Tour Bacalar + Pontoon Ride Lagoon from Cancún & Playa del Carmen

If you’re dreaming of a day away from the busy beaches of Cancún or Playa del Carmen, a trip to Bacalar offers an incredible blend of natural beauty, history, and relaxation. This full-day tour, offered by Caribbean Mayan Tours, promises a hassle-free way to explore Mexico’s “Lake of the Seven Colors,” along with visits to vibrant cenotes and the charming town of Bacalar. While you’ll spend about 12 hours on the road, the experience feels more like a day spent soaking in some of the most picturesque spots in the Yucatán Peninsula.

What makes this tour appealing? First, the boat ride through the lagoon delivers views that are truly captivating—think of shifting shades of blue and green that look almost surreal. Second, the stops at cenotes Azul and Cocalitos add a refreshing element, with opportunities to swim in crystal-clear waters or relax in hammocks overlooking the lake. Lastly, the cultural touches, from San Felipe Fort to Bacalar’s main park, offer a glimpse into local history and life.

That said, it’s worth noting that the tour’s length and organized nature might not suit everyone. With a schedule packed into around 12 hours, travelers who prefer a more leisurely pace or less bus time might find it a little tight. Also, the full-day nature means some early mornings and long transportation stretches—something to consider if you’re sensitive to long days or tight schedules.

This adventure is well-suited for those craving authentic scenery, cultural insights, and a break from the typical Caribbean resort vibe. If you’re up for an active day with plenty of photo opportunities and natural swimming spots, this tour is a fantastic choice.

Good To Know

• Stunning lagoon views with shifting shades of blue and green.
• Includes transportation from Cancún or Playa del Carmen, eliminating worries about logistics.
• Multiple swim spots and photo opportunities, especially at cenotes Azul and Cocalitos.
• Cultural highlights like San Felipe Fort provide context and history.
• Full-day experience with an early start, perfect for adventurous travelers.
• Group size capped at 60, maintaining a balanced, intimate atmosphere.

The Experience in Detail

Hassle-Free Pickup and Transportation

One of the biggest benefits of booking this tour is the included hotel pickup and drop-off. Starting early at 6:00 am, you’ll be collected from your hotel in smaller vehicles, which then transfer you to the main bus. This multi-stage process might sound a bit complex, but it’s designed to ensure everyone’s comfortably transported without the hassle of self-driving or navigating public transport. The bus itself is equipped with a bathroom—you’ll be allowed to use only one of the two toilets, as the second bathroom’s ventilation is connected to the entire bus and could cause odors.

While the journey can extend beyond 12 hours due to logistics and traffic, the transportation arrangements aim to make the day as smooth as possible. Stops are planned at each attraction for bathroom breaks, giving travelers a chance to stretch and refresh.

Start at Cenote Azul

Your day begins with a visit to Cenote Azul, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant underwater life. Here, you’ll have about an hour to swim, relax, and take pictures in the cool waters of this extraordinary cenote. Many previous visitors appreciated how refreshing and beautiful this spot is, often mentioning how “the water was so clear you could see straight to the bottom.”

Relax at Cenote Cocalitos

Next, the tour takes you to Cenote Cocalitos, which offers a more laid-back experience. The site provides amenities like hammocks and swings, perfect for lounging or snapping a memorable shot. For most, this is a highlight—”enjoying time in the lagoon with all the amenities felt like a little paradise,” one reviewer noted. You’ll have around two hours here, giving you plenty of time to soak, snap stunning photos, or just unwind.

The Lagoon of Seven Colors

The main event is a roughly 2 hours and 45 minutes stop at Lago Bacalar, the crown jewel of the tour. This famously beautiful lake offers a kaleidoscope of blue hues, visible from the shores or while sailing in the Boat Ponton. The boat ride itself is a major highlight, offering panoramic views and a chance to experience the tranquil water from a different perspective.

You’ll also visit San Felipe Fort, which provides a scenic vantage point over the lake for photos and a taste of local history. Several reviewers appreciated the brief but meaningful stop here, noting that it’s a great way to get a sense of Bacalar’s past while enjoying the views.

Cultural and Historic Stops

Walking through Bacalar’s main park, you’ll find local life and vibrant community spirit. The visit to the fort and town highlights allow for a quick dive into the area’s past and present, making the experience more meaningful than just sightseeing.

Inclusive & Extra Perks

The tour includes breakfast and lunch — usually at local restaurants — adding value for travelers who want to avoid additional expenses. The boat ride in the lagoon is also included, which is a fantastic way to see the lagoon’s famous colors and cenotes from the water.

What’s Not Included

While most essentials are covered, keep in mind that beverages at the restaurant are not included, so you might want to bring some water or extra drinks. Also, personal expenses or souvenirs are on you, as well as any additional activities not listed.

Practical Tips for the Day

• Pack your swimsuit, towels, and extra clothes for swimming and changing.
• Wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for walking and lounging.
• Don’t forget sunscreen, insect repellent, and sunglasses—the sun can be strong, especially when outdoors all day.
• Be mindful of the early start time; a good breakfast will set you up for the long day ahead.
• The entire tour can be lengthy, so bring snacks or small energy boosts if needed, but meals are provided.

The Overall Value

For $144, the tour offers a comprehensive experience—visiting multiple spectacular sites, enjoying boat rides, and having all transportation arranged. When you consider the included meals, entrance fees, and guided stops, it’s a good value for travelers eager to see Bacalar without the hassle of organizing all the logistics themselves. The small group size (max 60 travelers) helps keep the experience intimate, providing opportunities to ask questions and get personalized attention.

Who Would Love This?

This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers eager to explore Bacalar’s natural beauty, history buffs wanting a taste of local culture, or anyone looking for a day of memorable scenery without the stress of planning. It’s especially suitable for those comfortable with a full day of activity and transportation.

If you’re after a relaxed, leisurely pace with plenty of downtime, this might feel a bit packed. But for those wanting a structured, scenic, and engaging day, it hits the mark.

FAQ

How early do we need to wake up for this tour?
The pickup starts at 6:00 am, so expect an early start to make the most of the day.

Is the transportation comfortable?
Yes, the transport is arranged with small vehicles for pickup, then a larger bus for the journey, which includes a bathroom for convenience.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimsuit, towels, extra clothes, sunscreen, insect repellent, sunglasses, and perhaps some snacks for the road.

Can I swim at the cenotes and lagoon?
Absolutely. Swimming is a key part of the experience at Cenote Azul, Cenote Cocalitos, and the Bacalar lagoon.

What are the main attractions of the tour?
The highlight is the lagoon with its stunning shades of blue, boat ride, swimming stops, and cultural sights like Fort San Felipe.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but consider the full-day length and transportation logistics when traveling with very young children.

Final Thoughts

This Bacalar + Pontoon Ride Lagoon tour offers a well-balanced day of natural beauty, cultural insight, and fun water activities. It’s a great way to see Mexico’s beautiful lagoon with minimal hassle, especially if you’re keen on visiting the “Lake of the Seven Colors” up close. The inclusion of transportation, meals, and guided stops makes it an attractive option for travelers who want a full, authentic experience without the stress of self-organizing logistics.

Ideal for those craving scenic views, swimming in cenotes, and immersing in local history, this tour provides a meaningful day outdoors. Just be prepared for a long day, and you’ll leave with plenty of stunning memories—and photos—to cherish.