Experience the magical hues of Bacalar Centro on Mexico's stunning Lake Bacalar. The historic San Felipe Fort overlooks the famous "Seven Colours Lagoon" while the lively main square buzzes with local charm. Colonial buildings with weathered facades line cobblestone streets leading to wooden docks. Travellers enjoy affordable adventures here compared to Tulum or Cancun. The waterfront promenade offers perfect sunset views across turquoise waters. Most attractions sit within a 10-minute walk of the central plaza. Kayak rentals and boat tours provide easy access to the crystal-clear lagoon.
Mario Villanueva Madrid borders the breathtaking Lake Bacalar, known for its seven distinct shades of blue. This peaceful residential area offers a genuine glimpse into authentic Mexican life, away from tourist crowds. The area strikes a perfect balance between lakeside beauty and local charm. Budget travellers will appreciate the affordable family-run guesthouses and local eateries serving delicious Yucatecan cuisine. Mornings bring the gentle sounds of cockerels and tropical birds. The crystalline waters provide perfect spots for swimming and snorkelling without the crowds found elsewhere in Bacalar.
The Magisterial area offers an authentic slice of Mexican life just minutes from Bacalar's stunning lake attractions. Local homes painted in soft pastels line unpaved streets where children play and cockerels crow at dawn. This quiet residential haven feels worlds away from tourist zones. Budget-friendly guesthouses and family rentals make this area ideal for travellers seeking value. Small family-run comedores serve delicious Yucatecan dishes at local prices. The famous Lake Bacalar with its magical cenotes is just a short drive away.
While there might not be top attractions in Luis Donaldo Colosio, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Laguna Bacalar Ecological Park and Fort of San Felipe.
Discover the most popular places to visit in Bacalar
Laguna Bacalar Ecological Park
9.6/10 (1,148 reviews)
Traverse a kilometer-long pier through protected mangroves at Bacalar Ecopark, overlooking Mexico's "Lagoon of Seven Colours." Morning visits showcase vibrant views of the turquoise waters.
Cenote Cocalitos
9.2/10 (769 reviews)
Swim among stromatolites, some of Earth's oldest living organisms, in Cenote Cocalitos' turquoise waters. Relax afterwards in over-water hammocks with views across this unique ecological sanctuary.
Photo by Juan Pablo Pantoja
Open Photo by Juan Pablo Pantoja
Cenote Azul
9.2/10 (94 reviews)
Plunge into Cenote Azul's crystal-clear waters, reaching depths of 90 metres in this expansive natural pool. Swim, snorkel, or enjoy lunch at the waterside restaurant while gazing across the stunning blue expanse.
Fort of San Felipe
9.0/10 (955 reviews)
This 18th-century fortress once defended Bacalar against pirates, now offering a glimpse into colonial Mexico. Explore its bastions and museum while enjoying panoramic views of the turquoise lagoon.
Cenote Esmeralda
9.8/10 (95 reviews)
Dive into Cenote Esmeralda's crystal-clear turquoise waters, feeding Bacalar's famous Lagoon of Seven Colours. Morning visits offer serene swimming and exceptional underwater visibility in this natural Mexican sinkhole.
Cenote Negro
9.8/10 (130 reviews)
Plunge into Cenote Negro's mysterious dark waters, a striking contrast to Bacalar Lagoon's turquoise hues. Kayak through this natural sinkhole while learning about local legends that surround this 100-meter-deep wonder.
Municipal Spa of Bacalar
8.6/10 (255 reviews)
This public spa offers direct access to Bacalar's famous "Lagoon of Seven Colours" with its stunning blue hues. Bring water shoes for the slippery steps and eco-friendly sun cream to preserve the pristine waters.
Ecopark Bacalar
8.4/10 (7 reviews)
Explore the great outdoors at Ecopark Bacalar, a lovely green space in Bacalar.
"The place is absolutely amazing, it is truly like staying in a tree house.. the staff is super friendly, you have kayaks available and the excursions on the lagoon and great. If you can, do get the rooms with the lagoon view, the sunrise from between the foliage gets reflected on the water and it’s truly magical, i’m definitely coming back"
"There was an overwhelming sewer smell that eliminated any chance of enjoying our room. We could barely breathe the entire time we were in our room. We couldn’t wait to leave. So glad we only booked one night. Location was also horrible, on the far north end of town. Too far to walk to anything of interest, including access to the water."
"Me gustó mucho la información que dejan Cuando uno llega le explican a todo muy bien de todo lo que se puede hacer cómo funciona todo y las recomendaciones que dan para restaurantes y lugares interesantes para ver"
"The best hotel in Bacalar. i have been coming to Akalki for over 14 years and never disappoints. Take note that the bungalow rooms on the water ( 1-4) do have air conditioning - the website ( expedia listing ) is not clear about that.
Make sure to take a tour to go visit the temple and take Akalki boat tour on the water with your captain Yan. Every morning there is a holistic experience of either sound healing, yoga , meditation - endulge in these experiences as well. The spa is also incredible...
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
You'll find cheap prices on Expedia for your Bacalar getaway. However, a range of factors like the length of stay, hotel choice and season will determine how much your holiday to Bacalar costs.
What are the cheapest months to go to Bacalar?
September, October and November are the best times to look for cheap Bacalar holiday packages. Travelling in quieter periods means you can usually find better prices on accommodation and flights.
How many days is enough for Bacalar?
Allow around 3 days for your Bacalar holiday to discover everything that makes this destination special. Explore key neighbourhoods, including Mario Villanueva Madrid and Bacalar Centro. Then tick off top sights such as Fort of San Felipe and Cenote Negro. With a clever itinerary, you can keep busy with room for some downtime too. Want to travel beyond Bacalar? Consider squeezing in a day trip or two.
Is it worth booking a holiday package to Bacalar?
Bacalar has everything you need for the perfect break — watersports, underwater activities and nature are just the start. Whether you want to check out attractions like Laguna Bacalar Ecological Park and Cenote Cocalitos, or take the path less traveled, you'll have plenty to see and do on your Bacalar holiday.
How to find the best Bacalar package deals?
Begin your search for a Bacalar package deal by entering your destination and travel dates under our "Packages" tab. Then add a few filters, like "Property type" and "Popular locations," to tailor the results to your exact needs. You can also sort by "Package discount" and browse offers that come with big savings. If you don't find the perfect Bacalar package deal right away, simply switch up your dates and search again. Bear in mind that deals are only available for a limited time, so book early and get your Bacalar adventure underway.
Is it cheaper to book a Bacalar holiday as a package?
Expedia holiday packages are designed to help you keep more money in your pocket. Bundle your flight, hotel and car rental into one great-value price and enjoy significant savings. You'll usually score a better deal than booking each component individually. And you'll still have the freedom to create a personalised Bacalar holiday by choosing your preferred airline, accommodation type and car class.
When to book a holiday package to Bacalar?
If you're planning a spur-of-the-moment Bacalar trip, check out our last-minute deals that can be booked up to a week before you go. Prefer not to wait until the last minute? You can land incredible deals on your flights and hotels by booking well in advance.
How to plan a trip to Bacalar?
Pick your dates: The things you want to do in Bacalar and your favourite season will help you decide when to travel.
Set your budget: Factor in costs like flights, transportation and food when calculating how much to set aside for your trip to Bacalar. Then, choose a hotel that suits your budget, whether that's an affordable stay or a swankier getaway.
Decide how long to go away for: Now that you're more familiar with Bacalar, you can work out the ideal length of your break. Pull together a draft plan and allocate enough time to get through everything on your must-do list.
Bundle your airfare and accommodation: Once you've settled on your dates and duration, lock in the ideal Bacalar holiday package for you.
Bacalar is perfect for outdoor and romantic getaways, offering stunning scenery and a variety of activities. Visitors can explore the enchanting Bacalar Lagoon by boat, relax at beautiful beaches, and enjoy the local recreational areas and resorts. Additionally, there are plenty of shopping opportunities to discover. Overall, Bacalar presents an idyllic blend of relaxation and adventure for travellers.
Shopping
Bacalar offers charming local markets where you can find handmade crafts and souvenirs. For a wider selection, if you're up for a drive, visit Plaza Las Américas in Chetumal, featuring various shops and boutiques for gifts and local products.
Recreation
The Municipal Spa of Bacalar offers a tranquil environment perfect for relaxation. With soothing treatments and wellness-focused services, visitors can unwind and rejuvenate amidst the serene vibes of Bacalar, making it an ideal spot to nurture both body and mind.
Adventure
Explore the enchanting Bacalar Lagoon with a kayaking adventure, gliding through crystal-clear waters and discovering hidden cenotes. For a thrilling experience, try stand-up paddleboarding at sunset, soaking in the breathtaking colours as the day fades. Don't miss a boat tour to the famous cenote Azul for a refreshing swim.
Nightlife
Bacalar's nightlife is enchanting, with vibrant beach bars like La Playita offering cocktails by the lagoon. For a lively atmosphere, visit Cenote Azul's evening events. Alternatively, enjoy a laid-back vibe at the rustic El Pez. Each venue showcases the charm of this picturesque town under the stars.
Find the best attractions in Bacalar
Bacalar, Quintana Roo, is an idyllic destination perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking romantic scenery. Visitors can explore captivating attractions such as the stunning Bacalar Lagoon and the serene Lake Bacalar. This picturesque locale offers a delightful blend of nature and city experiences, making it an ideal spot for travellers looking to immerse themselves in breathtaking landscapes and unique outdoor activities.
Cenote Cocalitos: Experience the serene beauty of Cenote Cocalitos, a stunning lagoon surrounded by lush vegetation. This tranquil spot offers picturesque scenery, perfect for relaxation and photography, while allowing you to immerse yourself in nature.
Laguna Bacalar Ecological Park: This ecological reserve is a sanctuary of peace, featuring diverse flora and fauna. Enjoy leisurely strolls or picnics under the sun, while taking in the soothing sounds of nature in a truly relaxing environment.
Cenote Azul: A breathtaking lake known for its crystal-clear waters, Cenote Azul is ideal for romantic getaways. Enjoy beach vibes, swimming, or simply lounging by the water's edge, surrounded by stunning scenery.
Best time to go to Bacalar
The best time to visit Bacalar can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Bacalar falls in August, when visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Bacalar falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.
Tips to save on your trip to Bacalar
Take advantage of package deals on Expedia and combine flights, hotels, or car rentals for a convenient and cost-effective trip to Bacalar.
Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically September to November) for more affordable package holidays to Bacalar.
Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.