The Lagoon of Seven Colors and the Jewel of Quintana Roo
Nestled on the southern edge of Mexico’s Quintana Roo state, Bacalar is a hidden
gem renowned for its breathtaking “Lagoon of Seven Colors,” a unique freshwater
lake that captivates visitors with its vivid shades of blue and turquoise. Often
overshadowed by the bustling coastal destinations of Cancun and Tulum, Bacalar
offers a more tranquil and authentic escape. Its peaceful ambiance, lush natural
surroundings, and charming small-town feel make it an ideal destination for those
seeking a slower, nature-centered experience. With its blend of history, natural
beauty, and adventure, Bacalar is a place where time seems to slow, inviting you to
immerse yourself in its serene and almost magical atmosphere.
The Lagoon of Seven Colors
The crown jewel of Bacalar is undoubtedly its lagoon. Known as the “Lagoon of
Seven Colors,” it is named for the striking hues that range from deep indigo to light
turquoise, created by the varying depths and mineral composition of the water.
Stretching over 42 kilometers in length, the lagoon offers countless opportunities
for exploration, from kayaking and paddleboarding to boat tours and snorkeling.
Unlike the Caribbean beaches that make Quintana Roo famous, Bacalar’s lagoon
is freshwater, fed by underground rivers and cenotes that keep the water crystal-
clear and cool.
What truly sets the lagoon apart is its unique ecosystem, home to one of the
world’s oldest living organisms—stromatolites. These rock-like formations,
sometimes called “living fossils,” are formed by colonies of cyanobacteria that date
back over 3.5 billion years. Stromatolites produce oxygen, and their presence in
Bacalar is not only scientifically significant but also adds to the area’s mystical feel.
Swimming or snorkeling near these ancient structures gives visitors a rare chance
to witness one of Earth’s earliest forms of life.
The lagoon’s calm, shallow waters make it perfect for a variety of water-based
activities. Kayaking is one of the most popular ways to experience the lagoon,
allowing you to explore hidden coves, discover sandbars, and even spot native bird
species along the shoreline. Paddleboarding is another excellent choice for those
seeking a meditative experience; as you glide over the water, you can appreciate
the beauty of the lagoon from an almost dreamlike perspective.
Boat tours are a fantastic way to see the entirety of Bacalar’s lagoon, including its
many cenotes, or sinkholes, which are interconnected with the lake and contribute
to its fresh, pure waters. Popular stops on boat tours include Cenote Azul, a deep
and awe-inspiring cenote famous for its navy blue color, and Cenote Esmeralda,
where the water takes on a brilliant green hue. Some tours also take you to “El
Canal de los Piratas” (the Pirates’ Channel), a narrow strip of the lagoon with white
sand and shallow water, perfect for a refreshing swim or a mud bath with the
lagoon’s mineral-rich sediment, said to have rejuvenating properties.
For those interested in diving, Bacalar’s lagoon offers unique experiences thanks
to its clear waters and diverse underwater landscape. Dive shops in Bacalar
provide tours of the cenotes and lagoon, giving you a chance to explore beneath
the water’s surface and appreciate the geological formations and thriving marine
life.
Bacalar’s history dates back centuries, rooted deeply in Mayan civilization. The
Maya called Bacalar “Bakhalal,” meaning “surrounded by reeds,” and the area
served as a key location for Mayan communities due to its access to freshwater
and its strategic position along trade routes. The Mayans used Bacalar as a trading
post where they exchanged goods like jade, obsidian, cacao, and textiles. The rich
cultural heritage of Bacalar is still evident today in its traditions, architecture, and
warm hospitality.
One of Bacalar’s most notable historical landmarks is the Fort of San Felipe,
constructed by Spanish settlers in 1733 to protect the area from frequent pirate
attacks. In the 17th and 18th centuries, pirates would regularly invade Bacalar,
attracted by the goods traded in the region. Today, the fort houses a small museum
that offers insights into Bacalar’s past, including artifacts, maps, and exhibits on the
history of piracy in the Caribbean. The fort’s elevated position also provides a
panoramic view of the lagoon, perfect for photography or simply taking in the
scenery.
What truly sets Bacalar apart is its peacefulness. Far from the noise and crowds of
more commercialized destinations, Bacalar is a place where you can reconnect
with nature, appreciate the tranquility, and experience the warmth of a small-town
community. Whether you’re floating in the lagoon, watching the stars from a dock,
or strolling through the town square, Bacalar’s charm lies in its ability to transport
you to a world where simplicity and natural beauty reign supreme. A visit to Bacalar
is not just a vacation but an invitation to experience a different pace of life—one
that honors both nature and history in a setting of incomparable beauty.
