Costa Maya: Chacchoben Ruin, 7 Colors Lagoon Shore Excursion

Traveling to Costa Maya offers a chance to see some of the most captivating sights in Mexico’s Quintana Roo. While this tour promises a blend of ancient history and natural beauty, it’s important to weigh what’s included against real traveler experiences.

What’s great about this tour? You’ll get to walk through impressive Mayan ruins with a knowledgeable guide, experience the stunning hues of Bacalar’s lagoon on a boat tour, and enjoy regional snacks. Plus, the flexible booking options and inclusive beverages add a touch of convenience.

A possible downside? The group size can be quite large, with some reviews mentioning up to 50 people on a bus, which might make the experience a bit less intimate. Also, some travelers noted that the snacks and drinks on the boat could have been better organized.

This tour suits those who enjoy a mix of history, scenic views, and engaging guided tours—particularly if you’re comfortable with a full day of activity and don’t mind large groups. Now, let’s break down what you can expect from this adventure.

Good To Know

• Balanced experience combining archaeological exploration with natural beauty
• Guided tours with bilingual guides providing insightful commentary
• Inclusive beverages and snacks for added comfort during the day
• Long travel times between stops, so comfort and patience are key
• Group size can be large, impacting the intimacy of the tour
• Good value considering entrance fees, guided help, boat ride, and transport included

You can check if your dates are available here:

Starting the Journey from Costa Maya Port

Your adventure begins right outside the cruise port, in the parking lot where taxis and golf carts gather. The meeting point is clearly marked with the Toucan Tours logo, making it easy to find your transportation. The tour starts approximately 30-60 minutes after your ship docks, so it’s perfect for those who like to sleep in or explore the port a little first.

Once the group is assembled, you’ll hop into a comfortable van for about a 55-minute drive through lush green scenery. The ride itself is a good chance to settle in, chat with fellow travelers, and get excited about what’s ahead. Keep in mind, the journey time is significant, so bringing snacks or reading material can help pass the time.

Exploring Chacchoben – A Glimpse into Mayan Civilization

Arriving at the Chacchoben archaeological site, you’ll spend roughly 70 minutes walking with a guide through this fascinating relic of Mayan culture. The guided tour, available in both English and Spanish, is designed to give you a solid overview of the site’s significance.

According to reviews, guides like Manuel and Carlos are praised for their knowledge and engaging storytelling, which makes the history come alive. One reviewer mentioned, “Our guide was fantastic—really knew his stuff and made the ruins interesting for everyone.” Expect to see well-preserved structures, temples, and plazas, all set amidst vibrant jungle foliage.

While some might feel the 70-minute tour is brief, it’s enough to grasp the importance of Chacchoben without feeling overwhelmed. The focus is on meaningful storytelling and highlighting the most impressive parts of the site.

The Highlight: Bacalar’s Seven Colors Lagoon

After the ruins, your driver will take you to Bacalar, a scenic town famous for its lagoon. This is the part of the tour many travelers look forward to most, and for good reason. The lagoon’s vivid spectrum of blues and greens, caused by varying depths and underwater mineral deposits, is something you won’t soon forget.

You’ll enjoy a two-hour boat ride across the lagoon, during which you can admire the stunning views, see several cenotes, and learn about the natural environment from your guide. Reviewers have noted that the boat ride provides excellent photo opportunities, and the local fruit snacks offered onboard add a refreshing touch.

Some travelers, however, mention that the boat wasn’t equipped with enough snacks or drinks for everyone, and that the beverages served on the boat could be improved. The experience offers a relaxed and scenic way to appreciate this unique ecosystem.

Practical Details and Logistics

The trip to Bacalar takes about 1.5 hours by van, allowing you some downtime to enjoy the countryside. The boat cruise itself lasts for two hours, offering plenty of time to relax and take in the views.

Included in the tour are round-trip transportation, entrance fees, bilingual guides, beverages (including water, soda, beer, and a tequila shot), snacks (local fruit), and life vests. This makes the experience feel comprehensive and convenient.

One review highlighted that the organization could be more streamlined, with some guests feeling the large group size lessens the intimacy and personalized attention. Still, the guides are generally praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making the overall experience worthwhile.

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Additional Considerations

While the tour is designed to be full and engaging, it’s worth noting that it does not include lunch. If you’re a foodie, you might want to plan for a meal after the tour or bring snacks. Also, travelers prone to seasickness or with low fitness levels should be aware that the boat ride, while scenic, does involve some gentle movement.

For those with mobility scooters or non-folding wheelchairs, the tour may not be suitable, as some parts of the ruins and boat activity might require a degree of mobility.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This Costa Maya excursion really offers a taste of both history and natural beauty. If you’re eager to walk among ancient Mayan structures and marvel at one of the most striking lagoons in Mexico, you’ll find plenty to love. The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge help bring the ruins to life, while the boat ride in Bacalar showcases the region’s stunning colors and tranquil waters.

However, if you prefer small, intimate groups or are looking for a more gourmet experience, this might not be your best fit. The large groups and some logistical aspects could detract from the experience if you’re seeking a quieter, more personalized adventure.

For active travelers comfortable with a full day’s schedule and eager to see diverse sights—cultural ruins and natural wonders—this tour offers solid value. The inclusion of transportation, entrance fees, a guide, and the boat cruise makes it a hassle-free way to explore multiple attractions in one day.

FAQ

How long does the entire tour last?
The tour lasts about 7 hours, including transportation, guided tours, and the boat ride.

Is lunch included?
No, the tour does not include a meal. You’ll want to plan for lunch afterward or bring some snacks.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and beachwear are recommended. Bringing water, sunscreen, and a camera will enhance your experience.

Are beverages included?
Yes, you’ll have unlimited water, soda, beer, and a tequila shot during the tour. Snacks like local fruit are also provided at the lagoon.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally family-friendly, some reviews mention that the group size can be large, and the boat ride involves some movement. Supervision is advised, especially for younger children.

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

To sum it up, this Costa Maya tour balances cultural discovery with natural beauty, making it ideal for travelers who want a well-rounded half-day adventure. The guides’ insights and the views of Bacalar’s lagoon stand out as highlights, even if the group size and logistical details require a bit of patience. It’s a solid choice for those eager to combine history, scenery, and a touch of leisure in their Mexican cruise experience.

You can check if your dates are available here: