Chacchoben Mayan Ruins and Bacalar Lagoon Combo Tour From Costa Maya

The Chacchoben Mayan Ruins and Bacalar Lagoon Combo Tour from Costa Maya provides an enriching cultural and natural experience. Visitors can explore the impressive temple pyramids of an ancient Mayan civilization, then venture to the stunning "Lake of Seven Colors" for a peaceful kayaking adventure. With knowledgeable guides, delicious local cuisine, and seamless transportation, this tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the region’s history and beauty. Those seeking to enjoy the captivating blend of Mayan heritage and natural wonders won’t want to miss this exceptional excursion.

Key Points

• A guided tour that combines visiting the Chacchoben Mayan Ruins and exploring the Bacalar Lagoon, departing from the Costa Maya Cruise Port.
• Includes a certified guide, bottled water, lunch, kayaking, and transportation, with a rating of 4.5/5 and a Badge of Excellence.
• Meeting point is at Plaza Las Fuentes, a 15-minute walk from the cruise ship, with the tour departing one hour after cruise arrival.
• The tour features impressive temple pyramids, plazas, and ceremonial centers at Chacchoben, and the vibrant blue and turquoise waters of Bacalar Lagoon.
• Moderate physical activity is required, and the tour is not recommended for individuals with serious medical conditions or those requiring wheelchair accessibility.

Tour Overview

The Chacchoben Mayan Ruins and Bacalar Lagoon Combo Tour offers visitors a captivating exploration of Costa Maya’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.

This excursion combines a guided tour of the ancient Mayan site of Chacchoben with a relaxing experience at the stunning Bacalar Lagoon. Rated 4.5/5 with a Badge of Excellence, the tour provides a comprehensive and immersive experience, including a certified guide, bottled water, a delicious lunch, kayaking, and transportation.

With a convenient meeting point at the Costa Maya Cruise Port, this tour is an excellent way to discover the region’s archaeological wonders and natural wonders in a single day.

Inclusions

As part of the Chacchoben Mayan Ruins and Bacalar Lagoon Combo Tour, visitors can expect a comprehensive package of inclusions.

The tour features a certified guided tour of the Chacchoben Mayan Ruins, providing valuable insights into the ancient civilization. Bottled water is provided throughout the day, and a delightful lunch at Bacalar Lagoon includes street tacos, drinks like sodas, beer, and margaritas.

Kayak usage is included, allowing guests to explore the stunning lagoon at their leisure. The tour also covers transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, as well as gratuities and the $5.00 USD camera fee required at the Mayan site.

Tripods and drones, however, are prohibited at the ruins.

Meeting and Pickup

The tour departs one hour after cruise arrival at the port. Participants should plan to walk approximately 15 minutes from their cruise ship to the meeting point at Plaza Las Fuentes, Costa Maya Cruise Port. It is important to provide the cruise ship name in advance for planning purposes.

Pickup Point	Plaza Las Fuentes, Costa Maya Cruise Port
Pickup Details	Tour departs 1 hour after cruise arrival
Walking Time	15 minutes from cruise ship
Important	Provide cruise ship name for planning
Accessibility	Not wheelchair accessible, but stroller and infant seats available

Tour Schedule and Accessibility

Confirming the tour’s start time with the local provider in advance is important, as the Chacchoben Mayan Ruins and Bacalar Lagoon Combo Tour operates daily from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with availability from January 30, 2020 through December 7, 2025.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is stroller accessible and provides infant seats.

While most travelers can participate, it’s not recommended for individuals with serious medical conditions.

Guests should be prepared for a moderate level of physical activity, including walking and climbing at the Mayan ruins site.

Chacchoben Mayan Ruins Exploration

Visitors to the Chacchoben Mayan Ruins can explore the site’s impressive temple pyramids, plazas, and ceremonial centers, which date back to the Late Classic period.

Led by a knowledgeable guide, guests will learn about the ancient Mayan civilization and the significance of the site’s architectural features. Highlights include the three main temple pyramids, which rise impressively above the surrounding jungle.

Visitors can also wander through the site’s stone-paved plazas and witness the remains of ancient residences and administrative buildings.

The tour provides an immersive glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Mayans, allowing guests to appreciate the ingenuity and sophistication of this remarkable ancient civilization.

Bacalar Lagoon Highlights

After exploring the Chacchoben Mayan Ruins, the tour takes visitors to the stunning Bacalar Lagoon, also known as the "Lake of Seven Colors." This natural wonder boasts vibrant shades of blue and turquoise, creating a mesmerizing landscape.

At the lagoon, the tour includes a delicious lunch of street tacos and refreshing drinks, as well as the opportunity to kayak and enjoy the serene waters. The table below highlights the key features and inclusions of the Bacalar Lagoon portion of the tour:

Feature	Inclusion
Lunch	Street tacos, drinks (sodas, beer, margaritas)
Activities	Kayaking
Transportation	Air-conditioned vehicle
Gratuities	Included

Traveler Experiences

Travelers have largely praised the knowledgeable and professional guides, who enhance the overall tour experience.

Guests have remarked on the beauty of the Bacalar Lagoon, though weather conditions can affect the water’s vibrant color. Some have noted challenges with timing and logistics, underscoring the importance of arriving early.

Despite these minor issues, the feedback indicates an informative and enjoyable experience, blending cultural appreciation with leisure activities.

Participants have appreciated the opportunity to explore the Chacchoben Mayan Ruins and the serene Bacalar Lagoon, creating lasting memories of their time in Costa Maya.

Important Considerations

One important consideration for this tour is the accessibility. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s stroller accessible and has infant seats available. Most travelers can participate, but it isn’t recommended for individuals with serious medical conditions.

Other key considerations include:

1. Camera usage: There’s a $5.00 USD copyright fee for camera use at the Mayan site, payable on-site.

2. Prohibited items: Tripods and drones aren’t allowed at the ruins.

3. Timing and logistics: Travelers should plan to arrive early, as the tour departs one hour after cruise arrival, and the walking time from the cruise ship to the meeting point is approximately 15 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Children Allowed on the Tour?

Yes, children are allowed on the tour. The tour description mentions that infant seats are available, indicating that the tour is suitable for families with young children.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

The tour includes bottled water and a provided lunch at Bacalar Lagoon, so bringing your own food and drinks is not necessary. However, you’re welcome to bring any additional snacks or beverages you’d like to have on the tour.

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and walking shoes are recommended. Swimwear, sunscreen, and sun protection are advised for the activities at Bacalar Lagoon.

Is There a Place to Store My Luggage During the Tour?

There is no dedicated luggage storage area provided during the tour. The tour may not have the capacity to hold guests’ luggage. It’s recommended to make arrangements to store any excess bags before the tour starts.

Can I Extend My Time at Bacalar Lagoon?

Travelers can request to extend their time at Bacalar Lagoon, but this would need to be coordinated with the tour provider in advance. Any additional time or activities beyond the included lunch and kayaking would likely incur an extra charge.

The Sum Up

The Chacchoben Mayan Ruins and Bacalar Lagoon Combo Tour from Costa Maya offers a captivating blend of cultural and natural wonders. Travelers explore ancient Mayan temples, then kayak the vibrant "Lake of Seven Colors." With transportation, lunch, and knowledgeable guides, this tour provides an enriching experience filled with history and breathtaking scenery. It’s an ideal way to take in the region’s remarkable heritage and natural beauty.