Chacchoben & Bacalar: Ruins Tour with Lagoon Boat, Tacos & Drinks

Summary

Ancient Chacchoben pyramids then Bacalar’s blue waters by boat

You’ll walk ancient Mayan ruins at Chacchoben with a local guide, cruise across Bacalar Lagoon’s wild blue waters by boat (drinks included), snack on fresh fruit under open sky, then finish with tacos and guacamole before heading back to Costa Maya. Expect laughter, new flavors, and moments that linger long after you return.

What’s the experience like?

Brushing a hand along the cool stone, I tried to picture what Chacchoben must’ve looked like when it was alive with voices. Our guide, Martín, kept switching between Spanish and English—sometimes both in the same sentence—which made me smile. He pointed out a tree where you could smell the sap if you scratched the bark (I did; it was sharp and earthy). There were birds everywhere, some so loud I had to pause to hear Martín’s story about the Mayan calendar carved into one of the stones. I didn’t expect to feel so small standing under those trees, but there it was.

The drive from Costa Maya was longer than I thought—maybe an hour?—but honestly, I didn’t mind. Watching the jungle flicker past felt like its own part of the day trip to Chacchoben and Bacalar. When we finally reached Lake Bacalar for our boat tour, someone in our group let out this little gasp at all those shades of blue. The crew laughed and handed us cold beers (or soda if you wanted), and then we just drifted for a while. The water was warm enough that even I got in—usually I’m chicken about that stuff—and floating there looking up at the sky felt weirdly peaceful.

At some point, our captain sliced up fruit right on the deck—pineapple so sweet it almost stung my tongue—and we passed around plates while trying not to drop anything overboard. Later at lunch (tacos with guacamole at this tiny spot they love), I tried saying “gracias” like Martín did and got teased for my accent. The shrimp tacos were messy but perfect after swimming; my hands still smelled faintly of lime hours later.

I keep thinking about how quiet it got out on Bacalar Lagoon once the motor cut off—just wind and water slapping against the hull. It’s funny how much you notice when you’re not rushing anywhere. If you want a day that feels real—not just photos—you’ll probably get that here.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Chacchoben and Bacalar Lagoon

• Walk through Chacchoben ruins
• Relax on pontoon boat at Bacalar
• Enjoy fruit snack on boat
• Eat authentic Mexican tacos

Top questions

How far is Chacchoben from Costa Maya?

It’s about an hour’s drive from Costa Maya to Chacchoben ruins.

Is swimming allowed during the Bacalar Lagoon boat tour?

Yes, you can swim in Bacalar Lagoon during the boat excursion.

Are drinks included on the boat tour?

Soda, beer, tequila, and bottled water are included during the boat tour.

What kind of food is served for lunch?

The lunch includes pork, beef or shrimp tacos with guacamole; vegetarian/vegan options are available on request.

Is transportation included in this day trip?

Yes, round-trip transportation from Costa Maya is included.

Are snacks provided during the tour?

Yes, fresh fruit snacks are prepared on board during the Bacalar Lagoon cruise.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes, it’s suitable for all physical fitness levels.

Is insurance included in this excursion?

Insurance is included as part of your booking.

What’s included

Your day includes round-trip transportation from Costa Maya to both Chacchoben ruins and Lake Bacalar, guided visits with a local expert like Martín who shares stories along the way, plenty of bottled water plus soda or beer (and tequila if you’re feeling brave) during your boat ride on Bacalar Lagoon; fresh fruit snacks served right on deck; then a sit-down taco lunch—with guacamole—at a favorite local restaurant before heading back in comfort.