Bacalar tours

Things to do in Bacalar

Bacalar beckons with a gentle serenity, its lagoon a palette of seven hues, cradled by jungles steeped in ancient Mayan lore. This town embodies tranquillity, offering a symphony of nature's whispers and the quiet hum of village life. Your local guide turns Bacalar tours into a vibrant exploration beyond the mundane. A cool breeze accompanies you as you glide over crystalline waters on a private boat tour or explore the mystical cenotes dotting the landscape. Your guide knows the tales woven into the vivid murals and the top spots for a culinary tour highlighting local delights like fresh ceviche and handmade tortillas. Walking tours through Bacalar's charming streets unveil the true essence of this enchanting place, ensuring you skip the lines and immerse in experiences that linger long after. If you’re looking for more inspiration, take a look at our curated list of things to do in Bacalar. Explore Bacalar your way At ToursByLocals, we believe that how you explore is just as important as where you go. That’s why every Bacalar tour is private, flexible, and built around you: Move at your own pace, skip the crowds, make connections and follow your curiosity. Find local guides offering private tours in Bacalar for every interest, including: Nature and Wildlife tours: Paddle a kayak at sunrise on the Lagoon of Seven Colours, then drift-snorkel through the gentle current at Los Rápidos to see fish and the famous stromatolites near Cenote Cocalitos. Your guide can point out herons and kingfishers by the Canal de los Piratas and set up a quiet swim at a clearwater cenote. History tours: Walk the ramparts of the Fort of San Felipe and browse its small museum to learn about Maya trade routes and the pirate raids that shaped the area. You can pair the fort with a visit to the old customs pier and hear how logwood and chicle moved through this lagoon. Architecture tours: Stroll past pastel wooden houses and the 18th-century stone walls of the Fort of San Felipe, then step inside the Parroquia de San Joaquín to see its modest colonial details. Compare traditional palapa building with modern eco-lodges that use local hardwood and thatch along the shore. The town centre is easy to cover on foot, but cenotes and out-of-town docks are spread out and there’s little public transit. Ask your local guide about chauffeured tours or private transportation for stress-free pick-up and drop-off. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all itinerary, you can tailor your private tour to match your interests, pace and personality with a local who knows Bacalar inside and out. Walking tours & neighbourhoods Explore the enchanting town of Bacalar on a private walking tour and experience its neighborhoods with a local guide by your side. You’ll discover hidden gems and local favorites, capturing the true spirit of this picturesque destination. - Laguna de Bacalar: The famed "Lake of Seven Colors" is a must-see, offering crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and kayaking. Ideal for nature lovers and families looking to enjoy outdoor activities. - Bacalar Pueblo: Wander through the charming streets of Bacalar Pueblo, where you can explore local shops and enjoy regional cuisine. Cultural tourists will appreciate the town’s rich history and vibrant art scene. - Cenote Azul: Visit the stunning Cenote Azul, known for its deep, clear waters and lush surroundings. It’s a great spot for those interested in natural wonders and seeking a peaceful escape. Day trip ideas from Bacalar From Bacalar, day trips and private tours make it easy to pair the lagoon with Maya ruins, reef towns and the state capital, and you can plan each outing around history, snorkelling or local food. Chacchoben: about 50 minutes away, these jungle ruins offer restored pyramids, shaded paths and steady birdlife; it fits you if you want a short, focused history stop that still leaves time for the lake later. Kohunlich: deeper in the forest, known for the Temple of the Masks and a quiet feel; your tour can add nearby Dzibanché and Kinichná for more classic architecture, or slow the pace to listen for howler monkeys under the canopy. Mahahual: a small beach town on the Costa Maya with calm water, reef snorkelling and a flat malecón for long walks; seafood stands and easy access to the water suit kids, casual swimmers and laid-back beach time. Chetumal and Oxtankah: the state capital brings markets, a breezy waterfront and the Museum of Maya Culture, and you can pair it with the small Oxtankah ruins just north; this route works if local life, street food and a lighter dose of archaeology sound right. A private tour with a local guide is the best way to really get to know a place. Skip the crowds, follow your interests, and see a side of Bacalar most travellers miss.