Seven Colours Bacalar Lagoon with Pontoon Ride only from Tulum

Exploring Bacalar Lagoon with a Pontoon Ride from Tulum: A Detailed Review

If you’re eyeing a day trip to one of Mexico’s most captivating natural wonders, the Seven Colours Bacalar Lagoon tour from Tulum promises a blend of scenic beauty, history, and relaxing adventures. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the detailed itinerary and traveler feedback paint a vivid picture of what’s in store.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to see the Lagoon of Seven Colors—a natural palette of blues that’s truly breathtaking. Second, the combination of swimming, cultural highlights, and a scenic pontoon cruise makes it a well-rounded experience. Lastly, the inclusion of breakfast and lunch offers good value for a full day out.

One aspect to keep in mind: the full day can be quite long, with a start at 6 am and returning around 6 pm. This might be tiring for some, but it’s perfect if you’re eager to see the highlights without extra planning.

This tour is ideal for travelers who love nature, enjoy a bit of history, and want a relaxed yet adventure-filled day. It’s especially suitable if you prefer a guided experience that covers multiple highlights without the hassle of organizing transport or tickets yourself.

Good To Know

• Stunning natural scenery: Experience the vivid colors of Bacalar Lagoon, famously known as the Lake of Seven Colors.
• Comprehensive itinerary: Includes visits to Cenote Azul, Balneario El Mármol, and a scenic pontoon ride.
• All-in-one experience: Breakfast, lunch, transportation, guides, and entrance fees are covered, offering great value.
• Historical highlights: Visit Fuerte de San Felipe, adding a cultural touch to your day.
• Small group size: Limited to 15 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.
• Early start: Departure at 6 am, ideal for maximizing your day.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Early for a Full-Day Adventure

The tour kicks off bright and early at 6 am from Tulum. The morning pick-up involves small vehicles gathering travelers and transferring them to the main bus, which keeps the group intimate and manageable—ideal for those who prefer a more personal touch. The early start is necessary to fit in all the stops and make the most of the daylight, especially since the tour lasts around 11 to 12 hours.

First Stop: Cenote Azul — Nature’s Crystal Pool

Our first stop is Cenote Azul, which many reviewers describe as a “breathtaking natural wonder.” The water’s clarity is striking, and it’s a perfect spot to cool off and snap some photos. The admission ticket is included, so there’s no hassle there. Visitors often remark on the peaceful vibe and the chance to float in cool, mineral-rich waters that are just as refreshing as they look.

One reviewer appreciated the proximity of the cenote to the rest of the itinerary, noting, “It’s a beautiful way to start the day, and the water is so clear you feel like you’re swimming in glass.” Expect to spend about an hour here, giving you plenty of time to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Second Stop: Balneario Ejidal Mágico Bacalar — Swimming and Relaxing

Next up is Balneario El Mármol, where the tour’s highlight is a two-hour swim and relax session at the Club de Playa El Mármol. From a private dock, you’ll board a comfortable boat for a scenic ride that includes time to soak in the mineral-rich waters, swim, or simply lounge on the sand.

The inclusion of the boat ride is a big plus, especially since it offers a chance to see the lagoon from a different perspective. Reviewers mention how calming the waters are and how the clay sand feels like a natural skin treatment—”a perfect natural spa,” as one guest put it.

Navigating the Lagoon: The Scenic Pontoon Ride

The highlight of the tour is the two-hour pontoon cruise through the Pirate Channel of Bacalar. As you glide across the water, you’ll witness the lagoon’s signature seven shades of blue, which truly are a sight to behold.

Travelers consistently rave about the views, describing them as “spectacular,” and some mention how the colors shift with the sunlight or cloud cover, making every moment selfie-worthy. The guide shares insights about the lagoon’s features and history, adding depth to the experience.

A Touch of History: Fuerte de San Felipe

On the way back, you’ll get a panoramic view of Fuerte de San Felipe, a fortress built during the colonial period. It’s worth noting that the guided tour provides context about the fortress’s pirate past and its strategic importance. Travelers who appreciate a bit of history find this stop enriching, especially when viewed from the boat or nearby viewpoints.

Final Relaxation and Local Charm: Bacalar Town and Marmol Beach

The last stop is Marmol Beach, where you can wind down, enjoy a leisurely stroll, or browse local crafts such as hammocks and dream catchers. The colorful streets of Bacalar are charming and perfect for some casual exploration or picking up souvenirs.

The tour wraps up around 6 pm, bringing you back to Tulum after a full day of natural beauty, cultural insights, and relaxation.

Transportation and Group Size

Travel involves round-trip transportation from Tulum, with a focus on comfort and convenience. The small group size—no more than 15 travelers—ensures you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and guides tend to be knowledgeable and friendly. Reviewers mention that the bilingual guides do well at balancing information and friendliness, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the price of $144 per person are breakfast and lunch (with a choice of dishes), all park entrance fees, the pontoon ride, and transportation. Beverages at the restaurant are not included, so it’s advisable to bring some water or snacks.

Considering the full range of experiences covered, many find the price reasonable for a full day out. The included meals are a nice touch, saving you the hassle of finding lunch on your own, and the guided aspect adds value for those wanting insights into the sites.

Timing and Practical Tips

The 6 am departure is early but allows maximum time at each stop. Be prepared with swimwear, sun protection, and comfortable shoes. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with most being able to participate, but those with mobility issues might find some stops challenging.

Final Thoughts

This Bacalar Lagoon tour offers a well-rounded taste of Mexico’s natural beauty, history, and culture, packaged into a manageable day trip. The combination of swimming, scenic cruising, and historical sights makes it appealing to a broad range of travelers—whether you’re after picture-perfect views, a relaxing spa-like experience, or a bit of local history.

The small group size and inclusive nature—meals, entrance fees, transportation—add to its value, allowing you to focus on enjoying rather than planning. While the long day might be tiring, it’s a small price to pay for a full immersion into Bacalar’s magic.

If you’re eager to see the vivid colors of the lagoon, enjoy gentle adventure, and learn a bit about the area’s history, this tour will likely meet or exceed your expectations. It’s a solid choice for those who prefer guided comfort and diverse experiences in one package.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from Tulum is included, with pickups organized in small vehicles to the main bus.

What’s the earliest start time?
Departure is at 6 am, ensuring you have plenty of time to enjoy all stops during daylight.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour provides breakfast and lunch, with a choice of dishes, though beverages at the restaurant are not included.

How long is the pontoon ride?
The pontoon cruise lasts approximately two hours, offering plenty of time to enjoy the views and learn about the lagoon.

Is the tour suitable for children or seniors?
Most travelers can participate, but consider the early start and walking involved at some stops. Small groups and guides help tailor the experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour starts, allowing for flexibility if needed.

To sum it up, this Bacalar Lagoon tour from Tulum offers a fantastic mix of natural beauty, cultural insights, and relaxation. It’s particularly suited for travelers seeking an all-in-one experience without the stress of organizing details themselves. Whether you’re after stunning views, a swim in pristine waters, or a touch of history, this trip delivers a memorable day in one of Mexico’s most enchanting spots.