Lake Bacalar is a unique lake of very long and narrow shape. It is located in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo. Many people call it “Lake of seven colors”. It affects clear water and a variety of blue hues shimmering in the sun. The underwater rivers are the main source of lake water. Their pools are the natural limestone pits called senotes.
Lake characteristics
- Length is 26 miles
- Maximum width is 1.4 miles
- Square is 16 miles
History of the lake Bacalar
The Bacalar has an interesting and difficult history. For many centuries the Mayan tribes lived here, which gave the lake exactly this name. The word Bacalar means “surrounded by reeds.”
The city of Bacalar was completely restored only by the beginning of the 20th century.
In the middle of the 16th century, the territory of the lake was captured by a Spanish colonist. And in the 17th century, the city was defeated by pirates and restored almost 80 years later. After the destruction of the city, San Felipe Bacalar was erected, which became a reliable defense of the territory.
Now a huge number of migrants from the United States, Canada, and European countries live here. And of course, now Bacalar is the choice of the majority of local and foreign tourists.
Wild nature on Lake Bacalar
The beauty and purity of the waters are not all that this lake is wonderful for. By the way, The Bacalar ranks second after Lake Chapala in the waters of Mexico in terms of its size.
Despite the fact that lake Bacalar is replete with a variety of shades of water from emerald to black, the flora and fauna here are not rich. Stromatolites mainly grow here. This is a very ancient plant, similar to cauliflower. It grows only here and in several fresh waters of Mexico.
Weekend and holiday on the lake
First, you just have to see The Bacalar. Come, open your eyes and stand still in amazement. Have a picnic, or just relax on the beach and enjoy the magical atmosphere.
The best way to see everything well here is to rent a boat or kayaks. There are a lot of great deals on the beach. You can go on a small trip on the pontoon boats. Mainly for this 2-hour trip groups of tourists are recruited. The cost of such an excursion is 15 US dollars per person.
And the most important thing is to swim and swim again! You cannot imagine how here is a paradise for swimming.
Parks near the lake
The Natural protected area is the National Park of Mexico. You can relax on the lawn, swim in the lake and just walk around the park. Entrance to the park is open from 9 am to 18 pm and costs 16 cents. You can also visit the cozy restaurant and enjoy delicious dishes, considering views around. In general, this is a great place to take a break from the bustle of the city.
Beautiful places around
Of course, the city Bacalar is an amazingly beautiful place on the west coast with a population of 11 000 people.
The main square is located in the center, which is typical of many cities in Mexico.
Here you can walk, sit in a cafe with a great view. Then it is worth visiting Calle 22. It is replete with painted buildings and shops. You can also visit the small Parroquia San Joaquin temple located at the end of the street.
Pay special attention to Fort San Felipe. From here one of the best views of the lake opens. The fort was built in the 18th century as the main defense of the city from pirates. This is a very exciting place for hiking. There are a historical museum and a museum of artifacts on the territory of Fort San Felipe. The entrance to the museums will cost about 3 US dollars.
And not far from the city of Bacalar are the ancient Mayan ruins. This is a famous place Dzibanche. To get to the ruins you need to take a taxi and spend a little more than an hour on the road. Here you can walk along the steps of the ancient pyramids, as well as look at the wild jungle from the sides.
A heavenly place for life
Friendly campgrounds and hotels are waiting for you right on Lake Bacalar. Here there are all options, ranging from democratic and ending with expensive ones. Open any popular rental site and you will find something you enjoy.
In childhood, we all dreamed of living like a fairy tale. Beautiful palace, magnificent nature, wonderful climate. So why not bring it to life?
The lake is a truly fabulous place. Every day, enjoy the gentle breeze and be alone with nature. What else is needed for a happy life!
Here such a wonderful cozy house can become yours. The price of such a house with a patio and the entrance to the lake is 300,000 US dollars.
The best way to get to Lake Bacalar
From Playa Del Carmen
The most convenient and practical route to Lake Bacalar begins in Playa del Carmen.
More than 12 buses depart daily in different directions from the bus station ADO Tourist Terminal Playa Del Carmen. A ticket costs about 16 US dollars. Travel time ranges from 3.5 to 4.5 hours. Schedules see on the website, which is listed at the end of the article.
For foreigners
The closest airport to Playa del Carmen is Cozumel Airport, just 12 miles from the city center. Keep in mind that Cozumel is an island 11 miles to Playa del Carmen. You can reach it by ferry. Adult ticket cost 12 US dollars. The schedule can be found on the ferry company website listed in the “Helpful information” section of the article. All information about buses is presented in detail at the information desk at the airport.
In any case, you have an alternative. You can fly to Cancun International airport, and then get by bus. The schedule and prices are presented in the information department of the airport.
Helpful information
- Tickets and prices for buses – http://www.ticketbus.com.mx/
- ADO Tourist Terminal Playa Del Carmen –http://www.ado.com.mx/
- Cozumel International Airport –http://cozumel-airport.com/
- Cancun International Airport –https://www.cancunairport.com/
- Passenger Ferry company – https://www.ultramarferry.com
