Chacchoben Ruins and Bacalar Lagoon Boat Tour from CostaMaya

Imagine stepping into a world where ancient Mayan stones tell stories and the water around you shifts through seven different shades of blue. That’s what this tour promises — a mix of history, natural beauty, and relaxed fun wrapped into a half-day adventure starting from Costa Maya. It’s a well-rounded way to experience two of Quintana Roo’s most captivating sights without having to plan much yourself.

Our review is based on what travelers have experienced, and what we love most about this trip is how smoothly it’s organized and the genuine knowledge of the guides. We also appreciate how thoughtfully the day balances cultural discovery with pure leisure, especially the boat ride across Bacalar Lagoon. The one possible concern? It’s a fairly full schedule, so if you’re looking for a slow, wandering day, this might feel a bit packed.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy history, stunning scenery, and a taste of local Mexican flavors. It’s perfect for those who want a comprehensive yet manageable day out, especially if your time at Costa Maya is limited but you still want a meaningful experience.

Key Points

• Includes transportation, entrance fees, guide, boat tour, and a tasty Mexican taco lunch — excellent value for a full-day excursion.
• Knowledgeable bilingual guides enrich the experience with context and stories, making the ruins and lagoon come alive.
• The boat ride offers unforgettable views of Bacalar’s seven shades of blue and a chance to splash in the clear waters.
• Well-organized itinerary balances sightseeing, relaxation, and local cuisine, making the most of the 6-hour window.
• Some reviews highlight the friendly, attentive crew and the high quality of snacks and lunch.
• A slight consideration is the 50-minute drive to Chacchoben and the busy schedule, which might not suit travelers craving more downtime.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

Our journey begins outside the Costa Maya cruise ship terminal. Since local tour operators like Bacalar Experiences cannot operate inside the port complex, you’ll need to follow specific instructions to meet your guide just outside the main port gate. This process is straightforward if you follow the provided map and directions — a small step that ensures a smooth start to your day.

Once everyone is gathered, you’ll hop into a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle for the 50-minute drive to Chacchoben. The modern transportation helps keep fatigue at bay and sets a relaxed tone for the day ahead. The relatively short transfer allows you to settle in and perhaps briefly reflect on what’s coming next.

Exploring Chacchoben: A Walk Through Mayan History

The highlight for many is the visit to the Chacchoben archaeological site, which takes about an hour. The guides here excel at weaving stories about the site’s history, architecture, and significance without overwhelming you with jargon. We loved the way guides made the ruins accessible and engaging, lighting up the stones with lively explanations.

Expect winding paths through the ruins, with structures that hint at a once-thriving city. The site’s layout encourages wandering, so you can take your time to admire the stonework and imagine the lives of the ancient inhabitants. Several reviews praise the guide’s knowledge, with one traveler noting, “Jhoana was super-sympathetic, making sure we felt comfortable.” You might find that this personal touch adds depth to your understanding.

Transition to Bacalar: The Lagoon’s Magic

After exploring the ruins, the group boards the vehicle again for the 30-minute drive to Bacalar. The scenic route offers glimpses of the lush landscape, building anticipation for the lagoon’s famed beauty. We loved the way the trip transitions smoothly from history to nature, giving you a well-rounded experience.

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The Boat Tour: Seven Shades of Blue

The centerpiece of the day is a two-hour boat ride across Bacalar Lagoon. As soon as the boat pulls away from the marina, the vistas become mesmerizing. The crew prepares a healthy fruit snack, which is a thoughtful touch, helping you refresh as you take in the stunning views.

You’ll cruise out into the lagoon, where the water’s color shifts from turquoise to deep navy, with several shades in between. This striking variation is why Bacalar is often called the “7 Color Lagoon”. The boat’s gentle movement and the attentive crew make it easy to relax, splash in the clear waters, or simply marvel at the scenery. Many travelers mention how the guide’s commentary deepens the experience, explaining the lagoon’s formation and ecology.

Tasting Authentic Mexican Tacos

Post-boat, it’s time to enjoy a traditional Mexican taco lunch at a favorite local spot. Options include pork, beef, or shrimp tacos, served with fresh guacamole. Vegetarian and vegan options can be prepared if requested — a considerate touch for dietary preferences. The reviews consistently highlight the freshness of the ingredients and the quality of the meal, with one traveler saying, “The snacks and lunch were so fresh and delicious.” It’s an authentic, satisfying way to experience local cuisine without hefty prices.

Return Journey and Final Reflections

Finally, the drive back to Costa Maya takes about an hour. It’s a good time to relax, reflect on what you’ve seen, and perhaps share favorite moments with your fellow travelers. The entire day wraps up on schedule, allowing you to reboard your cruise ship with enough time to spare.

Practical Considerations

The tour costs $185 per person, which covers nearly everything — transportation, guides, ruins entry, boat ride, snacks, and lunch. When measuring value, think about how efficiently it packs in varied experiences without the need for additional planning. The guides’ knowledge, the scenic boat ride, and the authenticity of the site visits justify the price for many travelers.

The group size appears manageable, and the bilingual guides ensure clear communication in both English and Spanish. These aspects are crucial for a smooth and engaging experience, especially if it’s your first time exploring Mayan sites or cruising the lagoon.

Transportation and Timing

Starting outside the port is a small hurdle, but it’s straightforward if you follow the instructions. The overall schedule is tight but well-paced, with enough time for each activity. Keep in mind that the 50-minute drive to Chacchoben and the 1-hour return trip mean a fair chunk of your day is spent in transit, which is typical for this type of excursion.

Weather and Comfort

Weather can impact your experience, especially during the boat ride. Some reviewers mention rainy days but note that the crew’s friendliness and good snacks helped offset any discomfort. A hat, sunscreen, and water are wise additions, especially during the outdoor parts.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is an excellent choice for travelers who want a balanced mix of cultural history and natural beauty without spending too much time or money. It’s ideal if you enjoy guided storytelling, scenic boat rides, and flavorful local food. The knowledgeable guides make the archaeological and ecological stories accessible and interesting, turning a sightseeing trip into a genuine learning experience.

It’s perfect for those who appreciate comfort and organization but still crave authentic, hands-on experiences. The stunning views of Bacalar Lagoon alone make this worthwhile, especially if you love being on the water. Those with limited time at Costa Maya will find it a satisfying way to see some of the region’s highlights efficiently.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation from outside the Costa Maya port to Chacchoben, Bacalar, and back to the port is included, making logistics straightforward.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, sunscreen, a hat, water, and a swimsuit if you want to splash in the lagoon are recommended. Snacks and drinks are provided during the day.

Are vegetarian or vegan options available?
Yes, vegetarian and vegan options for lunch can be requested.

How long is the boat tour?
The boat ride lasts approximately 2 hours, offering plenty of time for sightseeing and swimming.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the relaxed nature and focus on scenic views suggest it’s appropriate for families, provided children are comfortable on boats and walking around ruins.

What is the price of the tour?
The cost is $185 per person, which covers nearly all activities, snacks, and transportation.

What language are guides available in?
Guides speak both English and Spanish, ensuring clear communication for diverse travelers.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if plans change.

Are there any extra fees I should know about?
There is a $5 fee for video recording at the ruins site, but no other hidden costs are mentioned.

In all, this tour offers a well-rounded, enjoyable day out that combines history, scenery, and local flavor. It’s a smart choice for those wanting to see some of the best of Quintana Roo in a manageable, organized way — especially if you value guides who know their stuff and a boat ride that’s as beautiful as it is relaxing.

You can check availability for your dates here: