Maya Ruins & Lagoon Escape

Experience the best of Costa Maya in one unforgettable day, combining ancient history with the natural beauty of Bacalar’s famous Lagoon of Seven Colors.

Begin your journey stepping into the past at Chacchoben, one of the most important Maya cities in the region. Surrounded by lush jungle, you’ll explore ancient temples, open plazas, and ceremonial structures that date back to around 300 AD. Walk at your own pace through this peaceful archaeological site, enjoying the atmosphere and natural surroundings that once kept these ruins hidden for centuries.

As you explore, you’ll have the opportunity to reach the Gran Basamento, the heart of Chacchoben, where elevated views of the jungle and the main temple create a truly memorable experience. Along the way, you may encounter native plants, tropical birds, and even the occasional spider monkey in their natural habitat.

After the ruins, continue your journey toward Bacalar, a destination known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning shades of blue. Enjoy a scenic drive through southern Quintana Roo before arriving at this relaxing lakeside town.

Once in Bacalar, you’ll visit the historic Fort San Felipe, where you can take in panoramic views of the lagoon and learn about the region’s pirate history. Afterward, you’ll have time to unwind at a beach club or visit a local restaurant such as La Playita, where you can relax by the water, enjoy the view, and experience the laid-back atmosphere that makes Bacalar so special.

This part of the experience is designed for you to enjoy at your own pace, with the flexibility to choose how you spend your time. Food, drinks, and beach club access are not included, allowing you to customize your visit based on your preferences.

This experience is ideal for travelers looking to combine culture, nature, and relaxation into one well-balanced and memorable day.

What´s included:

Round-trip transportation from Costa Maya to Chacchoben and Bacalar
Comfortable vehicle with air conditioning ✔ Entrance fees to Chacchoben
✔ Tickets to the ruins site
✔ Visit the historic San Felipe Fort
✔ Free time at restaurants & beach clubs (food and drinks paid directly)
✔ Complimentary snacks, bottled water, and beers during the ride
Costa Maya souvenir per family to remember your visit

Not included:

Meals at restaurants
Beach club entrance (if applicable)

Gratuities for guides/drivers.

❌ Video recording permit

Tour Itinerary

Duration: 6.5 hours

  • 50 min
    Travel time from Costa Maya to Chacchoben.

  • 10 min
    Break to use facilities at Chacchoben.

  • 1 hr 50 min
    Explore the ruins at your own pace, with the option to hire a guide on-site.

  • 20 min
    Shopping time

  • 40 min
    Travel time from Chacchoben to Bacalar.

  • 15 min
    Transfer to La Playita or another Restaurant.

  • 1 hr
    Free time for lunch and relaxation at the lagoonfront restaurant. (Food and drinks paid directly at the restaurant.)

  • 1 hr 15 min
    Return travel from Bacalar to Costa Maya.

Sedán

Mini van

Van

1 - 4 passengers

4 - 6 passengers

6 - 14 passengers

$440.00 USD

$620.00 USD

$1400.00 USD

  • No booking fees: No hidden or extra fees, just adventure.

    Stress-free booking: Get immediate confirmation.

  • Guaranteed on-time return: Our on-time return guarantee ensures your excursion seamlessly fits into your cruise itinerary.

  • Peace of mind with refund protection: Full refund guarantee if your Costa Maya port call is cancelled.

  • Hassle-free cancellation: Enjoy peace of mind with a full refund for cancellations made up to 2 days before your tour.

Tour Meeting Point

Your tour will depart from the taxi stand just outside the Costa Maya Port exit gate. Once you leave the port area, walk toward the designated taxi pickup area where our team will meet you.

Your confirmation email will include step-by-step directions, a map, and contact numbers to make your meeting point easy to find.

⚠️ Please note: Our family admission policy allows for complimentary admission of up to two infants (aged 0–4) per family. Standard child rates apply for any additional infants.

Booking and Payment Policy

Deposit
To secure your reservation, a 30% deposit of the total tour price is required at the time of booking. The remaining balance is paid on the day of the tour.

You may also choose to pay the full amount in advance if preferred.

Cancellation & No-Show Policy

Cancellation & Refund Policy

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.

Please note that payment processing fees are non-refundable, as they are charged by third-party providers.

If your cruise ship is unable to dock or we cancel the tour, you will receive a 100% full refund.

No-Shows
Guests who fail to attend their scheduled tour will be charged 100% of the total booking amount.

Know Before You Go

Physical Activity Level
This experience involves light to moderate walking and is suitable for most travelers with a basic level of fitness. At Chacchoben, guests should feel comfortable walking on natural paths, where uneven surfaces, small rocks, and tree roots may be present. The visit to Bacalar is relaxed and requires minimal physical effort.

Weather Conditions
This tour operates rain or shine. We recommend checking the weather forecast in advance and dressing accordingly. Bring sun protection for warm days or light rain gear if needed.

Tour Schedule & Requirements
To fully enjoy this combined experience, your cruise ship should remain in port for at least 8 hours. This ensures enough time to visit both Chacchoben and Bacalar comfortably without rushing.

Important Notes & Site Rules
This experience is generally more enjoyable for children ages 6 and up.

At Chacchoben, climbing the main temples is not allowed for preservation purposes. However, visitors are permitted to access the Gran Basamento.

An additional fee (approximately $5 USD) may apply for professional recording devices such as action cameras. This fee is set by the site and paid at the entrance.

Tripods and drones are not permitted within the archaeological area.

Bacalar Experience
In Bacalar, you will have free time to relax at a beach club or visit a local restaurant such as La Playita. This portion of the experience is flexible and designed for you to enjoy at your own pace.

Please note that food, drinks, and beach club access are not included and must be paid directly at the location.

What to Bring
Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for outdoor terrain.
Bring a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses.
If you plan to enjoy the water in Bacalar, bring a swimsuit, towel, and a change of clothes.
Carry extra cash for meals, drinks, or small purchases, as card payments may not always be accepted.

Additional Details
Transportation departs from a convenient meeting point near the port, with detailed instructions provided after booking.

Travel time to Chacchoben is approximately 50 minutes, and the journey continues to Bacalar through scenic areas of southern Quintana Roo.

This experience is designed to be smooth, well-paced, and enjoyable, combining culture, nature, and relaxation in one complete day.