A Mexican lagoon town known as the Lagoon of Seven Colors for its striking gradations of turquoise water.

Why Visit Bacalar

Bacalar’s freshwater lagoon shifts through seven distinct shades of blue and turquoise depending on depth and light, a striking natural phenomenon that has made this once quiet town near the Belize border one of Mexico’s fastest growing eco-tourism destinations.

Top Experiences

  • Laguna Bacalar boat tours: Boat trips across the Lagoon of Seven Colors, stopping at swimming spots and a central island.
  • Cenote Azul: A deep, clear freshwater sinkhole connected to the lagoon, popular for swimming.
  • Fuerte de San Felipe: A colonial era fort overlooking the lagoon, built to defend against pirate raids.
  • Los Rapidos: A section of the lagoon with a gentle natural current, popular for floating and stand up paddleboarding.

Book these experiences and more through guided tours from Bacalar.

Private Eco-Tour on a Recreational Catamaran with Kayaks Included

Private Eco-Tour on a Recreational Catamaran with Kayaks Included

★ 5.0 (77)
From USD 199
View Price & Book Tour on Viator
Private VW Beetle Tour to Chichen Itza, Cenote & Valladolid

Private VW Beetle Tour to Chichen Itza, Cenote & Valladolid

★ 5.0 (75)
From USD 725
View Price & Book Tour on Viator
Photography and Filming with drone and camera

Photography and Filming with drone and camera

★ 5.0 (72)
From USD 93.62
View Price & Book Tour on Viator
Bacalar Pontoon Boat Tour

Bacalar Pontoon Boat Tour

★ 5.0 (67)
From USD 33.22
View Price & Book Tour on Viator
Sail 4hr in the most SECRET Spot of Bacalar and Beach Club.

Sail 4hr in the most SECRET Spot of Bacalar and Beach Club.

★ 5.0 (50)
From USD 205
View Price & Book Tour on Viator
Sunrise Paddle & Kayak Pirate’s Channel, Bacalar Lagoon

Sunrise Paddle & Kayak Pirate’s Channel, Bacalar Lagoon

★ 5.0 (35)
From USD 41
View Price & Book Tour on Viator

Practical Tips

  • Bacalar is generally quieter and less developed than Tulum, though tourism is growing quickly.
  • Boat tours are the best way to see the lagoon’s full range of colors from the water.
  • Cenote Azul and Los Rapidos are both easy add ons to a lagoon boat tour day.

FAQ

Why is Bacalar called the Lagoon of Seven Colors?
Its freshwater lagoon shifts through seven distinct shades of blue and turquoise depending on water depth and light.

Is Bacalar less crowded than Tulum?
Yes, though it has been growing quickly, it remains generally quieter and less developed than Tulum.

What is Cenote Azul?
A deep, clear freshwater sinkhole connected to Laguna Bacalar, popular for swimming.