Isla de los Pájaros - Image 1
1 / 10

Bird Islet / Isla de los Pájaros

4.8
·450 reviews·Bacalar, Mexico

A serene bird sanctuary within Bacalar Lagoon, offering crystal-clear shallow waters for swimming and wildlife observation.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Peaceful atmosphere & sunrise views

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Isla de los Pájaros - Image 1

Bird Islet / Isla de los Pájaros

Best Time

Early mornings

Peaceful atmosphere & sunrise views

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene bird sanctuary within Bacalar Lagoon, offering crystal-clear shallow waters for swimming and wildlife observation.

4.8
(450 reviews)

"Crystal clear water and perfect for swimming. Never drink the water in the lagoon as it is dangerous and full of bacteria."

Vertical photo
TIP

Boat Tour Recommended

Many visitors opt for boat tours to reach the islet and explore the lagoon.

Respect Bird Sanctuary

Observe birds from afar; do not disturb them. Protect the wildlife and their habitat.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Bird Sanctuary Views

Bird Sanctuary Views

Bird Islet

Witness diverse bird species in their natural habitat. A peaceful spot for nature lovers and photographers.

Crystal Clear Waters

Crystal Clear Waters

Bacalar Lagoon surrounding Bird Islet

Swim in incredibly clear, shallow waters. Perfect for a refreshing dip and enjoying the lagoon's natural beauty.

Sunrise Paddleboarding

Sunrise Paddleboarding

Bacalar Lagoon

Experience a breathtaking sunrise from the water. A serene and unforgettable way to start your day.

Reddit
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Respect the Wildlife

Bird Islet is a sanctuary for birds. Visitors are urged to observe from a distance and avoid touching or disturbing the wildlife to protect this delicate ecosystem. Responsible tourism is key to preserving its beauty for future visitors. Reddit

Lagoon Water Safety

While the Bacalar Lagoon's waters are stunning, avoid drinking them as they can contain bacteria. Stick to bottled water for hydration. Enjoy swimming in the shallow, clean areas around the islet. Reddit

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Peaceful atmosphere & sunrise views
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Warm sun for swimming
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Isla de los pájaros, Bacalar💚💜 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . #travelphotography #bacalar #bacalarmexico #bacalarlagoon #bacalarquintanaroomexico #lagunadelos7colores #lagunadebacalar #isla #isladelospajaros #vistashermosas
@ajonathan666
41.4K likes • 2.5M views

Boat Tour Recommended

Many visitors opt for boat tours to reach the islet and explore the lagoon. Reddit

Respect Bird Sanctuary

Observe birds from afar; do not disturb them. Protect the wildlife and their habitat. Reddit

¡Bienvenidos al mejor tour de Bacalar! #TribuNómada #TribuNómadaTravel #Bacalar #Viajes #Cancún 😎
@tribunomada
21.3K likes • 406.2K views
Volvimos a mi lugar favorito en Bacalar! El Hotel Blue Bird #viaje #hotel #bacalar #pueblomagico
@yosoyviajera
17.8K likes • 372.6K views

Bring Your Own Drinks

Pack refreshments for your lagoon excursion. Stay hydrated with bottled water. Reddit

Swim in Shallow Areas

Enjoy the clean, shallow waters around the islet. Avoid drinking lagoon water. Reddit

Nos hospedamos en Blue Bird Bacalar 🌺 Las tarifas dependen de la temporada, pero hay desde $2500 hasta $4000 pesos, incluyen desayuno continental, kayaks, paddle board, wifi, y todas las cabañas tienen aire acondicionado. #bacalar #bacalarmexico #bacalarlagoon #bacalarquintanaroomexico #bacalarhotel #bacalarpueblomagico #lagunadelos7colores #mexico #rivieramaya #latinacontentcreator #longervideo...
@garmardi
9.3K likes • 226.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Boat Tour Recommended

Many visitors opt for boat tours to reach the islet and explore the lagoon. Reddit

Respect Bird Sanctuary

Observe birds from afar; do not disturb them. Protect the wildlife and their habitat. Reddit

Bring Your Own Drinks

Pack refreshments for your lagoon excursion. Stay hydrated with bottled water. Reddit

Swim in Shallow Areas

Enjoy the clean, shallow waters around the islet. Avoid drinking lagoon water. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(450 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the breathtakingly clear, shallow waters surrounding Bird Islet, perfect for swimming and enjoying the serene lagoon. The opportunity to observe birds in their natural habitat is a highlight, though visitors stress the importance of respecting the wildlife sanctuary. Some note that boat tours are the most common way to access the islet.

"We did the lagoon tour and swam in two spots. Took some drinks, Bluetooth some music and had a great time. Fresh water, saw some catfish which they said not to touch. Water was breathtaking.."

Ana Rosales

"Beautiful place to visit. Crystal clear water and perfect for swimming. Never drink the water in the lagoon as it is dangerous and full of bacteria."

Mustapha El Hariri El Nokab

"I did the paddle board tour and watched the sunrise fro here. It was stunning. It’s a place where you can find peace. Would recommend everyone to come here if you are visiting Yucatan."

Scott Huang

What People Like

Crystal clear shallow waters
Peaceful bird sanctuary
Beautiful lagoon scenery

What People Dislike

Need to respect wildlife
Can be crowded on tours

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Bird Islet is best accessed by boat from Bacalar. Many lagoon tours include a stop here, or you can rent kayaks or paddleboards. Some visitors mention spending about 40 minutes at the islet during their boat trips. Reddit

Direct public transport to the islet is not available. The most common way to visit is via organized boat tours on Bacalar Lagoon, which depart from various points along the shore. Reddit

No, Bird Islet is located within Bacalar Lagoon and is only accessible by watercraft. You can drive to the lagoon's edge and then arrange for a boat or water sport rental. Reddit

Boat tours are highly recommended for exploring the lagoon and visiting spots like Bird Islet. Kayaking and paddleboarding are also popular options for a more active experience. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There are typically no separate entrance fees for Bird Islet itself. However, you will need to pay for a boat tour, kayak rental, or paddleboard rental to access it. Reddit

Bird Islet doesn't have official opening hours as it's a natural sanctuary. Access is generally determined by the operating hours of boat tour providers and the daylight hours. Early mornings are popular for sunrise views. Reddit

While there isn't a general admission fee for the entire Bacalar Lagoon, some private establishments along the shore may charge for access to their facilities. Tours to Bird Islet are usually priced collectively. Reddit

Yes, you can visit independently by renting a kayak or paddleboard. This allows for more flexibility in exploring the lagoon at your own pace. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

At Bird Islet, you can observe various bird species in their natural habitat and enjoy the tranquil surroundings. The shallow, clear waters around the islet are also perfect for swimming. Reddit

Yes, the waters around Bird Islet are shallow and clean, making them safe for swimming. However, it's crucial not to drink the lagoon water due to potential bacteria. Reddit

While specific species vary, Bird Islet is known as a sanctuary for various local bird populations. Visitors have reported seeing catfish in the water as well. Reddit

Absolutely not. Visitors are strictly advised not to touch or disturb the birds to protect them and their environment. Guides emphasize the importance of respecting the wildlife. Reddit

The water is described as super shallow, very clean, and breathtakingly clear. It's a beautiful, refreshing environment for swimming and enjoying the lagoon. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture stunning shots of the diverse birdlife, the incredibly clear turquoise waters, and the serene lagoon landscape. Sunrise and sunset offer particularly magical lighting. Reddit

Early mornings are ideal for capturing the soft light of sunrise and observing birds when they are most active. Afternoons offer bright, clear conditions for water photography. Reddit

A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. If you plan on water activities, consider a waterproof case or a waterproof camera to protect your device. Reddit

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and be mindful of the wildlife sanctuary aspect to avoid disturbing the birds or other visitors. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Bird Islet and the surrounding Bacalar Lagoon offer a wonderful experience for families. The shallow, clear waters are perfect for children to splash and play safely. Opting for a boat tour can be a comfortable way to see the islet and other lagoon attractions without too much exertion. Reddit

Remember to pack plenty of sun protection, hats, and most importantly, bottled water for everyone. While the natural beauty is captivating, ensure children understand the importance of not disturbing the birds and respecting the sanctuary. It's a great opportunity to teach them about wildlife conservation in a fun, engaging setting. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Visiting Bird Islet can be budget-friendly if planned wisely. While organized boat tours might have a set price, consider renting a kayak or paddleboard for a more economical exploration of the lagoon. This allows you to control your spending and duration of your visit. Reddit

Pack your own snacks and drinks to avoid purchasing them at tourist spots, which can be pricier. Many accommodations in Bacalar offer good value, allowing you to save money for activities like lagoon excursions. Focus on the natural beauty, which is free to enjoy! Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Bacalar Lagoon by Water

Bird Islet (Isla de los Pájaros) is a gem within the larger Bacalar Lagoon, often referred to as the 'Lagoon of Seven Colors' due to its varying shades of blue. The most popular way to experience the islet and its surroundings is by boat. Many tour operators offer excursions that include stops at Bird Islet, the Pirate's Canal, and the Cenote Negro. These tours provide a comprehensive overview of the lagoon's natural beauty and historical significance. Reddit

For those seeking a more intimate experience, renting a kayak or paddleboard is an excellent alternative. This allows you to navigate the shallow, crystal-clear waters at your own pace, stopping to swim, observe wildlife, and soak in the tranquility. Paddleboarding at sunrise is particularly recommended for its stunning visual appeal and peaceful atmosphere. Reddit

When exploring the lagoon, remember that the water, while beautiful, is not potable. Always bring plenty of bottled water for hydration. Also, be mindful of designated protected areas and always practice responsible tourism to help preserve the lagoon's delicate ecosystem. Reddit

The Importance of Wildlife Conservation

Bird Islet serves as a vital sanctuary for numerous bird species. Visitors are strongly encouraged to maintain a respectful distance and refrain from any actions that could disturb the birds or their nesting sites. Guides often emphasize that some visitors have previously attempted to touch the birds, which is detrimental to their well-being and the preservation of the area. Reddit

This conservation effort extends to the entire Bacalar Lagoon. The community is keen on protecting its natural beauty from the impacts of tourism. By adhering to guidelines, such as not littering and respecting wildlife, visitors contribute to the long-term health of this unique environment. Responsible tourism practices ensure that places like Bird Islet remain pristine for generations to come. Reddit

You may also like