Full-Day Lagoon of Seven Colors at Bacalar from Tulum City

Thinking about a day trip from Tulum to the stunning town of Bacalar? This full-day tour promises a blend of nature, history, and local flavor, aiming to give you a comprehensive experience of this tranquil corner of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula. However, as with any guided excursion, it’s wise to weigh what’s included against your personal expectations.

We love that this tour combines several highlights into one day—such as the breathtaking lagoon, a refreshing cenote, and a local meal—offering a taste of Bacalar’s natural beauty and cultural charm. The guides are often praised for their knowledge, and the views along the boat ride and at the lagoon are genuinely striking.

A possible drawback is that some travelers found the included stops to be fairly basic, with comments about the meals and certain locations not quite living up to more upscale standards. Also, be aware that this tour does not include hotel pickup, so you’ll need to meet at the designated starting point in Tulum.

This tour suits travelers who want a full-day adventure with a focus on natural scenery and a relaxed pace. If you love scenic boat rides, swimming in cenotes, and exploring small towns, this trip offers a good introduction, especially for those on a budget seeking a comprehensive experience, rather than luxury.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: Combines transportation, a boat ride, meal, and scenic stops for a full day of activities.
• Great for nature lovers: Includes visits to Bacalar Lagoon, Cenote Azul, and the chance to see local wildlife.
• Guides are praised: Many reviews commend the knowledgeable and friendly guides.
• Limited luxury: Some reviews mention basic food and locations, so set expectations accordingly.
• Good value for the price: At $123 per person, the tour covers quite a bit, but the quality of meals and stops might vary.
• Self-arranged transportation: No hotel pickup—meet at the specified Tulum location.

Diving Into the Details of the Tour

The Itinerary and What to Expect

The day begins early, with pickup from the designated meeting point at Súper Akí in Tulum around 7:50 am. From there, the journey heads south towards Bacalar, a small town famed for its seven-shaded hues of blue in the lagoon. The drive itself gives you a chance to settle in and perhaps get your first glimpses of the lush landscape.

The first stop is Bacalar town, a peaceful place full of history and local charm. With about three hours allocated, this is a good opportunity to stroll through its quiet streets and get a sense of daily life in this small yet captivating town. The focus here is on enjoying the town’s natural beauty and cultural heritage, rather than heavy sightseeing.

Next, you’ll visit Cenote Azul, a popular spot for swimming and cooling off. The cenote’s clear, inviting waters are perfect for a refreshing dip, and the natural surroundings create an ideal backdrop for photos. The inclusion of entrance fees means you won’t have to worry about extra costs here, just your swimsuit, towel, and a desire to relax.

Following the cenote, your guide will take you on a boat ride across Bacalar Lagoon, which is often highlighted as a highlight of the tour. The boat trip lasts about two hours, allowing you to take in panoramic views of San Felipe Fort and spot various natural features. Many travelers appreciate the knowledgeable guides during this part, as they often share interesting facts about the local flora, fauna, and history.

The boat ride is a key feature for many, especially given the different shades of blue visible from the water—a visual experience that makes Bacalar stand out compared to other lakes and lagoons. It’s worth noting that the boat ride is included in the price and provides a relaxing way to connect with nature.

After the boat adventure, there’s free time to swim or simply relax at the lagoon’s shore. This is your moment to soak in the scenery, take photos, or lie back and enjoy the tranquility. The tour then proceeds to a scenic drive around Bacalar town, offering a panoramic view of San Felipe Fort—a structure with historical importance and a great photo opportunity.

For the meal, you’ll head to a local restaurant for lunch, which many reviewers describe as delicious. However, some have noted that the quality of food can be basic or below expectations. Drinks at the restaurant are not included, so plan for extra if you want beverages during lunch.

The tour ends back at the starting point in Tulum, generally around 7 pm, after a long but fulfilling day of activity. The full duration totals approximately 12 hours, so bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure.

The Experience: What Travelers Say

Reviewers’ comments highlight some key points: the guides are often praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the boat ride and explanations more engaging. Many appreciated the stunning views of Bacalar’s water, describing it as “beautiful” and “unique,” especially the different blue shades visible from the boat and shoreline.

On the flip side, some found the food to be quite basic, with one review mentioning “terrible” meals. Others noted that the locations visited occasionally felt underwhelming or very simple, which may be disappointing for travelers expecting more upscale stops.

An important note from a reviewer pointed out that the tour does not include hotel pickup, which can be inconvenient if you’re staying outside Tulum’s center. Also, there was an incident mentioned where disruptions and inappropriate comments occurred, highlighting the importance of choosing a reputable operator if this aspect concerns you.

The value for money is reasonable, considering the included boat ride, meals, and transportation. But it’s clear that not every aspect of the tour will match every traveler’s expectations for comfort or quality.

Transportation and Group Size

Transportation is provided from Tulum to Bacalar, departing early morning. The vehicle is likely a comfortable bus or minivan, suitable for a group of up to 50 travelers. The large group size can impact the intimacy of the experience and how engaged you feel with the guide, so if small groups are your preference, this might feel a bit crowded.

The return trip is via the same transportation, completing your long day of sightseeing and water fun.

Pricing and Value

At $123 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive package—transport, meals, boat ride, and entrance fees included. The price is competitive, especially considering the full-day nature of the experience.

However, travelers should remember that meals and beverages at the restaurant are not included, so budget accordingly. Also, the basic nature of some stops and meals means you get the essentials but perhaps not luxury or gourmet quality.

In terms of value, if you’re seeking a stress-free way to see Bacalar’s highlights with a knowledgeable guide, this tour offers a lot for the cost. But if your priority is high-end dining or exclusive experiences, you might find this tour somewhat lacking.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This trip is well-suited for nature lovers and those eager to experience Bacalar’s stunning lagoon without the hassle of planning logistics themselves. It’s perfect if you want a full day of scenic views, boat rides, and swimming.

It suits travelers on a budget or those who prefer guided tours that cover multiple highlights in one go. The tour also works for families and groups, thanks to its wide appeal and inclusive approach.

However, if you are looking for a luxurious experience or hotel pickup service, you’ll want to consider alternatives. Also, those sensitive to basic accommodations or meals may want to prepare for modest stops.

The Sum Up

This Bacalar tour from Tulum provides a thorough introduction to one of Mexico’s most mesmerizing lagoons, combining natural beauty with cultural highlights. The boat ride and cenote visit are definite highlights, especially for those who love being on the water. The guides’ knowledge and the stunning vistas ensure memorable moments, even if some of the stops are more straightforward than luxurious.

For travelers who want a value-packed day that covers the essentials—scenery, history, and local cuisine—this tour offers good bang for your buck. It’s best suited for those who enjoy group experiences, scenic water views, and a relaxed pace.

However, if you’re looking for a more refined dining experience or a more boutique feel, you might find this tour a little basic. Still, it’s a dependable choice for an authentic, full-day adventure that captures the essence of Bacalar’s natural charm.

FAQ

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup. You need to meet at the specified starting point in Tulum, Súper Akí.

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at approximately 7:50 am, so be prepared for an early start.

How long is the total duration?
The entire experience lasts about 12 hours, from pickup to return, including travel, stops, and free time.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast and lunch are included. However, beverages at the restaurants are not covered, so bring extra cash if you want drinks.

What should I bring?
Bring swimsuits, towels, extra clothes, biodegradable sunscreen, insect repellent, and comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for walking and water activities.

Is the boat ride included?
Yes, the boat ride in Bacalar, which lasts about two hours, is included in the price.

What are some downsides others have mentioned?
Some reviews point out basic food quality and locations, and a few travelers noted disruptions or inappropriate comments during the tour.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, it’s generally suitable for families looking for a relaxed, scenic day out. Just consider the long day and the group size.

In summary, this Bacalar tour offers a well-rounded day of natural beauty, history, and local flavor, perfect for travelers who value authenticity and scenic water experiences more than luxury. It’s a straightforward way to see Bacalar’s highlights, especially if you’re content with modest stops and a lively group atmosphere.