Costa Maya Adventure: Chacchoben Mayan Ruins & Bacalar Lagoon

The Costa Maya Adventure offers travelers a chance to enjoy the rich cultural heritage and captivating natural landscapes of the region. Led by a knowledgeable guide, this tour promises an engaging exploration of the Chacchoben Mayan Ruins and the stunning Bacalar Lagoon. Guests can expect to uncover the intriguing history of the Maya civilization, while also enjoying the serene beauty of the turquoise waters and lush surroundings. With a focus on providing an authentic and memorable experience, this adventure could be the perfect way to discover the hidden gems of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. What secrets might the ancient ruins and serene lagoon hold for those willing to embark on this journey?

Key Points

• This guided tour explores the Mayan heritage and natural landscapes of Costa Maya, including visits to the Chacchoben ruins and Bacalar Lagoon.
• Tour activities include swimming, kayaking, and a fajita lunch, with round-trip transportation and a maximum group size of 80 provided.
• The certified guide offers insights into Mayan and pirate history, enhancing the immersive experience of the region’s cultural legacy.
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible, and guests must be physically fit for the moderate physical activities involved.
• The tour is priced at $99 per adult, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before and a full refund if the cruise ship does not dock.

Tour Overview

The Costa Maya Adventure tour takes visitors on an exploration of the region’s rich Mayan heritage and stunning natural landscapes, featuring visits to the ancient ruins of Chacchoben and the captivating Bacalar Lagoon.

Travelers will explore the history of Chacchoben, a Mayan settlement dating back to 200 BC, guided by knowledgeable local experts.

The tour then ventures to the breathtaking Bacalar Lagoon, known as the ‘Seven Color Lagoon’ for its vibrant, azure hues. Activities at the lagoon include swimming, kayaking, and enjoying a delicious fajita lunch while soaking in the area’s captivating pirate history.

With round-trip transportation and a maximum group size of 80, the Costa Maya Adventure provides an immersive and well-rounded exploration of this remarkable region.

Highlights and Inclusions

A knowledgeable certified guide leads this Costa Maya Adventure, providing insights into Mayan and pirate history throughout the tour.

The tour highlights two stunning destinations – the ancient Chacchoben Mayan ruins dating back to 200 BC and the breathtaking Bacalar Lagoon, known as the ‘Seven Color Lagoon’ for its vibrant hues.

At Bacalar, guests can swim, kayak, and savor a delicious fajita lunch with refreshing drinks like sodas, beer, and margaritas.

The tour also includes bottled water, air-conditioned transportation, and round-trip transfers from the Costa Maya port.

While guests can take photos, a $5 USD copyright fee applies at the Chacchoben ruins, and the use of tripods and drones is prohibited.

Accessibility and Health Restrictions

This Costa Maya Adventure tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but strollers are allowed, and infant seats are available.

Travelers with serious medical conditions or heart problems shouldn’t participate in this excursion. The tour involves moderate physical activity, including walking over uneven terrain at the Chacchoben Mayan Ruins and potentially swimming or kayaking at the Bacalar Lagoon.

Guests must ensure they’re physically fit enough to comfortably complete the activities. The company reserves the right to deny participation to those who may not be able to safely enjoy the tour.

Guests are advised to consult their medical professionals before booking if they’ve any concerns about their ability to participate.

Pricing and Refunds

Cancellation of the Costa Maya Adventure tour is free up to 24 hours before the experience starts, and guests receive a full refund if the cruise ship does not dock at Costa Maya. The tour pricing is competitive, with the total cost including all the key inclusions, such as a knowledgeable guide, meals and drinks, and round-trip transfers.

Inclusions	Pricing
Certified Guide	$99 per adult
Lunch at Bacalar Lagoon	$69 per child (ages 4-12)
Bottled Water	Children under 4 are free
Kayaks	No additional fees for camera usage
Air-conditioned Vehicle

This comprehensive package ensures a worry-free and enjoyable adventure in the beautiful Costa Maya region.

Meeting and Departure Details

The tour departs from the Plaza Las Fuentes, a 15-minute walk from the Costa Maya cruise port.

Travelers meet their guide at Av. Pú del Puerto 1180, 77976 Mahahual, Q.R., Mexico, and the tour leaves one hour after the cruise ship docks, ensuring a timely return before boarding time.

The tour has a maximum capacity of 80 travelers, providing an intimate experience.

Guests should note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but stroller access and infant seats are available.

With a guaranteed return before the cruise ship’s departure, travelers can expect a hassle-free adventure exploring the Chacchoben Mayan Ruins and the captivating Bacalar Lagoon.

Certified Guide and Mayan History

The tour’s certified guide is knowledgeable in Mayan and pirate history, providing guests with an insightful exploration of the ancient ruins and the intriguing past of Bacalar Lagoon. During the tour, travelers learn about the rich cultural heritage of the region, including the significance of the Chacchoben site, which dates back to 200 BC. The guide shares captivating stories of the area’s pirate history, bringing the Bacalar Lagoon’s storied past to life. Through their expertise, guests gain a deeper appreciation for the region’s remarkable history and the enduring legacy of the Maya civilization.

Chacchoben	Bacalar Lagoon
Dates to 200 BC	Known as the "Seven Color Lagoon"
Significant Mayan site	Storied pirate history
Showcases cultural heritage	Stunning natural beauty
Explored with knowledgeable guide	Pirate stories brought to life

Dining and Beverages

During the Costa Maya Adventure tour, guests can indulge in a delectable fajita lunch at Bacalar Lagoon, accompanied by a selection of refreshing beverages including sodas, beer, and margaritas.

This culinary experience showcases the vibrant flavors of the region, allowing guests to savor the local cuisine while taking in the stunning views of the Seven Color Lagoon.

The lunch is included in the tour package, ensuring a well-rounded experience that caters to both the adventurous spirit and the palate of the travelers.

With a focus on providing a high-quality dining experience, the tour aims to elevate the overall enjoyment of the Costa Maya Adventure.

Customer Reviews and Feedback

Guests have, by and large, praised the Costa Maya Adventure tour, bestowing it with an impressive 4.5-star rating across 40 reviews. Many have enthusiastically expressed their intent to rebook the experience, attesting to the tour’s ability to deliver on its promises.

Travelers have consistently highlighted the knowledgeable guides, the breathtaking scenery at both Chacchoben Mayan Ruins and Bacalar Lagoon, as well as the delicious meals served at the latter location.

However, some guests have noted minor issues, such as confusion over meeting points and availability of activities at Bacalar Lagoon. The tour company has acknowledged this feedback and aims to improve coordination to ensure a seamless experience for all participants.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Minimum or Maximum Age Requirements for the Tour?

The tour does not have any age requirements, but it may not be suitable for very young children or those with limited mobility. The operator recommends evaluating individual fitness and accessibility needs before booking.

What Languages Do the Tour Guides Speak?

The tour guides for this excursion are fluent in both English and Spanish, allowing them to provide informative and engaging commentary for guests from various language backgrounds during the Mayan ruins and Bacalar Lagoon portions of the tour.

Can Participants Bring Their Own Snacks or Drinks?

Participants are generally allowed to bring their own snacks and non-alcoholic drinks on the tour. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator ahead of time, as some may have restrictions on outside food and beverages.

Are There Any Fitness Requirements for the Activities?

There are no strict fitness requirements, but participants should be able to walk and swim comfortably. The activities, like kayaking, are suitable for most travelers. Those with serious medical conditions should consult the tour operator before booking.

What Should Participants Bring With Them for the Tour?

Participants should bring swimwear, towels, sunscreen, hats, comfortable walking shoes, and cash for any additional purchases. It’s also recommended to bring camera equipment, though tripods and drones are prohibited at the Mayan ruins site.

Recap

The Costa Maya Adventure provides an exceptional opportunity to explore the region’s rich Mayan heritage and stunning natural beauty.

With a knowledgeable guide, guests can enjoy the history of the Chacchoben Ruins and the captivating Bacalar Lagoon.

Activities like swimming and kayaking, along with a delicious fajita lunch, make this tour a must-experience for anyone seeking an unforgettable cultural and outdoor adventure.