Lovely Bacalar

If you’re planning a trip to Tulum and are drawn to natural beauty and tranquil waters, a day trip to Bacalar might just be your perfect escape. This review covers a popular tour that promises a boat ride through the Famous Lagoon of the Seven Colors, visits to cenotes, historical stops, and a generous helping of local insights—all for about $140 per person.

While this tour has some hits and misses, it offers a solid blend of adventure, scenery, and cultural context. We’ll explore what makes it worth your consideration, what to expect along the way, and some tips to make the most of your day.

Two things we really like about this experience are the stunning visuals of Bacalar’s waters and the knowledgeable guides who bring the scenery to life. One potential drawback, however, is the transportation — the minivan ride from Tulum can be cramped and uncomfortable, which is worth keeping in mind if you’re sensitive to long drives or tight spaces.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy scenic landscapes, aren’t shy about spending time on a bus, and want a comprehensive day that combines natural beauty with a touch of history. It’s especially good if you’re eager to experience more than just the popular ruins or beaches, and are willing to spend a day exploring new waters.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery: Expect to see the famed multispectral waters of Lago Bacalar, with its striking seven shades of blue and green.
• Cultural insights: The tour includes a stop at San Felipe Fort and museum, adding some historical context.
• Guided experience: Insightful commentary from guides helps you understand the significance of the lagoon and cenotes.
• Value for money: Included lunch and bottled water contribute to a well-rounded experience, making the price reasonable.
• Group size: With a limit of 14 travelers, the tour feels intimate enough for meaningful interaction.
• Transport considerations: The minivan ride can be cramped, so be prepared for a longer, potentially uncomfortable journey.

An In-Depth Look at the Bacalar Tour

Getting There and Starting Out

The tour departs from a central Tulum meeting point, Starbucks on the Carr. Cancún – Tulum S/N, at 8:30 AM. You’ll travel in an air-conditioned minivan to Bacalar — a ride that can take around five hours round-trip, depending on traffic and stops. As some reviews note, this journey isn’t always comfortable; the minibus can feel crowded, with little legroom, especially if you’re tall or prone to discomfort on long rides.

While the transportation might be the tour’s weakest point, it’s worth noting that the trip is part of the adventure. Once you arrive, the scenery shifts dramatically — from Tulum’s jungle surroundings to the vibrant, shimmering waters of Bacalar.

Lago Bacalar: The Main Attraction

The highlight of this tour is undoubtedly the boat ride on Lago Bacalar. Known as the Lake of the Seven Colors, this freshwater lagoon is famous for its stunning color variations. We loved the way the guide described how the waters shift from bright turquoise to deep blue as the depth changes or the sun’s angle varies, creating a constantly changing palette of hues.

Expect to spend several hours here, cruising on the water and snapping photos of the spectacular vistas. The boat tour isn’t rushed; it’s designed to allow travelers to soak in the scenery, take photos, and relax. The calm waters invite swimmers, and the guide typically points out the best spots for a quick dip.

Cenote Visits and Swimming

After the boat excursion, the tour makes stops at three cenotes. These natural sinkholes are often considered the jewels of the Yucatán Peninsula, and Bacalar’s cenotes are no exception. Expect clear, cool waters ideal for swimming and a chance to cool off after the boat ride.

Although the tour description mentions visiting cenotes, the exact nature of these stops can vary based on the day’s itinerary. Some travelers find the cenotes to be the highlight, especially with the opportunity to swim in pristine waters surrounded by lush vegetation.

Historical and Cultural Stops

A visit to San Felipe Fort and museum rounds out the day. This historic site offers a glimpse into Bacalar’s past, with fortifications dating back to colonial times. The museum provides context about the lagoon’s significance regionally and historically, enriching your understanding of the area beyond just the natural beauty.

One reviewer appreciated this stop, noting it added a “cultural layer” to the trip that balanced out the outdoor activities.

Food and Refreshments

Lunch and bottled water are included, which helps simplify the day — no need to worry about packing snacks or drinks. The meal is usually a local-style dish, offering a taste of regional flavors, while the bottled water keeps you hydrated during the day’s activities.

Having lunch included is a nice touch, especially since you’ll be out for approximately 10 hours. It’s not gourmet dining, but it’s satisfying and adds value to the overall experience.

The Return Journey

The tour ends back at the original meeting point in Tulum, typically in the late afternoon. Some travelers have expressed that the return trip can be lengthy and, due to the cramped transportation, somewhat tiring. However, the stunning scenery and memorable experiences make the day worthwhile for many.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Feedback

From reviews, it’s clear that guides play a big role in the tour’s appeal. One traveler said, “Captain Andreas helped make the experience memorable with his knowledge of the lagoon’s ecosystem.” Guided commentary enriches the boat ride, helping you appreciate the lagoon’s unique features and history.

However, transportation issues are a common concern. One reviewer described the minibus as “extremely cramped,” with “no leg room,” which can be uncomfortable on a long drive. If you’re sensitive to tight spaces, this might be a consideration, but if you’re eager for the scenery, it’s a trade-off many are willing to make.

The overall value of the tour is boosted by the combination of natural beauty, cultural stops, and inclusions like lunch and water. One traveler called it “probably top five day tours I’ve ever done,” emphasizing how much they enjoyed the breathtaking views and the well-organized itinerary.

Practical Tips for Booking and Enjoying the Tour

• Book in advance: This tour is popular, often booked 16 days ahead, so plan ahead if you want to secure your spot.
• Prepare for the drive: Bring a cushion or a neck pillow if you’re sensitive to long rides. Air-conditioning helps, but the cramped space can still be uncomfortable.
• Bring swim gear: Towels, goggles, and flip-flops for cenote swimming.
• Arrive early: To ensure a smooth start and avoid last-minute stress.
• Expect a leisurely pace: This isn’t a high-intensity excursion; enjoy the relaxed vibe and take photos.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is perfect for nature lovers who want to see one of Mexico’s most beautiful lagoons with minimal hassle. It’s well-suited for travelers interested in a combination of scenery, history, and a bit of adventure. If you’re comfortable with a longer drive and don’t mind limited legroom, this tour offers a good balance of value and authentic experience.

It’s less ideal if you’re seeking a luxurious or ultra-comfortable outing, given the transportation issues noted in reviews. Travelers with mobility issues might also want to consider the physical demands of swimming and walking around cenotes and historical sites.

The Sum Up

In essence, this Lovely Bacalar tour offers a genuine chance to see one of Mexico’s most striking natural sights while enjoying a relaxed day filled with boat rides, cenote dips, and historical insights. The guides are often praised for their knowledge and enthusiasm, making the experience more meaningful. The scenic boat trip through the Seven Shades of Blue lagoon is a highlight that truly lives up to its reputation, and the inclusion of lunch and water adds to the overall value.

While the transportation can be less comfortable, the overall experience remains worthwhile, especially for those eager to explore beyond Tulum’s beaches and ruins. It’s a good fit for travelers who are flexible, curious about local history, and ready to enjoy a day of natural beauty at a relaxed pace.

If you’re looking for a scenic, culturally enriched day in the Mexican Caribbean that balances nature, history, and good value, this Bacalar tour might just be what you need.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour starts at a designated meeting point in Tulum, specifically at Starbucks on Carr. Cancún – Tulum S/N.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 10 hours, starting at 8:30 AM and ending back in Tulum later in the afternoon.

What’s included in the price?
You get bottled water, lunch, a local guide, and transportation in an air-conditioned minivan.

Are there any additional fees?
Yes, an environmental port fee of $25.00 per person is payable, usually at the port or during the tour.

Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, the tour involves visits to cenotes where swimming is typically allowed and encouraged.

What is the group size?
The tour limits group sizes to a maximum of 14 travelers, making it intimate enough for personal interaction but still lively.

How physically demanding is the tour?
Moderate physical fitness is recommended; swimming, walking around cenotes, and some standing during the cultural stops are involved.

Whether you decide to go or not, Bacalar is one of those places that sticks with you long after you leave — a true splash of color in Mexico’s vibrant landscape.