Chacchoben Ruins and Bacalar Lagoon Boat Tour from CostaMaya

The Chacchoben Ruins and Bacalar Lagoon Boat Tour from CostaMaya offers a compelling mix of history, natural beauty, and relaxation for travelers in Quintana Roo. For $185 per person, this 6-hour excursion promises visits to an impressive archaeological site and a scenic boat cruise across the famous 7-color lagoon, making it ideal for those eager to explore Mayan heritage and enjoy picturesque views. The tour is well-rounded, including entrance fees, a boat ride, a taco lunch, and drinks, all guided by bilingual guides in English and Spanish.

While the tour provides a full schedule and detailed logistics, it’s important to note that pickup is outside the cruise port, requiring disembarking and walking to a designated meeting point. The review scores of 5 out of 5 from past participants highlight the professional organization and the knowledgeable guides that make this experience stand out. This trip is best suited for those interested in Mayan history, scenic boat outings, and authentic Mexican cuisine, with enough flexibility to enjoy a relaxed pace.

Key Points

• This tour lasts 6 hours, combining archaeological exploration with a scenic lagoon cruise.
• It costs $185 per person, covering all major activities, entrance fees, and a Mexican taco lunch.
• Includes visits to the Chacchoben Mayan Ruins, a 2-hour boat tour in Bacalar Lagoon, and a 40-minute taco meal.
• Transportation is provided from outside Costa Maya cruise port, with clear instructions for meeting.
• Guides are bilingual in English and Spanish, delivering informative commentary throughout the day.
• Past reviews praise the organized nature, friendly guides, and stunning lagoon views.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Getting to the Chacchoben Ruins from CostaMaya

The tour begins with a 50-minute drive from Costa Maya in an air-conditioned vehicle. The pick-up point is outside the cruise port’s complex, where travelers need to follow specific instructions to meet the guide. It’s essential to consult the provided map and instructions, as tour operators cannot pick up directly inside the port. This process is straightforward, and the organized guides ensure a smooth start to the day.

Upon arrival at Chacchoben, the exploration of the ruins lasts approximately 1 hour. Visitors walk along winding paths, passing structures that reveal the grandeur of Mayan architecture. The guide leads you through the site, sharing insights into the history and significance of the ancient city, which has been carefully preserved for visitors.

Exploring the Mysteries of Chacchoben Mayan Ruins

The Chacchoben archaeological site features impressive buildings and natural pathways, making it an engaging visit for history enthusiasts and casual explorers alike. The structures are spread out enough to provide a sense of the ancient city’s scale, and the guide’s commentary helps bring the history to life.

While the ruins are accessible and well-maintained, it’s advisable to wear comfortable shoes and bring sun protection, as much of the walk is outdoors. The site’s atmosphere lends itself to picture-taking, with plenty of opportunities to capture the intricate stonework and expansive views from elevated platforms.

Transitioning to Bacalar for Lagoon Views

Following the ruins visit, the group departs for the 30-minute drive to Bacalar. The journey takes travelers to a marina right on the famous Bacalar Lagoon, renowned for its seven distinct shades of blue. The anticipation of the boat tour builds as you approach this scenic location.

At the marina, the boat adventure begins with a 2-hour cruise on a pontoon boat. The crew, attentive and friendly, creates a relaxed environment perfect for enjoying the views and cooling off in the crystal-clear waters. During the cruise, the crew prepares a delicious and healthy fruit snack, ideal for refueling amid the stunning scenery.

Discovering the Seven-Color Lagoon by Boat

The highlight of the boat tour is the opportunity to admire the varying shades of blue that give Bacalar Lagoon its nickname. As the boat glides across the water, you’ll see how the colors shift and deepen, creating a captivating visual experience. The crew points out notable landmarks and ensures everyone has ample time to splash and relax in the lagoon’s inviting waters.

This 2-hour cruise is also a chance to unwind, with plenty of space to sit back and take in the expansive views. The attentive crew keeps the atmosphere friendly and engaging, making it a relaxing and memorable part of the day.

More Great Tours Nearby

Authentic Mexican Tacos and Guilt-Free Snacking

After the boat cruise, the tour continues with a 40-minute stop at a favorite local restaurant. Here, authentic Mexican tacos are served, with options of pork, beef, or shrimp, accompanied by fresh guacamole. Vegetarian and vegan options are available upon request, ensuring dietary preferences are accommodated.

The meal is a delightful way to enjoy local flavors in a casual setting. The tacos come with generous portions, and the fresh ingredients make for a satisfying and tasty lunch. The meal also includes drinks such as juice, sodas, water, tequila, and beer, providing a refreshing break before the trip back to Costa Maya.

Returning to Costa Maya and Final Logistics

The last leg of the tour involves a 1-hour drive back to Costa Maya, arriving in time to ensure that guests can comfortably return to their cruise ships. The entire trip is planned for efficiency, balancing sightseeing with relaxation.

Past reviews note the organized nature of the return trip and the helpfulness of guides in ensuring everyone is on time. The clear instructions for meeting point and the detailed communication contribute to a smooth experience overall.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Others

The combination of Mayan ruins, a lagoon boat cruise, and a Mexican lunch makes this tour stand out among similar offerings. The well-organized schedule and friendly, knowledgeable guides receive high praise, enhancing the overall experience.

The $185 price point covers all major activities, entrance fees, snacks, and drinks, making it an attractive value for a full-day adventure. The small group feel and the quality of the amenities—such as life jackets and bilingual guides—add to the appeal.

Practical Tips and Considerations

Since the tour involves outdoor activities and walking at the ruins, comfortable shoes and sun protection are recommended. The pickup outside the Costa Maya port requires following specific instructions, so reviewing the provided maps and details beforehand is wise.

It is also worth noting that video recording fees at the ruins are not included and cost $5 USD if you wish to record. Gratuities for guides are not included but are customary if you feel satisfied with the service.

Final Thoughts on the Chacchoben and Bacalar Tour

This tour offers a balanced mix of history, scenic beauty, and local flavors, making it ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive day out from CostaMaya. The highlight is the boat cruise in Bacalar Lagoon, which consistently earns praise for its stunning views and relaxing atmosphere.

The organized approach, friendly guides, and inclusive nature of the experience make it a reliable choice. However, travelers should be prepared for outdoor walking, and those with mobility concerns might want to consider this when booking.

For those interested in Mayan history and scenic lagoon scenery, this 6-hour tour at $185 delivers a well-paced, enjoyable day with memorable moments and excellent value.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I meet the tour outside Costa Maya?
You need to disembark the cruise terminal, walk past the shops towards the street exit, cross the port security, and find the company representative outside the port complex. Instructions and maps are provided with your booking.

What is included in the tour price?
The $185 fee covers all transportation, entrance fees, the Mayan ruins tour, boat cruise, snacks and drinks, and a taco lunch with guacamole.

Are vegetarian or vegan options available for lunch?
Yes, vegetarian and vegan options are available upon request.

What should I bring for the ruins and boat tour?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, and a camera are recommended. Life jackets are provided for the boat tour.

Is there a limit on recording videos at the ruins?
Yes, a $5 USD fee applies for video recording at the archaeological site.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

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