Bacalar : Ichkabal Ruins & Los Rapidos With Pick Up

Introduction

If you’re looking for a day that blends history, nature, and relaxation in Bacalar, this tour might just be the perfect fit. It’s designed for travelers who want to explore away from the crowds, enjoy a tasty breakfast, and finish their day floating in crystal-clear waters—all within a flexible, small-group setting. We particularly love how this experience balances cultural discovery with lazy, peaceful swims.

One of the best parts? The tour includes an early visit to the recently opened Ichkabal ruins, giving you a sense of stepping into the past without the bustling crowds. Plus, the trip to Los Rápidos offers a chance to unwind in one of Bacalar’s most beautiful spots. That said, a consideration for potential guests: the tour’s duration varies from 3.5 to 8 hours, so you’ll want to pick the option that fits your schedule and energy level.

This tour is ideal for those who appreciate history, scenic nature spots, and relaxed comfort, offering a well-rounded day in this special corner of Quintana Roo.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Mayan Ruins: Visit Ichkabal, a less touristy but impressive archaeological site in the jungle.
• Local Breakfast: Enjoy a fresh, tropical breakfast amid nature, including fruits, water, and toast.
• Relaxing Waters: Float and swim in Los Rápidos, a peaceful channel with turquoise waters and gentle currents.
• Flexible Options: Choose from half-day options focusing on ruins, relaxing swims, or the full experience.
• Small Group: Limited to 7 participants for a more personal and engaging experience.
• All Included: Entrance fees, breakfast, and drone photos are part of the package—no hidden costs.

Exploring the Ichkabal Ruins

The highlight of this tour is the exploration of Ichkabal, a site that remains relatively unknown outside specialist circles. We loved the way the ruins are set deep in the jungle—implying a sense of adventure and discovery. The site features pyramids and ceremonial structures that are still being studied, and you’ll have ample free time to walk around, soak in the atmosphere, and imagine what life was like centuries ago.

Travelers who appreciate authentic, off-the-beaten-path sites will find Ichkabal particularly rewarding. Several reviews note the site’s recent opening and the attentiveness of guides who take their time explaining its significance. A reviewer from Canada described the visit as “interesting and original,” emphasizing the uniqueness of experiencing a site that’s not overwhelmed by travelers.

Since the ruins are surrounded by lush jungle, you might even catch glimpses of monkeys, toucans, or a fox—adding to the magic. It’s a chance to connect with Mayan history in a setting that feels untouched and genuine.

The Breakfast Experience

After wandering around Ichkabal, you’ll enjoy a local breakfast that is simple but refreshing. The reviews highlight the quality of this meal, often described as “simple but tasty,” with fresh fruits, water, and toasts that hit the spot after a morning of walking and exploration.

This breakfast provides a much-needed energy boost and gives you a moment to relax and chat with your fellow travelers. It also underscores one of the tour’s strengths: attention to nice touches that make the experience feel personal and well-organized, without overloading the itinerary or rushing through sites.

Los Rápidos: The Ultimate Chill Spot

The latter part of the tour takes you to Los Rápidos, a natural channel famed for its tranquil, turquoise waters and gentle current. We loved the way the guide encourages you to float along with the flow, a perfect way to unwind after the archaeological walk.

This spot is perfect for swimming, relaxing by the riverside restaurant, or even just letting the peacefulness wash over you. One reviewer remarked, “Se laisser porter par le courant dans cette eau turquoise est vraiment agréable,” which translates to “letting yourself be carried by the current in this turquoise water is truly enjoyable.”

The calm vibes here mean it’s appropriate for families or anyone seeking a low-key, restorative experience. The inclusion of drone shots (if you choose the full experience) is a fun way to capture memories from above.

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The Tour Options and What They Cover

Option 1: Ichkabal Ruins + Breakfast (7:30 AM start)
This half-day tour is ideal if you want an early taste of Bacalar’s history and a quick but meaningful visit. It’s perfect for travelers with limited time who want to see the ruins and enjoy a laid-back breakfast.

Option 2: Los Rápidos + Drone Shot (12:00 PM – 4:00 PM)
Perfect for those mainly interested in a relaxing swim and floating experience. The drone footage adds a fun, memorable element, especially if you want aerial photos of your float.

Option 3: Full Experience (7:30 AM – 4:00 PM)
This combines both the archaeological visit and the relaxing waters, offering a full day of history, nature, and downtime. If you’re keen on seeing the highlights without rushing, this is the best value.

Each option is flexible, allowing you to tailor the day to your interests and schedule, making it a practical choice for various travelers.

The Logistics: Transport, Group Size, and Cost

Transportation is smooth—your guide picks you up directly from your hotel in Bacalar, saving you the hassle of navigation. The van ride to Ichkabal takes about 45 minutes, which is a comfortable window for chatting or relaxing. The group size is limited to 7 people, fostering a friendly, more intimate atmosphere—an advantage for those who like a bit of personal attention and easy interaction.

The tour’s prices are structured to offer good value, considering that all entrance fees, breakfast, and drone footage are included. This all-in-one package means you won’t be surprised by extra costs, and the small group format ensures a more personalized experience.

Authentic Experiences and Reviews

Participants consistently praise the well-organized nature of the tour and the attentiveness of guides. One reviewer from Austria appreciated “the good planning and the friendly, attentive guide,” noting that the entire experience felt smoothly run.

The highlight for many seems to be the balance between cultural insight and relaxation. As Christina from Austria said, “inkl. Drohnenfotos und -Videos beim Schwimmen in den Rapidos,” capturing moments from the water with a drone is a memorable touch.

This tour offers a genuine glimpse into Bacalar’s natural beauty and Mayan past, delivered with a friendly, practical approach.

The Sum Up

This tour is a solid choice for travelers who want to experience the essence of Bacalar—its untouched ruins, peaceful water channels, and delicious local flavors—without the hassle of planning everything themselves. The combination of authentic, lesser-known archaeological sites and serene natural swimming spots makes for a well-rounded day.

It’s especially suited for small groups, those interested in history and nature, and anyone looking for a laid-back, memorable experience. The inclusion of breakfast and drone footage adds nice touches that elevate the trip from simply sightseeing to capturing genuine moments.

Whether you’re a history buff, a water lover, or a traveler seeking tranquility, this tour offers value and authenticity in a friendly, accessible package.

FAQs

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup in Bacalar. The driver will wait outside your accommodation, and it’s important to be ready on time.

How long does the tour last?
The duration varies from 3.5 to 8 hours, depending on the option you choose. You can select a half-day or full-day experience.

Are entrance fees included?
All entrance fees are covered, so there are no additional costs to visit Ichkabal or Los Rápidos.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a hat, and a towel. These essentials will help you stay comfortable during the outdoor explorations and water activities.

Is the tour suitable for children or seniors?
While generally appropriate for most, the tour is not recommended for wheelchair users, people with altitude sickness, or those over 110 kg (243 lbs). Babies under 1 year and those over 95 years might find the physical aspects challenging.

Can I choose the full experience or only part of it?
Absolutely, you can select from the different options based on your schedule and interests—whether just exploring Ichkabal, relaxing at Los Rápidos, or doing the full day.

Will I get photos or videos?
Yes, if you opt for the full experience, drone shots of your time in Los Rápidos are included, making for memorable aerial photos and videos.

In summary, this tour offers a well-balanced mix of cultural exploration and natural relaxation, all wrapped in a friendly, small-group setting. It’s designed to give you a meaningful taste of Bacalar—whether you want history, tranquility, or both.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby