Looking for a special adventure off the tourist trail? Bacalar, located in the south of Quintana Roo, might be the perfect destination. This quaint Caribbean settlement abounds with natural beauty and is steeped in history. The Maya lived here during Pre-Columbian times, naming the area and its beautiful lagoon for the dense reeds that surrounded it. The settlement was later taken by Spanish Conquistadores until pirates invaded and sacked the town in 1642. Bacalar was rebuilt and, in 1792, further protected by the Fortress de San Felipe Bacalar– a magnificent structure that can still be explored today.
In 2006, Mexico’s Secretary of Tourism bestowed a special title on Bacalar in recognition of its historical significance, great traditions and unique attractions. Known as a “Pueblo Magico,” Bacalar promises a magical experience for visitors, especially those who enjoy watersports!
Popular attractions in Bacalar
The star attraction here is the Laguna Bacalar, a massive crystalline lake that dazzles with multiple colors of water. Due to its immense size, visitors might think they’re staring out on the Caribbean Sea! Kayaking across the lake is a popular activity, as is sailing, swimming and even fishing. There are also pontoon boat tours that offer glimpses of the verdant jungles and mangroves that frame the shores. Locals call it the “Lago de los Siete Colores,” the lake of seven colors, because of the vibrant hues rendered by the mix of fresh and salt water.
The Cenote Azul is Bacalar’s second claim to fame. At nearly 300 feet deep and 600 feet wide, this natural sinkhole is one of the largest in the Yucatan. The water is clear and clean and excellent for scuba diving and snorkeling. The cenote is also a favorite swimming spot for locals and visitors. After working up an appetite, you can grab a meal at a restaurant that is perched on the rim of the cenote. Lifejackets are available for rent here.
Brush up on the history of Bacalar with a stop at the San Felipe Fort and museum. Informative exhibits detail what local life was like in the settlement during the Spanish conquest, after the pirate invasions and during the Yucatan’s Caste War.
The state of Quintana Roo is home to several Mayan archeological sites, some of which are convenient to Bacalar. Plan a day trip to the impressive ruins of Dzibanche, where the Maya reined from 300 to 900 A.D. Also close by is Kohunlich, a grandiose complex noted for its temple pool. It is believed that the water’s reflection was used to reflect the stars and make astronomical deductions.
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Read More about Bacalar Attractions:
- Fodor’s Travel, Bacalar https://www.fodors.com/world/mexico-and-central-america/mexico/the-riviera-maya/places/bacalar
- Cancun.com, Multicolored Magical Bacalar https://www.cancun.com/blog/multicolored-magical-bacalar
- Travel Yucatan, Things to Do in Bacalar https://travelyucatan.com/things-to-do-in-bacalar/
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