In this post I’ll cover how the train works, what the route looks like, which places you can visit from each station, how to buy tickets, and how to make sense of the ticket release system. I’ll also go into the bright and dark sides of a project that’s neither the paradise the government promised nor the absolute disaster its harshest critics claim.

What is the Mayan Train and how did it come about

The Mayan Train was the flagship project of Andrés Manuel López Obrador’s administration. The idea was to connect southeastern Mexico through a modern railroad that would boost tourism, create local jobs, and improve mobility for residents of the region. Construction officially kicked off in 2020 and, after several delays and controversies, the full circuit became operational on December 15, 2024.

The train is managed by FONATUR, Mexico’s national tourism development fund, though operations fall under the supervision of the Secretary of National Defense (SEDENA), which has been pretty controversial in itself. Ticket revenue goes into a trust fund managed by the Army, which is a strange setup for a tourism project.

As of now, the train has surpassed two million passengers since opening, with destinations like Cancún, Mérida, Playa del Carmen, Valladolid, and Palenque making up the bulk of traffic.

The Mayan Train route: stations and main destinations

The full circuit covers 1,554 kilometers across 34 stations. It’s not a straight line: it loops around the Yucatán Peninsula, so you can travel either clockwise or counterclockwise. Here are the most relevant stops from a tourism standpoint:

Palenque (Chiapas)

This is the western gateway to the train. It’s home to the Palenque archaeological zone, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987. The ruins are among the most impressive in the country: Mayan temples rising out of the Chiapas jungle, remarkably well preserved. The Magical Village has a good vibe, craft markets, and the kind of lively chaos that tends to follow destinations with heavy tourist traffic. I caught the train here on my way to Merida, and the platform has real atmosphere: people hauling bags, heat hammering down at 35°C, and the train waiting looking far more modern than you’d expect.

Campeche

One of the most beautiful cities on the whole route. The walled historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and its pastel-colored streets hook you from your very first walk around. The food is excellent: fish bread and fresh Gulf shrimp are among the best things you’ll eat on the whole trip.

Edzna (Campeche)

An archaeological zone that most tourists skip, but really shouldn’t. The Gran Acrópolis and the five-story Castillo are imposing structures from the Maya Preclassic period. Since it sits outside the usual Chichén Itzá and Tulum circuit, you can visit it without the crowds.

Merida (Yucatan)

The White City, and one of the most complete destinations on the route. The station is called Merida Teya and it’s on the outskirts, not downtown, so factor in a taxi or Uber to get to the center. That detail doesn’t always get mentioned clearly and it’s worth keeping in mind so the extra expense doesn’t catch you off guard. It’s worth it though. Merida has a cultural and food scene that outshines most of Mexico’s capitals. Nearby cenotes, henequen haciendas, the Paseo del Montejo, the Lucas de Galvez market. It’s the kind of city that needs several days to properly explore.

Chichen Itza (Yucatan)

The train station is several kilometers from the archaeological site, so you’ll need extra transportation to get there. Even so, access is much easier than coming by bus from Cancún. Chichén Itzá is one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World and has that strange effect of being both overcrowded and genuinely breathtaking at the same time.

Valladolid (Yucatan)

A colonial town that many travelers discover for the first time thanks to the train. It’s quieter than Merida, has a very photogenic main square, and Cenote Zací right in the middle of town. Valladolid is also just a few kilometers from Cenote Ik Kil, one of the most well-known cenotes on the peninsula.

Cancun and Playa del Carmen (Quintana Roo)

The tourist anchors at each end of the circuit. The train connects Cancun’s airport to the city and continues south along the Riviera Maya. For anyone flying in internationally who wants to do the route without renting a car, this is a solid option. The Playa del Carmen station is well placed to catch the ferry to Cozumel or continue toward Tulum by land.

Tulum (Quintana Roo)

The train does connect to this area, but the station is pretty far from Tulum’s town center and ruins. Same as at other stops: plan on local transportation when you arrive.

Other stations

The circuit also includes Boca del Cerro and Tenosique in Tabasco, Escarcega and Candelaria in Campeche, and several smaller stops along the way. Some have archaeological or natural interest, though most travelers use them as connection points rather than destinations in their own right.

Service classes and ticket prices

Tourist class: The most affordable option. Comfortable seats, air conditioning, access to the coffee car. It works well for most routes, and it’s what I took from Palenque to Merida. The seats are genuinely comfortable, so you won’t arrive with your back destroyed the way you often do after a long ADO bus ride.

Premier class: Wider seats. In theory it included catering, but that service was quietly discontinued without updating the official website, which has led to plenty of complaints from travelers who bought premier tickets expecting a meal. Before booking premier, double-check what’s actually included at that moment.

Both classes have a coffee car on board, but the food is mediocre and overpriced for what it is. For longer routes, bring your own food. And pack a light jacket even if it’s 35°C on the platform, because the air conditioning runs so cold that in the middle of Yucatan I was genuinely glad to have one.

Prices vary depending on passenger category and route distance. The system breaks down into four types:

• Local tourist: Residents of the five states on the route (Chiapas, Tabasco, Campeche, Yucatan, Quintana Roo). Requires a local INE ID.
• National tourist: Mexican citizens from other states.
• International tourist: Foreign visitors. This is the highest fare.
• Special tourist: People over 60 with a valid INAPAM card, people with disabilities, and students and teachers with valid credentials.

As a rough guide, short routes can range from 100 to 420 Mexican pesos, while longer trips like Palenque to Cancun can run between 1,000 and 4,500 pesos depending on class and passenger category. Prices change frequently, so your best bet is to check directly on the official ticket portal.

One important note: there’s no round-trip option. You have to buy tickets separately for each direction.

How the ticket release system works

This is one of the most confusing parts of planning a Maya Train trip, and it’s worth understanding before you try to sort out the logistics. I found it pretty frustrating when I first started looking: you go to the portal with a date in mind, there’s nothing available, and it’s not clear when anything will show up.

The ticketing system works through periodic releases: tickets aren’t available months in advance like on other rail systems. They go on sale in batches, with a relatively short window before the travel date. So if you try to book several months out, you’ll probably find nothing yet.

Releases typically become available a few weeks before travel, depending on the route. The process goes like this:

1. Go to the official portal and select your origin, destination, and date.
2. If tickets are available, choose your class and seat.
3. Payment is made online by card, though you can also buy in person at the stations or at authorized points in some cities.

The practical issue is that departures are limited per destination. There isn’t a train every hour like in European rail systems: on many routes there’s only one or two departure times per day. That means if you miss a release and can’t get a ticket, the wait for the next train can be a long one. For popular routes like Cancún to Merida or Palenque to Merida, check the portal as soon as you have your travel date locked in.

Once purchased, your ticket downloads in digital format. There’s access control and ID checks at the station, so bring the same document you used when you booked.

A project with two sides: what the government promised and what actually happened

The Maya Train is the most expensive infrastructure project in Mexico’s recent history. The original approved budget was around 156 billion pesos. The final cost has climbed to over 550 billion, more than triple the original estimate. A cost overrun that, depending on the source, exceeds the adjusted budget by anywhere from 70% to 171%. None of those numbers are trivial.

And yet, two million passengers have ridden it, and the infrastructure exists and operates in a region that has historically never had decent public transport.

On top of that, critics have raised concerns about potential damage to historical and natural heritage during construction, concerns that aren’t easy to fully assess given how little transparency surrounded the project.

What works

The train has genuinely improved connectivity across the region. Before, getting between Palenque, Campeche, Merida, Valladolid, and Cancun meant either renting a car or stringing together several buses with transfers. Now there’s a comfortable, modern, direct option. I did the Palenque to Merida route in about eight hours, something that wasn’t really possible by public transport before. The train is new, quiet, and doesn’t have the bone-rattling ride of long-distance buses. You can get up, walk through the cars, use the bathroom without it being an ordeal. The trip went by without me noticing the time. For doing Palenque, Campeche, and Merida in one trip without hours on the highway, there’s nothing better in Mexico right now.

The construction also triggered one of the largest archaeological rescue operations in Mexican history. INAH worked segment by segment and uncovered thousands of pre-Hispanic structures, monuments, and artifacts along the route. In Segment 2 alone, covering 235 kilometers, over 1,000 archaeological monuments were identified. It’s the project’s central paradox: destroy to discover.

What’s worrying

The list of documented problems is long, and ignoring it would be travel-brochure journalism.

The environmental impact is the most serious and the hardest to reverse. Construction crosses 20 protected natural areas in the second largest tropical forest in Latin America, the Maya Forest. It’s estimated that between 7 and 10 million trees were cut down during the works, despite government promises that not a single tree would be felled. Segment 5, between Cancun and Tulum, has been especially destructive: the steel and concrete pylons supporting the train in that karst terrain have driven directly through caves and cenotes. There have been documented cement spills and diesel leaks that contaminated aquifers. Experts warn the damage is irreversible and threatens the region’s only freshwater source. Civil organizations have called it ecocide, and several judges ordered construction halts, though most rulings came after the damage was already done.

The impact on heritage is the other major wound. UNESCO formally requested that the Mexican government carry out a strategic environmental assessment, specifically naming Chichen Itza, Uxmal, Palenque, Calakmul, and the Sian Ka’an biosphere reserves among the sites at risk. At Calakmul, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the train route cuts a site in half that’s home to over 350 bird species and several critically endangered ones including the jaguar, tapir, and white-lipped peccary. The government also has plans for a 150-room hotel and casino in the area.

The legal and political process raises serious questions too. When construction hit judicial roadblocks, the government declared the Mayan Train a “national security” project, which allowed it to bypass the requirement to submit environmental impact studies and continue building despite court-ordered suspensions. More than 50 injunctions were filed against various segments. Many were ruled in the plaintiffs’ favor, but arrived after the bulldozers had already moved through.

The relationship with indigenous communities is another complicated chapter. Human rights organizations, the UN, and over 300 researchers have questioned whether the consultation process with affected communities was inadequate or outright compromised. The promised economic benefits have largely not reached local communities: the Maya people don’t manage or operate the train, and many local artisans and indigenous residents see it as something imposed from outside.

Economic viability remains an open question. In the first quarter of 2025, the train required public subsidies equivalent to 25 times its ticket revenue just to keep running. If that gap doesn’t close, it represents a significant ongoing burden on public finances.

Practical tips for traveling on the Mayan Train

• Book as soon as tickets drop. Check the official portal regularly if you have a fixed date. On popular routes, tickets go fast.
• Stations aren’t always central. Budget for a taxi or Uber for the last stretch in cities like Merida, Tulum, or Campeche.
• Bring food for long routes. The coffee car exists but it’s overpriced and underwhelming. A couple of snacks and water will make the trip much more comfortable.
• Don’t forget a jacket. The AC is very strong. You’ll be glad to have a layer even if it’s 38°C outside.
• Bring your ID. It’s checked when you board, and if you bought a national or local fare, you’ll need to prove your status.
• Wi-Fi on board is unreliable. Download content, podcasts, or movies before you get on.
• For archaeological sites accessed from the train (Chichén Itzá, Edzná, Tulum), you’ll need additional transport from the station. Look into this beforehand so it doesn’t catch you off guard.

Is the Mayan Train worth it?

For crossing the Yucatan Peninsula in one go, connecting Palenque, Campeche, Merida, and Cancun without a car or a chain of buses, the Maya Train is currently the best option Mexico has in that region. The train is comfortable, modern, and it works. For short hops like Cancún to Playa del Carmen, it’s not really worth the hassle.

The scenery, though, isn’t going to blow you away. The jungle is the jungle: trees, shrubs, more trees. I think that’s the expectation problem a lot of people run into. This isn’t a scenic train through the Alps. It’s comfortable transportation connecting destinations that used to be a logistical pain without a car. If you get on looking for views, you’ll be disappointed; if you get on looking to arrive rested, you’ll appreciate it.

That said, context matters. The project behind it came with decisions that carried a high cost environmentally, archaeologically, and legally. Riding the train doesn’t mean endorsing those decisions, but looking the other way doesn’t make much sense either. Understanding where the train you’re riding came from is part of experiencing Mexico honestly.

If you get the chance, get on it. And if you can, use the trip to spend time at the stops that are still the most authentic on the route: Campeche, Valladolid, Palenque. The ones that mass tourism hasn’t quite finished taking over.

The post Complete guide to the Mayan Train: route, stations, prices, and the truth about the project first appeared on Explore Mexico.

Here, you will not only find picture-perfect Caribbean postcards but also a vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and activities ranging from snorkeling to swimming with whale sharks. Every corner of the island has something special, and in this guide, I will tell you everything you need to know to enjoy it to the fullest.

How to get to Isla Mujeres

The most common and easiest way to get to Isla Mujeres is by ferry from Cancún. There are several terminals, but the most used is Puerto Juárez, which offers frequent departures throughout the day. The journey takes about twenty minutes and, if you’re lucky, you’ll see the turquoise sea along the way, hinting at what awaits you.

If you are in Cancún’s Hotel Zone, there are also departures from Playa Tortugas and Playa Caracol, although they tend to be more expensive. Another option is the ferry from Punta Sam, which is the only one that allows you to cross with a car, although a vehicle is not essential on Isla Mujeres, as it is small and easy to explore by golf cart or scooter.

Places you can’t miss in Isla Mujeres

North beach (Playa Norte)

If there is one place everyone talks about when visiting Isla Mujeres, it is Playa Norte. And for good reason. The first time I stepped on its white sand and saw its crystal-clear water, I understood why it is considered one of the best beaches in the world. Here, the sea is so calm and shallow that you can walk for several meters without the water going past your waist.

The best thing about Playa Norte is its relaxed atmosphere. There are lounge chairs and umbrellas available at the beach clubs, but if you prefer something more natural, all you need is a towel, a cold drink, and a strong desire to disconnect from the world.

South tip (Punta sur)

At the southern tip of the island lies Punta Sur, a spectacular place that combines history, art, and nature. This is the highest point on the island and also the first place in all of Mexico to receive the morning sun.

Here, you will find the ruins of an ancient Mayan temple dedicated to the goddess Ixchel, along with a sculpture park featuring works by international artists. But the most impressive thing is the view: the open sea crashing against the cliffs, the sound of the wind, and the feeling of being in a unique place.

Garrafón Natural Reef Park

If you are looking for a place to snorkel or simply relax with a breathtaking view, Garrafón Natural Reef Park is an excellent option. This park offers activities such as snorkeling on coral reefs, zip-lining over the sea, and kayaking.

Personally, what I liked most about this place was the tranquility. Although there are activities for the more adventurous, there are also lounge chairs and hammocks with panoramic views where you can simply lie back and enjoy the scenery.

Hidalgo Avenue

In the heart of Isla Mujeres is Hidalgo Avenue, one of the liveliest streets on the island. Here, you will find restaurants, bars, and craft shops that make it perfect for a leisurely stroll.

By day, it is a good place to buy souvenirs or have a coffee; at night, the atmosphere fills with live music and tourists enjoying the nightlife. It is the ideal spot for dinner after a day of exploring the island.

Hacienda Mundaca

This hacienda has an interesting history: it was built in the 19th century by the pirate Fermín Mundaca, supposedly to win the heart of a local woman. However, she never returned his affection, and the hacienda was forgotten.

Today, the site is in ruins, but it is an interesting place to visit if you enjoy history. The atmosphere has a mysterious touch, with overgrown gardens and old stone structures that seem to tell their own version of the story.

Unforgettable experiences in Isla Mujeres

Snorkeling and diving on the reefs

The Mexican Caribbean is famous for its coral reefs and Isla Mujeres has several spots where you can go snorkeling or diving. One of the most impressive is the Manchones Reef, where you can see sea turtles, rays, and schools of colorful fish. Another very interesting spot for diving is Garrafón Natural Reef Park.

Visiting MUSA

The Underwater Museum of Art (MUSA) is one of the most unique experiences on the island. Here, more than 500 sculptures have been submerged to create an artificial reef that is now home to various marine species.

If you don’t like diving, there are snorkeling options or even glass-bottom boats to see it from the surface.

Swimming with whale sharks

Between June and September, Isla Mujeres becomes the temporary home of the whale shark, the largest fish in the world. Swimming alongside these giants is an unforgettable experience. Despite their size, they are completely harmless and glide peacefully through the water.

Visiting the Tortugranja (Turtle Farm)

If you like sea turtles, you can’t miss a visit to the Tortugranja. This conservation center protects turtles and allows visitors to learn more about their life cycle.

If you travel between May and September, you can even participate in releasing baby turtles into the sea.

Kayaking or catamaran sailing

For those who prefer a more relaxed experience, there are catamaran tours that sail around the island with stops for snorkeling and enjoying the view. You can also rent a kayak and paddle along the coast, enjoying the crystal-clear water.

Food in Isla Mujeres

The cuisine of Isla Mujeres is one of the reasons many visitors return time and again. Here, the flavors of the Caribbean and Mexican cuisine combine to offer unforgettable dishes.

One of the island’s most representative dishes is Tikin Xic fish, a Yucatecan recipe in which the fish is marinated with achiote, orange juice, and spices, then wrapped in banana leaves and slow-cooked over a wood fire. It can be found in many restaurants, but Playa Lancheros is one of the best places to try it.

Fish tacos are also a classic, especially in the downtown area where they are prepared with fresh, battered fish and served with house-made salsas. Another must-try is the ceviche, which in Isla Mujeres is served well-marinated with lime and accompanied by crispy tortilla chips.

For breakfast, Mango Café is a very popular option among travelers. Their chilaquiles and coconut pancakes are famous, and the freshly brewed coffee is perfect for starting the day with energy.

If you want a more sophisticated dining experience, there are restaurants like Lola Valentina, where traditional Mexican cuisine is blended with modern touches, or Casa Rolandi, an island classic with Italian specialties and fresh seafood.

Problems in Isla Mujeres during high season

While Isla Mujeres is a paradise destination, it can get very crowded during high season (from December to April and during the summer months). The beaches, especially Playa Norte, can be packed, which takes away some of the magic it has at other times of the year.

Prices also tend to rise, from accommodation to food and tours. Some activities require booking in advance, as spots fill up quickly.

Another problem is the environmental impact. The massive influx of tourists has put pressure on the reefs, beaches, and marine wildlife. Therefore, it is essential to be a responsible traveler and follow sustainable practices to minimize our impact on the ecosystem.

Tips for your trip

To make the most of your visit to Isla Mujeres, it is best to visit during the low season, when there are fewer tourists and prices are more affordable. The months of May, September, and October are usually the best in terms of weather and lower visitor numbers.

If you plan to get around the island, renting a golf cart is the best option for exploring comfortably. You can also rent a bicycle or even cover much of it on foot.

It is advisable to carry cash, as although many places accept credit cards, some charge an extra fee or have issues with electronic payment connections.

If you plan to snorkel or dive, use biodegradable sunscreen to avoid damaging the reefs. It is also important to respect marine life: do not touch the corals or feed the fish.

Finally, don’t limit yourself to the most touristy areas. Explore the lesser-known corners of the island, try the food at small, locally-owned eateries, and enjoy the warmth of the people of Isla Mujeres.

Isla Mujeres is a destination that has it all: spectacular beaches, delicious food, exciting activities, and a unique energy. No matter how many times you visit, you will always find something new to discover. If you haven’t been here yet, don’t hesitate any longer. I assure you it will be an unforgettable trip.

The post A Guide to Isla Mujeres: A paradise in the Mexican Caribbean first appeared on Explore Mexico.

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:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.

The post Bacalar: Complete guide to this Magical Village and its Lagoon of Seven Colors first appeared on Explore Mexico.