Bacalar Lagoon & Kayak Tour in Club Marmol from Playa del Carmen

Travelers curious about Mexico’s lesser-known treasures will find this Bacalar Lagoon & Kayak Tour offers a compelling way to experience one of the country’s most enchanting spots. This full-day trip, organized by Pata de peek travel, promises a mix of natural beauty, history, and fun activities, all wrapped in a well-organized package. If you’re drawn to peaceful waters, scenic views, and cultural sights, this tour might be just what you’re looking for—though keep in mind that it’s a lengthy day with some travel time involved.

What we especially appreciate about this tour is its access to Bacalar’s stunning lagoon, with plenty of time to enjoy kayaking and relax at a beautiful club on the shore. The inclusion of a visit to Cenote Azul—a highlight for many—adds a refreshing natural swimming spot, while the panoramic views from the Fuerte de San Felipe give a sense of history amid the scenery. A potential downside? The trip involves over 8 hours of travel, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with long day trips. Overall, it’s ideal for travelers who value natural beauty, cultural sights, and a relaxed pace.

If you’re seeking an authentic experience of Mexico’s magical towns and impressive natural formations, this tour offers a rewarding day out. It’s particularly good for those willing to spend a bit of time on the bus for a chance to see a one-of-a-kind lagoon and enjoy an active kayak adventure.

Key Points

• Stunning natural scenery with seven different shades of blue in the Bacalar Lagoon
• Visit to Cenote Azul offers a refreshing swim and unique geological formations
• Kayak experience included, allowing for personal exploration of the lagoon
• Historical sights such as the Fort of San Felipe provide cultural context
• Long day trip with substantial travel time from Playa del Carmen
• All-in-one experience combining nature, history, and outdoor fun

An In-Depth Look at What This Tour Offers

The Itinerary: A Day of Natural Wonders and Historic Sights

This tour is designed to give you a comprehensive taste of Bacalar’s highlights, packed into roughly 12 hours.

The first stop is Cenote Azul, a favorite among travelers. Its reputation as a natural wonder is well-earned—this outdoor swimming hole is a clear, fresh outlet of water that sits right next to the lagoon. We loved the way the tour includes admission and breakfast, making it easy to start the day without extra planning. The water at Cenote Azul is perfect for cooling off after the early morning ride and offers opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing on the rocks.

Next, you’ll visit El Cielo Beach Club, where the lagoon’s famous seven shades of blue are most vivid. The different depths in the lagoon create a palette of vibrant blues, which you’ll see firsthand. The tour provides admission to this popular spot as well, giving you time to unwind and enjoy the scenic views. Many travelers mention the beautiful waters and the chance to simply float and relax amid paradise.

After soaking in the beach scenery, the group heads into Bacalar town itself. This charming “Magic Town” offers a peaceful atmosphere, where you can stroll through streets filled with local life and history. The tour allocates about an hour and a half here, giving you a taste of the town’s laid-back vibe and perhaps a chance to snap photos of the colorful architecture and lakeside views.

The last significant stop is a visit to the Fuerte de San Felipe, a historic fortress with panoramic views of the lagoon. This spot offers a glimpse into the area’s past, with stories dating back to pirates and colonial times. The view from the fort is a highlight, offering a sweeping vista over Bacalar’s waters and a reminder of the area’s strategic importance.

Kayaking at Club Mar&Mol

One of the tour’s main attractions is the 1-hour kayak adventure at Club Mar&Mol, located right on the lagoon’s shore. This is a great way to get closer to the water and enjoy the scenery at your own pace. The club also provides amenities to make your stay comfortable, such as rest areas and perhaps a snack or drink. Many reviews highlight this as a memorable part of the trip, emphasizing how the kayak allows you to experience the lagoon’s magic firsthand.

Transport and Logistics

A significant aspect of this tour is its transport arrangements. Starting early at 6:30 am from Playa del Carmen, you’re picked up from your hotel and transferred in smaller vehicles. These then lead to a main bus, creating a logistical flow that allows the group to travel comfortably over the approximately 8 hours of driving involved. One reviewer noted the “awesome transportation”, but also mentioned that the long travel time might be a consideration for some travelers. The trip can extend to around 12-14 hours from start to finish, depending on your location and traffic.

The large group size (up to 60 travelers) makes for a lively atmosphere; for those who enjoy meeting fellow travelers, this can be a plus. However, it also requires patience with group logistics and timing.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $139 per person, the tour covers quite a bit. Included are round-trip transportation, admission to Cenote Azul with breakfast, the kayak experience, access to Club Mar&Mol for two hours, lunch, and bottled water. The panoramic view from the Fort of San Felipe is also part of the package, giving a historical perspective along with scenic beauty.

Not included are beverages in the restaurant and tips or souvenirs. Travelers should budget extra if they wish to purchase drinks or souvenirs at the stops.

The Experience: Pros and Cons

On the plus side, travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, who help bring the history and natural features to life. The stunning views at each stop are universally appreciated, with many noting how vibrant and unique the lagoon’s colors are. The value for money is generally considered good, especially given the inclusion of multiple activities and stops.

On the downside, the long travel hours can be tiring, and those expecting a quick getaway might find the pace a bit slow or exhausting. One reviewer shared that the 8 hours of driving made the experience less appealing for some, but still worth it for the scenery and activities if you’re prepared for a full day.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adventurous travelers who don’t mind a long day on the road in exchange for a truly immersive day at Bacalar. It’s ideal for those who love natural scenery, historical sites, and water activities like kayaking. Families with older children, couples, or solo travelers looking for a mix of relaxation and sightseeing will find this tour offers a solid value.

However, if your schedule is tight or you prefer shorter trips with less transit, this might not be the best fit. The tour’s size and the long hours on the road also mean it might be less suitable for those seeking a more intimate or leisurely experience.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

In many ways, this Bacalar Lagoon & Kayak Tour offers a well-rounded introduction to one of Mexico’s most captivating natural and historical sites. It combines stunning scenery, historical landmarks, and outdoor fun, all in a single day. The inclusion of breakfast, lunch, and activities makes it a convenient package, especially for travelers who want to see Bacalar without the hassle of planning individual stops.

While the lengthy bus ride is a consideration, the value for money and quality of experiences often make it worthwhile for those eager to explore Mexico’s less crowded gems. Expect a relaxed, scenic, and educational day that balances adventure with culture.

For travelers seeking an authentic, well-organized trip that captures the essence of Bacalar’s natural beauty, this tour is a solid choice—just be prepared for a long day and bring your sense of adventure.

FAQs

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes round transportation from Playa del Carmen hotels, with pickup in smaller vehicles leading to a main bus for the journey.

How long is the trip?
The total duration is approximately 12 hours, with some reviews noting that, depending on your location, it can extend up to 14 hours.

What activities are included?
The tour features visits to Cenote Azul and El Cielo Beach Club, a kayak adventure for one hour, and a stop at the Fort of San Felipe for panoramic views.

Are meals included?
Yes, you’ll receive breakfast at Cenote Azul and a provided lunch, along with bottled water during the day.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothes and shoes, swimwear, towels, extra clothes, and personal belongings. Avoid sunscreen near stromatolites, as per guidelines.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but those sensitive to long travel times or with mobility issues may want to consider the duration.

To sum it up, this Bacalar Lagoon & Kayak Tour offers a diversified experience of natural beauty, history, and adventure. It’s best suited for those prepared for a full day and eager to explore one of Mexico’s most visually stunning and culturally interesting locations. If you value stunning views, authentic experiences, and well-organized activities, this trip will give you a memorable taste of Bacalar’s magic.