Gorgeous Tour in Pontoon Boat over Bacalar 7 Colors Lagoon from Cancún

Traveling to Mexico’s Caribbean coast often means sticking to the well-trodden resorts and beaches, but for those craving something different, a day trip to Bacalar’s 7 Colors Lagoon offers a genuine glimpse into natural beauty and local history. This full-day tour from Cancun, organized by Cancun Mayan Travel, promises a mix of scenic boat rides, swimming in cenotes, and cultural stops—all with the convenience of transportation included.

What we particularly like about this experience is its focus on authentic natural attractions and the ease it offers travelers eager to explore beyond Cancun’s hotel zone. The inclusion of breakfast and lunch ensures you won’t need to worry about packing food, and the pontoon boat ride over the lagoon sounds like a picturesque way to enjoy Bacalar’s famed waters. However, it’s a long day—about 12 hours—so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a full itinerary and some travel time. This tour appeals most to adventurous travelers who want to combine nature, history, and leisure in one seamless trip.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Convenience: Breakfast, lunch, and transport are covered, making this a hassle-free experience.
• Scenic Highlights: From cenotes to the Bacalar lagoon, the visuals are stunning and varied.
• Cultural Insights: Visiting Fort San Felipe adds a historical dimension to the day.
• Unique Activities: The pontoon boat ride through the Pirates Canal offers memorable views.
• Long but Rewarding Day: Expect about 12 hours from pickup to return, perfect for dedicated explorers.
• Value for Money: For $144 per person, you get a comprehensive itinerary with several major attractions included.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Starting Early: From Cancun to Bacalar

The tour kicks off at 6:00 am with a pickup in Cancun, meaning an early start to make the most of the day. Your ride is in a comfortable air-conditioned van, which makes the long drive—around 3.5 hours each way—less tiresome. This upfront investment in transportation is key; without it, reaching Bacalar independently would be more complex and costly, considering the distance.

Cenote Azul: The First Stop

Your first adventure is at Cenote Azul, a stunning natural pool with crystal-clear waters, right next to the road. The appeal here is immediate: a peaceful and refreshing swim in a striking setting. The admission is included, and you’ll have roughly an hour to enjoy it. Expect to be wowed by the natural beauty and clarity of the water, perfect for snapping photos or just relaxing.

Cenote Cocalitos: A Natural Sanctuary and Stromatolites

Next, the tour visits Cocalitos, where you’ll have about two hours to explore this protected area. What makes Cocalitos special are the stromatolites, ancient living fossils that date back thousands of years. These rare formations add an educational twist to your trip and offer excellent photo opportunities. The free time here also allows you to walk along the shore, dip your toes in the water, or just soak up the tranquil atmosphere.

Bacalar Town and the Lagoon

After the cenotes, you’ll stop in Bacalar, a Pueblo Mágico known for its peaceful vibe and stunning lagoon. You’ll have around two and a half hours to explore, relax by the water, or visit the town’s charming streets. The tour includes access to the lagoon and a pontoon boat ride over the famous Pirates Canal, which lasts about two hours. This boat trip is a highlight, offering panoramic views and a fun way to see Bacalar from the water.

Fort San Felipe: A View into History

One of the cultural highlights is a visit to Fuerte de San Felipe, a fortress that dates back to pirate times. The tour provides a panoramic view of the fortress, giving visitors a chance to learn about its strategic role and the pirate stories that echo through the walls. This historical stop adds depth to the natural beauty, illustrating the significance of Bacalar in regional history.

Food and Rest Breaks

No need to worry about meals; the tour includes breakfast and lunch, allowing you to savor local dishes without the hassle of finding somewhere to eat. This is a real plus for those who prefer a seamless experience. Please note, beverages at the restaurant are not included, so you might want to bring a water bottle or some extra snacks.

What It Feels Like to Be on the Tour

Travelers have shared that the scenery is truly breathtaking, especially during the pontoon ride across Bacalar Lagoon. Many describe the water as “stunningly blue” with “many shades of turquoise”, which justifies the nickname “7 Colors Lagoon.” The boat ride itself is described as “relaxing and fun”, offering fantastic photo opportunities of the water and surrounding mangroves.

The visit to the cenotes is often highlighted as a refreshing break from the bus ride, with clear waters inviting you to swim and cool off. Some reviews mention that the Cocalitos stromatolites are a fascinating highlight, giving a chance to see something truly unique and ancient.

One traveler noted, “The day was long, but the variety of sights made it worth every minute. The boat ride was a standout, and I loved learning about the history at Fort San Felipe.” Another appreciated the smooth organization and friendly bilingual guides, which made navigating the logistics simple.

Practicalities and Tips

Given the long day, wearing comfortable clothes and shoes is recommended. Pack a swimsuit, towels, and extra clothes for swimming and changing. Sunscreen, insect repellent, and sunglasses are must-haves—especially since you’ll be outdoors most of the day. The tour is suitable for most travelers, but be prepared for a full, sometimes tiring, day.

Price and Value

At $144 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive experience that combines natural beauty, cultural insights, and fun activities. When you consider the transportation, stops, meals, and boat ride included, the value becomes clear—it’s an efficient way to see a lot without the hassle of planning. For those looking to tick off a must-see natural wonder and enjoy some leisurely exploration, this tour hits the mark.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This Bacalar tour is a fantastic pick for adventurous travelers who enjoy outdoor activities and scenic landscapes. It’s an excellent choice for those who want to experience the famous lagoon without the hassle of organizing transport and logistics. The inclusion of meals and a comfortable ride makes it especially appealing for families or groups who prefer a hassle-free day.

If you’re a nature lover, history buff, or simply seeking a new perspective on Mexico’s Caribbean, this tour delivers a blend of all three. Keep in mind, though, that it’s a long day with a lot of driving, so patience and stamina will serve you well. But if you’re ready for an enriching, picture-perfect journey that combines relaxation, discovery, and a splash of adventure, this Bacalar tour is worth considering.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
Expect around 12 hours, including travel time, meals, and sightseeing stops. The drive each way is about 3.5 hours.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes pickup in Cancun and Puerto Morelos in a comfortable air-conditioned van, with a transfer to the main bus for the trip to Bacalar.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers breakfast, lunch, access to cenotes, the pontoon boat ride over Bacalar Lagoon, visits to Cocalitos and Fort San Felipe, and bilingual guides.

Are there any additional costs?
Beverages at the restaurant are not included, so you might want to bring your own drinks.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but be prepared for a full day and some walking or boat rides. Always consider individual stamina and health.

What should I bring?
Wear comfortable clothes and shoes, pack swimsuits, towels, extra clothes, sunscreen, insect repellent, and sunglasses.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This tour offers a well-rounded balance of natural beauty, history, and fun activities, making it a rewarding day for those eager to explore a bit of Mexico’s lesser-known treasures. Whether you’re after picture-perfect waters, a taste of history, or just a change of scenery from Cancun’s beaches, this Bacalar adventure is likely to leave you with lasting memories.