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Los Rapidos Bacalar: Everything You Need to Know
If you’re looking for all the details for visiting Los Rapidos Bacalar Mexico, you’ve come to the right place!
I lived in Mexico for over a year with my family, and we made several trips to Bacalar. Including spending time at Los Rapidos Bacalar.
Bacalar is amazing, and Los Rapidos Bacalar is one of the most popular things to do. But is it worth it if you want more than the perfect IG shot (like the cover photo for this post that I took)?
I’ll share with you travel tips plus the good and the bad, so you can decide if a visit to Los Rapidos Bacalar should be on your Bacalar itinerary.
What is Los Rapidos Bacalar Known For?
Los Rapidos Bacalar is known for its stunning electric blue water and its Lagoon of Seven Colors. It is also home to some of the oldest living lifeforms on our planet – stromatolites.
Stromatolites are layered structures formed by microbial mats that grow in shallow water, often in tidal areas. They are believed to be around 12,000 years old and are incredibly important to the ecosystem of Bacalar.
Stromatolites provide a unique habitat for many species of aquatic life, such as fish, shrimp, and crabs.
They also play an important role in maintaining the health of the lagoon’s water by filtering out pollutants and providing oxygen through photosynthesis.
The presence of stromatolites also helps to protect the shoreline from erosion due to their ability to absorb wave energy.
Visiting Los Rapidos is a must-see for anyone looking to experience one of Mexico’s most beautiful natural wonders.
Not only will you be able to witness these ancient life forms up close, but you’ll also get to enjoy the stunning blue waters and lush mangroves that make this area so special.
I’ll admit, I didn’t know they existed until we got to Bacalar but experiencing them was a trip highlight for all of us!
Where is Los Rapidos Bacalar?
Los Rapidos Bacalar is located on the south coast of Quintana Roo, Mexico. It is a popular attraction in the pretty Pueblo Magico (aka: magic town) of Bacalar.
Los Rapidos is a unique area of the Bacalar Lagoon that could be described as a narrow channel between two sections of the lake.
It is about a five-hour ADO bus ride south of Cancun and can be accessed at km 8 on Hwy 307. They are open 7 days a week from 10 am to 6 pm.
Note: Don’t arrive before 10 am to try and beat the crowds. If you do, you’ll be stuck behind a line of taxis and cars trying to do the same thing. The gate next to the highway remains closed and locked until exactly 10 am.
How to Get to Los Rapidos Bacalar?
Los Rapidos Bacalar is located 12.5 km outside the town of Bacalar, so don’t plan to walk there.
By Public Bus
If you’re looking to explore the natural beauty of Los Rapidos Bacalar on a budget, then taking a public bus is your best bet. In this part of Mexico, the public buses are speedy white vans called colectivos.
Just wave down any colectivo you see in Bacalar town and ask if it’s going toward Los Rapidos. Once you find one going in the right direction, climb in and pay the fee. Usuually it’s less than 30 pesos (1.25 USD).
The colectivo will drop you off at the highway entrance to Los Rapidos and you’ll need to walk another 2 km to the actual Los Rapidos Bacalar entrance.
I don’t recommend this option, especially if you’re traveling with kids or anyone who has trouble walking long distances. The dirt road isn’t stroller, wheelchair, or walker friendly.
By Taxi
To visit Los Rapidos Bacalar by taxi, you can either hail one at a taxi stand in Bacalar town or ask your hotel concierge to call one for you. Generally, the cost is 170 to 200 pesos (10 USD) each way.
If you do this, be sure to tell the taxi driver what time you would like them to return to pick you up.
I’d also recommend you exchange phone or Whatsapp numbers, in case they aren’t there to get you as scheduled.
Note: Knowing some basic Spanish for travel will really help you out here!
By Car
If you’re planning to rent a car for your trip, Los Rapidos Bacalar is an easy 10-minute drive from Bacalar town. Just follow the signs along Hwy 307 and you’ll arrive in no time.
Parking is free at Los Rapidos. Driving in Mexico is pretty easy. We’ve driven all over both Riviera Maya and the rest of the country.
The Yucatan peninsula is one of the easiest places in Mexico to drive because the roads are generally in good condition and are fairly well-marked.
Just remember to always have car insurance and a valid driver’s license.
👉 I recommend using Discover Cars for renting a car on your trip!
How Much Does Los Rapidos Bacalar Cost?
The entrance fee to Los Rapidos Bacalar has continued to rise dramatically. It used to be only 50 pesos in 2021 but is now 150 pesos per person. Kids 2-10 are discounted at 100 pesos, and kids under 2 years old are free.
The entry fee includes only the use of life jackets and access to the river.
Be sure to take sufficient cash for the entry fee and everything else you may want to spend there.
Although they claim to take credit cards, the machine was allegedly down each time we tried to pay with our Visa card. For food and entry fees, which are charged separately.
Things to Do at Los Rapidos Bacalar
There’s more to do at Los Rapidos Bacalar than we expected and we ended up spending several hours there.
Marvel at the Stromatolites
This is your chance to witness the stromatolites that are so important to the ecosystem of Bacalar.
These strange formations are created by microorganisms and you can find them scattered along the shallow edges of Los Rapidos Bacalar’s river.
They look like large rocks but if you take a close look, you’ll see they’re actually living organisms! Be sure not to touch them because even just your hand has natural oils that can severely harm them.
Float in the Lazy River
The river at Los Rapidos Bacalar is a tranquil, natural wonder. It’s one of the main attractions of the area and it’s easy to see why.
The current of the river is surprisingly gentle, so you can easily float along in a life vest. It’s the perfect way to relax and take in its stunning natural beauty.
It’s also a great spot for swimming! The water is crystal clear and there are plenty of nooks and crannies on the shore where you can hide away from other visitors.
Note: Be sure to avoid the stromatolites!
Just grab your life jacket from the entrance and float away! We enjoyed floating without life vests, mostly because they all seemed to be a bit dingy and worn.
But this is a personal preference. Use one if you feel you need it. There are kid sizes available, too.
Rent a Kayak or Paddleboard
For those looking for a bit more adventure, you can rent a kayak or paddleboard at Los Rapidos Bacalar.
The cost is 200 MXN pesos/hour for a single kayak and 400 pesos/hour for a double-seat kayak. Paddleboard rental is 300 pesos/hour. The staff can help you get set up.
This is a fun option if you want to go out and explore the Bacalar Lagoon of Seven Colors. I don’t recommend kayaking or paddleboarding right in front of the restaurant because that’s where many people try to swim.
Please avoid becoming a menace to swimmers or the stromatolites if you rent something at Los Rapidos Bacalar.
Chill in a Hammock
The nice hammocks near and in the lounge area cost money to use, at least during the high season and on weekends. They are shaded and comfy, so they make a good spot to relax with friends or family.
You can also find free hammocks in the river for any guest to use. They are even comfier with the cool river breeze!
Little Man loved playing in one of the river hammocks because he could easily touch the bottom and swim around.
These brightly colored hammocks are perfect for taking a relaxing break and enjoying the sun. Just remember to get out before you start to drift away!
Eat Lunch
Yes, there’s a full-service restaurant at Los Rapidos. I’ll be honest, we ate here and the food was mediocre at best. We came in the afternoon from a half-day trip to the nearby Kohunlich Mayan ruins, so we were hungry!
Even in our starving state, the food was poorly prepared and the service was pretty poor, too. Plus it was overpriced.
Unless you’re desperate like we were, I don’t recommend wasting your time eating here. It’s a nice option if you enjoy the river enough to spend the entire day, though.
They don’t allow outside food, so I recommend eating before you go.
Go Snorkeling
The fish at Los Rapidos Bacalar are pretty, but the real winners are seeing the mangroves and stromatolites underwater! beautiful!
The staff doesn’t have snorkeling gear for rent, so you’ll need to bring your own. That way you can enjoy the colorful fish and even look at the stromatolites up close.
👉 We each have this mask and this snorkel, and love them!
Facilities at Los Rapidos Bacalar
☑️ Lockers (50 MXN pesos + 50 deposit)
☑️ Changing rooms
☑️ River Hammocks
☑️ Restaurant
☑️ Showers
☑️ Bathrooms
☑️ Kayak (extra cost)
☑️ Paddleboards (extra cost)
☑️ Lounge area with sunbeds and chairs (extra cost)
☑️ Hammocks (extra cost)
What to Pack for Los Rapidos Bacalar
If you’re planning a day trip to Los Rapidos Bacalar, there are some essential items you’ll need to pack.
Make sure to bring a swimsuit and towel, a longsleeved rash guard (sunscreen is not allowed due to the damage it causes to the stromatolites), water shoes or sandals, sunglasses, and a hat.
You may also want to bring a waterproof bag for your phone and other items that could get wet.
👉 I love this waist pouch. It triple seals before rolling down to velcro shut. After 2+ years of regular use, I’ve had no problems.
11 Eco-Friendly Tips for Visiting Los Rapidos Bacalar
Visiting Los Rapidos Bacalar is an incredible experience, and it’s important to do so in an eco-friendly way. Here are some tips for visiting the area responsibly:
- If you rent a kayak or paddleboard, don’t anchor yourself or navigate through the mangroves and reeds. These areas serve as a nesting ground for many species of wildlife, so it’s important to avoid disturbing them.
- If you must use sunscreen, then only use biodegradable sunscreen when you’re out on the water. This will help keep the lagoon clean and safe for all visitors.
- Don’t walk on or touch the stromatolites. These ancient organisms are fragile and easily damaged!
- Avoid picking up the chivita snails. These little creatures help keep the lagoon clean, so it’s best to leave them alone.
- Go early in the day to avoid crowds and minimize your impact on the environment. This will also give you more time to explore and enjoy the beauty of Los Rapidos Bacalar without feeling rushed.
- Be mindful of your trash – don’t leave any behind! Bring reusable containers with you to store snacks or drinks, and make sure that anything you bring with you is disposed of properly when you leave.
- Don’t use the clay or mud from the bottom of the lagoon or river to exfoliate your face or body. Everything you exfoliate falls back into the fragile ecosystem and damages it. Plus, it can cause severe skin irritation for you!
- Refrain from navigating, swimming or walking through the reeds. Also, avoid cutting them. These plants serve an essential purpose to our environment! An abundance of species utilize their foliage as nesting sites and they even provide nutrition to wildlife.
- Pay attention to the bouys in the water. They designated restricted areas. Don’t tie up kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, etc to them. Also, do not go into the restricted areas.
- I’d hope this one goes without saying, but don’t use the lagoon or the Los Rapidos river as your toilet. Human waste can harm the local ecology. Use the bathroom facilities before swimming.
- Respect local customs – be aware of any cultural norms that may be different from what you’re used to at home, and be respectful of them while visiting Los Rapidos Bacalar.
These are just a few tips for visiting Los Rapidos Bacalar in an eco-friendly way – by following these guidelines, we can all help protect this beautiful area for generations to come!
Pros and Cons of Los Rapidos Bacalar
Product Pros
Product Cons
Los Rapidos Bacalar: FAQs
Do you still have questions about Los Rapidos Bacalar? Here are some answers to frequently asked questions.
What is the most beautiful thing about Bacalar?
The most beautiful thing about Bacalar is its crystal clear lagoons and the lush vegetation that surrounds them. The area is known for its stromatolites and mangroves, making it a unique and beautiful place to explore.
What is the best season to travel to Bacalar?
The best time to visit Bacalar is during the dry season, from November through April. This is when you’ll find clear waters and warm temperatures.
What is the best area of the Bacalar Lagoon?
The best area of the Bacalar Lagoon is south of Bacalar town but north of Los Rapidos. That’s why taking a kayak out into the Lagoon is so enjoyable!
What are the stromatolites in Bacalar?
The stromatolites in Bacalar are unique geological formations made of layers of sedimentary rock that were deposited by bacteria, algae, and other tiny organisms. They are an important part of the region’s biodiversity, so it is important to respect them and not walk on them!
How safe is Bacalar?
Bacalar is generally very safe. However, as with any place, it’s important to take basic safety precautions such as not leaving your belongings unattended and being aware of your surroundings.
What is the typical food of Bacalar?
The typical food of Bacalar is based on seafood and Mexican cuisine. Popular dishes include ceviche, shrimp tacos, and fish fillets. Marquesitas, quesadillas, and churros are also popular snacks.
What is inside a Stromatolite?
Stromatolites are made up of sedimentary rock, which is deposited by bacteria, algae, and other tiny organisms. Over time these layers build up and form a solid rock-like structure. Inside the stromatolite, you can find small fossils, shells, and other artifacts.
How to dress for Bacalar?
It’s best to wear light clothing when you’re visiting Bacalar. It can get hot during the day, so it’s important to stay cool. Make sure to bring a long-sleeved rash guard, water shoes or sandals, sunglasses, and a hat.
What is missing from Bacalar?
There are limited facilities for either paying by credit card or even getting cash from an ATM. Not all restaurants and hotels take credit cards, Plus, the ATM in the Zocalo was closed during renovations for almost a year. When it’s working it sometimes runs out of funds.
What kind of water is there in Bacalar?
The water in the Bacalar lagoon is freshwater. It’s not salty. The water is usually crystal clear, making it perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. You can also take boat tours of the lagoon!
What does the word Bacalar mean?
The word Bacalar means ‘place of many wells’ in the Mayan language. This is because of the numerous freshwater wells that were discovered in the area.
What animals live in Bacalar?
The lagoon is home to a variety of endemic species. You can find crocodiles, manatees, turtles, and various types of fish. There are also a variety of bird species that inhabit the area, such as kingfishers and ospreys.
What is the closest airport to Bacalar?
The closest airport to Bacalar is the Chetumal International Airport, which is located just over an hour away. From there you can take a bus or taxi to the town of Bacalar. The Cancun airport is approximately five hours away.
How long is it from Bacalar to Tulum?
It takes about two hours to get from Bacalar to Tulum by car. This can vary depending on traffic, but it’s usually a relatively easy drive. You can also take a bus from Bacalar to Tulum, which takes around three hours.
What to do in Bacalar with little money?
There are plenty of things to do in Bacalar without spending a lot of money. You can walk down to the public pier to swim in the lagoon, wander around the fort ruins, or hang out at the zocalo.
How much does it cost to go to the lagoon of the 7 colors?
The cheapest way to visit the lagoon is to to take the bus down from Riviera Maya and then walk to the public pier to watch or swim in the lagoon. However, if you want to see all the different shades of blue in the water then you’ll need to do a boat tour.
How is life in Bacalar?
Life in Bacalar is relaxed and peaceful. The town has retained its traditional Mayan culture and the people are friendly and welcoming. The pace of life is a little slower than in larger Mexican cities and the locals often take time to enjoy nature and visit the various attractions in the area.
What is produced in Bacalar?
The main product of Bacalar is tourism. The town has become a popular destination for travelers looking to experience Mexico’s Caribbean coast in a more relaxed environment.
In addition, there are several local businesses that produce artisanal items such as handmade jewelry, pottery and woven baskets. The local people also fish and raise chickens, pigs, cows and goats for their own consumption.
Why the colors of the Bacalar Lagoon?
The colors of the Bacalar Lagoon are due to the stromatolites found in the area. Stromatolites are microbial structures made up of calcium carbonate, and the varying hues in the lagoon are created by the sunlight reflecting off these stromatolites.
Where to bathe in the Bacalar Lagoon?
The easiest place to take a dip in the Bacalar Lagoon is at the public pier. Here you can swim, snorkel or kayak in the crystal clear waters. With a boat tour, you can swim in a less touristy party of the lagoon.
What is the name of the Bacalar cenote?
There are several cenotes in Bacalar. The two most popular cenotes in Bacalar are Cenote Azul and Cocalitos.
Where is the best place to stay in Bacalar?
Mia Bacalar Resort & Spa is the best place to stay in Bacalar. This resort offers an outdoor pool, spa services, and a restaurant. Plus, the resort is located right on the beautiful Lagoon of Seven Colors!
Where is the lagoon of the 7 colors?
The Lagoon of the Seven Colors is located in Bacalar, Mexico, which is on the Caribbean coast of the Yucatan peninsula.
What is better to go to Holbox or Bacalar?
It depends on your preferences. Holbox is a small, laid-back island with stunning beaches and plenty of activities such as fishing and boating. Bacalar, on the other hand, is known for its lagoon of seven colors and a slower pace of life.
What is the most beautiful part of the Bacalar Lagoon?
The most beautiful part of the Bacalar Lagoon is Punta Tunich, which has several shades of blue and turquoise. Here you can find a beach club that’s perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
👉 While we have global health insurance for our day-to-day lives, we also elect travel insurance with SafetyWing for our spurts of fast travel adventure!
Final Thoughts on Los Rapidos Bacalar
If you’re looking for a peaceful and refreshing place to spend the day, Los Rapidos Bacalar is an excellent option. The lush vegetation, crystal clear waters, and lazy river are perfect for relaxation.
Visitors can also enjoy activities such as swimming, kayaking, and snorkeling in the area. Skip eating in the restaurant!
Although it can get crowded during peak times, the scenery is worth it. Just remember to bring a waterproof phone case, water shoes, and a towel so you can fully enjoy your time there.
Don’t forget to keep an eye out for the colorful fish and stromatolites while swimming and snorkeling!
For those looking for an unforgettable experience in the Mexican Caribbean, Los Rapidos Bacalar is definitely a must-see.
Happy travels! 💦
