Costa Maya: Bacalar Lagoon and Cenote Boat Adventure

If you’re seeking a mix of natural beauty, history, and a splash of adventure during your time in Costa Maya, the Bacalar Lagoon and Cenote Boat Adventure might just be worth considering. This tour offers a chance to explore some of the most picturesque spots in Quintana Roo, all within a manageable half-day outing. It’s not a sprawling, all-day affair, but it packs in enough highlights to make it memorable — especially if you enjoy scenic boat rides, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and learning a bit about the area’s pirate past.

What we like about this tour is its accessible price point of $159 per person — considering it includes transportation, visits to historic sites, boat rides, and snack breaks, it offers solid value. We also appreciated the combination of cultural and natural sights, from the iconic San Felipe Fort to the tranquil Cenotes, which give a well-rounded experience of the region. One potential caveat is the group size limit of 78 travelers, which could make for a crowded feeling during peak times. Still, if you’re after authentic beauty and a taste of local history without spending a whole day, this trip could be a good fit.

This tour suits travelers who want a convenient, organized excursion with a variety of sights, especially if you’re not a big fan of hiking or strenuous activities. It’s ideal for those who want some time on the water, enjoy a bit of history, and appreciate scenic views — plus, it’s friendly for those who might not swim but still want to experience the water.

Key Points

• Includes transportation from Costa Maya Port — no need to worry about logistics.
• Visit historic San Felipe Fort — learn about pirate legends and local history.
• Cruise the Bacalar Lagoon on a boat — explore stunning, lesser-known waterway sights.
• Swim in two cenotes (La Bruja and Cocalitos) — enjoy clear waters and natural beauty.
• Snacks and drinks are included — with options from sandwiches to beer.
• Ideal for those seeking a mix of culture, scenery, and relaxation in a manageable half-day trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Highlights: What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Roundtrip Transportation and Convenience

From the moment you step onto the air-conditioned vehicle at Costa Maya Port, the tour’s convenience is evident. The roundtrip transport takes away the hassle of logistics, allowing you to relax and focus on the experience ahead. For most travelers, knowing that transportation is organized is a huge plus — especially when dealing with unfamiliar routes or busy ports.

San Felipe Fort: A Slice of History

Your first stop is the San Felipe Fort, a site that’s worth the modest $5 USD entrance fee. While it’s a small fee, this historic fortress offers a glimpse into the pirate era, with stories and views that elevate the experience beyond just a photo stop. Visitors can walk around the fort and imagine the swashbuckling days of old, which adds a layer of cultural depth to your trip.

Bacalar Lagoon: The Quintessential Waterway

The centerpiece of this tour is the boat ride on Bacalar Lagoon, often called the “Lake of Seven Colors” for its stunning water hues. Although the tour doesn’t specify the exact stops along the lagoon, you can expect to see some of the hidden treasures and scenic views that make this area special. It’s a chance to photograph vibrant waters and enjoy a peaceful cruise away from the crowds.

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Swimming in Cenotes: La Bruja and Cocalitos

Nothing beats cooling off in crystal-clear cenote waters, and this tour offers two: La Bruja and Cocalitos. Both are known for their lush surroundings and inviting waters. La Bruja offers a great spot to take a dip, with the chance to appreciate the natural limestone formations and underwater life. Cocalitos is famous for its stromatolites and serene environment, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and photos.

Snacks and Refreshments: A Bonus

Throughout the trip, you’re treated to complimentary snacks and beverages, including bottled water, sodas, juice, and even beer. The included cheese or turkey sandwich, granola bar, chips, and fruit keep you energized without the need to buy extra snacks, which is a thoughtful touch for a half-day tour.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and Experience

This 5.5-hour adventure is carefully structured to balance scenic sightseeing with leisure. You’ll likely kick off with pickup from Costa Maya Port, then head to San Felipe Fort for a quick history lesson. The visit isn’t lengthy — just enough to soak in the views and snap a few photos — but it sets a good tone for the day by connecting you with local history.

Next, the boat ride takes you across the stunning Bacalar Lagoon. The boat is an excellent way to appreciate the lagoon’s colorful waters and natural beauty. While the tour doesn’t specify specific stops along the lagoon, the background scenery and tranquil boat ride stand out as a highlight — you’ll love the views, especially if you’re a fan of peaceful water scenes.

After the boat tour, the group heads to the cenotes for swimming and relaxing. The cenotes are naturally cooled and crystal-clear, perfect for a refreshing break. The La Bruja Cenote offers a natural swimming pool with limestone formations, while Cocalitos is known for its stromatolites and calm, inviting waters.

Throughout the day, the availability of snacks and drinks ensures you stay refreshed, and the overall atmosphere is relaxed and friendly. Reviewers say that the small group size and variety of stops allow for a manageable, engaging experience.

Analyzing the Value: Is It Worth It?

At $159 per person, this tour offers decent value when considering what’s included. Transportation, site visits, boat ride, and snacks are all covered, which means you won’t be surprised by hidden costs. It’s a good option for those who prefer a structured, guided experience rather than figuring things out on your own.

However, the duration of 5.5 hours means you’re getting a condensed but meaningful taste of Bacalar and its surroundings. If you’re short on time but want to see a mix of history, natural beauty, and water fun, this tour hits those marks well.

That said, some reviews mention the group size and the fact that the tour could feel a bit crowded during peak times. If you prefer quieter, more intimate excursions, you might find this aspect less appealing. Still, most travelers seem satisfied with the overall experience, especially considering the scenic views and the opportunity to cool off in cenotes.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This outing is perfect for travelers who want a manageable, well-organized half-day trip. It’s most suited for those interested in a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and history, without committing to an all-day or more intense adventure. It’s also a good choice if you’re traveling with family or friends and want a comfortable way to see some of Quintana Roo’s natural and cultural highlights.

If you’re not a swimmer, you might find the swimming portions less appealing, but you can still enjoy the boat ride and historic sites. If your priority is stunning natural scenery and relaxing water stops, this tour ticks those boxes.

Final Words

To sum it up, the Costa Maya Bacalar Lagoon and Cenote Boat Adventure offers a balanced and enjoyable way to explore some of the region’s most captivating sights. The combination of scenic boat rides, historic sites, and swimming in pristine cenotes makes it a practical choice for travelers wanting a bit of everything. The included snacks and transport also add value, ensuring a smooth experience from start to finish.

While it might not satisfy those craving deep culture or quiet moments, it delivers on stunning views, fun water experiences, and a taste of local history. For travelers on a schedule, or those who prefer an organized, all-in-one outing, this tour can be a real time-saver and mood-lifter.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, roundtrip transportation from Costa Maya Port in an air-conditioned vehicle is included, making the logistics straightforward.

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately 5.5 hours, including all stops, activities, and transportation time.

Do I have to pay the entrance fee to San Felipe Fort?
Yes, the entrance fee is about $5 USD per person and is payable in cash at the site.

Are snacks and drinks provided?
Yes, the tour provides complimentary snacks and beverages, including water, sodas, juice, and beer.

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Most travelers can participate, but non-swimmers might find the swimming parts less engaging. The boat ride and site visits are still enjoyable.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

In summary, this tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of Bacalar’s natural beauty and historical charm, all in a comfortable, guided setting. Perfect for those short on time but eager to experience some of Mexico’s most scenic spots.

You can check availability for your dates here: