Parque Ecológico Bacalar
Discover the vibrant 'Lagoon of Seven Colors' at Bacalar's ecological park, featuring a stunning boardwalk and protected ecosystem.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Parque Ecológico Bacalar
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the vibrant 'Lagoon of Seven Colors' at Bacalar's ecological park, featuring a stunning boardwalk and protected ecosystem.
"Well worth the small entry fee for access to the lake and beautiful promenade."
🚫 No Sunscreen in Lagoon
Protect the ecosystem! Opt for rash guards or hats instead of sunscreen before swimming.
🚶♀️ Walk the Super Muelle
Enjoy the expansive boardwalk for stunning lagoon views and swimming access.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Super Muelle (Ecological Boardwalk)
Parque Ecológico Bacalar
An 800-meter elevated boardwalk offering stunning views and direct access to the lagoon's vibrant colors.
Lagoon of Seven Colors
Laguna de Bacalar
Experience the mesmerizing shades of blue and turquoise in this breathtaking natural wonder.
Stromatolites
Laguna de Bacalar
Marvel at these ancient, living fossils that are crucial to the lagoon's unique ecosystem.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Protect the Lagoon's Delicate Ecosystem
Lagoon's Rest Day: Wednesdays
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚫 No Sunscreen in Lagoon
Protect the ecosystem! Opt for rash guards or hats instead of sunscreen before swimming.
🚶♀️ Walk the Super Muelle
Enjoy the expansive boardwalk for stunning lagoon views and swimming access.
🐊 Evening Swim Caution
While entry might be free, crocodiles are present in the evening. Swim with caution or avoid it.
🤫 Respect Quiet Hours
Some visitors complain about loud music. Be mindful of others and enjoy the natural sounds.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚫 No Sunscreen in Lagoon
Protect the ecosystem! Opt for rash guards or hats instead of sunscreen before swimming.
🚶♀️ Walk the Super Muelle
Enjoy the expansive boardwalk for stunning lagoon views and swimming access.
🐊 Evening Swim Caution
While entry might be free, crocodiles are present in the evening. Swim with caution or avoid it.
🤫 Respect Quiet Hours
Some visitors complain about loud music. Be mindful of others and enjoy the natural sounds.
🗓️ Wednesday Lagoon Closure
No boat tours or water activities on Wednesdays to allow the lagoon to rest.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Parque Ecológico Bacalar for its stunning lagoon views and the well-maintained 'super muelle' boardwalk, offering a beautiful spot for swimming and relaxation at a low cost. However, some guests have expressed dissatisfaction with noise levels from other visitors playing loud music, detracting from the natural tranquility.
"Beautiful walkway that takes you out over the lagoon. Great for swimming. We paid $50MX per person during the day. There is no one there in the evening so likely don’t have to pay but there are crocodiles in the water (we saw the tail of one small one) so it is not recommended to swim in the evening"
Sean Pullen
"Came to visit the ecoparque in bacalar and I was left impressed, such a beautiful place with an amazing view. The weather was great and I walked around it just in awe. Definitely recommend you visit it , if you are in bacalar it’s only 20 pesos."
Francisco Diaz
"I cannot stand when people play their music so loud that you can't think straight. Here there was no regulation from the people running the park. The visitors sat down and blasted reggeaton and other very non-natury music. I could feel peace, calm or in enjoy the environment at all.
They don't allow the use of sunscreen to protect the wild, which makes sense, you'd thunk they'd have a little more sense about the noise as well."
Karina
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Parque Ecológico Bacalar is located in Bacalar, Quintana Roo, Mexico. If you're arriving by car, follow signs for the ecopark. Public transport options might involve local buses or colectivos to reach the town of Bacalar, from where you can take a short taxi ride or walk to the park.
Parking availability can vary, especially during peak times. It's advisable to arrive early or consider using local taxis or ride-sharing services if available to avoid parking hassles.
Yes, Bacalar is accessible from major tourist hubs like Cancun and Tulum. ADO buses are a popular and comfortable option for intercity travel. The journey from Cancun can take around 4-5 hours, and from Tulum, it's about 2-3 hours.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is typically very affordable, often around 20-50 MXN per person, making it a budget-friendly attraction.
The ecopark is generally open from Tuesday to Sunday, usually from around 8 AM to 6 PM. It's always a good idea to check for any seasonal changes or specific holiday hours.
Advance booking is usually not required for the ecopark itself, as it's a public access area with a small entry fee. However, for specific tours or activities within Bacalar, booking ahead is recommended.
Yes, to protect the lagoon's ecosystem, sunscreen is not allowed to be used in the water. Visitors are encouraged to wear rash guards or hats. Loud music is also discouraged to maintain a peaceful environment.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can walk the 'super muelle' (ecological boardwalk), swim in the lagoon, relax on the sun loungers, and enjoy the stunning views. Kayaks and other small water devices might be available for rent.
Swimming is generally safe during the day when the park is open and supervised. However, be aware that crocodiles have been spotted in the lagoon, especially in the evenings when the park is closed to the public.
While stromatolites are a key feature of the Bacalar lagoon, they are living organisms and should not be touched or stepped on. The ecopark provides access to the lagoon where you can observe them from a distance.
The ecopark typically offers amenities such as restrooms, changing rooms, lockers, and showers. Wi-Fi may also be available.
Yes, the ecopark is a great spot for bird watching, especially during rainy periods when various species are more active.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the ecopark itself might not have extensive dining options, there are usually vendors or nearby restaurants in Bacalar town where you can find food and drinks. Some beach clubs adjacent to the ecopark may offer food and beverages.
It's generally permissible to bring your own snacks and non-alcoholic beverages, but it's always best to check park regulations upon arrival. Remember to clean up after yourself and dispose of trash properly.
📸 📸 Photography
The 'super muelle' offers incredible panoramic views of the lagoon's colors. The boardwalk itself provides unique angles, and the surrounding natural environment is also very photogenic.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with local authorities or park management before flying a drone to ensure compliance with any restrictions.
Sunny afternoons offer the most vibrant lagoon colors, making them ideal for photography. Early mornings provide softer light and fewer crowds for a more serene shot.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during the day when the park is open and supervised. While there are no extensive playgrounds, the natural beauty and the opportunity to swim in the unique lagoon are often enough to entertain children. Pack plenty of snacks and water, as food options within the park might be limited.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider staying in more affordable accommodations like hostels or guesthouses in Bacalar town, which are often a short walk or taxi ride from the ecopark. Exploring Bacalar on foot or using local colectivos can also help keep transportation costs down.
🌿 Nature Enthusiasts
Embrace the eco-friendly practices by avoiding sunscreen and respecting the lagoon's delicate balance. The 'rest day' on Wednesdays is a good reminder of the importance of conservation. Exploring the 'super muelle' offers a unique perspective on the lagoon's ecosystem and its biodiversity.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of the Lagoon of Seven Colors
The lagoon's ecosystem is incredibly delicate. This is why strict rules are in place, such as the prohibition of sunscreen in the water and the 'rest day' on Wednesdays for boat activities. These measures are vital for preserving the lagoon's pristine condition and the unique life it supports, including the ancient stromatolites.
Visitors can experience the lagoon through various activities like swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, and boat tours. Many tours offer stops at cenotes and sandbars, providing a comprehensive exploration of this natural wonder.
Understanding Stromatolites: Living Fossils
It is crucial to protect these fragile formations. Visitors are strictly forbidden from touching, stepping on, or disturbing the stromatolites in any way. They are vital to the lagoon's ecosystem, contributing to its unique water chemistry and clarity. Observing them respectfully from a distance is the best way to appreciate their significance.
The presence of stromatolites is a testament to the health and purity of the Bacalar lagoon. Their continued preservation is a shared responsibility, ensuring that future generations can witness these natural wonders.
Eco-Conscious Tourism in Bacalar
Key practices include the ban on sunscreen in the lagoon, encouraging the use of reef-safe alternatives or protective clothing like rash guards and hats. The 'rest day' for boat activities on Wednesdays is another significant measure to reduce human impact and allow the environment to recover.
Community involvement is also key, with guardian groups actively participating in cleaning efforts and educating visitors about environmental responsibility. By adhering to these guidelines, visitors contribute to the long-term sustainability of Bacalar as a magical destination.
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