Private Tour: Chacchoben Mayan Ruins and Bacalar Lagoon Boat

Discover Chacchoben and Bacalar Lagoon in a Private 6-Hour Tour

This private tour in Quintana Roo, Mexico, offers a balanced blend of history and natural beauty for just $220 per person. Designed for those who appreciate personalized experiences, the tour lasts around 6 hours, including transportation, activities, and a tasty Mexican lunch. It begins with a smooth pick-up outside the Costa Maya cruise ship terminal, where an air-conditioned vehicle transports guests to the ancient city of Chacchoben. After exploring the ruins, travelers head to the Bacalar Lagoon, where a pontoon boat ride showcases the lagoon’s famous seven shades of blue. The tour combines cultural discovery with relaxing water-based fun—ideal for those seeking a well-rounded day without feeling rushed.

While the tour offers a great value with included drinks, snacks, and lunch, it’s especially suitable for history enthusiasts and nature lovers who want to enjoy both sites at their own pace. Guests should be aware that some walking is involved at the ruins, and the experience is tailored for a private group, ensuring personalized attention from guides.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Private 6-hour experience that combines Mayan ruins with a boat tour of Bacalar Lagoon
• Guided by knowledgeable bilingual guides who share insightful stories about the sites
• Includes transportation, drinks, snacks, and a Mexican taco lunch with vegetarian and vegan options available
• Unforgettable views of Bacalar’s seven shades of blue water on a relaxing pontoon boat ride
• Pick-up outside Costa Maya cruise terminal makes it easily accessible for cruise passengers
• Optional beer and tequila available during the lagoon cruise for added enjoyment

Starting Point Outside Costa Maya Cruise Terminal

This tour begins just outside the Costa Maya cruise ship terminal, where a representative holding a sign with your name greets the group. From there, guests are comfortably transported in an air-conditioned vehicle to the Chacchoben Mayan Ruins. This straightforward pick-up process makes it easy for cruise travelers to join the adventure without fuss or confusion.

The transportation is round-trip, ensuring a smooth experience without the need to arrange additional logistics. The entire journey, including travel time, lasts approximately 6 hours, with flexible scheduling to accommodate cruise ship timings. The tour’s timing is adaptable to delays or early arrivals, making it a reliable choice for cruise passengers.

Exploring the Mayan Ruins of Chacchoben

Once at Chacchoben, the guide leads the group through the ancient Maya city, highlighting structural marvels and explaining their historical significance. Guests walk along winding paths that weave through the ruins, experiencing the grandeur of these archaeological remains firsthand. The guide shares stories about the Mayan civilization, offering context that enriches the visit.

A notable highlight is the opportunity to observe wildlife, including spider monkeys that might be spotted in the trees around the site. The site is visited in an uncrowded setting, allowing for a more intimate exploration. Guests are encouraged to take photos and enjoy the serene atmosphere without feeling rushed.

Delighting in a Gourmet Mexican Taco Lunch

After exploring Chacchoben, everyone heads to a recommended local restaurant for a delicious taco lunch. The menu features choices of pork, beef, or shrimp tacos, served with fresh guacamole. Vegetarian and vegan options are available upon request, making the meal flexible for different dietary preferences. The lunch is a highlight for many, offering authentic flavors in a relaxed setting.

The meal provides a welcome break during the tour, allowing guests to recharge before heading to the lagoon. The restaurant setting complements the overall experience, adding a taste of local culture and hospitality.

More Great Tours Nearby

Relaxing at Bacalar Lagoon’s Marina

Next, the group makes their way to a beautiful marina on Bacalar Lagoon. Here, a pontoon boat awaits for an hour-long cruise across this stunning water body. The crew is attentive, providing comfortable seating and refreshing drinks, including beer, tequila, juices, sodas, and water.

The boat ride offers breathtaking panoramic views of the seven distinct shades of blue that make Bacalar famous. As the boat glides across the water, guests have the chance to splash in the clear waters, take photos of the vibrant scenery, and simply relax. The crew also prepares a healthy fruit snack to enjoy during the cruise, adding a fresh touch to the experience.

This boat tour is a highlight for many, showcasing Bacalar’s natural beauty and providing a tranquil escape from the day’s cultural exploration.

Enjoying the Beauty of Bacalar’s Seven Shades of Blue

The Bacalar Lagoon is often called the “7 Color Lagoon” because of the striking variation in water shades. As the boat moves across different parts of the lagoon, guests witness this remarkable color spectrum firsthand. The experience captures the unparalleled beauty of this natural wonder, making it a memorable part of the tour.

The crystal-clear waters and calm environment make for perfect photos and moments of quiet reflection. This segment of the tour emphasizes the lagoon’s serene ambiance, offering a refreshing contrast to the archaeological site.

Tasting Authentic Mexican Tacos on Site

Following the boat cruise, the group visits a favorite local restaurant to enjoy authentic Mexican tacos—options include pork, beef, or shrimp—served with guacamole. The restaurant prides itself on delivering genuine flavors and offers vegetarian and vegan options upon request.

This meal is more than just sustenance; it’s an immersion into local cuisine, adding a satisfying conclusion to the day’s activities. The relaxed atmosphere and delicious food leave guests with a true taste of Mexico’s culinary culture.

Practical Details and Accessibility

The tour includes drinks, snacks, a boat ride, life jackets, and insurance, providing comfort and safety throughout the day. The bilingual guides facilitate smooth communication in both English and Spanish, ensuring everyone understands the stories and instructions.

The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for a broader range of travelers. The private group setting guarantees personalized attention, and cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility for travel plans.

Final Thoughts on the Chacchoben and Bacalar Lagoon Experience

This tour offers a well-rounded day exploring Mayan history and natural beauty. The expert guides make the experience engaging and informative, especially with their ability to share stories about Chacchoben and point out wildlife. The breathtaking views of Bacalar’s waters, combined with the delicious food and drinks, create a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere.

While the focus is on the sites and scenery rather than rigorous activity, travelers should be prepared for some walking at the ruins. The private nature of the tour makes it ideal for those seeking a personalized experience without the crowds. This tour provides great value for those wanting a mix of history, water scenery, and authentic Mexican cuisine in a single day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for cruise ship passengers?
Yes, the pick-up outside Costa Maya makes it easy for cruise travelers to join. The round-trip transportation ensures a seamless experience.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes transportation, drinks (beer, tequila, juice, sodas, water), snacks, a boat tour, life jackets, a taco lunch, and insurance.

How long is the boat cruise at Bacalar?
The pontoon boat ride lasts about one hour, offering plenty of time to enjoy the lagoon’s stunning views.

Are vegetarian and vegan options available?
Yes, the lunch can be customized for vegetarian and vegan preferences upon request.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
The tour is wheelchair accessible, accommodating guests with mobility needs.

What are the guide’s language options?
Guides are bilingual in English and Spanish, ensuring clear communication.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made up to 24 hours in advance.

What should I bring?
Guests should bring comfortable walking shoes for the ruins, sunscreen, and swimwear for lagoon splashing.

Is there an age limit or physical requirement?
The tour is suitable for most ages, but some walking is involved. It’s best for those able to walk at a moderate pace.

How do I book this tour?
Reservations can be made in advance, with the option to reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility for travel plans.

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