What to see and do in Bacalar, Mexico
Bacalar is a town in southeastern Mexico near the Belize border on Lake Bacalar
It is often referred to as the "Lagoon of Seven Colors" because of its different shades of blue. Lake Bacalar is home to an ancient population of stromatolites that are around 3.5 billion years old. Cenote Azul is also near the lagoon.
We traveled to Bacalar from Costa Maya on 3/18/2022. While here, we visited the Fortress of San Felipe, the Lagoon of Seven Colors, Cenote Azul, and the downtown area. We also saw the ancient stromatolites in the lagoon.
We visited Bacalar again on 12/31/2025. This time, we took an excursion to Lo-Ha which is just south of Bacalar. While there, we took a raft down the river to the Bacalar lagoon where we went swimming near Sac-Ha. Then we rode the raft back up the river to Lo-Ha.
On 5/27/2026, we went back to Bacalar. this time to tube through the lagoon behind a boat and then to float in life vests through the Bacalar rapids. Afterwards a second boat with tubs picked us up and took us to a restaurant on the lake where we had lunch,
Bacalar was an important site during the Mayan civilization, and visitors can explore nearby ruins such as the Fortress of San Felipe, built in the 18th century to protect against pirate attacks. The town also has a charming historic center with colorful buildings and a relaxed atmosphere.
In addition to its natural beauty and history, Bacalar is also a popular destination for activities such as kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and swimming in the lagoon. Visitors can also take boat tours of the lagoon to explore its various cenotes, or natural swimming holes, and learn about the local flora and fauna. Lots of pineapples are grown here.
Overall, Bacalar is a great destination for those seeking a mix of history, natural beauty, and outdoor activities in a laid-back setting.
Looking for things to do? Viator offers numerous tours in Bacalar. Click here for details.
Pictures from our first trip to Bacalar on 3/18/2022.
Ancient stromatolites in the lagoon.
Cenote Azul
Gate to the Fortress of San Felipe
Fortress of San Felipe
Bacalar
Lagoon of Seven Colors
View from the Fortress to the Bacalar Lagoon of Seven Colors
Docks on the Bacalar Lagoon of Seven Colors
Pictures from our second trip to Bacalar on 12/31/2025.
Getting on the raft at Lo-Ha
Floating down the river from Lo-Ha to the Bacalar Lagoon
On the raft with our guide going through the Mangrove trees.
The water in the river is crystal clear.
Rafting on the Bacalar Lagoon
Pictures from our third trip to Bacalar on 5/27/2026.
Tubing behind a both through the Bacalar lagoon.
Floating through the Bacalar Rapids
Floating through the Bacalar Rapids to our pickup point.
Stromatolites protection sign
At the end of the rapids waiting for our pickup boat.
Ride from the rapids to the restaurant
Lunch on the shore of the Bacalar Lagoon