Full-Day Lagoon of Seven Colors at Bacalar from Tulum City

Explore the Lagoon of Seven Colors on a Full-Day Trip from Tulum

The Full-Day Lagoon of Seven Colors at Bacalar from Tulum offers a well-rounded excursion for those eager to experience one of Mexico’s most striking natural sites. Priced at $123 per person and lasting about 12 hours, this tour combines scenic boat rides, visits to the Cenote Azul, and free time in the charming town of Bacalar. It’s perfect for anyone interested in exploring lush jungles, tranquil lagoons, and cultural heritage sites with guided ease.

While the tour provides an array of activities, some reviews mention that the overall experience can feel quite basic and that the included locations, such as the restaurant and beach club, are simple. It’s a good fit for travelers who prioritize immersive nature experiences and straightforward logistics over luxury amenities. The tour departs early from Tulum’s Súper Akí and includes a full schedule of activities, meals, and sightseeing.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: Priced at $123, the tour lasts approximately 12 hours.
• Highlights: Includes a boat ride in Bacalar, visit to Cenote Azul, panoramic view of San Felipe Fort, and free time at Bacalar lagoon.
• Included: Round-trip transportation, breakfast, lunch, and entrance to Cenote Azul.
• Limitations: No hotel pick-up; some locations are described as basic, and beverages at restaurants are not included.
• Best for: Nature lovers and those seeking a full day of scenic and cultural exploration without high-end amenities.

Starting Point and Transport Logistics in Tulum

This tour departs from Súper Akí Tulum, located on Carretera Federal Tulum Ruinas, at 7:50 am. The round-trip transportation from Tulum is included, making it convenient for visitors staying within the city. The group size is capped at 50 travelers, ensuring a manageable experience.

Travelers should plan to arrive on time to enjoy the full itinerary, as the tour begins early and covers many activities across Bacalar’s natural and cultural sites.

Visiting Bacalar: A Small Town with Big Natural Beauty

The tour explores Bacalar, a small but vibrant town known for its stunning lagoon and peaceful atmosphere. Bacalar is characterized by vivid vegetation and jungles that serve as habitat for wildlife such as howling monkeys, tapirs, and jaguars. These natural features make the town an appealing destination for nature enthusiasts eager to photograph or observe rare animals.

The town itself offers a quiet ambiance, ideal for relaxing beside the lagoon or strolling through its heritage sites. The tour emphasizes local culture and heritage, making it a well-rounded day trip for those interested in both nature and history.

Bacalar Lagoon: The “Seven Colors” and Its Unique Features

The Bacalar Lagoon is renowned for its captivating shades of blue, which vary depending on the depth of the water. The journey includes a boat ride lasting about 2 hours, allowing travelers to appreciate the lagoon’s natural beauty from the water.

Within the lagoon, there are three cenotes whose waters have overflowed and formed the lagoon, creating a narrow, long body of water that stretches over 34 miles. The different depths contribute to the striking visual spectrum of blues, making it a favorite spot for photography and relaxation.

Cenote Azul: The Refreshing Swimming Spot

A key highlight of the tour is the visit to Cenote Azul, where travelers can swim and cool off. Entrance to this cenote is included, and the clear, fresh waters provide a welcome break during the day’s activities. The cenote’s natural beauty and refreshing waters are often praised as a highlight, though some may find it a basic experience.

Visitors should bring swimsuits, towels, and extra clothes to enjoy the cenote comfortably. The cenote offers a scenic setting for relaxing or taking photos, but facilities are simple, so packing essentials is recommended.

Lunch and Meals: Simple but Satisfying Local Cuisine

The tour includes breakfast in Tulum before departure and lunch in Bacalar, with the guide taking care of meal arrangements. However, beverages at restaurants are not included, so travelers might want to bring water or additional drinks.

The lunch is described as delicious, though some reviews suggest the food at the stops may be quite basic. The focus remains on providing sustenance for a full day of exploration, rather than gourmet dining.

Scenic Drive and Panoramic Views of San Felipe Fort

On the way to Bacalar, the group enjoys a ride around the town, with a panoramic view of the San Felipe Fort. This historic site adds a touch of cultural depth to the trip, offering opportunities for photos and insights into Bacalar’s heritage. The fort’s strategic position overlooking the lagoon makes it a notable landmark during the tour.

Free Time at Bacalar Lagoon for Swimming and Relaxation

After the boat ride, travelers have free time in Bacalar park to swim, relax at the shore, or explore the town at their leisure. This flexible period allows for personal enjoyment of the natural surroundings, although some may find the overall experience quite straightforward and uncomplicated.

The tranquility of Bacalar’s lagoon makes it an ideal place to unwind, especially for those seeking a peaceful escape in nature. The tour ends back at the meeting point in Tulum, completing a full day of sightseeing and relaxation.

The Experience: What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour package covers round transportation, a 2-hour boat ride, entrance to Cenote Azul, breakfast, and lunch. These inclusions provide good value for a comprehensive day trip. However, beverages at restaurants are not included, and some locations visited are described as simple or basic.

Importantly, the tour does not include hotel pick-up, so travelers should plan to meet directly at the designated point in Tulum. The experience is designed for those comfortable with group tours and early mornings.

Honest Review: Strengths and Limitations

The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, helping to make the day enjoyable despite some basic facilities. The views of Bacalar and its lagoon are undeniably beautiful and memorable for nature lovers. The boat ride and swim at Cenote Azul stand out as the most enjoyed activities.

On the other hand, some reviews mention that the locations visited are quite simple, with food that may not meet high expectations for quality. Plus, the tour’s lack of hotel pickup may be inconvenient for some travelers. Overall, it offers a good introduction to Bacalar’s natural beauty, but travelers seeking luxury or highly curated experiences might find it less satisfying.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This tour is well-suited for nature enthusiasts, first-time visitors to Bacalar, and those who appreciate straightforward, activity-packed days. It’s ideal for travelers who want a full day of scenic boat rides, swimming, and cultural sights without the need for luxury amenities or personalized service.

Travelers should be prepared for basic facilities and pack their essentials accordingly. If you value pristine locations and gourmet meals, this tour might feel underwhelming, but for those seeking an affordable, comprehensive day trip, it hits many key points.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
No, this tour does not include hotel pickup. It departs from Súper Akí in Tulum.

What is the duration of the boat ride?
The boat ride lasts approximately 2 hours in Bacalar.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes breakfast in Tulum and lunch at Bacalar. Beverages at restaurants are not included.

Can I swim at Cenote Azul?
Absolutely, entrance is included, and swimming is a key part of the experience at Cenote Azul.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring swimsuits, towels, extra clothes, biodegradable sunscreen, and insect repellent.

Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but the physical activity and early start should be considered.

How is the overall experience rated?
It has an average rating of 3.0 out of 5, with some reviews noting the experience is quite basic.

What if the weather is poor?
If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How many people typically book this tour in advance?
On average, it is booked 29 days in advance, indicating steady interest.

Is the tour environmentally conscious?
Guidelines recommend biodegradable sunscreen and insect repellent to help protect Bacalar’s natural beauty.

This full-day tour from Tulum offers a mix of scenic nature, cultural sights, and relaxing moments, making it a practical choice for travelers eager to explore Bacalar without fuss. While it may lack some luxury touches and advanced facilities, it provides a solid introduction to one of Mexico’s most beautiful lagoons.