Bacalar and the lagoon of the 7 colors
By Sergio Camalich
January 20, 2015 
Bacalar is a small town located in the southern part of the mexican state of Quintana Roo. Frequently overlooked by tourists in search of white sands and turquoise waters, it is still kind of a lost jewel in the Yucatán Península.
What makes Bacalar so beautiful?
Its huge multicolored lagoon, with 7 different hues, white sands and mangroves which can be kayaked or toured on a boat.
It is also home to a couple of cenotes, some mayan ruins and an impressive fort that was used to protect the city from pirate attacks.
Where to stay?
There are lots of places to stay along the west side of the lake, but the one that won my heart was the very-appropriately-named Magic Hostel, with cabins near the shore, an ample garden, a functional kitchen and the most amazing thing of all, a pier leading into the lake and home to a beautiful landscape, specially at sunrise.
True, at $120 mexican pesos for a dorm without breakfast, it is not the cheapest hostel I’ve ever stayed at, but believe when I say it’s worth it. And you even get free kayaks, if you stay for several nights.
I spent a whole week there, waking up everyday for an early morning swim at sunrise, reading, kayaking and having fun with the friends I made there. I could easily had spent another week there, maybe more.
The lagoon at sunrise
Bacalar is also home to the most delicious nachos I’ve ever tried in my life. And that’s coming from a mexican!
Just look for the restaurant that’s in front of the main plaza, across the fort.
More pictures
If you’re still not convinced of visiting the magic town of Bacalar, here are some pictures that might help you:
The view from the hostel’s pier
Beers, music and friends—the perfect combo for a great time!
Kayaking around the lake
Panoramic of the Bacalar fort
