth. Visitors can enjoy swimming and relaxing on over-the-water swings and hammocks. It is crucial not to touch or stand on the stromatolites to protect them, and similarly, avoid using sunscreen in the water.

Cost: The entrance fee for Cenote Cocalitos is typically 50-120 MXN (approximately $2.50-$6 USD). Kayak rentals are available for around 100 MXN per hour.

Transport: Cenote Cocalitos is located about a 15-minute drive south of Bacalar town center. A taxi from the center should cost around 50-75 MXN (approximately $2.50-$3.50 USD) per trip. You can also reach it by kayaking or paddleboarding from the town, or as part of a boat tour.

4. Float at Los Rapidos

Los Rapidos offers a natural 'lazy river' experience where a gentle current carries you along a narrow section of the lagoon. This area is also notable for its impressive concentration of stromatolites. It provides a fun and unique way to enjoy the lagoon's waters while observing these ancient life forms. Remember not to touch the stromatolites.

Cost: Entrance fees for Los Rapidos are typically around 30-50 MXN (approximately $1.50-$2.50 USD).

Transport: Los Rapidos is located approximately 13 minutes south of Cenote Azul. It is accessible by taxi or as part of some lagoon tours.

5. Experience a Sunrise Paddleboard or Kayak Tour

Witnessing the sunrise over Bacalar Lagoon from a paddleboard or kayak is a serene and unforgettable experience. The calm morning waters perfectly reflect the sky, and tours often visit various lagoon highlights, including Cenote Esmeralda, Cenote Cocalitos, and Bird Island, before the larger boats start. Some tours include a floating breakfast. Alternatively, you can rent equipment and explore independently.

Cost: Guided sunrise paddleboard tours typically cost around 550 MXN per person (approximately $30 USD). Full-day paddleboard or kayak rentals are available for about 100-300 MXN (approximately $5-$17 USD).

Transport: Rental shops and tour operators are generally located in Bacalar's town center, offering easy access to the lagoon. Many hotels on the lagoon also provide rentals.

6. Visit Fort San Felipe

Fort San Felipe, a star-shaped fortress built in 1733, offers a glimpse into Bacalar's historical past, particularly its defense against pirate attacks. Located in the town center, it provides panoramic views of the Lagoon of Seven Colors and houses a small museum with artifacts and information about the region's history, including tales of pirates and the valuable logwood they sought.

Cost: The entrance fee for foreign visitors is approximately 110 MXN (around $6.50 USD).

Transport: The fort is centrally located in Bacalar town and is easily accessible on foot from most central accommodations.

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