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Lagoon · Bacalar, Quintana Roo
Laguna de Bacalar
Freshwater lagoon about 50 km long, called the lagoon of seven shades, with bands of blue and turquoise, stromatolites, channels and cenotes, visited by boat, kayak and paddleboard.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Laguna de Bacalar
The Bacalar lagoon stretches about 50 km from north to south, with a maximum width of 2 km, connected to other lagoons and to Chetumal Bay by channels. It is fed by cenotes and underground rivers, which is why the water is fresh, clear and warm.
The bottom is covered by white carbonate sand, and varying depths create bands of color, from the dark blue of the cenotes to turquoise and light green in the shallow areas, which gave the lagoon the nickname lagoon of seven shades.
In the shallow areas live the stromatolites, rocky formations built by colonies of bacteria over thousands of years, among the oldest life forms on Earth. For that reason they should not be stepped on, and the use of regular sunscreen is not recommended.
Boat tours, with village guides, usually stop at the Canal de los Piratas, where pirates entered the lagoon, at Cenote Esmeralda and at Bird Island. Kayaking and paddleboarding are also done from the bathing spots and hotel piers.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From half a day to a full day.
Best time
In the morning, when the water is usually calmer and the light brings out the colors. From December to April, in the dry season, the bands of blue become more distinct.
How to get there
The village of Bacalar is on the west shore of the lagoon. Boats and kayaks depart from the municipal pier, the beach clubs and the hotels.
Tip
Hire accredited boatmen. Do not step on the stromatolites and use biodegradable sunscreen.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Laguna de Bacalar
How large is the lagoon of Bacalar?
About 50 km long and up to 2 km wide.
What can you see on the boat tour?
The Canal of the Pirates, the Cenote Esmeralda, the stromatolites and Bird Island.
Why shouldn’t you step on the stromatolites?
They are fragile bacterial formations that took thousands of years to form.