Full Day Tour to 7 Colors Bacalar Lagoon with Lunch

Planning a trip to Mexico and want to experience something beyond the usual beaches and resorts? This full-day tour to Bacalar from Playa del Carmen offers a fantastic mix of natural beauty, history, and local culture. While it’s a long day—about 12 hours— it packs in plenty of memorable moments, from sailing on the famed Lagoon of Seven Colors to exploring a historic fortress.

What we like about this experience is its combination of scenic boat rides and cultural stops. You’ll get to see Bacalar’s famed lagoon, learn about its past from ancient Mayans to pirates, and enjoy a tasty lunch in a relaxed setting. One thing to consider is the eco tax of MXN 500, which is not included—be prepared to pay that on the day of your visit, adding to the overall cost.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a full-day adventure, appreciate history and nature, and want genuine experiences that take them off the beaten path. It’s especially ideal for those willing to spend a good chunk of the day exploring a less touristy part of Mexico, with a nice mix of relaxation and storytelling.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary with natural, cultural, and historical highlights
• Includes boat cruise on Bacalar’s famous lagoon, with stories of pirates and explorers
• Cultural stops like Fuerte San Felipe and Isla Pajaros for history and relaxation
• All-inclusive options with lunch, snacks, bottled water, and air-conditioned transport
• Eco tax of MXN 500 per person is paid separately on-site
• Suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness and a full day available

A Deep Dive into the Bacalar Experience

The Journey Begins: Pickup and Transportation

Starting from Playa del Carmen, the tour offers pickup service, which is a real plus for those staying nearby. Once aboard the air-conditioned vehicle, you can settle in for the roughly two-hour drive to Bacalar. This part of the trip sets a relaxed tone; you’ll have time to review the day’s itinerary and get excited for the adventure ahead. The group size is limited to 25 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and manageable.

Exploring Bacalar: The Lagoon of Seven Colors

The first stop is the charming town of Bacalar itself. Known as a “Magic Town”, Bacalar’s real star is its famous lagoon, famed for its striking layers of blue and green. We loved how the tour emphasizes the lagoon’s natural beauty, giving you plenty of time to snap photos and enjoy the scenery. The lagoon’s vibrant appearance is a result of its shallow waters and mineral-rich sediments, making it one of the most visually stunning spots in the Yucatán Peninsula.

The tour lasts about 3 hours here, giving you ample opportunity to walk around, soak in the atmosphere, or even take a quick swim if you wish. While the boat cruise is the main highlight, this free exploration allows you to appreciate the town’s laid-back charm, local markets, and colorful streets.

Cruise on the Pirate Channel: Tales of the Past

Next, you’ll cruise down the Canal de los Piratas. This waterway is steeped in stories of pirates and treasure hunts, which makes for a fun, storytelling backdrop as you relax aboard the boat. The guide shares tales from days when pirates roamed these waters, fighting over riches and hiding their loot—adding a dash of adventure to your day.

This part of the tour lasts about an hour. It’s a great way to connect with the history of the area, which has seen Mayan civilization, Spanish conquistadors, and Caribbean pirates all leave their mark. The boat ride is comfortable, and the guide’s storytelling is engaging without feeling overly rehearsed.

Isla de los Pajaros: A Peaceful Break

After the pirate tales, the tour takes you to Isla de los Pajaros, a quiet island where you can relax for about an hour. It’s an excellent spot to breathe in the fresh air, enjoy the tranquil surroundings, and perhaps spot some local birdlife. The island’s calm atmosphere provides a nice contrast to the lively stories earlier in the day and offers a chance to unwind before the next history stop.

Fuerte San Felipe Bacalar: Fortress of the Past

The final stop is at Fuerte San Felipe, an 18th-century fortress built to defend Bacalar from pirates. Today, it’s a window into the town’s defensive past and offers panoramic views of the lagoon. Walking around the fort, you’ll see how strategic positions were chosen to control access to the water and protect the locals.

The guide shares insights into the battles fought here and the fort’s role in regional history. This stop lasts about an hour, providing a meaningful glimpse into Bacalar’s resilience and strategic importance.

Lunch and Refreshments

Throughout the tour, you’re provided with lunch, snacks, and bottled water. The included meal is a break from the busy sightseeing, allowing you to enjoy some local flavors and recharge. The value here is clear: with the transportation, boat ride, cultural stops, and lunch included, the tour offers a comprehensive package at $150.49 per person.

Additional Costs and Practicalities

An important note: the MXN 500 eco tax for Bacalar Lagoon isn’t included in the tour price and must be paid separately. This fee helps protect this delicate environment, and travelers should budget accordingly.

The tour ends back at the original meeting point in Playa del Carmen, making logistics straightforward. It’s a long day, but the variety of stops makes it feel well worth the effort.

Assessing the Value

At roughly $150, this tour might seem a bit pricey at first glance. However, when you factor in the transportation, boat cruise, entrance to notable sites, lunch, and guided storytelling, it’s actually quite reasonable. Private or self-guided trips could easily cost more, especially when you factor in transportation costs and entry fees.

Travelers who love a blend of nature, history, and cultural storytelling will find this tour to be a satisfying way to spend a day. The small group size and inclusion of food and drinks also make it feel personalized without the high price of private excursions.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy active, full-day adventures and are okay with a packed schedule. If you’re curious about the local history, love boat rides, and want a taste of authentic Mexican culture beyond the typical tourist spots, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. It’s also ideal for those interested in exploring a lesser-known side of Mexico that offers both scenic beauty and historical depth.

Final Thoughts

This Bacalar tour offers a well-rounded experience that captures the essence of this stunning “Magical Town”. From sailing on the Laguna de los Siete Colores to exploring a historic fort and relaxing on a peaceful island, it balances adventure, education, and relaxation. The inclusion of lunch and snacks adds to the value, making it suitable for travelers looking for a hassle-free day with plenty of memorable moments.

While the eco tax is an extra cost to keep in mind, it’s a small price for the privilege of visiting one of Mexico’s most beautiful natural sites. If you’re craving a day away from the crowds to connect with nature, history, and local culture, this tour is a solid choice. Just be ready for a full day and bring your sense of curiosity—and perhaps a waterproof camera for those lagoon shots.

FAQ

Does the tour include pickup?
Yes, pickup is offered from Playa del Carmen, making logistics easier for travelers staying nearby.

How long is the total tour?
The full experience lasts about 12 hours, including transportation, sightseeing, and return to the meeting point.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, boat cruise, lunch, snacks, bottled water, and guided stops at key sites.

Is there an additional fee I should be aware of?
Yes, the eco tax for Bacalar Lagoon is MXN 500 per person, payable on the day of the tour.

How many people will be on the tour?
The maximum group size is 25 travelers, helping keep the group intimate and manageable.

What about physical activity?
Moderate physical fitness is recommended, as there will be walking and swimming at cenotes and other stops.

Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, swimming in the cenotes and lagoon is part of the experience, so pack your swimsuit and towel.

Is the lunch vegetarian or vegan?
The tour description does not specify dietary options, so if you have specific needs, it’s best to inquire with the provider beforehand.

What makes this tour stand out?
Its well-balanced mix of scenic boat rides, cultural and historical insights, and a relaxed pace makes it a memorable day trip, especially for those interested in authentic experiences beyond typical tourist fare.