Costa Maya: Chacchoben Ruins & Bacalar Lagoon Day Trip

Summary

Explore ancient Mayan ruins then float in Bacalar’s blue lagoon with local flavors and stories along the way

You’ll wander ancient Mayan ruins at Chacchoben with a local guide who brings history alive, then float or swim in Bacalar’s shimmering lagoon before relaxing over lunch by the water. Expect cool shade in the jungle, warm tortillas at your table, and time to just let it all sink in.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wonder what it feels like to walk through a jungle where the only voices are birds and maybe—if you’re lucky—a distant howler monkey? That’s how our day started after stepping off the cruise ship at Costa Maya. Our guide, Luis, met us at Plaza Las Fuentes (it’s about a 15-minute walk from the port, heads up if you’ve got little ones). He handed out cold bottled water right away—bless him, because even early in the morning, the air felt thick with green humidity. I kept brushing my arm against these waxy leaves as we walked into Chacchoben, and there was this earthy smell everywhere, kind of peppery. Luis pointed out a tree that locals call “la ceiba”—he said it connects the underworld and sky in Mayan belief. I tried to repeat the word but tripped over my Spanish; he just grinned.

I didn’t expect the ruins to be so quiet—no crowds, just our small group and some kids from a nearby village selling woven bracelets. The stones were still cool from last night’s rain. Luis told us Chacchoben goes back to 200 BC, which made me pause mid-photo. He had stories about old rituals and showed us carvings that I would’ve totally missed on my own. After wandering through the temples (and getting way too many photos of moss), we piled back into an air-conditioned van—thankful for that blast of cold—and headed toward Bacalar Lagoon.

Bacalar really is something else. The water shifts colors every time you blink—turquoise near the shore, then suddenly deep blue further out. We grabbed kayaks (there’s a weight limit, by the way—Luis checked!) and paddled out until all we could hear was wind and our own splashing. Lunch was simple: fajitas with fresh tortillas right at the edge of the lagoon, plus horchata that tasted faintly of cinnamon. I sat there letting my feet dangle in the water while someone played music from their phone nearby—nothing fancy but honestly perfect after walking all morning.

There’s this moment when you just stop talking because everything—the sun on your skin, breeze off the lake, even a kid laughing somewhere behind you—feels like enough. I still think about that view from my kayak sometimes; it sticks with you in a quiet way.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Mayan ruins and Bacalar lagoon

• Arrive at Costa Maya Port
• Visit Chacchoben archaeological site
• Explore jungle flora and fauna
• Travel to Bacalar lagoon
• Relax, swim, or kayak in lagoon
• Eat fajitas and enjoy drinks

Top questions

How far is Chacchoben from Costa Maya port?

The drive from Costa Maya port to Chacchoben takes about an hour each way by air-conditioned vehicle.

Is lunch included during this day trip?

Yes, lunch is included by Bacalar Lagoon and features fajitas with aguas frescas such as horchata and hibiscus tea.

Are kayaks provided at Bacalar Lagoon?

Yes, kayaks are included for use at Bacalar Lagoon during your visit.

How much walking is involved at Chacchoben?

The tour involves moderate walking on uneven ground around the archaeological site; suitable for most fitness levels.

Is pickup included for cruise passengers?

The tour departs one hour after your cruise arrives; meeting point is Plaza Las Fuentes near Costa Maya Port main access.

What happens if my cruise doesn’t dock?

If your cruise ship does not call port in Costa Maya at all, you will receive a full refund (“no port no pay”).

Are drinks provided during lunch?

Yes, aguas frescas such as horchata, hibiscus tea, and iced tea are served with lunch by Bacalar Lagoon.

Is this tour suitable for children or infants?

The tour offers specialized infant seats and is suitable for all physical fitness levels except those with poor cardiovascular health.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from Costa Maya port area after your ship arrives (just a short walk), guided exploration of Chacchoben Mayan City with a certified guide, bottled water throughout, transport by air-conditioned vehicle between sites, use of kayaks at Bacalar Lagoon (with weight limits), and lunch right on the lagoon shore featuring fajitas and refreshing aguas frescas before heading back to port.