Because of its proximity to pristine seashores and well-known Mayan websites, Tulum has lengthy been thought-about the most well liked vacation spot within the Riviera Maya. But now that the world has spent a decade of overcrowding and unsustainable tourism, Bacalar appears to be a trendier and arguably extra charming hamlet about two hours south.
Is Bacalar The New Tulum?
Let’s discover the benefits of this location, which is about 2.5 hours’ journey from Tulum or, alternatively, a shorter 23 miles from Chetumal Airport.
- Compared to Tulum, Bacalar is cleaner as a result of there are fewer potholes and piles of trash, and fewer vacationers additionally contribute to its cleanliness;
- There are fewer folks in Bacalar all year long, whether or not in excessive or off-season, so you will have a way of exclusivity and tranquility;
- Unlike Tulum’s overdeveloped lodge zone, which is filled with Americanisms and international vacationer complexes, it’s the locals who stay there and run the companies, together with eating places and small guesthouses;
- It lacks Tulum’s wild get together tradition and rising crime charge, making it doubtlessly safer and extra family-friendly;
- The heat, clear lagoon is 30 miles lengthy and splendid for boating, swimming and different water sports activities;
- As the luxurious and wellness business grows, charges could grow to be extra engaging in an effort to determine a reputation for themselves and draw in additional guests.
Cons:
- Although Bacalar has a lagoon with probably the most lovely blue water, it’s not a seaside vacation spot.
- It is tough to succeed in and nonstop flights to Chetumal, the closest airport, are presently solely obtainable from Mexico;
- Nightlife in Bacalar is simply a fraction of that in Tulum. It lacks the massive nightclubs and widespread seaside events of Tulum.
5 TOP Things To Do In Bacalar in 2023
- Lake of Seven Colors and its cenotes
- Archeological web site of Kohunlich Ruins
- Visit Fort of San Felipe and Piracy Museum
- Ziplining within the jungle
- Explore the wonderful meals scene
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When in Bacalar
- Fly to Chetumal airport and take a cab to Bacalar for $300 pesos ($15 USD).
- Avoid sporting sunscreen, bug spray, fragrance or cosmetics when coming into the lagoon, as the fragile pH steadiness have to be protected to protect the gorgeous teal and blue colours.
- Stay in motels that take measures to cut back air pollution, particularly these with entry to the lagoon.