Laguna Bacalar (Lake Bacalar) is one of the natural wonders of Mexico. The Lagoon Of Seven Colours as it's known is a long and narrow lake in the state of Quintana Roo, Mexico. It measures approximately 42 km long and less than 2 km at its widest. The lake is renowned for its striking electric blue colour and water clarity. There are also cenotes within the lake (WOW) and it contains a huge population of the oldest lifeforms on the planet, stromatolites which only exist in a few locations around the world.
Transportation
Getting To And From Bacalar
The options are many, if your budget allows it, maybe consider renting a car and making your way down south (assuming you're either staying in Cancun, Playa Del Carmen or Tulum) stopping along the way as it pleases you. Another alternative is just getting yourself a bus ticket.
Usually, you'll be using ADO buses which are really comfortable, safe and modern (if you want to find out more about this bus company and how o book your tickets hassle-free, CLICK HERE). The ADO bus terminal in Bacalar is about a 20-minute walk from the lakeshore, you can get an inexpensive taxi to get to your accommodation or you can also walk (during day-time hours) as the actual town of Bacalar is very small and feels very safe. From Bacalar, you can once again just drive further south, if you want to check Mahahual or Xcalak, 2 beach towns along the Mexican Caribbean coast, or perhaps any other destination such as Tulum, Valladolid, Merida, etc.
Getting Around When In Bacalar
As mentioned before the actual town of Bacalar is very small and walking or cycling will do just fine.
Things You Can't Definitely Miss When In Bacalar
1 - The Lagoon Of Seven Colours
The reason why people actually come here is the Lake. But are the lake's waters really as blue as you see it on most photos or is it just a photoshop trick? Well, this is the bluest and the most awesome lake around this part of the world.
There are a couple of activities you can enjoy here such as guided boat tours which will take you to the Canal de los Piratas (a man-made canal created by the Mayans to facilitate trading with their neighbours), to the Estromatolitos (Stromatolites are ancient lifeforms which only exist in some parts of the globe), Cenote Esmeralda, Cenote Negro, Cenote de Cocalitos and Isla Pájaros.
You can also rent a jet ski to visit Canal de los Piratas or Cenote Negro on your own, but if that's 'too much', just find yourself a hammock and watch the day go by, Laguna Bacalar is the perfect place for doing just that.
2 - Swimming At Cocalitos
One thing I must tell you is that there are no actual beaches here. Most commonly you'll find a wooden deck that goes deep inside the lagoon and this will be your 'beach', but then there's Los Cocalitos! Situated south of the town centre you can either walk to get there for about 30 minutes or cycle for about 10 minutes. This public swimming place will charge you a small entrance fee to get in but with a small bar right in the middle of the area where you can lay your towel on the soft green grass and a couple of steps away from the electric blue waters of the lagoon, there's no better place to be. Worth mentioning is also that you'll find here some swings and hammocks right in the water, perfect for a cool holiday snap to make your friends jealous.
3 - Cenote Azul
Right next to Los Cocalitos you will find the Cenote Azul, a Cenote within the lake! This Cenote is great for swimming and there are some options nearby if you'd like to grab some food.
4 - Los Rapidos
Further south from the town of Bacalar and past Los Cocalitos and the Cenote Azul (approximately 13km from Bacalar), you'll get to the most beautiful part of Laguna Bacalar in my honest opinion. You'll have to pay an entry fee as Los Rapidos but once inside the small complex you'll be able to access the restaurant/bar rent a stand-up paddleboard, or kayak to better explore this part of the lake. There's plenty of shade available, chairs and hammocks. Los Rapidos is the area where the waters of Laguna Xul-Ha flow into Laguna Bacalar creating a gentle current that will carry you if you let yourself go (don't worry the current is really not that strong and besides ropes that you can hold onto if you need along the way, once you get to the far end of the restaurant the current will be almost non-existent). Don’t forget water shoes for exploring rocky shores.
5 - Visiting The Fuerte de San Felipe
One of the few remaining historic buildings in Bacalar is the Fuerte de San Felipe (Saint Philips Fort). This is a nice attraction for you to visit as the views of the lake are really nice from here. Be warned though you'll have seen the entire place in less than 30 minutes.
What To Eat In Bacalar
There are some few decent options when it comes to places where you can fill your tummy and most are not that expensive, apart from a handful of slightly pricier locations. Most eateries are located in or around the town's main square, not far from the Fort de San Filipe.
If I had to choose 2 of my most favourite meals during my stay in Bacalar, I'd say:
The Shrimp Burger at La Playita & the Pastries + Morning Coffee at La Tartaleta.
Accommodation In Bacalar
Most accommodation options that you'll find when visiting the lake will be located in or around the town of Bacalar. There are Hostels, many Airbnbs and some upscale Hotels for you to choose from. You should definitely book in advance as Bacalar isn't big and if you're planning to come here during peak season your accommodation options may dwindle.
Visiting Laguna Bacalar Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are there any Crocodiles in Bacalar?
A: Not usually but there have been some sightings although no attacks occurred.
Q: Do I need sunscreen?
A: Yes you need to bring sunscreen in order to protect your skin, but it should be biodegradable sunscreen to ensure you don't pollute the waters of the lagoon which are home to various delicate lifeforms.
Q: Can I step/touch/sit on a stromatolite?
A: No, stromatolites may look like flat rocks or pieces of dead wood just sitting in the water, but they’re actually alive so don't even get close to them as they're very fragile.
Q: Are there beaches in Bacalar?
A: No there are no beaches as this is a lake. There are public swimming areas where you can lay your towel on the grass.
Q: Can I drink tap water in Bacalar?
A: No you can't.
Q: Are there many mosquitoes in Bacalar
A: Yes, there are quite a few so bring your mosquito repellent.
Q: Is Bacalar safe?
A: Yes Bacalar feels very safe, however, this is Mexico and its no secret that they do have some security issues throughout the country. Avoid walking alone at night in areas too far away from the town centre or in poor lit parts of the town, don't flash your valuables, don't do anything illegal and you should be fine.
Q: Is the water in the lake clean?
A: It used to be but at present, there are some issues with pollution of the lake's waters as a result of illegal dumping and inadequate wastewater treatment. The situation is being addressed by the council.
Video From My Visit To Bacalar
HINT: If you would like to visit Belize from Mexico, you could do so after you've been to Bacalar. CLICK HERE if you'd like to find out how to easily get from Mexico to Belize.
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