Introduction
Welcome to Bacalar, one of Mexico’s "Pueblos Mágicos", known as the "Mexican Maldives". Far from the bustle of other Riviera Maya destinations, Bacalar offers a peaceful refuge centred on its spectacular Lagoon of Seven Colours. Get ready for three days of crystal-clear waters, nature and history.
Day 1: Discovering the Lagoon
The first day is for diving headfirst into Bacalar’s main attraction. The best way to get a first impression of the lagoon’s vastness and colours is on a boat tour.
Morning/Afternoon: Look for a speedboat or sailing trip. Most tours last a few hours and take you to iconic spots. You’ll sail through different shades of blue, visit the Canal de los Piratas, a place with shallow waters perfect for a dip, and discover the Cenote Negro (also called Cenote de la Bruja), an impressive underwater crater that gives the water a dark tone. Many tours also include a stop at the Isla de los Pájaros.
Late Afternoon/Evening: After the tour, explore Bacalar’s town centre. It’s a small, pleasant village with a laid-back atmosphere. Find a restaurant for dinner and try the local cuisine.
Day 2: Cenotes and History
The second day is dedicated to exploring the region’s famous cenotes and a bit of local history.
Morning: Visit Cenote Azul. This is one of the deepest cenotes in the region and, unlike others, it’s open, looking like a small lake. Its waters are an intense blue, and it’s a great place to swim. It’s a little way from the main lagoon, so the experience is different.
Afternoon: Head to Cenote Cocalitos, also known as the "Stromatolite Sanctuary". Here you’ll find ancient rock formations considered to be the oldest living beings on the planet. It’s essential not to touch them, to keep them protected. The site has swings and hammocks in the water, perfect for relaxing and taking photos.
Late Afternoon: Visit the Fuerte de San Felipe, in the centre of the village. Built in the 18th century to defend the city from pirates, the fort offers panoramic views over the lagoon and houses a small museum that tells the region’s history.
Day 3: Adventure and Farewell
On the last day, take the chance for a more active experience and to say goodbye to Bacalar’s magical waters.
Morning: Rent a kayak or a stand-up paddleboard and explore the lagoon at your own pace. Paddle through calm waters, find hidden corners and enjoy the morning silence.
Afternoon: Get ready for a unique experience at Los Rápidos de Bacalar. This is a narrow channel where the current carries you gently along. You can rent a life vest and simply float, letting the current take you through stromatolite formations. It’s a natural spa, and tons of fun.
Late Afternoon: Say goodbye to Bacalar with one last swim or by simply contemplating the sunset over the lagoon.
What you should know before you go
- Sun protection: Use biodegradable sunscreen so you don’t harm the sensitive ecosystem of the lagoon and cenotes.
- Best time: The dry season, between November and April, usually offers the best weather, with less rain and more sun.
- Pace: Bacalar is a destination for unwinding. Don’t expect the nightlife of Cancún or Tulum. The pace here is different.
Where Multipark fits in
To get to Bacalar and explore the surroundings with total freedom — whether to reach more remote cenotes or even nearby Mayan ruins — renting a car is the best option. Multipark offers a fleet of vehicles that adapt to your trip, so you can make the most of every moment without depending on public transport.
Conclusion
Bacalar is a treasure that deserves to be discovered slowly. In three days, you can feel the magic of the Lagoon of Seven Colours, explore its unique nature and unwind in one of Mexico’s most beautiful destinations. It’s a trip that stays with you and will surely make you want to come back.
Whatever your next trip looks like, plan your parking with Multipark while you sort out the rest of the details.
