Beautiful Bacalar

After a fantastic week in Akumal and Cozumel with Ragnhild, it was time for her to head back to Xalapa and for me to start my solo tour. I wanted to see as much possible during my short week alone, and following several recommendations I travelled further down south towards Costa Maya’s Bacalar – also known as La Laguna de los Siete Colores because of the lagoon’s seven colours ranging from light green to dark blue. I love being close to water – be it the sea, a lake or a Norwegian fjord – so this definitely sounded like a destination worth the journey!

Following a ferry ride over to the mainland from Cozumel and a four-hour bus trip from Playa del Carmen, I arrived in glorious sunshine and sweltering heat. As I walked through the gates of my hotel, I was completely mesmerized by the view of the lagoon’s colourful and crystal clear waters surrounded by tropical rainforest and a setting sun. I only had one full day to spend in Bacalar, so I knew I really had to make the most of it. Organizing excursions when you’re travelling alone during low-season isn’t always the easiest thing – most tours require minimum two people and are then still much more expensive than joining a larger group. However, everything becomes possible when you find somebody who is really passionate about sharing the beauty and history of the place you are visiting! When in Bacalar, just ask for Daniel and Maria and their eco-friendly catamaran.

In the end, I spent my afternoon sailing across the lagoon, learning about the importance of preserving its environment and snorkelling among eerie yet stunning tree roots in one of its cenotes. I even received a thorough history lesson about the centuries of battles between Mayans, Spanish conquistadores and pirates in the area. An already incredible day was concluded with an evening tour around the town, including a look at the Fortress of San Felipe, a short after-hours visit to Cenote Azul and a taste of Mexican beer and tequila at what I was told is Bacalar’s only bar.

Ready to explore the lagoon

And off we go...!

Snorkeling in one of the lagoon's cenotes

Graffiti in the middle of the lagoon

Creepy birds watching our every move

Remnants of a failed attempt to build a bar in the middle of the lagoon

Stormy weather approaching! We headed back in pouring rain.. Quite an adventure!

Enjoying the ride :)

Two of the lagoon's seven colours!

Amazing view from my hotel

Cenote Azul!

I wish I could have stayed longer, but I already had a seat booked on a bus heading back north early the next morning, and so it was time for me to move on to my next destination. My stay in beautiful Bacalar was short but sweet, and I definitely recommend visiting this hidden treasure in the Mexican Caribbean!