Mexico / Destinations / Laguna Bacalar

Laguna Bacalar

  • Submerged rocks at Laguna Bacalar
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  • Two distant kayaks on Laguna Bacalar
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  • Reed bank on Laguna Bacalar
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  • Lakefront palapa on Laguna Bacalar
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  • Kayaks on jetty at Laguna Bacalar
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  • Jetty on Laguna Bacalar
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  • Garden overlooking Laguna Bacalar
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  • San Felipe Fort overlooking Laguna Bacalar
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  • San Felipe fort in Laguna Bacalar
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  • Family swimming in Laguna Bacalar
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  • Distant boats on Laguna Bacalar
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  • Cenote Azul next to Laguna Bacalar
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  • Boat amongst reeds on Laguna Bacalar
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  • Aerial view of Laguna Bacalar
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  • White buildings overlooking Laguna Bacalar
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  • View towards San Felipe fort from Laguna Bacalar
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In a region famous for its beautiful, sandy white beaches, and scrub-like interior, the sight of Laguna Bacalar comes as a something of a shock.

Located in the south eastern corner of the Yucatan Peninsula, this beautiful, fresh-water lake stretches for some 45kms although it is seldom more than 1km wide. Laguna Bacalar is often referred to as the Lake of the Seven Colours on account of the different hues of blue and green the lake gives off depending on the time of day and weather.

The only urban centre of note is the small, very sleepy town of Bacalar which overlooks the lake. In the centre of town is the Fuerte San Felipe, an 18th century fortress that was built to protect locals from pirate attacks. Not a lot goes on in Bacalar which, for most visitors, is half the appeal.


Beyond The Ordinary arrange fully bonded, tailor made holidays and tours to the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico. Contact one of our experts on 01580 764796, email travel@beyondtheordinary.co.uk or contact us via our website.

The water in Laguna Bacalar is clean and suitable for swimming although the most popular activities take place on the water with a variety of boat trips as well as kayaking.

For those visitors on a circuit of the Yucatan Peninsula, Laguna Bacalar forms a natural break in the long journey between the Mayan ruins of Calakmul and the beach resorts of the east coast such as Tulum and the Riviera Maya.

As an example of a holiday that might include Laguna Bacalar in the itinerary, please refer to our suggested Mayan Odyssey routing.

Accommodation in Laguna Bacalar

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