Some places are best enjoyed in a hurry. Bacalar is not one of them.
About forty minutes from Chetumal, three and a half hours from Cancún, or two hours from Tulum, this freshwater lagoon offers a spectacle that geology and light have conspired to make truly unique. It’s no exaggeration: the seven shades of blue that shift with the sun aren’t an Instagram filter, but the result of white seabeds, deep springs, and the presence of stromatolites—those living organisms that have been on the planet for over 3.5 billion years and which, by the way, deserve our careful treatment.
Bacalar doesn’t compete with Tulum, nor does it care to. They’re different experiences. Tulum is all about energy, fashion, ruins by the sea, and a culinary scene that never sleeps. Bacalar, on the other hand, invites you to slow down. Here, luxury is time. That’s why hotels like Azul Nomeolvides—recommended by The New York Times and National Geographic—have struck an exemplary balance: internationally acclaimed architectural design, impeccable comfort, and a genuine commitment to sustainability. It’s not just green posturing. It’s water treatment, solar energy, and zero plastic in an environment that deserves respect.
How to get to Bacalar
From Cancún
For those traveling from Cancún, the most common way to get to Bacalar is by bus. The ADO bus company offers daily service, with the trip taking approximately 5 hours. Alternatively, if you prefer more flexibility, you might consider renting a car. The drive takes about 4 hours, following Highway 307 south.
From Tulum
From Tulum, Bacalar is just a 2.5-hour drive away. You can rent a car or take an ADO bus, which also runs regularly between these towns. The drive will allow you to enjoy the scenery of the peninsula as you approach your destination.
From Chetumal
If you're coming from Chetumal, Bacalar is easily accessible in 30 minutes by taxi or car. There are also ADO buses that run this route frequently, making it a convenient and affordable option.
Private transportation
For those looking for convenience, renting a car may be the best option. With a rental car or a private driver, you can get around at your own pace and explore the area around Bacalar. If you decide to opt for private transportation, we can help you book it once you’ve confirmed your stay with us. That way, you can enjoy a worry-free experience.
Maya Train: Is it worth taking to get to Bacalar?
A common question among travelers planning a trip to Bacalar is whether they should take the Maya Train. The short answer is: yes, but with some caveats.
Currently, the Maya Train operates regularly on its various routes, including the line connecting Cancún, Tulum, Felipe Carrillo Puerto, and Chetumal—the latter just 40 minutes from Bacalar. The stations are modern, the cars are comfortable, and the system offers a high level of safety. However, schedules remain limited, and some terminals (such as the one in Chetumal) are not located in the city center, so additional transportation is required.
For those looking to avoid highways or who simply want to experience traveling across the peninsula by rail, this is a reliable option. But you need to plan ahead.
Want to learn more? Read here: The Maya Train: A developing option for exploring southeastern Mexico