One Day Tour to Chacchoben Mayan City and Bacalar Lagoon with a Certified Guide

Discover Mexico’s Mayan Heritage and Lagoon Serenity in One Day

The One Day Tour to Chacchoben Mayan City and Bacalar Lagoon offers an engaging experience for travelers seeking a blend of history, nature, and leisure. Priced at $107.10 per person, this 5-hour 30-minute tour departs from Costa Maya and features a guided visit to the Chacchoben archaeological site, dating back to 200 BC, followed by a relaxing stop at the famous Bacalar Lagoon. The tour includes lunch, soft drinks, bottled water, and kayaking equipment, making it a well-rounded day in the Mexican Caribbean.

This tour suits those interested in Mayan history, picturesque landscapes, and water activities. It offers hassle-free transfers, though the itinerary involves considerable travel between sites, which may be a consideration for some. The highly praised guides and delicious included food make it a solid choice for travelers who value organized excursions with local insights.

Key Points

• Price is $107.10 per person for a 5.5-hour trip including transportation, lunch, and activities.
• Visit the Chacchoben archaeological site, one of the lesser-explored Mayan ruins, with a guided tour.
• Enjoy two hours at Bacalar Lagoon to swim, kayak, or relax on the shore.
• Kayaking is included with equipment provided, and the waters are known for their seven-color appearance.
• Hassle-free pickup and drop-off from Costa Maya dock with air-conditioned transport.
• Lunch features tacos and fajitas, plus soft drinks and bottled water.

The Route and Key Stops in Detail

Chacchoben Mayan Site: A Hidden Mayan Treasure

The tour begins with a visit to the Chacchoben archaeological site, located deep in the jungle and considered one of the least explored Mayan ruins. The guide leads a 1 hour 30-minute walk among incredible monuments, flora, and fauna, offering an authentic glimpse into Mayan civilization circa 200 BC. Visitors will appreciate the informative explanations provided by the guide, which enhance understanding of the site’s significance.

Bacalar Lagoon: The Seven-Color Water Wonderland

After exploring the ruins, the tour moves to Bacalar Lagoon, a well-known spot for its distinctive seven shades of water. The two-hour stop allows plenty of time for swimming, sunbathing, and kayaking. The kayaks are provided, and the waters are described as refreshing and beautiful, perfect for a laid-back afternoon.

Fajita Lunch and Lagoon Relaxation

A delicious fajita lunch is included, served at the lagoon’s edge. Guests can enjoy soft drinks and bottled water, with some opting for a relaxing break on the shore or taking advantage of the kayak rides. The lunch is notable for being a highlight of the tour, with some reviews mentioning fabulous tacos and drinks.

Logistics and Transportation Details

Meeting Point and Departure Times

The tour departs from Av. P.º del Puerto 1180, Mahahual, with pick-up scheduled one hour after the cruise ship’s arrival at Costa Maya. The meeting instructions are clear, but travelers should pay attention to directions as the walk from the port takes about 15 minutes. The tour ends back at the meeting point, making it convenient for cruise passengers.

Group Size and Vehicle Comfort

The group size is capped at 80 travelers, ensuring manageable crowds. The transportation is air-conditioned, with comfortable vans, as praised in reviews. The guides are noted for their knowledge and attentiveness, contributing to an enjoyable experience.

Accessibility and Physical Considerations

The tour involves some walking at the ruins, with stairs present. Shoes suitable for getting wet and walking on rocky ground are recommended. The total walking time can be up to several hours, so comfortable footwear is advised.

The Unique Features of This Tour

Expert Certified Guides

Guides like Yoshi and Diego receive high praise for their clarity, knowledge, and friendly attitude. They make history come alive with informative commentary and attentiveness to the group’s needs.

Water Activities and Food Inclusion

The kayaking gear is provided at the lagoon, allowing guests to enjoy the waters freely. The lunch of tacos and fajitas is considered a delicious highlight and adds value, especially with soft drinks and bottled water included.

Hassle-Free Experience

The transfers from Costa Maya are organized and comfortable, with air-conditioned vehicles. The tour operates Monday to Sunday from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM, giving flexibility for different cruise schedules.

Honest Feedback on Travel Time and Cost

While the travel between sites involves about two hours of driving, the guides’ insights and scenic views help pass the time enjoyably. Some reviews mention the long drive as a drawback, but most find the organized nature and quality of the sites compensate for this.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This one-day experience is perfect for history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and water activity fans. The small group size, knowledgeable guides, and included lunch make it especially appealing for travelers who appreciate organized, well-supported excursions. Those seeking a quick but comprehensive look at Mayan ruins and lagoon scenery will find this tour satisfying.

Final Thoughts on the Chacchoben and Bacalar Tour

The $107.10 price point offers a balanced combination of cultural exploration and leisure. The tour’s highly rated guides and delicious included food stand out as key strengths. The longer travel time and some physical demands are worth considering for travelers with mobility issues or limited patience for long drives.

This guided day trip provides a reliable, enjoyable way to discover Chacchoben’s ancient ruins and Bacalar Lagoon’s stunning waters in a single day. It suits adventurous cruise passengers looking for a well-organized, value-packed excursion in Costa Maya.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes, including all stops, transfers, and activities.

What is included in the price?
Included are guided tour of Chacchoben, lunch with soft drinks and bottled water, kayaks, and air-conditioned transportation.

Are there any physical requirements?
Yes, walking at the ruins involves stairs and rocky terrain. Comfortable shoes suitable for getting wet are recommended.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at Av. P.º del Puerto 1180, Mahahual, and ends back at the same location.

Is the tour suitable for children or infants?
The tour can accommodate most travelers, but walking and physical activity should be considered for children or those with mobility concerns.

What if my cruise doesn’t call at Costa Maya?
You are guaranteed a full refund if your cruise does not dock at Costa Maya, as per the cancellation policy.

Can I bring my camera or drone?
Yes, camera use is permitted with a $5 copyright fee payable at the ruins, but tripods and drones are prohibited.

What do I need to bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, water, and any personal items you may need for a day by the lagoon.

How do I find the meeting point?
Directions are provided in advance, and the walk from the port is about 15 minutes, with detailed instructions to ensure easy access.

Is this tour good for solo travelers?
Yes, the smaller group size and organized structure make it suitable for solo travelers wanting a friendly, guided experience.