Bacalar : Boat Tour of the Lagoon of The Seven Colors

Bacalar, Mexico’s stunning "Lagoon of Seven Colors," captivates visitors with its vibrant hues and rich history. A 2.5-hour boat tour allows travelers to explore this natural wonder, navigating through captivating cenotes and encountering local wildlife. Led by certified captains, the intimate journey promises an unforgettable experience for a maximum of 12 participants. From the Black Cenote’s mystery to the Emerald Cenote’s enchanting charm, this tour unveils the lagoon’s hidden gems, leaving guests eager to delve deeper into Bacalar’s captivating story.

Key Points

• The Bacalar Boat Tour offers a unique 2.5-hour experience exploring the stunning "Lagoon of Seven Colors" with a maximum group size of 12 participants.
• The tour includes visits to the Black Cenote, Emerald Cenote, and Cocalitos Cenote, each with its own captivating geological features and stories.
• Certified captains provide engaging narration about the history, ecology, and significance of the lagoon and its cenotes, ensuring a memorable and informative journey.
• Onboard amenities include refreshments, while prohibited items include jeans, sunscreen, and chewing gum, ensuring the preservation of the natural environment.
• The tour is available in both English and German and is wheelchair accessible, catering to a diverse range of visitors.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Bacalar Boat Tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the stunning Bacalar Lagoon, also known as the "Lagoon of Seven Colors."

Visitors can explore the stunning Bacalar Lagoon, also known as the "Lagoon of Seven Colors," on a unique boat tour.

This 2.5-hour tour takes guests on a journey through the lagoon’s picturesque cenotes, sanctuaries, and historic waterways. With a maximum group size of 12 participants, the tour promises an intimate and personalized experience.

Certified captains ensure safety and provide engaging stories, while guests can enjoy refreshments and the option to bring their own snacks.

The tour is available in English and German and is wheelchair accessible, making it accessible to a wide range of travelers.

Exploring the Black Cenote

One of the primary highlights of the Bacalar Boat Tour is the exploration of the Black Cenote. This natural wonder is over 100 meters deep, with dark, mysterious waters that invite curious visitors to dive in.

As the boat approaches the cenote, guests are captivated by its striking appearance, a stark contrast to the shimmering turquoise of the rest of the lagoon. The certified captains provide engaging stories about the cenote’s history and ecology, heightening the experience.

Despite its depth, the Black Cenote offers a unique opportunity to swim and take in Bacalar’s stunning natural beauty.

Discovering the Emerald Cenote

Nestled within the captivating Bacalar Lagoon, the Emerald Cenote captivates visitors with its unique conical shape and striking hues.

This natural wonder, formed by the collapse of an underground cave, boasts vibrant emerald-green waters that contrast beautifully with the surrounding limestone walls.

Descending into the cenote, guests can witness its impressive depth and explore the intricate rock formations.

The cenote’s distinct appearance, caused by the interplay of light and minerals, creates a serene and enchanting atmosphere, inviting visitors to enjoy its natural splendor.

This stop on the Bacalar boat tour offers a truly mesmerizing experience.

Visiting the Cocalitos Cenote

Next on the tour is the captivating Cocalitos Cenote. Surrounded by ancient stromatolites, this unique cenote offers a mesmerizing sight.

Guests will be awed by the distinctive conical shape and striking turquoise hues that give the water its alluring glow. The cenote’s crystal-clear waters invite visitors to take a refreshing swim, allowing them to fully enjoy the natural beauty.

As the boat glides along, the guide shares the fascinating history and ecological significance of this remarkable geological formation, enriching the overall experience.

The Cocalitos Cenote is undoubtedly a highlight of the Bacalar boat tour.

More Great Tours Nearby

Admiring the Stromatolite Sanctuary

After exploring the Cocalitos Cenote, the tour boat heads to the Stromatolite Sanctuary, an area dedicated to these remarkable living fossils.

Stromatolites are layered, dome-shaped formations created by cyanobacteria over thousands of years. Guests can observe these ancient structures, some dating back millions of years.

The guide explains the important role stromatolites play in the ecosystem and their significance in Earth’s history. Visitors are amazed by the unique geological formations and learn about the fragility of this delicate environment.

The sanctuary offers a chance to appreciate the enduring power of these resilient, primordial life forms.

Observing the Island of Birds

The boat then glides towards the Island of Birds, a sanctuary for migratory species.

This protected island offers:

1. Excellent birdwatching opportunities to spot diverse avian inhabitants.

2. Nesting grounds for numerous species, including herons, egrets, and cormorants.

3. Tranquil atmosphere, allowing visitors to observe the birds in their natural habitat.

4. Educational signage providing information about the island’s ecological significance.

As the boat approaches the island, the passengers eagerly scan the shoreline and treetops, hoping to catch a glimpse of the diverse birdlife that calls this sanctuary home.

Navigating the Pirate Channel

As the boat glides through the calm waters, the captain regales the passengers with tales of the Pirate Channel’s storied past.

This historic waterway was once a favored route for Caribbean pirates, who used the twists and turns to evade pursuers. The captain points out landmarks and explains how the channel’s strategic location made it an important smuggling route.

Guests listen intently, imagining the swashbuckling adventures that once unfolded along these shores.

The boat navigates the meandering channel, offering a glimpse into Bacalar’s rich history and the legends that continue to captivate visitors.

Onboard Amenities and Important Information

Onboard, the Bacalar boat tour provides refreshments for guests, including fresh water and seasonal fruits. Guests are welcome to bring their own snacks and beverages as well.

Safety is prioritized, with certified captains ensuring a secure journey and providing engaging stories.

The tour has the following important information for guests:

1. Meeting Point: Marina Papitos Bacalar entrance.

2. What to Bring: Beachwear, sunglasses, towel.

3. Not Allowed: Jeans, bikes, sunscreen, chewing gum, explosive substances, making fire.

4. Note: Sunscreen usage is prohibited during the tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, guests can bring their own snacks and beverages on the tour. The tour provides refreshments like fresh water and seasonal fruits, but guests are welcome to supplement with their own food and drinks.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Tour?

There is no minimum age requirement for the tour. Guests of all ages are welcome, though the tour may not be suitable for very young children. Lifejackets are provided for safety.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities Available During the Tour?

The tour does not mention any dedicated restroom facilities during the 2.5-hour duration. However, guests are allowed to bring their own snacks and beverages, so they may have the opportunity to use restrooms at the starting/ending marina.

Can I Take Photos or Videos During the Tour?

Yes, guests are allowed to take photos and videos during the tour. However, the use of chewing gum, sunscreen, and anything that could potentially damage the environment is strictly prohibited.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

There is no option to extend the tour duration. The tour is fixed at 2.5 hours. However, guests can inquire about the possibility of a private tour with a longer duration if they need more time to explore the lagoon.

The Sum Up

The boat tour of the Lagoon of Seven Colors in Bacalar offers a remarkable opportunity to take in the region’s natural splendor. From the captivating cenotes to the vibrant hues of the turquoise and emerald waters, this intimate journey provides an unforgettable experience. With certified captains and refreshing amenities, visitors can savor the beauty of Bacalar’s captivating landscape.

You can check availability for your dates here: