The town of Bacalar is located on the west shore of the lake and adds coziness to this marvel of nature. We recommend spending a day or two exploring the Bacalar area. We prefer to relax whenever we visit the lagoon, but there’s a ton to do here as well.

Start with spending time in a unique hotel facing the lagoon and watching how those shades of blue are changing throughout the day. Then hop on a half-day boat tour and visit some remote features of the lagoon.

And of course, stroll through the authentic town and get some food. We also encourage you to visit Bacalar while it’s still considered off the beaten path compared to Tulum or Valladolid. Its nature is still untouched, and the town feels much more authentic.

Bacalar Town

Cenote Azul is a natural swimming hole just outside of Bacalar town. The cenote is known for its crystal-clear blue waters, which are surrounded by lush vegetation and towering trees. The water is also quite deep, making it a great spot for diving and snorkeling.

One unique feature of Cenote Azul is that it is actually part of a larger system of underground rivers and caves that run throughout the Yucatan Peninsula. The cenote is connected to several other nearby cenotes, which means that you can explore the entire network of underground waterways if you are an experienced diver and feeling adventurous.

You can access the cenote via a series of wooden platforms and stairs that lead down to the water's edge. There are also several small restaurants and food stands nearby where visitors can grab a bite to eat or a refreshing drink.

Cenote Azul

Bacalar Lagoon is a unique, crystal-clear freshwater lake with all kinds of hues of blue – from dark turquoise to sandy-clear blue, similar to those you can find in the Maldives. Some even call this lagoon the “Maldives of Mexico”.

You can swim, snorkel, kayak, and paddleboard in the lagoon, but we recommend taking a boat tour to truly appreciate the beauty of this place by exploring its various channels and also learning about its history and ecology. Check out our vetted recommendations in the links section.

Sailboat tour

Boat tour

Kayak rentals

Laguna Bacalar

Roman

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I’d consider Casa Hormiga if you want a boutique hotel stay. Being downtown is handy for exploring.

We couldn't believe that a small nearby destination can offer such a diverse and epic adventure. But Yucatan delivered, with its unique mix of beautiful white-sand beaches, stunning nature with wildlife, and Mayan ruins with one of the seven wonders of the world – Chichen Itza. Enjoy!

Casa Hormiga is a beautiful boutique hotel located in the heart of Bacalar. The hotel's name, which means "Ant House," reflects the local belief that Bacalar is a sacred place where Mayan gods lived and where they observed the behavior of ants. This unique concept is reflected in the hotel's design and decor, which blend Mayan elements with modern touches.

The hotel features spacious and stylish rooms that are designed to provide a comfortable and relaxing stay. Each room is decorated with natural materials like stone, wood, and local textiles, and is equipped with all the necessary amenities. Some rooms have private balconies or terraces with stunning views of the lagoon.

As a guest of Casa Hormiga, you’ll have an exclusive spot at La Playita Bacalar, Bacalar’s favorite restaurant and beach club, only a short walking distance from the Casa Casa Hormiga's central location makes it an ideal base for exploring Bacalar, including the beautiful lagoon, the San Felipe Fort, and local restaurants serving delicious cuisine. 

Start their day with a delicious breakfast featuring fresh, local ingredients served in the hotel's dining area or on the terrace overlooking the lagoon. The hotel also has a beautiful outdoor pool surrounded by a lush tropical garden, where you can relax and unwind.

Casa Hormiga

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Yucatecan Adventure

Known as the lagoon of seven colors, Bacalar is a serene paradise perfect for kayaking or simply floating on its tranquil waters. Don't forget to swing by the Cenote Azul for a dip in its crystal-clear depths.

Bacalar

Casa Hormiga

How this stay fits your trip

Before booking

Selected in Fyno’s saved routes

Things to do around Bacalar

Laguna Bacalar

Bacalar Town

Cenote Azul

Yucatán Peninsula routes to compare