Bacalar : Ichkabal Ruins & Los Rapidos With Pick Up

Explore Mayan Ruins and Swim in Bacalar’s Natural Waters in One Day

This tour in Bacalar, Quintana Roo, offers a balanced mix of history, nature, and relaxation, all within a flexible duration of 3.5 to 8 hours. The price includes hotel pickup, entrance fees, a tasty breakfast, and options to enjoy swimming or floating at Los Rápidos. With small groups limited to 7 participants, the experience feels personal and well-organized — ideal for travelers seeking an intimate adventure.

This tour is perfect for those interested in Mayan archaeology and crystal-clear waters, but it’s best suited for physically able visitors, as some stops involve walking or swimming. The guide explains each site clearly, making the experience accessible for diverse travelers. While the tour covers several highlights, expect some variation in timing, especially for the full-day option, to suit your pace and interests.

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Key Points

• Includes hotel pickup and transfer in a small group of up to 7 people
• Visit the mysterious Ichkabal ruins, a less crowded Mayan site
• Enjoy a fresh tropical breakfast surrounded by nature
• Float or swim in the tranquil waters of Los Rápidos with drone photos available
• Multiple options allow for a half-day or full-day experience
• All entrance fees included, no hidden costs

Discover the Hidden Mayan Site of Ichkabal in the Jungle

The Ichkabal ruins are the main highlight of this tour. Known as an impressive archaeological site, they are hidden in the jungle and once served as a ceremonial center. The guided walk among the pyramids offers a chance to connect with Mayan history without the crowds often found at more famous sites.

Visitors have free time to explore the ancient structures and jungle surroundings. The guide provides explanations that bring the site to life, making it easier to understand its significance. The site’s remote location means fewer visitors, offering a more authentic experience of Mayan civilization. Expect a moderate walk, and keep an eye out for wildlife like monkeys, toucans, and even foxes.

Relaxing Breakfast Amidst Nature’s Beauty

After exploring Ichkabal, the tour includes a tasty breakfast served in a natural setting. The simple yet refreshing meal features water of coconut, fresh fruits, and toasts, providing energy for the next activity. This breakfast takes place outdoors, allowing plenty of opportunity to enjoy the peaceful jungle ambiance.

The breakfast is designed to be casual and satisfying, setting a relaxed tone for the rest of the day. It’s a great chance to chat with fellow travelers or simply enjoy the surroundings. The food is straightforward but appreciated, especially after the morning walk around Ichkabal.

Float and Swim at Los Rápidos in Calm Waters

The second stop takes place at Los Rápidos, one of Bacalar’s most beautiful natural spots. Known for its gentle current, this natural channel offers visitors a relaxing float in the turquoise waters. It’s an ideal setting for swimming, floating, or just unwinding by the riverside.

The calm environment makes Los Rápidos suitable for all ages and swimming abilities, although some physical activity is involved. For photographers, optional drone shots are available — capturing memorable aerial views of the experience. Visitors often find this moment a highlight, thanks to the combination of peaceful waters and scenic surroundings.

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Flexibility with Tour Options: Half or Full Day

This tour offers multiple options to suit different schedules. The Morning Ichkabal + Breakfast option begins at 7:30 AM, focusing on the archaeological site and a breakfast picnic. The Los Rápidos + Drone Shot option starts at 12:00 PM and runs until 4:00 PM, emphasizing relaxation and floating.

The full-day experience combines all elements, starting early with Ichkabal and concluding with relaxing at Los Rápidos, including drone photography for lasting memories. Each option provides all entrance fees included, with flexible timings to fit your plans.

Convenient Pickup and Small Group Experience

The tour departs from Bacalar with hotel pickup included, making logistics straightforward. The driver waits outside your accommodation, and the group size is limited to 7 participants, ensuring personalized attention. Timing may involve slight delays of up to 10 minutes due to traffic or weather, but overall, the process is efficient.

Guests should be ready promptly and bring essentials like sunglasses, a hat, and a towel. The small group size creates a friendly atmosphere and allows more interaction with the guide, who explains each site in Spanish, English, or Italian.

Practical Details and Accessibility

The tour is designed for active travelers, as it involves some walking and swimming. It is not suitable for wheelchair users, those with altitude sickness, or individuals over 243 lbs (110 kg). The ages recommended are under 95 years, and babies under 1 year are not accepted. Participants should be prepared for outdoor conditions and bring sunscreen and water.

The duration varies between 3.5 and 8 hours, depending on the chosen option and pace of the group. The experience is well-organized with clear instructions, making it accessible for most travelers who are comfortable with outdoor activities.

Why This Tour Stands Out in Bacalar

What makes this tour unique is its focus on less crowded sites like Ichkabal, paired with a relaxing swim at Los Rápidos. The inclusion of breakfast and drone photos adds value, enhancing the overall experience. The small group size ensures personalized guidance, making complicated or busy sites feel more intimate.

The balanced itinerary offers history, nature, and relaxation, ideal for travelers who want a diverse yet manageable day in Bacalar. While it doesn’t include additional stops like cenotes or boat trips, it excels in providing a meaningful connection to local culture and scenery.

Bacalar: A Perfect Setting for This Adventure

The lagoon of Bacalar itself provides a striking backdrop, with its seven shades of blue visible from the Los Rápidos area. The Ichkabal ruins add an archaeological dimension, offering insight into the Mayan civilization. The peaceful waters and jungle surroundings make this tour a peaceful escape from busier tourist spots.

This tour appeals most to history enthusiasts and nature lovers seeking a relaxed pace. It’s also suitable for families with older children or anyone looking for a small-group experience that combines culture and outdoor fun.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, hotel pickup is included, and transportation in a van is part of the experience.

What should I bring for this tour?
Bring sunglasses, a hat, and a towel. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for exploring Ichkabal.

Are there any physical restrictions?
The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, people with altitude sickness, or those over 243 lbs (110 kg). It involves walking and swimming.

Can I choose a specific tour option?
Yes, you can select from options focusing on Ichkabal, Los Rápidos, or a full-day experience with both.

Are entrance fees included?
All entrance fees are covered in the tour price, so there are no hidden costs for the sites visited.

How early should I be ready for pickup?
Guests should be ready outside their accommodation at the designated pickup time, as the driver waits a maximum of 5 minutes.

This Bacalar tour offers a practical, engaging mix of archaeology, nature, and relaxation in a small-group setting, making it an excellent choice for travelers wanting a well-rounded day without feeling rushed.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby