Costa Maya Shore Excursion: Chacchoben Small Group Tour with Food & Drinks

If you’re docking in Costa Maya and eager to explore beyond the cruise ship’s usual offerings, this small-group tour to Chacchoben and Lake Bacalar offers a well-rounded taste of Maya history and natural beauty. Promising a mix of ancient ruins, stunning lake views, and local flavors, it’s a package designed for travelers who like a bit of culture, adventure, and relaxation all in one day.

What we love about this tour is how it combines two very different experiences—the archaeological site and the vibrant lagoon—without rushing or feeling overly commercial. Plus, the small-group format means you get more personalized attention from your guide and a more relaxed pace. On the downside, the price of around $189 per person might seem steep for some, especially considering the limited time at each stop. But if you enjoy a comprehensive, hassle-free day with transportation included, this tour could be a fantastic choice.

This experience suits curious travelers, history buffs, or anyone looking to enjoy some outdoor activities without the hassle of planning every detail. If you value authentic sights, good food, and a manageable group size, you’ll find plenty to appreciate here.

Key Points

• All logistics handled: Transportation, entrance fees, and sporting gear are included, making it a stress-free day.
• Two diverse stops: Ancient Maya ruins at Chacchoben and the colorful Lake Bacalar offer contrasting but complementary experiences.
• Small-group intimacy: Up to 16 travelers, giving a more personal and flexible experience.
• Active and relaxing options: Canoeing, kayaking, and a jungle walk allow for physical activity, while the lake’s scenery invites relaxation.
• Quality local food: Enjoy three different Mexican tacos and beverages, fueling you for the day’s adventures.
• Guarantee on timing: The tour ensures you’ll return to your ship on time, easing worries about missing the boat.

The Itinerary and What You’ll Experience

First Stop: Chacchoben Ruins – A Glimpse into Ancient Maya Civilization

Your day begins with a 50-minute drive from Costa Maya port to the Chacchoben archaeological site. The ruins are among the most accessible Mayan sites from the cruise port, yet they still whisper stories of their early beginnings around 1000 B.C. Restored structures date from around 300-360 A.D., with modifications over time, revealing layers of history.

We loved the way the guide makes the ruins come alive, explaining the significance of the site and its architecture, all while enjoying the shade of the trees. The grounds are still partly overgrown, which adds an air of mystery—some parts are covered in vegetation, keeping secrets from the past hidden. This contrasts sharply with the more polished tourist sites, offering a sense of authentic exploration.

The tour provides free admission, so your main focus is on absorbing the atmosphere and learning about Maya civilization. Be aware that there’s a small fee (around $4 US) if you want to record videos, which is typical at archaeological sites.

Second Stop: Lake Bacalar – The Seven-Color Lagoon

After soaking in Maya history, you’ll head toward the stunning Lake Bacalar, about a 30-minute drive away. Known as the “Lagoon of Seven Colors,” this large body of water spans roughly 50 miles and is famous for its vivid hues, which change with the light and depth.

Here, your included kayak and canoe rentals invite you to paddle around this spectacular natural feature. The calm waters are perfect for those new to kayaking or paddling, and the scenery is postcard-worthy. From your vantage point on the lake, you’ll likely spot a variety of birds, including toucans, adding to the sense of being immersed in nature.

A jungle walk along nearby trails offers a chance to connect with the lush surroundings, although you can choose to simply relax under a cabana and enjoy the view. The tour includes a light lunch, typically featuring traditional tacos—beef, chicken, and al pastor—along with your choice of three beverages, providing a quick, satisfying meal amidst the natural beauty.

This stop really highlights why Bacalar is such a popular day-trip destination: the stunning views, tranquil waters, and active options make it a memorable highlight.

What’s Included and What to Keep in Mind

This tour is designed to be straightforward and hassle-free, especially beneficial for travelers who prefer having all logistics taken care of. All entrance fees are covered, and sporting gear like kayaks and canoes are included, so you won’t need to worry about rental costs or arrangements.

The small-group setting (maximum 16 travelers) fosters a more relaxed atmosphere, allowing your guide to tailor the experience and answer questions comfortably. It also means the schedule is more flexible, helping to ensure you’ll return to the port on time—an essential aspect when traveling on a cruise.

The cost of $188.81 per person reflects a package deal that combines transportation, entry fees, guided explanations, food, and activities. Considering the convenience, this offers good value, especially if you value having a guide handle all the logistics and want to avoid the hassle of booking rentals or navigating unfamiliar roads alone.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour departs from Costa Maya’s cruise port between 8:00 and 10:00 am, giving you a solid half-day of adventure. Confirmations are received immediately after booking, and the tour operates daily year-round, making it flexible for most schedules.

While the physical activity involved—kayaking, canoeing, jungle walking—requires moderate fitness, most travelers should be able to enjoy the day comfortably. The tour is capped at 16 travelers, allowing for a more personal experience and better interaction with your guide.

The only extra fee to be aware of is about $4 US if you want to record videos at the ruins. Otherwise, all costs are included, simplifying your planning.

Authenticity and Real Traveler Insights

Though this tour is relatively new, the focus on authentic experiences and small groups has garnered positive feedback from travelers who appreciate the stunning views and the balance of activity and relaxation. The inclusion of traditional tacos and beverages adds a local flavor, making the experience more genuine than a generic bus tour.

Reviewers mention the well-organized logistics and the assurance of getting back to the ship on time, which is crucial on a cruise day. Some note that the ruins are still partly covered with vegetation, which is exactly what makes them intriguing and less cookie-cutter than other archaeological sites.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This small-group tour offers a balanced blend of culture, nature, and local cuisine, making it ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive yet relaxed day outside Costa Maya. The inclusion of kayaking and jungle walking means it’s suitable for those with a moderate level of mobility who enjoy outdoor activities, but it also offers opportunities to sit back and enjoy the scenery.

For families or groups of friends looking for a seamless experience with all logistics handled, this tour provides excellent value at a reasonable price. Its focus on authentic sights and scenic views ensures you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation of the region’s natural beauty and history.

If you prefer guided experiences that prioritize safety and convenience, and you’re happy to pay a bit more for that peace of mind, this trip is well worth considering.

FAQs

What is the duration of this tour?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes, including transportation, stops, and activities.

Does the tour include transportation to and from the port?
Yes, round-trip transportation from Costa Maya port is included, so you don’t have to worry about finding your way.

What activities are available at Lake Bacalar?
You can kayak, canoe, go windsurfing, sailing, or just relax. Kayak and canoe rentals are included in the tour.

Is lunch provided?
Yes, a light lunch of three traditional Mexican tacos (beef, chicken, and al pastor) with three beverages is included.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, water, comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor activities, and a camera if you want to capture the stunning scenery.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
Moderate physical activity is involved, and walking through jungle trails might be challenging for some. It’s best for travelers with moderate fitness levels.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is capped at 16 travelers for a more intimate experience.

Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
If you wish to record videos at the archaeological site, there’s a small fee of around $4 US. Otherwise, all costs are covered.

What makes this tour a good value?
It includes transportation, entrance fees, activities, food, beverages, and a small-group setting, offering a hassle-free day at a fair price.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, ensuring flexibility if your schedule shifts.

This Costa Maya tour blends the best of history, nature, and local flavor for those who want a well-organized, authentic experience without the fuss. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, adventure seeker, or someone looking to relax by a beautiful lagoon, this trip offers a lot of value and memorable sights.