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Though we returned from Bacalar, Mexico a couple of weeks in the past, I’m nonetheless interested by it.
There’s one thing about this place that feels utterly completely different from wherever else in Mexico.
Regardless that it was our last cease on virtually a month of exploring Mexico’s Caribbean coast, I’m sharing our ideas on it first.
I feel you’ll completely perceive why we had been so taken with it. It’s a spot that lingers in your reminiscence lengthy after you permit.
First Impressions
However first impressions might be deceiving! Arriving by ADO bus (a 4-hour trip from Playa del Carmen), we stepped off and instantly thought, “Wait, is that this it?”
The principle freeway hit us with numerous mud, a bit of warmth, and the same old automotive fumes.
However after strolling a couple of steps, the scene shifted.
There have been cool murals, bike paths winding by way of uncrowded streets, and thick patches of jungle vegetation, together with umbrella-shaped ceiba timber that nearly appear to take over components of city.
With its relaxed, small-town Mexico-Caribbean really feel, it was clear Bacalar had a singular vibe.
I may sense it had extra layers than we’d initially guessed at arrival.
A Little bit of Bacalar’s Again Story
Bacalar sits close to the Mexico-Belize border, and it’s received a protracted historical past that goes again to the Maya, who valued the spot for its freshwater and strategic location.
Later, it attracted pirates who had been lured by the wealth of the Spanish colonial outposts.
That a part of the city’s story nonetheless pops up right here and there. Particularly whenever you’re floating within the azure waters of the Pirate’s Channel or climbing the stone steps of Fort San Felipe, inbuilt 1733.
In 2006, the Mexican authorities designated Bacalar a Pueblo Mágico (Magical City) giving it just a little additional safety and serving to to protect its distinctive Mexican Caribbean character.
It joins Isla Mujeres, Tulum and Cozumel among the many 4 Pueblo Mágicos in Quintana Roo,
With its bohemian vibe, it jogs my memory a little bit of Mazunte and Sayulita (different Pueblos Mágicos) however is extra laid again and fewer gentrified.
It additionally has a definite Maya Caribbean tradition.
🌟 Associated: Pondering of visiting one other Pueblo Mágico close by? Learn our put up on Impression Isla Mujeres by Secrets and techniques.
Defending Lake Bacalar
Lake Bacalar, famend for its magnificence and delicate ecosystem, faces potential pressures from rising tourism, particularly with the arrival of the high-speed Tren Maya later in 2024.
To guard the lagoon, native authorities have applied measures resembling a sunscreen ban and a weekly “relaxation day” on Wednesdays, prohibiting motorized boats to permit the water to recuperate.
Efforts resembling these intention to steadiness development with sustainability, preserving Bacalar’s pure magnificence for the longer term.
🌟 Professional Tip: Bacalar is a superb choice in the event you’re planning a visit to the Mexican Caribbean between Could and October and wish to keep away from the seasonal sargassum seaweed drawback in Cancun and sure stretches of the Riviera Maya.
High 10 Issues to Do in Bacalar
Right here’s what we’d say are the must-dos in Bacalar. You’ll be able to simply match all of them right into a 3 or 4 day itinerary with out feeling rushed.
1. Take a Lagoon Boat Tour to Cenotes
The Bacalar Lagoon, often known as the “Lagoon of Seven Colors,” is the primary draw on this a part of the Mexican Caribbean.
And with good cause, the water’s hues of blue, turquoise, emerald and jade are actually magical.
A half-day cruise (by sailboat, pontoon or skiff) takes you to a few of its primary spots.
Glide by way of the calm waters to go to three cenotes, then make your strategy to the Pirates’ Channel, the place sure, precise swashbuckling pirates used to sail, lured by the wealth of the Spanish colonial outposts.
It’s a wierd to think about these seventeenth century schooners when you’re simply floating there within the calm, shallow water.
Earlier than heading again, you’ll see the Island of Birds, a sanctuary for the migratory birds. Parakeets, Magnificent Frigatebirds (the biggest colony is on Antigua and Barbuda), Snow Egrets, Ringed Kingfisher and Roseate Spoonbill are only a few of the birds seen within the space.
We did a Bacalar Pontoon Boat Tour twice (sure, it was that tremendous).
Verify costs and availability of a Bacalar Sightseeing Pontoon Tour to Cenotes on Viator.com.
2. Go Crusing on Lake Bacalar
Whereas it may be tempting to do a Bacalar sailboat sightseeing tour as a substitute of a pontoon boat tour, observe that there’s no shade on the sailboats.
Sunscreen is prohibited within the lagoon so it will possibly get fairly intense being within the solar for 3 to 4 hours.
All pontoon and crusing boats observe the same route. The principle variations are in the kind of boat (sailboat vs pontoon), the situation of the boat and whether or not snacks and drinks are included.
3. Kayak or SUP to the Cenotes at Dawn
Whereas it’s doable to lease a kayak or paddleboard and go exploring independently, the best choice is to take a dawn sightseeing stand-up paddleboarding tour.
Not solely will you keep away from the afternoon boat site visitors (and wind), however your information will aid you navigate your strategy to the next cenotes.
Esmeralda: This one’s about 70 metres deep, and the sapphire color is simply surreal.
Cocalitos: You’ll be able to spot stromatolites right here (they’re historical dwelling organisms that add a wild twist to the surroundings).
Negro: It’s the deepest, hitting about 90 metres, and has an virtually mysterious really feel to it. You’ll be able to undoubtedly really feel the distinction in water temperature from cool water drawn from the depths.
The perfect dawn excursions embody espresso and a light-weight breakfast.
Verify costs and availability of a Dawn Paddleboard Cenote Tour on Viator.com.
4. Verify Out the Cool Avenue Artwork
Bacalar has a cool, artsy vibe, with vibrant murals on virtually each nook. From legendary creatures to native legends, the road artwork actually helps seize the essence of Bacalar.
Whereas many of the road artwork is across the central market and zócolo, Bacalar’s creativity spills everywhere in the city so it makes wandering round numerous enjoyable.
5. Float with the Present at Los Rápidos
Spending the day at Los Rápidos is hands-down one of the crucial distinctive experiences! You float down a slender channel with a delicate present by way of an otherworldly panorama.
Beige stromatolites—sedimentary buildings fashioned by the seize of cyanobacteria, organisms which can be among the many Earth’s earliest life varieties — rise from the water like tiny islands.
They’re extremely fragile so be sure you keep away from stepping or knocking into them.
Spending a day on this pure lazy river appears like floating by way of time, surrounded by nature that’s been round for hundreds of thousands of years.
Los Rápidos de Bacalar Lagoon Membership Admission: The doorway charge is 160 MXN (round $8 USD), which provides you entry from 10 am to six pm. Lifejackets are included with admission. You’ll be able to lease kayaks or lounge chairs for an additional cost. Arrive early to keep away from the crowds.
Getting there: It prices 250 pesos every manner by taxi to Bacalar. Prepare for a driver to select you up because it’s not straightforward to flag a taxi and it’s a protracted sizzling stroll to the freeway.
You may as well take a Tour to Los Rápidos and Cenote Azul from Playa del Carmen and Cancun in the event you’re up for a really lengthy day.
6. Browse Handmade Crafts and Pattern Avenue Meals on the Evening Market
Head to the evening market within the zócolo (Google Map) and also you’ll discover stunning handicrafts from woven items to jewelry.
It’s fairly protected to stroll round Bacalar at evening. There’s additionally some wonderful native road meals to pattern.
Be sure you attempt marquesitas, crispy rolled crepes full of edam cheese and your alternative of candy fillings from Nutella to jam.
We first tried marquesitas at Parque de las Palapas after we stayed in downtown Cancun.
The favored, candy and savoury deal with is a singular however scrumptious mixture of textures and flavours!
7. Soak Up Some Historical past at San Felipe Fort
This weathered Spanish fort from the 18th century appears to be like out over the lagoon.
Stroll across the exterior and also you’ll get a way of this space in the course of the time of the pirates. It’s straightforward to think about schooners gliding by way of the lagoon, their sails chopping throughout the horizon.
For those who’re actually into historical past, it may be definitely worth the 200 peso ($10 USD) admission to go to the small Museum of Piracy onsite.
8. Hold Out at a Seaside Membership or Ecoparque Bacalar
For one thing actually low-key, plan on spending a couple of hours simply hanging out on the shoreline of the lagoon.
We loved a peaceable afternoon at La Playita restaurant, the place you may swim, order a couple of tacos or grilled fish, and luxuriate in some upscale cocktails.
It’s received a chill vibe, they usually don’t rush you, so it’s a pleasant spot to unwind.
Different locations to hang around and swim embody Ecoparque Bacalar (C. 36, Mario Villanueva Madrid) the place you stroll a picket boardwalk (admission is 20 pesos) and descend into the waters from steps. It’s open 9:00 am to six:30 pm.
Or, there are balnearios the place you pay to get in. Those we peered into seemed fairly rowdy so we gave them a go.
9. Take a Day Journey to Mahahual
For those who’re craving a basic seashore day of skipping over waves within the ocean, Mahahual is simply an hour and a half away from Bacalar by automotive. You’ll be able to lease a automotive in Chetumal or Tulum and benefit from the flexibility to go exploring.
We lease our automobiles on Discovercars.com. It’s an internet automotive rental reserving website that compares charges from a number of corporations to seek out the most effective deal.
This seaside city has a special vibe from Bacalar, with a protracted stretch of seashore and a mellow boardwalk lined with small eating places, dive outlets, and seashore bars for spending the day lounging, consuming contemporary seafood, and watching the waves roll in.
It’s additionally recognized for its coral reefs, so it’s an ideal spot in the event you’re considering snorkeling or diving. As a result of it’s additionally a cruise port, there’s extra infrastructure for vacationers and it may be crowded when a ship is in.
10. Discover Close by Archeological Websites
Bacalar isn’t simply in regards to the lagoon. A brief drive away, you’ll discover fascinating historical ruins close by that give a glimpse into Maya historical past.
Kohunlich, recognized for its Temple of the Masks, showcases intricate stone carvings of Maya deities.
Dzibanché, with its sprawling plazas, invitations exploration and contemplation. Ichkabal, a newly excavated website lately found by archeologists, will provide contemporary insights into historical Maya civilization as soon as it’s formally open to the general public. Mentioned to rival Chichen Itza in dimension and grandeur, it dates to 400 BC.
The journey by way of jungle roads to achieve them provides a little bit of journey.
Including these day journeys to your Bacalar itinerary rounds out the entire expertise, supplying you with a mixture of nature, historical past, and tradition.
The place to Keep
We stayed in two completely different accommodations in Bacalar, each with a definite really feel:
Casa Chukum – Average Price range
This family-owned and operated boutique resort within the coronary heart of city is an actual discount. We liked its boho stylish vibe with quirky artwork, a great deal of vegetation, communal areas and pure gentle.
Our room was spacious with a balcony overlooking the backyard with its emerald pool. Along with its restaurant/bar the place you may get pleasure from breakfast (200 pesos) there’s a rooftop lounge and terrace.
It’s excellent for enjoyable within the afternoon or watching the moon rise at evening.
In relation to location, Casa Chukum is central, so it’s straightforward to stroll in all places. Service is pleasant and attentive. You’ll depart feeling as if you’ve made new associates.
Verify charges and availability of Casa Chukum on Reserving.com
Amainah Resort – Adults-only Luxurious
This 16-room boutique resort is extra of a “hideaway” spot. Designed with sustainability in thoughts, it’s elevated to protect the delicate ecosystem beneath.
All rooms provide unbelievable views of the lagoon. Our suite (402) with two Queen beds and personal balcony with hammock was a serene retreat, providing panoramic views of the shimmering water.
It additionally has pure linens plus a Nespresso espresso machine, cotton robes and slippers, Good TV and AC.
I liked how Amainah seamlessly incorporates parts from the area’s various pure heritage into its decor.
For instance, the country palapas shading every balcony are produced from locally-sourced palm leaves and the Bali mattress cocoons are handwoven.
The in depth use of concrete and tiles jogged my memory of the award-winning Brutalist-inspired structure of design accommodations in Puerto Escondido resembling Casa TO and Casona Sforza.
The infinity pool echoes the blue of the lagoon itself.
The resort’s Restaurant Amainah is open to the general public with a menu that thoughtfully blends the traditions of Mayan heritage with refined worldwide influences in dishes resembling ceviche, Thai salad and pastas.
Resort Amainah Bacalar is situated throughout the road from Cenote Azul, which you’ll take a look at when you’re there. It was slightly murky attributable to latest rains throughout our go to.
Verify charges and availability of Resort Amainah on Reserving.com.
The place to Eat
Mr. Taco
This fashionable taco joint within the coronary heart of Bacalar (Google Map) serves up freshly-made tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and different tasty bites in a unusual, fiesta-like environment.
The tacos are the true star—assume beef, rooster in mole, mushroom, chicharrón, zucchini, or nopal with chickpea—and at simply 24 MXN (just a little over $1 USD), they’re as straightforward on the pockets as they’re scrumptious!
A beer is 50 pesos and a greater wager than the margaritas.
Chiltepin Marisquillos Bacalar Seafood Restaurant
For a seafood repair, we spent a night at Chiltepin Marisquillos Bacalar, an open air eatery on Av. Costera (Google Map) recognized for its molcajete of aguachile—a seafood medley served in a conventional stone bowl.
The guacamole and ceviches listed here are equally contemporary and flavourful. If the noon warmth requires it, you may leap into their swimming pool in the event you’re inclined.
Service is quick and environment friendly.
Ixchel – Finest Breakfast in Bacalar
For breakfast, we hit up Ixchel (Google Map) situated a couple of blocks from the Municipal Market. This backyard café affords a fairly in depth breakfast and brunch menu.
You’ll discover conventional Yucatecan breakfast dishes, together with Huevos Xchay (with chaya a nutritious inexperienced sourced from the spinach tree) and Huevos Zaci (that includes the famed sausage from Valladolid).
Or go for hotcakes, chilaquiles, avocado toast and croissant sandwiches with salad.
At 175 pesos, the breakfast particular of eggs (scrambled or fried) with beans, toast, fruit and occasional is an particularly whole lot. Closed Mondays.
La Playita
At La Playita, fantastically ready seafood is served in an atmospheric setting set on a pier overlooking the lagoon and framed by lush jungle foliage.
La Playita’s cocktails had been the most effective we had on the town. Carry your swimsuit as post-lunch you may go for a swim off the pier.
Prices and Getting Round
We discovered meals in Bacalar to be barely inexpensive than Tulum however costlier than seashore cities in Oaxaca such Puerto Escondido, Huatulco and Mazunte the place we spend most of our time.
Uber operates in Bacalar however throughout our go to drivers had been usually not accessible.
Taxis are plentiful, clear and protected.
Count on to pay 250 pesos from Bacalar to Los Rápidos. It’s round 50-70 pesos to go most locations round city.
There are a number of biking routes in Bacalar so you can too get round by bike.
In relation to lagoon excursions, the costliest was 750 pesos or $36 USD (included 3 drinks and a fruit snack) with Summertime Excursions on a more recent pontoon full with washroom and rooftop deck.
It additionally included towels, snack, three drinks plus choose up and drop off at our resort.
The most cost effective lagoon tour by pontoon was 400 pesos (round $20 USD). No towels or drinks had been offered however we had been allowed to convey our personal onboard.
It’s additionally doable to take a lagoon tour by skiff however that didn’t look very snug.
How one can Get To Bacalar
Attending to Bacalar is definitely fairly easy. ADO buses connecting Cancun to Chetumal cease at Bacalar. So you may attain it from north or south.
The ADO First Class buses are fairly snug. You get the same old Mexican blockbuster motion film, a bottle of water and an onboard washroom.
Playa del Carmen to Bacalar: We booked our ticket from Playa del Carmen to Bacalar on Bookaway.com because the ADO web site wasn’t displaying availability.
Bacalar to Cancun: In Bacalar we bought the tickets on the station. It was 5 and 1/2 hours from Bacalar to Cancun Worldwide Airport.
It has one airport cease, at Terminal 2 ( Home) so it’s essential to take the shuttle (free) to Terminal 4 in the event you’re flying internationally.
In order for you a quicker choice, you may go along with a shuttle or lease a automotive, which helps you to cease alongside the best way.
We lease our automobiles on Discovercars.com. It’s an internet automotive rental reserving website that compares charges from a number of corporations to seek out the most effective deal.
Verify for the most effective automotive rental charges at Discovercars.com
Closing Ideas
One factor to bear in mind—Bacalar continues to be comparatively quiet, however it’s altering quick. The brand new Tren Maya (Mayan Prepare) challenge will make it a lot simpler to get right here, which suggests extra individuals will begin coming by way of.
The road from Tulum to Bacalar is predicted to be accomplished by the top of 2024. So in the event you’re curious to see it now, I’d say don’t wait too lengthy.
With rising deal with sustainability, I’m hopeful that Bacalar can obtain a steadiness between growth and preservation, safeguarding its magnificence for future generations.
Official Quintana Roo Tourism Web site: Mexican Caribbean