Bacalar and Mahahual have become the leading tourist preferences in southern Quintana Roo.

These two coastal places offer a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and adventure, making them top choices for travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience.

Bacalar: The Lagoon of Seven Colors

Bacalar is located just north of the Belize border. Bacalar is often referred to as the “Lagoon of Seven Colors” due to its breathtakingly vibrant and diverse shades of blue and turquoise water.

This picturesque town offers a laid-back and peaceful ambiance.

Bacalar is an ideal destination for relaxation and immersion in nature. The charm of Bacalar lies in its simplicity, authentic local cuisine, and the opportunity to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of modern life.

The main attraction of Bacalar is its stunning freshwater lagoon, which stretches for more than 40 km. Tourists can indulge in various activities such as kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and sailing while marveling at the unique colors of the lagoon.

The nearby Cenote Azul is a natural sinkhole with crystal-clear water, that attracts visitors seeking to swim and snorkel in its refreshing depths. Surrounded by lush vegetation, Cenote Azul offers a tranquil escape.

Mahahual: The Hidden Caribbean Paradise

Mahahual is situated along the Costa Maya on the Caribbean coast of Mexico. Mahahual was once a small fishing village and has now transformed into a sought-after eco-tourism destination.

The allure of Mahahual is its laid-back atmosphere and stunning white sandy beaches.

Mesoamerican Reef is just a short distance offshore. This reef attracts divers and snorkelers from all over the world, offering an unforgettable experience exploring the diverse marine life and vibrant coral formations.

The town’s seaside promenade, known as the Malecón, is lined with charming shops, restaurants, and bars, where tourists can enjoy local cuisine and unwind with stunning ocean views.

Mahahual’s commitment to sustainable tourism and preserving its natural beauty adds to its appeal for conscious travelers seeking authentic and eco-friendly experiences.

Emerging Cultural and Adventure Tourism

While both Bacalar and Mahahual boast stunning natural settings, they also offer a rich cultural heritage and various adventure opportunities for tourists and vacationers.

In Bacalar, curious and adventurous tourists can explore the well-preserved ancient Maya ruins of Chacchoben, which provides a fascinating insight into the region’s rich historical significance.

Mahahual offers immersive excursions to nearby Mayan archaeological sites like Kohunlich and Dzibanche, adding a captivating touch of ancient culture and heritage to the idyllic beach holiday experience.

Adventure enthusiasts are not left disappointed, as both destinations offer exciting activities such as jungle trekking, zip-lining, and birdwatching in the surrounding areas.

The Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is also easily accessible from both locations, providing an opportunity to witness diverse wildlife and explore unspoiled landscapes.

Accessibility and Responsible Tourism

Both Bacalar and Mahahual are well-connected to major transportation hubs, with the Chetumal International Airport being the closest gateway, ensuring convenient access for travelers from around the world.

The relatively underexplored nature of both places has contributed to a focus on responsible and sustainable tourism. Local communities are actively involved in preserving natural resources and promoting environmentally friendly tourism.

Bacalar and Mahahual have emerged as leading tourist preferences in southern Quintana Roo due to their awe-inspiring natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and commitment to responsible tourism.

Travelers seeking a balance between adventure, relaxation, and cultural exploration will find these two destinations to be the perfect choice for an unforgettable vacation experience.

As these 2 cozy towns continue to gain popularity, it’s crucial for visitors to respect and preserve the local environment and heritage to ensure their sustainability for generations to come.

Bacalar is a hidden gem that is quickly becoming a popular tourist destination. This stunning town is situated on the shores of a breathtaking lagoon, which is also known as the “Lake of Seven Colors” due to its stunning array of blue-green hues.

Tourists are attracted to Bacalar for its natural beauty, crystal clear waters, and many outdoor activities that can be enjoyed in the area.

Kayaking, snorkeling, swimming, and stand-up paddleboarding are just a few of the activities that visitors can experience in Bacalar. There are also several tours available that take visitors to nearby cenotes, caves, and other natural wonders.

One of the most popular attractions in Bacalar is the fort of San Felipe, which was built by the Spanish in the 18th century to defend against pirate attacks. Today, this historic structure serves as a museum with breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

In addition to its natural beauty, Bacalar is also home to a vibrant cultural scene. The town is known for its traditional Mexican music and dance, and visitors can enjoy live performances and festivals throughout the year.

There are also several local markets and shops that sell handmade crafts and other souvenirs.

For those looking to experience the local cuisine, Bacalar has plenty of options.

From street food to fine dining, there is something for every taste and budget. Local specialties include seafood dishes, tacos al pastor, and cochinita pibil, a slow-roasted pork dish that is a staple of Yucatan cuisine.

When it comes to accommodation, Bacalar has a wide range of options to suit all budgets and preferences.

From budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses to luxury resorts, there is something for everyone. Whether you are traveling solo, as a couple, or with your family, Bacalar has the perfect place to stay.

Bacalar is a stunning town that offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and outdoor activities. Whether you are looking for relaxation, adventure, or a little bit of both, Bacalar has something to offer.

So, pack your bags and head to this hidden gem for a truly unforgettable experience!

Tourism in Bacalar

Tourism is a crucial part of Bacalar’s economy and is continuously growing as more people discover this hidden gem.

Bacalar’s stunning lagoon, known as the “Lake of Seven Colors,” is the main draw for tourists and provides a variety of outdoor activities such as kayaking, snorkeling, swimming, and stand-up paddleboarding.

Additionally, the town’s history and culture are also attractive to visitors, with attractions like the fort of San Felipe and local markets and shops that sell handmade crafts and traditional Mexican music and dance performances.

Bacalar offers a variety of accommodations to suit all budgets and preferences, from budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses to luxury resorts.

The town’s diverse cuisine, from street food to fine dining, is another selling point for tourists, with local specialties like seafood dishes, tacos al pastor, and cochinita pibil.

Overall, tourism plays a significant role in Bacalar’s economy and is set to continue growing as more people discover this beautiful town’s offerings. Whether you are looking for relaxation, adventure, or a little bit of both, Bacalar has something to offer.

Things to do in Bacalar

Bacalar is a town located in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo and is known for its stunning lagoon, “Lake of Seven Colors.”

Here are some popular things to do in Bacalar:

Explore the Lake of Seven Colors: The main attraction of Bacalar is its breathtaking lagoon, which is famous for its crystal clear waters and stunning array of blue-green hues. Enjoy kayaking, snorkeling, swimming, and stand-up paddleboarding.

Visit the Fort of San Felipe: This 18th-century fort was built by the Spanish to defend against pirate attacks and today serves as a museum. Visitors can admire stunning views of the surrounding area and learn about the town’s history.

Enjoy local cultural experiences: Bacalar is home to a vibrant cultural scene, with traditional Mexican music and dance performances, local markets and shops selling handmade crafts, and festivals throughout the year.

Taste local cuisine: Bacalar offers a variety of cuisine options, from street food to fine dining. Be sure to try local specialties like seafood dishes, tacos al pastor, and cochinita pibil.

Visit nearby cenotes, caves, and other natural wonders: Bacalar is surrounded by many natural wonders, and there are several tours available that take visitors to explore nearby cenotes, caves, and more.

Stay in a unique accommodation: Bacalar offers a range of accommodations to suit all budgets and preferences, including budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses, luxury resorts, and unique stays like treehouses and floating cabins.

Whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation, or cultural experiences, Bacalar has something to offer.

So, pack your bags and head to this hidden gem for a truly unforgettable experience!

Known today for its laid-back atmosphere, serenity, and wellness, as well as lounging in a hammock while sipping on a mango smoothie, the history of Bacalar is full of swashbuckling adventure & chaos.

With its length of 42 km, it is the largest lagoon in the Yucatan peninsula, containing a handful of small islands and 4 cenotes (Cenote Negro, Cenote Esmeralda, Cenote Cocalitos, and Cenote Azul).

All these cenotes form natural swimming pools surrounded by vegetation and mangroves. Close to shore, many areas of the lagoon are shallow, where the crystal clear waters make bathing idyllic.

The Pirate Canal is a must-see in Bacalar, as no trip is complete without a sailing trip across the beautiful waters to where the canal begins. You can admire the multiple shades of blue and green, swim & relax in the clear shallow waters.

There are numerous Mayan sites close to the lagoon, like Chacchoben or the recently excavated Ichkabal. These towns also used the channel as a means to navigate out to the sea and trade with other towns and cities up and down the coast.

Bakhalal (the Mayan period’s name of Bacalar) is even mentioned in Mayan chronicles as an area where the Itzaes lived for a time before they traveled north to found the famous city of Chichén Itzá.

Mexico Kan Tours runs a private tour to Bacalar, including a 3-hour sailboat tour of the Bacalar Lagoon and Pirate Canal with time to swim and relax, as well as lunch and a chance to explore this place.

Mexico is a massive country and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. But the majority of travelers stick to well-known vacation spots like Cancun, Cabo San Lucas, and the Riviera Maya.

That’s unfortunate because Mexico is filled with a vast array of treasures just waiting to be discovered. If you’d like to explore some of Mexico’s less-traveled destinations, these top options will provide you with a great place to start.

These are the most beautiful and little-known places in Mexico, places that without a doubt must be visited.

Bacalar Lagoon is situated in Quintana Roo, near the town of Bacalar. It is relatively close to popular tourist destinations such as Cancun and Tulum, making it a convenient addition to a Yucatan Peninsula itinerary.

The place was inhabited by Mayans for centuries.

The name Bacalar means “surrounded by reeds” in the Mayan language. Trails around the lagoon were lined with white seashells because the inhabitants would walk at night when it was cooler and the shells would mark the trails.

Bacalar Lagoon is the second-largest natural body of fresh water in Mexico after Lake Chapala. This is a lake of about 55 km from tip to tip and 2 km at its widest point. The lagoon is fed by underground cenotes.

Because of the porous limestone, Yucatan has almost no lakes. Bacalar is fed by the 450 km underground river that is part of the world’s largest subterranean water cave (tunnel) system, paralleling the coastline.

The lagoon is renowned for its striking blue color and water clarity. Bacalar Lagoon is also called the Lake of Seven Colors because of the white sandy bottom that gives the effect of having so many shades of blue.

The lagoon is surrounded by lush greenery, including mangrove forests, which provide a habitat for diverse wildlife, including birds, fish, and reptiles. Bacalar contains a huge population of the oldest life on the planet.

Bacalar Lagoon is the place to go if you just want to chill out and relax or snorkel, take a boat or kayak trip, camp, or stand-up paddleboarding at sunrise.