Bacalar Must-dos | Ichkabal Ruins, Boat Trip & Los Rapidos

Planning a trip to Bacalar and wondering how to make the most of a single day? This tour packs an exciting lineup of activities into 12 hours, offering a great way to experience the region’s history, natural beauty, and fun. We haven’t tried it ourselves, but based on detailed reviews and the tour’s itinerary, it promises a well-balanced adventure that caters to curious travelers eager to see what Bacalar has to offer.

What we love about this experience is its focus on three key highlights: walking through the impressive Mayan Ichkabal ruins, cruising across the stunning Lagoon of Seven Colors, and floating through the exhilarating Los Rápidos water channel. The fact that it combines history, scenery, and adrenaline in one day means you get a thorough taste of Bacalar’s diverse attractions.

One potential consideration is that the tour isn’t all-inclusive—you’ll need to purchase some tickets separately unless you select options that include them. Plus, the full day is quite packed, so it’s best for energetic travelers who want a rundown rather than a slow, relaxed pace.

This tour suits those who want a value-packed, all-in-one experience—perfect if you’re short on time but eager to see Bacalar’s best sights.

Good To Know

• All-in-one experience combining ruins, lagoon cruise, and water channel adventure
• Expert guide provides insights into Mayan history and local secrets
• Comfortable transportation from hotels, with air-conditioned vehicles
• Accessible for most travelers with wheelchair options and inclusive safety gear
• Cost-effective considering it includes multiple activities and transportation
• Good for active travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, boating, and water fun

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring Bacalar in a Day: A Practical Breakdown

This tour is designed to be a full-day journey, offering a curated experience that hits the highlights without the need to plan multiple separate excursions. It begins early, with pick-up around 5:00 am in Chetumal or Xulha, and a slightly later start at 5:30 am if you’re staying in Bacalar. That means you’ll be on the move from the very start, but it also means you’ll maximize your day.

Transportation and Comfort

Travel is via air-conditioned vehicles, ensuring you stay cool and comfortable during the drives between sites. The driver doubles as your chauffeur, letting you relax while someone else handles the road. This setup is especially appreciated after a long night or a busy travel schedule, providing a stress-free way to focus on the sights.

Guided Tours and Insights

A professional guide accompanies you throughout, sharing stories about Ichkabal’s Mayan temples, its significance, and interesting facts that bring the ruins to life. One reviewer mentioned their guide, “Juan,” who was “very knowledgeable and friendly,” which can really enhance the experience for those interested in the cultural context.

The Ichkabal Mayan Ruins: Walking Through Ancient History

Your adventure kicks off with a visit to the Ichkabal Mayan Ruins, a site often less crowded than other well-known Mayan sites but just as fascinating. The ruins are spacious, with impressive stone structures that tell stories of ancient civilizations. Walking among the temples, you’ll get a sense of the scale and craftsmanship of the Mayans.

The guide explains the significance of the site, its architecture, and perhaps some of the mysteries that still surround it. If history is your thing, walking through Ichkabal offers an authentic glimpse into the past, away from heavily commercialized ruins often swarmed by travelers.

What’s particularly valuable here is the chance to explore a Mayan site that’s less visited, giving a more intimate experience. As one reviewer pointed out, “It felt like discovering a hidden treasure, less crowded and more authentic.”

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Cruising Bacalar’s Lagoon: A Visual Feast

After the ruins, the tour moves on to the Boat Trip across Bacalar’s lagoon, often praised for its stunning vistas. The lagoon’s water is renowned for its seven shades of blue, with hues shifting from turquoise to deep navy. This is a highlight for many visitors, and the boat ride is the perfect way to soak it all in.

The boat is shared with other travelers, and the guide points out notable features such as the Cenote Azul and the Bird Sanctuary if visible. The boat’s cooler filled with drinks keeps everyone refreshed, and life jackets are provided for safety—particularly important given the vibrant but sometimes rapid currents of the lagoon.

One reviewer noted, “The views are incredible. It’s like floating in a giant, colorful gemstone.” Expect plenty of photo opportunities, so bring your camera or phone in a waterproof case.

Los Rápidos: Float Through Natural Currents

The third stop is Los Rápidos, a natural water channel famous for its strong currents. Here, the thrill is in floating with the flow and feeling the rush of moving water beneath you. It’s a fun, invigorating experience that appeals to adventure-seekers.

Entry to Los Rápidos isn’t included unless you select the ticket option beforehand, but general access allows you to enjoy the water, restrooms, and areas for relaxing afterward. Note that if you want to rent a table or access premium areas, extra charges may apply, but the main channel itself is free to enjoy.

Many reviews mention that wearing a life jacket is essential, especially if you’re new to floating or concerned about safety. The experience is suitable for most but not recommended for those over 70 or with insect allergies, as some natural elements are involved.

What’s Included and What You Should Bring

The tour package includes:

• Visit to Ichkabal Ruins
• Boat trip across Bacalar lagoon
• Entry to Los Rápidos (if selected)
• Life jackets at Los Rápidos
• Comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle
• Professional tour guide

However, tickets for the boat trip and Los Rápidos entrance are not included unless you select the options that cover them. You’ll need to bring cash or credit card for these or other expenses, including food or extra services at Los Rápidos.

Practical items to carry include your passport, sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen (preferably biodegradable), insect repellent, swimwear, and some cash. Remember, large luggage, pets, or smoking are not allowed in the vehicle or at the sites.

The Value of This Tour

At $109 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive day of activities that might otherwise require booking multiple separate excursions. Considering it includes transportation, a guide, safety gear, and multiple attractions, the value is quite good—especially if you’re short on time.

The tour’s length and structure make it ideal for those who want a full immersion into Bacalar’s highlights without the hassle of planning each component individually. Plus, the transportation from hotels in Chetumal, Xulha, or Bacalar makes it very convenient.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This tour is best suited for active travelers who enjoy a mix of culture, nature, and adventure. It’s ideal for visitors eager to explore Mayan history, experience scenic boat rides, and have some water fun in one day. It’s also perfect if you prefer guided experiences that avoid the stress of logistics, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the region.

However, it might not be suitable for those with insect allergies, older travelers over 70, or anyone looking for a more relaxed, less scheduled experience. The early start and full schedule demand a good level of energy and willingness to move.

Final Thoughts

This Bacalar tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the region’s most celebrated sights—from ancient Mayan temples to shimmering lagoons and energetic water channels. You’ll love the variety of landscapes and activities, balanced with insights from a knowledgeable guide. The inclusion of transportation and safety gear means you can focus on enjoying each moment.

The experience truly highlights Bacalar’s diverse appeal: its rich history, breathtaking natural beauty, and opportunities for fun and adventure. It’s a thoughtfully curated day that leaves no major attraction untouched, making it a fantastic choice for those wanting a full taste of what Bacalar has to offer.

For travelers who thrive on active days packed with discovery and scenic beauty, this tour delivers excellent value and memorable moments. Just be prepared for an energetic itinerary and bring your sense of adventure.

FAQ

Do I need to book tickets for the attractions beforehand?
Tickets for the boat trip and Los Rápidos are not included unless you select the options that cover them. You might want to buy tickets in advance or plan to pay on-site, depending on your preferences.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle from pick-up points in Chetumal, Xulha, or Bacalar.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 12 hours, starting as early as 5:00 am in some locations to maximize your day.

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it more inclusive for all travelers.

What should I bring?
You should carry your passport, sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, sunscreen, insect repellent, cash, and credit card. Large luggage, pets, and smoking are not allowed.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

This tour balances history, scenic beauty, and water-based fun for a memorable day in Bacalar. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking for a lively adventure, you’ll find plenty to love in this well-organized trip.

You can check if your dates are available here: