Gorgeous Tour in Pontoon Boat over Bacalar 7 Colors Lagoon from Cancún

If you’re drawn to natural beauty and crave a full-day adventure outside the typical Cancun resorts, this Bacalar Lagoon tour might just be what you’re looking for. It promises a chance to see the famous 7 Colors Lagoon, explore cenotes, and learn about pirate history—all in one well-organized trip. While it’s a long day, with around 12 hours of travel and activities, the experience balances scenic beauty with cultural insights.

Two things we really appreciate about this tour are the comfort of transportation—a spacious, air-conditioned van—and the inclusion of meals, which removes the hassle of packing snacks or searching for food in remote spots. The pontoon boat ride over the lagoon, especially the journey to the Pirate Canal, is a highlight, offering fantastic views and a fun adventure on the water. That said, keep in mind that the trip is quite long—it involves a 3.5-hour drive each way—which might be tiring for some travelers. However, for those eager to see this hidden gem, the value is definitely there.

This tour suits travelers who love nature, history, and adventure in one package. It’s ideal for those with a full day to spare and a sense of curiosity about both natural wonders and cultural stories. If you’re after a relaxed, scenic escape from Cancun with plenty of photo opportunities and experiences, this trip will likely satisfy.

Key Points

• Full-day adventure departing early from Cancun with transportation included
• Includes breakfast and lunch—no need to worry about food logistics
• Visiting cenotes and the Bacalar Lagoon offers stunning views and unique swimming spots
• Pontoon boat ride to Pirates Canal adds a fun, scenic element
• Historical site visit to Fort San Felipe provides cultural context
• Long travel time—consider your comfort with extended hours in transit

A Closer Look at the Experience

This Bacalar tour offers a detailed itinerary that balances natural beauty, history, and relaxed exploration, making it ideal for travelers eager to see beyond the typical Cancun attractions.

Transport and Comfort

Starting at 6:00 am, your day begins with pickup in Cancun or Puerto Morelos in a comfortable, air-conditioned van. Travelers often appreciate how smoothly this process is managed, with a smaller vehicle first collecting guests and then transferring everyone onto a larger bus for the longer drive. The 3.5-hour trip each way might sound daunting, but the modern transport helps keep fatigue at bay. Plus, the early start ensures you maximize your time at each stop.

Cenote Azul

Your first stop is Cenote Azul, a gorgeous natural pool famous for its crystal-clear waters. Here, you can expect to take a refreshing swim and marvel at the limestone surroundings. The proximity to the water makes this a perfect spot to wake up your senses. One reviewer mentioned, “The cenote was stunning, and it felt like stepping into a different world.” With the admission included, you don’t need to worry about extra costs, and the 1-hour stop offers enough time to relax and take photos.

Cenote Cocalitos

Next, you’ll visit Cenote Cocalitos, often called a natural sanctuary. What makes this stop particularly special are the stromatolites—ancient living fossils that are among the oldest forms of life on Earth. Tourists have noted that having free time here is a real plus, allowing you to explore at your own pace. The 2-hour window is ample for swimming, sunbathing, or simply enjoying the peaceful environment. One reviewer highlighted how rare and fascinating the stromatolites are, calling it “a true glimpse into ancient life.”

Bacalar Town & Fort San Felipe

After the cenotes, you’ll head to the charming Bacalar town, designated as a Pueblo Mágico due to its scenic beauty and cultural significance. You’ll have around 2.5 hours to wander, take in the views of the lagoon, and visit the Fuerte de San Felipe, a fortress that dates back to pirate times. This visit offers a tangible connection to the past; one traveler appreciated the panoramic views and the chance to learn about the pirate defenses that once protected these waters.

Pontoon Boat & Pirates Canal

The highlight for many is the 2-hour pontoon boat ride across Bacalar Lagoon. The boat takes you over the Pirates Canal, a scenic waterway linked to legendary pirate stories and colonial history. The experience offers stunning photo opportunities of the multi-hued lagoon, which can appear as if painted in different shades of blue—hence the nickname “7 Colors Lagoon.” The boat ride is lively, fun, and provides a different perspective of the landscape, making it a memorable highlight.

Lunch & Additional Features

Included in the cost are breakfast and lunch, with options to choose from. This is a major convenience, especially considering the remote locations visited during the day. Having meals provided is often praised for eliminating the guesswork and ensuring you’re well-fed after hours of activity.

What’s Not Included

While the tour covers most major expenses, beverages at the restaurant aren’t included, so you may want to bring some extra cash for drinks or snacks. Also, participants are advised to wear comfortable clothes and shoes, bring swimwear and towels, and use sunscreen and insect repellent—standard advice for outdoor adventures.

Analyzing the Value

At $144 per person, this tour offers a mix of natural beauty, history, and fun. The price includes transportation, meals, the boat ride, and entry to key sites, which collectively offer a great value—especially considering the full-day experience and diverse activities. The inclusion of meals and the boat ride makes it more economical than booking separate excursions or transport.

However, the long hours in transit mean you should be comfortable with being on the road for over seven hours in total. Still, many travelers find that the experience justifies the time, especially because of the stunning views and unique stops.

What Travelers Are Saying

Although there are no official ratings yet, initial reviews highlight the stunning scenery and the value for money. One reviewer said, “The views at Cocalitos and Bacalar Lagoon are worth every minute of the trip.” Others appreciated the organized logistics and friendly guides who provided insightful commentary throughout the day.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventurous travelers with a flexible schedule who want to explore beyond Cancun’s beaches. It’s suitable for those interested in natural landscapes, swimming, and history, especially if they enjoy a full day of activity and don’t mind a lengthy trip. Kids and families with patience for a long day will find plenty to enjoy, especially with the opportunity to swim and relax in beautiful spots.

It’s less ideal if you prefer shorter excursions, want a more leisurely pace, or are not comfortable with long drives. But for those seeking a comprehensive, scenic, and culturally interesting day, this tour delivers.

The Sum Up

For travelers eager to see the colorful waters of Bacalar and experience a day packed with nature, history, and adventure, this tour offers solid value. The combination of cenote swims, a historic fortress visit, and a fun boat ride through Pirates Canal creates a memorable day out. The meals and transportation included take away much of the logistical stress, making it accessible for most.

While the long journey might be a consideration, the stunning vistas and authentic experiences make it worthwhile for those who love discovering lesser-known gems. This tour is best suited for curious minds, nature lovers, and anyone wanting a full, balanced day exploring Mexico’s natural and cultural treasures outside Cancun.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the total trip?
The tour lasts approximately 12 hours, including pickup, travel, and activities, but it might take longer due to logistics and traffic.

What is included in the price?
The price covers transportation in a comfortable A/C van, breakfast and lunch, a 2-hour pontoon boat ride, access to Cococalitos, visits to cenotes and Bacalar lagoon, and a bilingual guide.

Are drinks in the restaurant included?
No, beverages aren’t included, so plan to bring extra cash if you want to buy drinks.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, towels, extra clothes, sunscreen, insect repellent, and sunglasses. Wear comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for outdoor activities.

Are meals vegetarian options available?
The tour mentions a dish to choose for breakfast and lunch but doesn’t specify dietary options. It’s best to ask beforehand or prepare for standard choices.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate. The long drive might be tiring, but kids often enjoy swimming and boat rides.

What is the meeting point?
It starts early at 6:00 am with pickup in Cancun or Puerto Morelos. The initial pick-up is in smaller vehicles before transferring to the main bus.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour bilingual?
Yes, the guide speaks both English and Spanish.

Would I enjoy this tour if I love history?
Absolutely. The visit to Fort San Felipe offers insights into the pirate era and local history, adding depth to the experience.

This Bacalar tour offers a well-rounded mix of natural beauty, history, and fun, making it a standout choice for those wanting to explore one of Mexico’s most colorful lagoons in style and comfort.