Jungle to Sea: Chacchoben Ruins & Mahahual Beach Snorkeling Tour
Active
9h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Enjoy two of Costa Maya’s must-see experiences in one day: ancient Mayan culture and the Caribbean Sea, without the hassle.
Explore the Chacchoben Mayan ruins, surrounded by jungle, with time to walk the site and admire its impressive temples. Then unwind in Mahahual, a charming coastal village, where you’ll take a one-hour guided snorkeling tour near the Mesoamerican Reef.
Complete the experience with free time at the beach, access to a beach club (food and drinks not included), and the chance to enjoy local cuisine, refreshing beverages, and capture the best Caribbean photos.
A well-balanced, affordable, and well-organized tour—perfect for travelers looking to make the most of their time and experience the true essence of Quintana Roo.
Available options
Trip to Mayan Ruins and Caribbean Town with Snorkeling
Pickup included
... Plus a tour guide at ruins
Tour guide english-spanish: This is the standard tour, but it includes a Tour guide during your visit at the ruins. (only at the ruins).<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Bottled water
Free time to explore Mahahual beach.
Pick-up & Drop off
Driver
Transportation in air-conditioned vehicle.
Cooler with sodas and bottled water
Guided Snorkeling tour only for 10 year aged persons and above.
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Discover Chacchoben, the small Mayan city 50 minutes away. from Bacalar. Explore on your own its most important buildings, such as Temple 24, which is a solar observatory; The great foundation that is the political center; in addition to its minor points, which are: Las Vías, a residential complex; and Plaza B, which was the center of public activity in the town.
You can explore the archaeological zone on your own, but if you prefer to have an archaeological guide, let us know in your reservation and we will help you get one.
2
Discover Mahahual, a Caribbean town on the coast of Quintana Roo, which is just a few meters away from the Mesoamerican reef, the second largest in the world!
In Mahahual we will have free time for you to relax at a local beach club so that you can swim on the beach and also so that you have the opportunity to buy your lunch choosing any of the traditional local cuisine dishes, in Mahahual depending on the seasons local dishes are based on fish, snail, crab and snail; You are also going to do an aquatic activity, to complete your experience, which is snorkeling, which in addition to enjoying the sea will allow you to admire marine fauna, where depending on how lucky you are it could be fish, lobsters, snails and turtles.
During your free time you can also walk around the town for the opportunity to buy some local souvenirs.
3
Snorkeling infront of Mahahaual town part of the Mesoamerican Reef the Second Largest in the world.
What's not included
Lunch
Gratuities
Breakfast
Tour Guide in The Mayan Ruins.
Beach club.
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
1 reviews
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4★
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Tripadvisor
5.0
1 reviews
5★
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Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Within the activity time of 11 hours, 4 hours of transportation are contemplated in 1-hour sections.
The visit to the ruins does not include an archaeological guide but we can help you get it.
The snorkeling tour does include the guide.
About Bacalar
Bacalar is a charming town in the state of Quintana Roo, known for its stunning lagoon, the Laguna de Bacalar, which is famous for its seven distinct shades of blue. The town offers a mix of natural beauty, rich history, and a laid-back atmosphere, making it a perfect destination for those seeking a quieter alternative to the bustling Riviera Maya.
Top Attractions
Laguna de Bacalar
The Laguna de Bacalar is a stunning lagoon known for its seven distinct shades of blue, formed by varying depths and mineral content. It offers a variety of water activities and beautiful views.
Nature
Half day to full day
Free to Budget
Fort of San Felipe
This 18th-century fort was built to protect the town from pirates and offers a glimpse into Bacalar's history. Today, it houses a small museum and provides stunning views of the lagoon.
Historical
1-2 hours
Budget
Cenote Azul
Cenote Azul is a beautiful natural sinkhole with crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. It's one of the most popular cenotes in the area.
Nature
Half day
Budget
Must-Try Local Dishes
Pescado a la Veracruzana
A traditional Mexican dish featuring fish cooked in a tomato, olive, and caper sauce.
Main Course
Contains fish and allergens like olives and capers.
Ceviche
Fresh raw fish cured in citrus juices, typically lime, and spiced with ají or chili peppers.
Appetizer
Contains fish and citrus.
Popular Activities
Kayaking
Paddleboarding
Diving
Sunbathing
Swimming
Spa Treatments
Visiting Historical Sites
Local Markets
Best Time to Visit
November to April
This is the dry season, with sunny days and minimal rain, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the lagoon.
24-30°C
75-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Mexican Peso (MXN)
Time Zone
Eastern Standard Time (EST) UTC-5
Electricity
127VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Bacalar is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime can occur. Exercise caution, especially at night and in crowded areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Avoid walking alone at night
- • Use reputable tour operators and taxi services
Getting there
By air
- Chetumal International Airport • 50 km (31 miles)
- Cancún International Airport • 300 km (186 miles)
By bus
Bacalar Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Local buses are affordable and cover most of the town and nearby attractions.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Didi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Town Center
Laguna Side
Day trips
Cenote Azul
10 km (6 miles) • Half day
Cenote Azul is a beautiful natural sinkhole with crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.
Mahahual
100 km (62 miles) • Full day
Mahahual is a charming coastal town known for its beautiful beaches and relaxed atmosphere. It's a great place to spend a day swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying fresh seafood.
Festivals
Festival de la Laguna de Bacalar • Annual, typically in November
Pro tips
- Visit the Fort of San Felipe early in the morning to avoid crowds and the midday heat.
- Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the Laguna de Bacalar at your own pace.
- Try local dishes like Pescado a la Veracruzana and Ceviche for an authentic culinary experience.
- Book accommodations and tours in advance, especially during peak season.
- Carry cash for small vendors and markets, as card acceptance can be limited.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
