Things to do in Bacalar: Tours, Activities, Etc.

Things to do in Bacalar are plentiful, especially if you are looking for a low-key few days. Firstly, in case you are not familiar with it, Bacalar is a laid-back Mexican town in Quintana Roo. It is found in the south-east end of the country, close to the Belize border.  (The last time I was in Mexico, Bacalar was referred to as “the new Tulum” by some people which I do not necessarily believe to be true. I hope it does not become as tourist over-run as Tulum!). Bacalar is know for its seven colored lagoon, but there is more to-do than just the incredible waters. Check out this list of 8 must-do things.

P.S. In addition to a list of activities, this article includes:

• Recommendations on where to stay in Bacalar.
• A word on safety in Bacalar.
• Activities you may enjoy (both for group and solo travel).
• Helpful resources for planning your trip.
• Items you may wish to add to your packing list.
• Top five FAQs about visiting Bacalar.

Bacalar is most famous for its lagoon “de los 7 colores”. (Even if your Spanish is as bad as mines, you’ve likely already guessed that means seven colors). A speed boat tour takes you across the lake to see how the colours change. Majority of tours cover popular spots in the lagoon such as Cenote Negro, Cenote Esmeralda, Canal de Los Piratas, Cenote Cocalitos, and Isla De Los Pajaros. These boat tours do allow time for you to relax in the water where allowed.

You can book a private boat tour online in advance (here’s one that includes snorkeling and an open bar). Or you can book one upon arrival. The town square has a vendor or two selling tours or you walk along Av. 1 (close to the lake) to find a tour operator.

If you want to spend more time on the water, there are plenty of activities for you. You can do a sunrise standup paddle board tour which takes you to Cenote Negro and the Pirates Cancel. Or rent a kayak for a day and paddle across part of the lagoon.

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Muelle Ecologico is a public pier. There is a massive dock leading to a small palapa at the end. I recommend a visit here for some peace and quiet. Plus, this is a great spot to have a little picnic and catch the sunset.

Right by Muelle Ecologico is Área Natural Protegida. This is a local park that costs 3 pesos to enter. The area includes a little beach and several benches. While it is a nice place to relax, keep in mind it is not the prettiest beach.

Can you spend all day lying in a hammock? Well, I sure can. A morning or afternoon at Parque Ecologico or Balneario Municipal El Aserradero is perfecor t for this. You are right by the lagoon and can hear the water peacefully flowing by. If you are deciding between the two, go with Balneario Municipal El Aserradero as it is a large public pier.

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Bacalar is a small town with a tiny square. You’ll find benches, a small park, and of course the Bacalar sign. During the evening, local street vendors can be found selling hand-made items (there’s great local jewelry!). In some Mexican cities, the vendors may seem pushy. But in Bacalar no one calls over at you to come see their stand. This makes for a low-key and relaxing shopping experience.

Located right by the town square is this Bacalar fort. You can catch some amazing views of the lake from here. There is a small fee to enter. Or you can explore the grounds nearby at no cost.

Bacalar has its share of colourful homes and cool street art. Do a walk throughout some of the area to get a feel of the neighborhoods. I highly recommend walking down Av 1 from Fort San Felipe to Muelle Ecologico. And then going up Calle 36 and back across via Av 5 (this will take you back to the town square).

Mahahual is a village approximately an hour away from Bacalar. If you have 3- or 4-days in Bacalar, you can add it on to your trip. It is known for its remote beach. (Personally, we did not have time to visit but it did come recommended by others).

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Top Hotels in Bacalar

• Azul 36 Hotel
• Blue Palm Bacalar
• MBH Maya Bacalar Hotel Boutique

Best Property Rentals in Bacalar

• Beautiful Villa with Wide Private Beachfront
• Modern 3 Bedroom House in Centro (Great location!)
• Private Bungalow by Bacalar Lagoon

Recommended Hostels in Bacalar

• Posada Lulu La Bruja
• The Yak Lake House
• Yaxche Centro Hostel y Camping

Bacalar is a relatively safe town, especially when compared to bigger tourist spots in Quintana Roo such as Tulum, Playa Del Carmen, or Cancun. As a group of females visiting it, we felt safe at all times. That being said, a reminder, I do advocate for travel insurance in case something goes wrong. If applicable to you, check with your employee benefits to see if you are covered. Otherwise, I like World Nomads as it’s quite reputable and provides 24-hour assistance.

Have you been to Bacalar? Share in the comments!
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