Guide · 2 Places
Bacalar
Mexico
Before You Go
November to April offers best weather (22-30°C/72-86°F) with minimal rain and perfect lagoon conditions - but peak season. May to October brings more rain and heat but fewer tourists and lower prices. Hurricane season June-November. The lagoon is beautiful year-round.
Visa
Check requirementsUS, Canadian, EU, Australian, and many other nationals can enter Mexico visa-free for up to 180 days. You'll receive a FMM (tourist card) on arrival. Check inm.gob.mx.
Getting There
TransportationBy Bus: ADO from Cancún (4-5 hours), Tulum (3 hours), Playa del Carmen (4 hours), Chetumal (1 hour).
By Car: Highway 307 south from Tulum (180km, 2.5 hours) or north from Chetumal (40km).
By Air: Nearest airport is Chetumal (40km), limited service. Most fly to Cancún and bus/drive.
Language
CommunicationSpanish is official. English spoken in some hotels and tourist restaurants, but less than Tulum/Cancún. Basic Spanish helpful.
Currency
Money mattersMexican Peso (MXN). Exchange rate roughly 17-20 MXN per USD. Cards accepted at nicer hotels and restaurants. Cash essential for street food, local restaurants, and activities. ATMs limited - bring cash from Tulum or Chetumal.
Getting Around
Local transportWalking: Downtown Bacalar is small and walkable.
Bicycles: Best way to explore lagoon area. Many hotels provide bikes or rent for 100-200 pesos/day.
Taxis: Limited, negotiate prices (50-150 pesos around town).
Rental Car: Useful for exploring cenotes and Chetumal (300-600 pesos/day).
Boats: Essential for lagoon tours and island visits.
From the Airport
Arrival infoFrom Cancún: ADO bus direct to Bacalar (4.5 hours, 400-600 pesos).
From Chetumal: Local colectivos or taxi (40 min, 50-100 pesos colectivo, 400-600 pesos taxi).