Bacalar Lagoon & Chacchoben Mayan Ruins Combo from Costa Maya

If you’re visiting Costa Maya and looking for an experience that mixes history, nature, and a little bit of relaxation, this tour promises just that. It’s a carefully curated mix of exploring ancient ruins and cooling off in one of Mexico’s most beautiful lakes. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the detailed reviews and itineraries give us a good sense of what to expect—an adventure that balances discovery with leisure.

What we love about this tour? First, the chance to visit Chacchoben, one of the less trodden Mayan archaeological sites, means you’ll avoid the crowds and get a more authentic glimpse into the past. Second, the visit to Bacalar Lagoon offers a stunning setting with its famous seven shades of blue, perfect for lounging or paddling. That combination of history and natural beauty makes for a memorable day.

A possible consideration is the timing—the tour lasts about five and a half hours, which can feel a bit rushed if you’re keen on really soaking in every detail at the ruins or enjoying a longer swim at the lagoon. Still, it’s designed as a cruise port excursion, so it balances sightseeing with port-time constraints.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy learning about ancient civilizations but also want some time to unwind. It’s ideal if you’re on a cruise and want to maximize your limited port time without feeling overwhelmed. Those with a curious mind and a love for scenic views will find plenty to enjoy here.

Key Points

• Authentic Ruins: Visit one of the least explored Mayan sites, avoiding tourist crowds.
• Natural Beauty: The Bacalar Lagoon’s stunning seven shades of blue are a highlight.
• Balanced Experience: Combines archaeological exploration with leisure by the water.
• Guided Tours: Knowledgeable guides bring history to life, with reviews praising their expertise.
• Food & Drinks: Includes a tasty lunch of fajitas with soft drinks, adding local flavor.
• Flexible & Convenient: Designed for cruise passengers, with guaranteed port return.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins at Av. P.º del Puerto 1180 in Mahahual, just a short 15-minute walk from Costa Maya Cruise Port. This proximity is a major plus, meaning you won’t spend much time traveling before you start discovering. The transportation to Chacchoben is via air-conditioned vehicles, which helps keep everyone comfortable after the walk or short transfer. You’ll be part of a group limited to 80 travelers, so it’s large enough to be lively yet manageable.

The Chacchoben Mayan Ruins

The first stop, at Chacchoben, is an archaeological site that dates back to about 200 BC. Unlike more popular Mayan ruins, Chacchoben is less visited, which means fewer crowds and a more intimate experience. Your guide will take you around the incredible monuments and explain their significance, making the history more tangible. The site is surrounded by lush jungle, adding to the sense of stepping back in time.

What makes this visit special? Several reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides, like Alan and Joel, who go beyond just listing facts—many said they felt like they truly understood the culture and local history. The ruins themselves are fascinating, with features that keep attention—some features are still being uncovered, so there’s a sense of exploration.

The visit lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes, a manageable amount of time to see the highlights without feeling rushed. Note that there’s a $5 camera fee payable at the site, which is typical for archaeological parks.

The Bacalar Lagoon Experience

After the ruins, your journey continues to Bacalar Lagoon, about a 2-hour drive from the archaeological site. Once there, you’ll have around 2 hours to relax, swim, or kayak. The lagoon’s seven distinct shades of blue are unlike anything you’ve seen before, and many reviews emphasize how stunning the views are.

The water here is known for being refreshing and perfect for a quick swim or paddling around on a kayak. The inclusion of kayaks in the tour is a major plus, allowing you to paddle at your own pace and enjoy the scenery from a different perspective. There’s also a delicious lunch of fajitas, with soft drinks, served right at the lagoon. Many visitors love the food—one reviewer called the tacos “tasty” and a perfect addition to their day.

You can also simply relax, breathe in the breeze, and take in the incredible landscape. The lagoon was described as a private and peaceful spot by some travelers, making it feel like your own slice of paradise.

Practical Details & Tips

The total duration of the tour is approximately 5 hours 30 minutes, with the itinerary timed to ensure you return to the port with plenty of time before your cruise departs. This is great for cruise passengers worried about missing the ship or being late.

Included in the price are bottled water, lunch, soft drinks, and guided tours at Chacchoben. Kayaks are also provided, and guides like Eder and Edgar are praised for their professionalism and friendliness.

What about costs? At $116.10 per person, this offers a fair value. The price covers transportation, admission fees, lunch, and guided commentary. Considering the cost of similar excursions, it’s a good deal, especially given the personalized experience at Chacchoben and the scenic beauty of Bacalar Lagoon.

Review Highlights & Authentic Feedback

Reviewers consistently mention how knowledgeable guides like Yoshi and Alan make the experience engaging and educational. One reviewer appreciated the delicious food and the fun kayaking, emphasizing how these added to the enjoyment.

There are some comments about the pace being a little rushed, particularly at the ruins, so if you prefer to spend more time exploring archaeological sites or relaxing in water, you might feel a bit pressed for time. However, the tour is designed to fit neatly into a cruise schedule, which is a significant benefit for cruise travelers.

What to Expect in Terms of Logistics

The tour departs about an hour after your ship docks, ensuring you get to see everything without rushing. The walk from the cruise port is manageable, and the entire experience is set up for travelers with limited time, emphasizing convenience and efficiency.

Travelers are advised to bring cameras (with the $5 fee), swimsuits for water activities, and sun protection. Drones and tripods are prohibited at the ruins, so plan accordingly. The group size is large but manageable, and most travelers find the guides friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to answer questions.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This combo is perfect for history enthusiasts who want to see a lesser-visited Mayan site. The guided tour at Chacchoben is both educational and engaging, thanks to knowledgeable guides. If you’re a water lover, the Bacalar Lagoon’s inviting waters and scenic views will appeal, especially if you enjoy kayaking or just relaxing with a cold drink.

It’s also well-suited for cruise travelers who need a well-organized, time-efficient excursion that guarantees return to the ship. If you prefer more relaxed, scenic days with a mix of cultural insights and natural beauty, this tour hits the sweet spot.

However, if you’re looking for a full-day deep dive into archaeology or a lengthy beach day, this might feel a bit brief. The focus is on giving a well-rounded taste rather than exhaustive exploration.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes, designed to fit comfortably within cruise port schedules.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Av. P.º del Puerto 1180 in Mahahual, just a short walk from Costa Maya port, making it very convenient for cruise passengers.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, admission to Chacchoben, guided tour, bottled water, lunch with soft drinks, and kayaking.

Are there any additional fees?
Yes, a $5 camera fee is payable at the archaeological site. Souvenirs and alcoholic drinks are not included.

Is this suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but keep in mind the walking involved and the water activities—kayaks have weight limits of 220 and 270 pounds for single and double kayaks.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, a swimsuit if you plan to swim or kayak, and a camera (with the fee paid). Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the ruins.

What if my ship doesn’t dock?
The tour offers a full refund if your cruise ship does not call in Costa Maya, thanks to their “No port, no pay” policy.

Final Thoughts

For those looking to combine a touch of history with a splash of scenic relaxation, this Bacalar Lagoon & Chacchoben tour offers a compelling option. It strikes a good balance between cultural discovery and leisure, making it especially appealing for cruise travelers wanting a well-organized, memorable day.

The knowledgeable guides, delicious food, and breathtaking views make this tour stand out, but keep in mind the time constraints. If you’re eager to learn about the Mayan civilization and unwind in a stunning natural setting, this experience is certainly worth considering. It’s a smart choice for those who prefer authenticity and value a carefully curated day rather than just ticking off sights.

In short, if you love history, scenic lakes, and good food, and you value a tour that respects your limited port time while providing genuine experiences, this combo from Costa Maya hits the mark. It’s a neat way to make the most of your day in this vibrant part of Mexico.