Pair jungle archaeology with lagoon paddling on a single shore excursion from Costa Maya. Explore Chacchoben’s early Maya monuments, then swim or kayak the seven-color waters of Bacalar with a beachfront lunch.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step off the tender into a humid morning where the road unfurls through low tropical forest; within an hour the jungle opens to stone plazas and a silence older than language. At Chacchoben the stones are warm and moss-soft—platforms and stuccoed facades that date back to the early Maya occupation around 200 BC—while the guide points out carved lintels and the blunt geometry of civic architecture reclaimed by ceiba roots.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
5–6 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for people with average fitness—requires short walks over uneven ground and light paddling; basic mobility recommended.
Wildlife
History
Chacchoben is an early Maya site with occupation phases that predate the Classic Maya era; Bacalar later became a strategic shelter exploited by pirates during colonial trade routes.
Conservation
The lagoon relies on groundwater and has limited flushing—use reef-safe products, avoid litter, and stick to marked paths to reduce erosion and water contamination.
Reserve your spot on the Bacalar Lagoon & Chacchoben Mayan Ruins Combo from Costa Maya today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Confirm cruise logistics
Meet at Plaza Las Fuentes a short walk from the port; provide your ship name and return time to avoid missed departures.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
The lagoon is sensitive—use mineral sunscreen and reapply after swimming; it protects you and the water.
Hydrate and carry a refillable bottle
Tropical sun and light exertion make frequent water breaks important; bottled water is provided but a personal bottle is convenient.
Note kayak weight limits
Single kayaks are limited to about 220 lb and doubles to 270 lb—book accordingly or plan to swim from the shore.
Refillable water bottle
Keeps you hydrated during ruins visits and lagoon time; guides usually offer bottled water refills.
Reef-safe sunscreen and a wide-brim hat
Protects skin during exposed stretches on the lagoon and at the ruins.
summer
Comfortable closed-toe walking shoes
Necessary for uneven archaeological paths and short jungle approaches.
Quick-dry swimwear and towel
Allows you to swim or kayak immediately after the archaeological visit without long drying times.
summer