Bacalar 7 Color Lagoon and Mayan Family from Costa Maya Port

If you’re planning a cruise in the Caribbean and heading to Costa Maya, chances are you’re looking for more than just sunbathing on the beach. This tour promises an engaging blend of culture, historical insights, and relaxing moments at the famous Bacalar Lagoon. While we haven’t done this trip ourselves, the detailed reviews and itinerary paint a picture of a well-rounded experience perfect for curious travelers.

What we love about this tour is its focus on authentic Mayan culture—interacting with local families and tasting traditional foods prepared with ancestral techniques. We’re also big fans of the breathtaking views of Bacalar’s Seven Color Lagoon, which is reputed to be a beautiful, less commercialized spot for swimming and kayaking.

One consideration: the tour’s duration is about 5.5 hours, so it’s a good choice for those who don’t want to spend their entire day off the ship. It’s also worth noting that the tour involves a fair amount of walking from the cruise port, and children must be supervised during kayaking.

This experience seems ideal for cruise travelers who want a taste of Mayan history, local life, and natural beauty—a well-balanced mix that offers plenty of value for the price.

Key Points

• Authentic cultural experience with Mayan descendants and local family interactions
• Visually stunning Bacalar Lagoon with options to swim or kayak
• Traditional Mayan cuisine prepared using ancestral techniques
• Comfortable transportation with air-conditioning and included drinks
• Family-friendly activities, with safety measures like mandatory life vests
• Flexible booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance

What to Expect on the Tour

A Look into Mayan Life at Chacchoben

The journey begins with a visit to the Mayan village of Chacchoben, where you’ll get a glimpse of how descendants of the ancient civilization continue their traditions today. This isn’t just a sightseeing stop; you’ll have the opportunity to interact directly with the local family who will show you their kitchen techniques, from making tortillas to sharing home remedies for insect bites.

The family’s home and garden are part of the charm here. As one reviewer put it, “The Mayan garden was beautiful and tasty. We learned about the various spices and foods grown.” The inclusion of local ingredients like vegetables and possibly poultry or meat makes the food visit more than just a meal—it’s an authentic taste of everyday life. The duration of this stop is about 1 hour and 20 minutes, enough to appreciate the hospitality and learn something new without feeling rushed.

The Highlight: Lake Bacalar

After the culture, you’ll travel approximately an hour to Bacalar Lagoon, famed for its seven distinct shades of blue. Historically a haven for pirates, today it’s a peaceful retreat where you can swim in clear waters, kayak, or simply relax on the shore. The inclusion of kayaks and drinks makes this a true highlight—imagine paddling across those vibrant waters while sipping on a margarita or pina colada, just like the reviews mention.

The two-hour stop here also includes admission to the lagoon, so you won’t need to worry about extra costs. Even non-swimmers or those preferring to relax can enjoy the scenery and the calm, refreshing atmosphere.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour offers a comprehensive package at $108.90 per person. The included items are quite generous: air-conditioned transport, bottled water, authentic Mayan lunch, kayaks, and alcoholic beverages such as margaritas, piña coladas, and beer. These extras add a lot of value, especially since local food and drinks can be expensive elsewhere.

However, remember that the use of life vests is mandatory during kayaking, and children must be accompanied by an adult. Souvenirs and additional personal expenses aren’t covered, so bring some cash if you want to buy local crafts or snacks.

Comfort and Convenience

The pickup point is just a short 15-minute walk from the cruise ship dock, making it a hassle-free start. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures you stay comfortable during transfers, and the entire tour runs from early morning to early evening, fitting well into most cruise schedules.

The Itinerary in Detail

Chacchoben: A Glimpse of Indigenous Life

The visit to Chacchoben, which shares its name with the ancient Mayan city, is a delightful introduction to local traditions. Instead of just seeing ruins, you get to meet the descendants and see how they live today. This makes the experience much more meaningful and personal, especially when you interact with the family and learn about their daily routines.

Insights from reviews tell us that many visitors appreciated the authentic home-cooked meals, prepared with ancestral techniques. One reviewer noted, “The food was tasty, and the Mayan garden was beautiful,” emphasizing the educational aspect of the experience.

Bacalar Lagoon: Nature’s Artwork

The second stop is a highlight for many: the Seven Color Lagoon. The vivid hues make it a postcard-perfect setting, ideal for swimming, kayaking, or simply soaking in the amazing scenery. The kayaking option is accessible, with weight limits and safety gear provided—an activity many find both relaxing and fun.

Guests often mention the refreshing waters and the peaceful atmosphere. It’s a perfect spot to unwind after the cultural tour and enjoy the natural beauty of this less commercialized lagoon.

Authenticity, Value, and Practical Tips

This tour strikes a good balance between cultural education and relaxation. The cost of $108.90 might seem high for just a few hours, but considering the inclusion of lunch, drinks, transportation, and kayaks, it offers solid value. Plus, the chance to connect with local families and see a less touristy side of the Yucatan makes it worthwhile.

The small group size (up to 80 travelers) allows for a more intimate experience, and the free cancellation policy provides peace of mind if your plans change.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a traveler eager to learn about Mayan culture firsthand, enjoy authentic food, and appreciate beautiful natural landscapes, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suitable for families, history buffs, or nature lovers who want a meaningful experience without sacrificing comfort.

Final Thoughts

For cruise passengers wanting a multi-faceted day—combining culture, history, and relaxation—this tour offers a lot. The interaction with a local Mayan family adds an extra layer of authenticity that smaller, less personal excursions might lack. The chance to swim or kayak in Bacalar’s famous lagoon makes for a memorable ending.

While the tour does involve some walking and a packed schedule, it’s well-organized to maximize your limited time ashore. The inclusion of delicious, traditional food and drinks makes it feel like a true local experience rather than a cookie-cutter cruise activity.

In summary, if you’re after an authentic taste of Mayan culture paired with stunning natural beauty, this tour provides a comprehensive, enjoyable, and value-packed option for your cruise stop in Costa Maya.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes, including travel time, visits, and activities.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Av. P.º del Puerto 1180, about 15 minutes walk from Costa Maya cruise port.

What’s included in the price?
Transport, bottled water, a traditional Mayan lunch, kayaks, and alcoholic beverages like margaritas, pina coladas, and beer.

Are children allowed to kayak?
Yes, children must kayak with an adult, and there is a weight limit of 220 pounds per kayak.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What kind of food will I try?
You’ll enjoy dishes prepared with ancestral techniques using local ingredients, mainly vegetables, and possibly poultry or meat.

Can I buy souvenirs during the tour?
Souvenirs are not included, but you may have the option to purchase local crafts or snacks at the stops.

Is transportation air-conditioned?
Yes, the vehicle used for transfers is air-conditioned.

What is the maximum group size?
Up to 80 travelers can join this tour.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, a towel, and cash if you wish to buy souvenirs or extra drinks.

This tour offers a meaningful glimpse into Mayan culture, stunning natural scenery, and relaxing water activities — a well-rounded choice for those wanting to make the most of their time in Costa Maya.