Bacalar: The Magical Lagoon that Will Leave You Breathless

The magical city of Bacalar is located on the Yucatan Peninsula, approximately 40 kilometers north of the city of Chetumal.

Bacalar is famous for its beautiful turquoise-blue freshwater lagoon, called the “Laguna de los 7 Colores” (Lagoon of the Seven Colors), which stretches over 70 kilometers in length and 2 kilometers in width.

It offers panoramic views and a spectacular atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for a magnificent weekend getaway with family and friends.

This Mexican gem attracts many tourists from Cancun, Merida, Valladolid, and travelers from all around the world.

May families take advantage of visiting this paradise because it offers various activities and attractions that you won’t find anywhere else.

Instead of traveling to the most crowded beaches, Bacalar is the perfect destination to break the routine. Even though it doesn’t have a beach, it provides unparalleled tranquility and a range of water activities to enjoy in its lagoon.

What to do in Bacalar?

Cenote Azul: The Cenote Azul is an impressive place that many divers love to visit. Additionally, you can enjoy a delightful meal at its seafood restaurant located next to the Cenote Azul.

The Pirates’ Canal: You cannot miss the canal that connects the Deep River to the Bacalar Lagoon, known as the “Pirates’ Canal.” The tour includes a walk to the natural spring, where you can see the seven shades of crystal-clear water.

Bird Island: A small island within the lagoon that hosts various bird species typical of the region.

Catamaran or Sailboat Tours: Forget motorboats; if you truly want to experience Bacalar’s authentic beauty, we recommend a catamaran tour. It will provide an unforgettable experience that will make you want to come back frequently.

Txape Massages: If you’re seeking relaxation and relief from the stress and chaos of daily life, the best option is to enjoy a massage by the lagoon’s shore, while savoring the tropical climate of this magical Mexican city.

Kan Kin Bacalar Zipline: Are you looking for pure adrenaline? Come and enjoy the breathtaking landscapes from above; you’ll feel like flying over the jungle. An exciting and unforgettable experience!

Lagoon of the Seven Colors: You can’t imagine the wonder of admiring the seven different shades of blue at varying depths of the lagoon. It stretches for about 42 kilometers in length. Though narrow, there’s no excuse not to take a boat ride if you’re a big fan, or perhaps choose a more relaxed option like kayaking.

Bacalar Rapids: They aren’t actual rapids but rather river descent sports with safety equipment. It’s an excellent activity on the waters that flow at the lagoon’s ends, where the canal narrows. Descend with caution as the current can be deceptive.

San Felipe Fort Bacalar: If you’re a history enthusiast, you shouldn’t miss Bacalar’s fort, a museum in such a beautiful location. Since 1965, it’s been a National Historical Heritage site. The place holds an incredible history, involving Mayans, Spaniards, and pirates from all over the world.

Stromatolites: These are carbonate formations that accumulate and form rounded or columnar sheets; their formation takes millions of years. You can get close to them in the lagoon, but the area is protected. Do not cross the ropes that safeguard the site.This is one of the few places in Mexico and the world where these structures occur. You can’t miss this natural wonder.

Best Hotels in Bacalar

Bacalar offers a wide range of hotels, but if you want to stay in the best hotels in Bacalar, one of the most beautiful cities in the Riviera Maya, here are the top options for you to plan your vacation in the Mexican Caribbean.

Most Booked Hotels in Bacalar

Casa Bakal – Offers excellent prices and is located in one of the best parts of the lagoon. It features beautiful cabins and shared rooms. The breakfast is delicious, and the hotel provides a bar, massage services, complimentary kayaks, organized tours (with a cost), and much more.

Hotel Hacienda – Bacalar: Highly recommended for families, it’s close to San Felipe Fort, Othon P. Blanco Municipal Palace, and Santa Rita.

Toto Blue Hotel Boutique – A hotel where you’ll feel at home, very close to San Felipe Fort, the Maya Culture Museum, and the Chacchoben archaeological zone.

Villa Colibrí – A three-star hotel, near Othon P. Blanco Municipal Palace and the Chacchoben ruins. Offers free WiFi.

Hotel Pancho Villas Bacalar – It’s like a little paradise and very close to the city center, ideal for families as it provides complimentary cribs or children’s beds.

Where to eat in Bacalar?

Pizzeria Betilla: An excellent Italian restaurant offering a great dining experience at an affordable price. Here you’ll find dishes like pizzas and freshly prepared pasta. It’s located 200 meters from Zocalo Park.

El Manatí Bacalar: Located 200 meters from San Felipe Fort Bacalar and 400 meters from the lagoon’s shore, the restaurant “El Manati Bacalar” offers natural and healthy options with a local concept.

Manga e Chile: Here you can enjoy excellent views of Bacalar Lagoon while savoring the best specialties, such as burgers, fries, and freshly prepared smoothies. It’s also located near San Felipe Fort.

La Playita: Located on the lagoon’s shore, this restaurant offers seafood specialties and delicious cocktails that you can enjoy while admiring the beautiful views of Bacalar Lagoon.

Kai Pez: The restaurant is open from 08:00 to 22:00. Here you can enjoy a rich variety of cocktails, ceviches, and the best of Bacalar Lagoon.

How to get to Bacalar?

By car or bus:

From Cancun: Take the federal highway 307 in the direction of Tulum. It will take approximately 4 hours to reach Bacalar if you drive at the speed limit. The ADO bus also goes directly to Bacalar from the central terminal in Cancun, with hourly departures. Prices vary depending on the bus class and availability of seats.

From Valladolid, Yucatan: Valladolid is approximately 266 kilometers from Bacalar. You can reach Bacalar by taking the federal highway 295 until you reach Carrillo Puerto, then take the federal highway 307 in the direction of Chetumal. The journey takes about 3 hours.

From Merida, Yucatan: You can also find ADO bus departures from the ADO terminal, although there are only three departures during the day, so we recommend booking your tickets in advance and choosing a convenient time to arrive at the terminal on time. The journey takes about 4 hours. If you plan to drive, you should take the federal highway 184 until you reach the town of Polyuc, then take highway 293 to San Pedro Santos, and finally highway number 307 towards Chetumal.

From other parts of the country:

If you’re traveling from other parts of Mexico and looking for flights to Bacalar, it’s advisable to travel to Chetumal airport. Upon arrival, you can take a taxi or ADO bus to reach Bacalar. Buses to Bacalar are the more economical option, depending on the time you choose.