A Serendipitous Start

The sun was just beginning to cast its golden glow over the port of Costa Maya as my wife and I disembarked from our cruise ship. The port itself was a labyrinth of vibrant colors and bustling energy, a maze that seemed to echo the adventurous spirit of the day ahead. We were on a mission to find our guide, Tino, for the Bacalar Lagoon Tour—a journey that promised to unveil the hidden gems of Bacalar’s famed lagoon.

After a bit of a search, we found Tino, a charismatic guide with a wealth of knowledge and a warm smile. To our delight, we discovered that we were the only ones on the tour that day, making it an exclusive adventure just for us. The van that awaited us was pristine and spacious, a perfect start to our day of exploration. As we settled in, Tino handed us cold waters and snacks, setting the tone for a relaxed and informative drive to the lagoon.

The Seven Colors of Bacalar

The drive to Bacalar Lagoon was a scenic journey through lush landscapes, with Tino regaling us with tales of the region’s rich history. His stories made the hour-long drive feel like mere minutes. Upon arrival, the lagoon stretched out before us, a breathtaking expanse of blues that seemed to dance under the sun. It’s no wonder they call it the “Lagoon of Seven Colors.”

We boarded a large pontoon boat, just the two of us and Tino, and set off to explore the lagoon’s wonders. The water was a mesmerizing palette of blues, each shade more captivating than the last. We anchored at two different spots, where we swam and floated in the warm, crystal-clear waters. Tino, ever the gracious host, served us coconut rum and fresh pineapple, adding a tropical touch to our leisurely afternoon.

A Taste of Authentic Mexico

After our time on the lagoon, we made our way to the historic Fort of Bacalar. The fort stood as a silent sentinel, whispering stories of pirates and battles long past. We snapped a few photos, capturing the essence of this storied place before heading to our next destination.

Lunch was at Loco Taco, a roadside gem that promised authentic Mexican flavors. We had pre-ordered our meals, so there was no wait—just the immediate satisfaction of delicious beef tacos, chicken fajitas, and pork tacos. Each bite was a celebration of local cuisine, a perfect end to our day of discovery.

Reflecting on the experience, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the serendipity of the day. From the exclusive tour to the vibrant hues of the lagoon, every moment was a reminder of why we chase these adventures. If you ever find yourself in Bacalar, I highly recommend this tour—and if you can, request Tino. His passion and knowledge truly made the day unforgettable.