From the first time I set foot in Bacalar, I knew that one day I would spend at least a year living there. It’s a destination you fall in love with, not only because of its famous Lagoon of Seven Colors, but also because of the warmth of its people, their commitment to sustainable tourism, and the relaxed, slow-paced atmosphere.
Bacalar is officially one of Mexico’s Magical Village and if you’re thinking about adding it to your Mexico itinerary: just do it. Here’s a complete Bacalar travel guide with everything you need to know.
How to get to Bacalar
Bacalar is located in the state of Quintana Roo, in southeastern Mexico. There are several ways to get there depending on where you’re coming from.
From Riviera Maya
If you’re starting in Cancún, Playa del Carmen, or Tulum, you’ve basically got three solid ways to reach Bacalar:
- ADO Bus: This is the most comfortable and budget-friendly option. The journey from Tulum takes about 3 hours, and from Playa del Carmen around 4 hours.
- Rent a car: Highway 307 is safe and well signposted. From Tulum, the drive takes approximately 2.5 hours. Having your own car gives you the freedom to explore the Bacalar lagoon and its surroundings at your own pace.
- Private transfer: Some agencies offer direct door-to-door transfers to Bacalar, ideal if you’re traveling as a group or prefer not to drive.
From Chetumal International Airport
If you’re arriving by plane, Chetumal International Airport is only about 40 minutes away by car. From the airport you can take a taxi, rent a car or use public transportation.
On my last trip to Bacalar, I flew into Chetumal from Mexico City. From there I rented a car and drove to Bacalar. It’s a short, easy drive on a safe and well-maintained road.
The charm of Bacalar Magical Village
Bacalar has this “quiet magic” vibe that’s hard to explain until you’re there. The lagoon is stunning, obviously, but the town itself is what makes the place feel special.
I love wandering around the center of Bacalar, where everything revolves around the main square, surrounded by handicraft shops and small local restaurants. It still feels like a town, not a resort.
Another emblematic spot is San Felipe Fort, built to defend the town from pirate attacks. From its viewpoint you can see the immensity of the lagoon and understand why Bacalar is such a special destination.
What I appreciate most is that Bacalar feels “right-sized.” You don’t see massive development whiplash or huge gaps between locals and tourists. A lot of businesses are run by residents, and the town is noticeably well cared for.
Must-see places in Bacalar
If there’s something that makes Bacalar truly unique it’s the stunning beauty of its natural surroundings. Here are some of the top things to do in Bacalar that you absolutely shouldn’t miss.
Lagoon of Seven Colors
The jewel of Bacalar. The Lagoon of Seven Colors gets its name from the different shades of blue and turquoise created by varying depths and the way the sunlight hits the water. There is no other lagoon like it in Mexico.
The best way to enjoy Bacalar Lagoon is from the water. You can explore it by kayak, paddleboard or sailboat. Many Bacalar boat tours include stops at some of the most iconic spots on the lagoon, such as cenotes and the famous Pirates’ Channel.
One detail I honestly loved: once a week, all water activities are paused so the lagoon can recover. It’s a simple rule, but it says a lot about the mindset of local people.
If you stay at a lagoon-front hotel in Bacalar, you’ll likely have access to a private dock, perfect for relaxing, watching the sunrise, or swimming in the crystal-clear water.
San Felipe Fort
Right in the center of town, San Felipe Fort is a big piece of Bacalar’s story. It was built in 1729 to protect the region from pirate attacks coming in from the Caribbean.
Inside the fort there is a small museum where you can learn about the region’s history, the clashes with pirates, and Spanish colonization. From the fortress walls you get one of the best panoramic views of Bacalar Lagoon.
Blue cenote
Just a few minutes from Bacalar town center is the impressive Blue cenote. This open cenote is over 90 meters deep, making it a perfect spot for snorkeling and diving lovers.
The water is crystal clear and a deep, intense blue, very different from the turquoise tones of the lagoon. Around the cenote there is a restaurant where you can eat with a beautiful view of this incredible natural pool.
If you enjoy adventure, bring your own snorkel gear and take your time exploring the surroundings.
Pirates’ channel
This historic channel connects Bacalar Lagoon with Chetumal Bay and is one of the most emblematic spots in the area. Its history dates back to colonial times, when pirates used it as a route to raid the coastal settlements.
Today it’s one of the most popular places in Bacalar for swimming and taking photos. The water here is shallow in many parts, so you can walk along the channel in some sections. It’s also common to apply the mineral-rich mud found at the bottom, like a natural exfoliating spa treatment.
Most Bacalar lagoon tours include a stop at the Pirates’ Channel, so you really can’t leave without visiting it.
Cenote Cocalitos and the stromatolites
Cenote Cocalitos is another of Bacalar’s treasures. It’s not only a spectacular place for swimming, but it’s also home to the famous stromatolites: rock-like formations that are considered some of the oldest living organisms on the planet.
It’s super important not to touch or step on them. They’re fragile, and they’re tied directly to the lagoon’s health.
At Cocalitos you’ll find hammocks in the water and shaded areas to rest, making it an ideal spot to relax and enjoy the lagoon in a calm, natural setting.
Bird Island
This protected little sanctuary is home to birds like herons, parrots, and hawks. You can’t get off on the island (it’s protected), but you can admire it from a boat or kayak and it’s pretty easy to paddle around it.
If you’re into nature or photography, this one’s a must. Early morning or sunset is the sweet spot, when the sky starts filling with birds in motion.
Bacalar Rapids
One of the most spectacular corners of the lagoon. Bacalar rapids is a narrow channel with gentle currents where you can float or explore by kayak, letting the water carry you along. It’s an ideal place to disconnect and enjoy direct contact with nature.
There are stromatolites here as well, so it’s important to swim carefully and avoid damaging them. The restaurant in the area serves delicious food with an unbeatable view over the channel and the lagoon.
Sustainable tourism in Bacalar: A model to follow
One of the things that impressed me most about Bacalar is how it has managed to grow as a tourist destination without destroying its natural environment. Unlike other places in Quintana Roo, you won’t find massive resorts or big international hotel chains here.
The local community is part of the tourism business
Most hotels, guesthouses, restaurants, and tour operators are run by local families, which means tourism revenue stays in the community and directly benefits its residents.
The people of Bacalar have fought to maintain responsible tourism, promoting eco-friendly practices and defending their natural surroundings.
How they protect the lagoon
To protect the Lagoon of Seven Colors, there are strict rules that everyone must follow:
- One day a week, all water activities stop so the lagoon can regenerate.
- Non-biodegradable sunscreen is banned.
- It’s forbidden to touch or step on stromatolites.
- Motorized boats are regulated to reduce pollution and environmental damage.
This sustainable approach makes visiting Bacalar not only a magical experience, but also an opportunity to learn how tourism and nature can coexist.
Tips for a responsible trip to Bacalar
If you visit Bacalar, here are some tips to make your stay as sustainable as possible.
Eco-friendly accommodation
Opt for eco-hotels and guesthouses that implement sustainable practices, such as renewable energy and recycling and waste reduction systems.
Prioritize non-motorized activities
Kayaks, paddleboards, and sailboats are perfect for exploring the lagoon without harming its fragile ecosystem. Whenever you can, choose these options instead of motorboats.
Be a responsible traveler
- Use biodegradable sunscreen.
- Respect the rules around stromatolites and lagoon conservation.
- Spend your money with local businesses instead of big chains.
Bacalar is so much more than a checklist destination. It’s the kind of place that nudges you to unplug from the noise and reconnect with nature in a way that feel real. Between the sustainable tourism mindset, the relaxed atmosphere, and the jaw-dropping beauty of the water, it’s the sort of place you’ll think about later when you’re back in your normal life.
f you ever have the chance, don’t think twice about visiting this paradise in Mexico. And who knows: maybe, like me, you’ll end up dreaming of spending a whole year living in this magical corner of the world.
