Travel Boat in Pontoon to Bacalar & Cenote Azul from Cancun

Traveling from Cancun to Bacalar offers a taste of Mexico’s less-visited but equally breathtaking side. While Cancun is famous for its lively beaches and nightlife, this tour takes you on a full-day adventure to one of the most beautiful and serene spots in the Yucatán Peninsula—the Bacalar Lagoon. It’s designed for travelers seeking a relaxed pace, stunning views, and authentic natural beauty without the hassle of planning logistics themselves.

What we especially like about this tour is how it combines famous cenote swimming with a pontoon boat ride through the lagoon, giving you a good mix of adventure and tranquility. Plus, the included transportation makes the long drive (about 3.5 hours each way) feel much more manageable. One thing to think about, however, is the long day—this isn’t a laid-back tour for those who prefer a slow morning or a relaxed schedule. It suits active travelers eager to explore multiple spots in a single day.

This experience works best for those who love nature, enjoy water activities, and are comfortable with a full day on the road. If you’re looking to see one of Mexico’s most scenic lakes without stress and with the convenience of organized logistics, this tour could be a very rewarding choice.

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation from Cancun simplifies a difficult day trip.
• Multiple stops offer a mix of swimming, sightseeing, and history.
• Value for money given the number of activities and included entrance fees.
• Long but rewarding day—perfect if you enjoy full schedules and scenic drives.
• Authentic experiences like the pontoon boat ride and swimming in cenotes.
• Hassle-free logistics mean you can relax and focus on the scenery.

A Full Breakdown of the Bacalar & Cenote Azul Tour

This tour, offered by Exclusive Agency Tours, is a well-organized way to see some of the Yucatán’s most captivating sights without the burden of planning your own transportation or logistics. It costs $130 per person, which might seem steep at first glance, but considering the included activities, transport, and the value of experiencing Bacalar’s stunning natural beauty, it offers good value.

Transportation: Long but Comfortable

The day begins early with pickup around 6:30 am. You’ll be traveling in a shared vehicle, which might be a van or a bus, depending on the number of travelers. The journey to Bacalar takes approximately 3.5 hours, so packing a blanket or jacket is wise—air conditioning on the bus can be brisk, and it’s a long day. The benefit is that you won’t need to worry about driving or navigation, leaving you free to relax or enjoy the scenery.

Stop 1: Bacalar, the “Lagoon of Seven Colors”

Your first stop is Bacalar itself, a Magical Town known for its tranquil, crystal-clear lagoon. We loved the way this part of the tour offers a taste of local culture alongside natural beauty—no rushing through, just enough time to soak in the scenery or stroll around. It’s a peaceful setting where nature, history, and a laid-back vibe come together. Free time here allows for photos, a quick walk, or simply enjoying the stunning views.

Stop 2: Cenote Azul

Next, you’ll head to Cenote Azul, a natural swimming hole famous for its stunning, clear waters and dramatic rock formations. Here, the emphasis is on relaxation and cooling off—perfect after several hours in transit. The included entrance fee means you can focus on swimming, snorkeling, or just wading in the refreshing waters. The location, right next to the road, makes it accessible and convenient for a quick but impactful experience.

One traveler mentioned that Cenote Azul’s location “makes it truly special,” and many agree that the water’s clarity makes it a favorite for photos and pure enjoyment. The natural beauty of the rocks and the turquoise water adds to its appeal as a must-visit spot.

Stop 3: Lake Bacalar and the Pirates Canal

The highlight of the day is the pontoon boat ride through the lagoon, including a trip to the Pirates Canal. This part of the experience offers a unique perspective of Bacalar’s seven shades of blue—the different depths and mineral content create a captivating visual palette. We found the boat ride to be lively and fun, offering great photo opportunities and a chance to really appreciate the scale and beauty of the lagoon.

The boat tour lasts around two hours, and you’ll love the views of fossilized rock formations and the peaceful water. The Pirates Canal, with its historical ties to pirates and explorers, adds a touch of adventure, making it more than just a scenic cruise.

Stop 4: Cococalitos Lagoon

Finally, the tour includes time at Cococalitos, a smaller swimming lagoon characterized by its fossilized rock formations and calm waters. It’s a great spot to relax after the boat ride, with a nearby beach club where you can buy food and drinks (note that beverages aren’t included). We appreciated the opportunity to unwind in this quieter part of Bacalar, enjoying the natural landscape and the gentle water.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the tour are transportation, entrance fees to Cenote Azul and Cococalitos, a boat ride around Bacalar, and a meal at a local restaurant. The round-trip transport is especially valuable, eliminating the stress of long drives or navigating public transport. The tour is also capped at 60 travelers, so it’s not overly crowded, maintaining a friendly, communal vibe.

Not included are additional expenses such as drinks at the restaurant or souvenirs. Travelers should bring essentials like swimsuits, towels, extra clothes, sunscreen, and sunglasses. Since it’s a long day, packing snacks or water is recommended.

Practical Details and Tips

The tour departs early, so punctuality is key. Be prepared for a full day—starting around 6:30 am and returning late in the evening. The long drive means you should expect a lot of time in transit, but the scenic views and diverse stops make it worthwhile.

Wear comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for water activities and walking. Remember your personal belongings, but avoid bringing valuables that could be lost at the water’s edge. Since the tour is shared, be patient with group logistics—they manage pick-ups and vehicle changes to keep everything running smoothly.

Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

The price of $130 includes several key experiences—swimming in cenotes, a scenic boat ride, and exploring a beautiful lagoon—all in one package. Travelers who enjoy natural beauty, water sports, and hassle-free logistics will find this tour to be excellent value. The included transport and multiple stops save you the headache of planning individual visits, making it suitable for those on a tight schedule or unfamiliar with the area.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This trip suits active travelers who don’t mind a long day on the road and love natural, scenic spots. It’s perfect for families, couples, or groups who want a comprehensive experience of Bacalar without the hassle of self-driving. If you’re after a relaxing day with picturesque views and a touch of adventure, this tour will satisfy.

However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace or dislike long bus rides, you might find the duration challenging. Likewise, if you’re looking for a thorough cultural or historical exploration, this tour focuses primarily on natural beauty and water-based activities.

Summary: The Upside for Travelers

What makes this tour stand out is the stunning scenery—the clear waters, fossilized rocks, and vibrant lagoon colors are truly postcard-worthy. We appreciated the organized logistics that let us focus on enjoying the sights rather than navigating or planning. The value for money is solid, given the multiple stops and included activities.

For those interested in a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty, this trip offers a practical way to experience the best of Bacalar without the stress of planning your own trip. It’s the kind of day that leaves you with memorable photos and stories, even if it’s a long one.

FAQs

How long is the drive from Cancun to Bacalar?
The round trip takes approximately 7 hours, with about 3.5 hours each way, depending on traffic. It’s a long day, but the scenic drive is part of the experience.

Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off from Cancun are included, with the journey in a shared vehicle. The transport is organized to maximize comfort and efficiency.

What should I bring?
Pack your swimsuit, towels, extra clothes, sunscreen, sunglasses, and perhaps some snacks or water. Remember personal belongings—make sure you don’t leave anything behind.

Are meals included?
The tour includes a meal at a restaurant, but beverages are not. You might want to bring some water or snacks for the day.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. This flexibility adds peace of mind, especially for spontaneous travelers.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Most travelers can participate, and it’s family-friendly, especially for those who enjoy water activities and scenic outdoor spots.

To sum it up, this full-day Bacalar tour offers a well-rounded visit to one of Mexico’s most beautiful lakes, with the convenience of organized transport, multiple stops, and plenty of natural beauty. It’s suited for travelers eager to explore beyond Cancun’s beaches, looking for a memorable adventure that combines swimming, sightseeing, and a bit of history—all within a manageable day trip.