Lagoon of 7 colors from Costa Maya – Boat Tour and transportation

If you’ve been eyeing a day trip from Costa Maya that offers vibrant scenery, refreshing swims, and a taste of local nature, this boat tour of the Laguna de los Siete Colores might be just what you’re looking for. While we haven’t personally taken it, a careful look at traveler reviews and the detailed itinerary reveals a well-rounded experience designed for those who love natural beauty, comfortable group sizes, and expert guides.

Two standout features that travelers consistently praise are the stunning views of the lagoon’s multi-hued waters and the knowledgeable guides who make each stop engaging and informative. Plus, the inclusion of transportation from the cruise port makes this a seamless outing, removing the hassle of planning logistics.

A possible consideration might be the drive time of around 1 hour and 15 minutes each way, which some might find a bit lengthy, especially if you prefer shorter excursions with more time at each stop. Still, most agree that the journey is worth it for the scenery and variety of activities.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy nature, water activities, and cultural sights, and who don’t mind spending a few hours on the road to reach a unique, off-the-beaten-path spot.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery of the Lagoon of Seven Colors, perfect for photography and relaxation.
• Multiple swimming opportunities in crystal-clear waters.
• Educational stops like Bird Island and the Pirate Channel, offering insights into local ecology and history.
• Transport included from Costa Maya, simplifying logistics.
• Well-reviewed guides who are knowledgeable and friendly.
• Good value for the price considering the variety of stops and activities.

What to Expect from the Lagoon of Seven Colors Boat Tour

This experience offers a balanced mix of scenic cruising, light exploration, and relaxing swimming. We’ll walk through what you can expect from each part of the trip, helping you understand why it’s worth considering for your visit.

The Journey Begins: Transportation and Departure

The tour starts with pickup from the Costa Maya cruise port—conveniently located right at Av. P.º del Puerto, Mahahual. Expect a roughly 1 hour and 15-minute ride through scenic countryside, giving you a chance to relax and chat with your fellow travelers. The ride itself is often appreciated by past guests for its casual vibe and the opportunity to get a glimpse of local life outside the port.

Arrival at the Lagoon and First Swims

The boat departs from a dock in front of Cenote Esmeralda. The initial excitement builds as you step aboard a shared boat, with a capacity that keeps the group intimate—generally no more than 30 travelers. The vessel is equipped to ferry you through cenotes, islands, and natural channels, setting the stage for a day immersed in nature.

Travelers have mixed experiences here: some praise the warm, clear waters perfect for swimming twice during the trip, while others note that the mineral content in the water means the fish and wildlife may not be as abundant for snorkeling. Still, the crystal-clear waters make for a refreshing dip and great photo opportunities.

Stop 1: Lake Bacalar and Cenotes

The highlight for many is the visit to Lake Bacalar, famed for its striking seven shades of blue. The tour navigates through cenotes, natural sinkholes filled with fresh water, offering a scenic contrast to the open water. This part of the trip is a great chance to relax and enjoy the natural beauty.

Reviews mention that the guide was informative, explaining the significance of the cenotes and the local ecology. The admission to the cenotes is included, so there’s no extra cost here.

Stop 2: Canal de los Piratas

Next, you’ll explore the Canal de los Piratas, historically used by the Mayans for trade routes. This stop provides a glimpse into the area’s historical significance and the natural waterways used long before modern tourism. It’s a short 30-minute visit, but travelers enjoy the peaceful scenery and the opportunity to learn about Mayan commerce and navigation.

Stop 3: Isla de los Pájaros

Bird lovers will find this stop a particular highlight. The Isla de los Pájaros is teeming with various bird species, including parrots, herons, and roseate spoonbills. The island’s natural habitat is perfect for eco-tourism and photography, making it a favorite for those who appreciate birdwatching or want memorable nature shots.

Past guests describe this as an ideal spot for ecotourism, with a quiet, unspoiled environment. The 30-minute visit often leaves visitors eager to return for more birdwatching.

Final Stop: Cenote La Witch

The tour concludes with a visit to the black cenote, famously called Cenote La Wicca. It’s the deepest cenote in the lagoon, providing a dramatic end to the day. Though swimming here might be more challenging due to its depth and darker waters, the experience of seeing this unusual cenote adds a special touch to your trip.

The Food, Drinks, and Atmosphere

Throughout the journey, the crew provides fruit, water, and beer, making it easy to stay refreshed. The reviews speak highly of the delicious fruit and tapas, adding a relaxed, communal feel to the trip. Past travelers appreciate the friendly guides who make the experience more engaging with their stories and explanations.

Group Size and Comfort

With a maximum of 30 travelers, this tour strikes a good balance—small enough to feel personal but large enough to be lively. The boat’s design ensures you can enjoy the views comfortably, and the seating arrangements allow for socializing or relaxing quietly.

The Value of This Tour

At $114 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive day packed with scenic vistas, wildlife, cultural insights, and swimming—all included in the price. The admission tickets to cenotes, bird island, and the pirate channel are part of the package, meaning you won’t face surprise costs.

Many travelers praise it as good value, especially considering the diversity of stops and the ease of transportation from the cruise port. It’s ideal for those who prefer an organized, guided experience that combines nature, history, and leisure without the hassle of planning each detail.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for:

• Travelers who enjoy nature, water, and wildlife.
• Families or groups seeking a relaxed, well-organized day with plenty of swimming and sightseeing.
• Visitors interested in local ecology and history, thanks to the interpretive stops.
• Those who appreciate small group sizes and the comfort of inclusive transportation and food.
• Guests looking for a value-packed excursion that covers multiple highlights in one day.

It might be less suitable for travelers with mobility issues or those expecting a snorkeling-centric experience, as the water clarity and wildlife activity may vary.

Practical Tips for Participants

Bring your swimsuit and towel—you’ll want to take advantage of the swimming opportunities. Also, pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for sun protection. If you’re a bird enthusiast, a camera with a zoom lens could help capture the island’s avian visitors.

The timing is important: the tour runs from early morning, with pickup between 6:00 AM and 9:00 AM depending on the season, so plan accordingly. Cancelations are free up to 24 hours in advance, so if your plans change, you can adjust without penalty.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How long does the entire tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 5 to 6 hours, including transportation, stops, and swimming time.

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transport from Costa Maya cruise port is included, making it easy to relax without worrying about logistics.

What’s the group size?
The tour caps at around 30 travelers, creating an intimate group setting that’s not too crowded.

Are meals or drinks included?
You’ll be offered fruit, water, and beer during the trip, but no dedicated meal is included. The provided snacks are enough for most to stay refreshed.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Less than that, and a full refund isn’t possible.

Is snorkeling part of the experience?
While swimming is included, the water’s mineral content means you might not see many fish or wildlife while snorkeling. It’s more about enjoying the warm, clear waters.

What should I bring?
Swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, and perhaps a camera. Also, consider bringing a hat for sun protection.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but very young children should be evaluated for comfort with boat rides and swimming.

Final Thoughts

This boat tour of the Laguna de los Siete Colores offers a well-rounded day of natural beauty, gentle adventure, and cultural interest. Its combination of scenic cruising, informative stops, and opportunities to swim make it a solid choice for those content with a longer but leisurely day.

The friendly guides, inclusive transport, and good value add up to an experience that’s both authentic and enjoyable. Whether you’re a nature lover, a photographer, or just looking for a relaxing escape from the cruise port, this tour seems to deliver.

For travelers eager to explore a stunning part of Mexico’s natural landscape with all the logistics handled for you, this experience is definitely worth considering.

In summary, this tour is best suited for those who want a comprehensive, relaxed, and scenic day in the Bacalar Lagoon area, with plenty of swimming and wildlife viewing, all delivered with friendly guidance and good value. If you’re after a mix of nature, culture, and comfort, this could be a memorable highlight of your Costa Maya visit.