Bacalar Travel Guide: Discover the Lagoon of Seven Colors

Welcome to Bacalar

Tucked away in southern Quintana Roo near the Belize border, Bacalar is a tranquil, eco-conscious town known for its jaw-dropping freshwater lagoon. Nicknamed the “Lagoon of Seven Colors,” this stunning body of water glows in vibrant shades of blue, green, and turquoise — a natural wonder that feels untouched by mass tourism.

Ideal for nature lovers, photographers, couples, and anyone seeking peace, Bacalar blends natural beauty, small-town charm, and sustainable adventure.

At MexicoTravel.info, we’ll help you explore everything Bacalar has to offer — from lagoon tours and cenotes to eco-resorts, cultural sites, and insider travel tips.

Why Visit Bacalar?

Bacalar is often described as Tulum’s quiet, spiritual cousin, offering the same stunning aesthetics with far fewer crowds. Here’s why it’s becoming one of Mexico’s top emerging destinations:

🌈 Lagoon of Seven Colors: Calm, crystal-clear waters in multiple shades of blue, perfect for kayaking, sailing, or swimming.
🌿 Eco-Friendly Vibe: Many hotels and activities are focused on sustainability and preserving natural beauty.
🛶 Peaceful Escape: Relax in overwater hammocks, paddle at sunrise, or read a book in a lakeside cabana.
🏛️ Mayan and Pirate History: Explore the Fort of San Felipe and learn about the town’s colonial past.
💦 Cenotes and Stromatolites: Snorkel and float above ancient reef-like microbial formations.

Where to Stay in Bacalar

Bacalar accommodations are focused on boutique, eco-conscious lodging. Whether you’re seeking lakeside luxury or rustic simplicity, the town has plenty of options.

🏨 Best Areas to Stay:

Lagoonfront (Carretera Costera): The most desirable area to stay, with direct lagoon access, private docks, and boutique hotels.
Town Center (Centro): More budget-friendly and walkable, with access to markets, local restaurants, and the Fort of San Felipe.
Northern Lagoon Zone: Quieter area with upscale eco-resorts and wellness retreats, ideal for couples or digital detoxers.

🌟 Top Hotel Picks:

Best Eco-Resorts on Bacalar Lagoon
Top Boutique Hotels and Cabins with Private Docks
Affordable Hostels and Guesthouses in Central Bacalar

Best Things to Do in Bacalar

From sunrise kayaking to floating in blue waters, here are the top things to do in Bacalar:

🌈 Explore the Lagoon of Seven Colors

Take a boat or pontoon tour to visit highlights like:
- Canal de los Piratas (Pirate Channel)
- Cenote Negro (Black Cenote)
- Isla de los Pájaros (Bird Island)
- Los Rápidos (natural current for floating and swimming)
Rent a kayak, paddleboard, or sailboat to explore at your own pace.

💧 Visit Cenotes and Natural Attractions

Cenote Cocalitos: Known for its visible stromatolites — ancient, living limestone formations.
Cenote Azul: One of the deepest cenotes in Mexico, perfect for swimming or grabbing a bite at the lagoon-side restaurant.

🏛️ Discover Bacalar’s History

Fort of San Felipe: Learn about Bacalar’s pirate raids and colonial history through its museum and panoramic views.
Plaza Principal: Explore local artisan shops and grab street food under shaded trees.

🧘 Wellness and Nature

Join a sunrise yoga class by the lagoon.
Indulge in a massage or temazcal ceremony at a wellness retreat.
Take a bicycle ride around the lake for scenic views and quiet exploration.

Best Time to Visit Bacalar

Bacalar enjoys warm weather year-round, but certain seasons are better for water visibility and comfort:

Season	Weather	Travel Tips
November – April	Dry, sunny, ideal for tours	Best time to visit, especially for lagoon clarity
May – August	Hot, humid	Fewer crowds and lush landscapes
September – October	Rainy season	Quietest months, but chance of storms

Tip: Arrive early in the day for the best light on the lagoon and to avoid day-trip crowds.

How to Get to Bacalar

✈️ By Air:

Chetumal International Airport (CTM): Closest airport, 30–40 minutes from Bacalar by taxi or shuttle.
Cancun International Airport (CUN): ~4.5 hours by car or bus.

🚍 By Bus:

ADO buses run from Tulum, Playa del Carmen, Cancun, Chetumal, and Mérida.
Comfortable and affordable — a popular choice for backpackers.

🚖 Getting Around:

The town is small and walkable.
Taxis are available, and some hotels offer bikes and kayaks for rent.
Renting a scooter or car is useful if exploring surrounding areas.

Bacalar Travel Tips

Currency: Mexican Peso (MXN). Many businesses accept cash only — bring enough or withdraw in town.
Language: Spanish is predominant; English spoken in tourist spots.
Sustainability: Help preserve the lagoon — use reef-safe sunscreen, avoid stepping on stromatolites, and minimize soap/shampoo use in the water.
Packing Essentials: Swimsuit, rash guard, sun hat, biodegradable sunscreen, dry bag, and water shoes.
Connectivity: Wi-Fi is available but may be slower in remote areas — great for digital detoxing.

Book Your Bacalar Escape

Ready to float in blue waters, connect with nature, and discover one of Mexico’s most peaceful treasures?

Let us help you plan your stay — with eco-lodges, lagoon tours, cenote visits, and everything you need for an unforgettable trip.

🌟 Plan Your Trip:

Top Hotels and Lagoonfront Stays in Bacalar
Best Tours: Pontoon, Kayak, Cenotes & Rapids
Book Flights to Chetumal or Cancun

🌟 Travel Smarter:

Bacalar Travel Tips and Sustainability Guide
What to Pack for Bacalar and the Lagoon

At MexicoTravel.info, we believe Bacalar is more than a destination — it’s a sanctuary. A place to slow down, soak in beauty, and reconnect with what matters most.

Your lagoon paradise awaits.