
Chacchoben Mayan Ruins and Bacalar Lagoon Combo from Costa Maya
Traveler rating
4.6/5
Based on 99 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Chacchoben Mayan Ruins and Bacalar Lagoon Combo from Costa Maya worth booking?
Chacchoben Mayan Ruins and Bacalar Lagoon Combo from Costa Maya is a 5.5-hour experience in Costa Maya, Mexico, from $116 per person. It scores 74 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 4.6/5 rating across 99 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 74 / 100
- Rating
- 4.6/5 (99)
- Duration
- 5.5 hours
- From
- $116 per person
Explore two of Costa Maya’s highlights in one shore excursion, on a journey from the ancient Maya to the pirates of Bacalar. Discover the Chacchoben Mayan Ruins, an ancient city dating back to around 200 BC and surrounded by tropical jungle. Walk among impressive temples and ceremonial structures while your guide brings the history of the Maya civilization to life, with native flora and wildlife all around you. Continue to Bacalar’s Seven Color Lagoon, once a haven for pirates and today famous for its remarkable shades of blue and turquoise. Swim, kayak, or simply relax by the lagoon before enjoying fajitas and a refreshing drink overlooking the water. From ancient Maya temples surrounded by jungle to swimming in the waters of Bacalar, this experience combines history, nature, and time to relax in two of Costa Maya’s most fascinating destinations.
What you get
About this experience
Explore two of Costa Maya’s highlights in one shore excursion, on a journey from the ancient Maya to the pirates of Bacalar. Discover the Chacchoben Mayan Ruins, an ancient city dating back to around 200 BC and surrounded by tropical jungle. Walk among impressive temples and ceremonial structures while your guide brings the history of the Maya civilization to life, with native flora and wildlife all around you. Continue to Bacalar’s Seven Color Lagoon, once a haven for pirates and today famous for its remarkable shades of blue and turquoise. Swim, kayak, or simply relax by the lagoon before enjoying fajitas and a refreshing drink overlooking the water. From ancient Maya temples surrounded by jungle to swimming in the waters of Bacalar, this experience combines history, nature, and time to relax in two of Costa Maya’s most fascinating destinations.
What's included
Included
- Two alcoholic drinks for guests 21+
- Kayaks and life jackets
- Entrance fees and tickets to Chacchoben Mayan Ruins
- Access to Bacalar Seven Color Lagoon with loungers and facilities
- Round-trip transportation from Costa Maya in an air-conditioned vehicle
- Guided tour of Chacchoben Mayan Ruins
- Lunch
- Certified tour guide
Not included
- Gratuities
- Souvenirs
- $5.00 USD copyright fee for the use of cameras at the Mayan City. This fee is paid directly at site.
- Alcoholic beverages
What you'll see and do
Zona Arqueologica De Chacchoben
Your adventure begins one hour after your cruise ship arrives in Costa Maya. Travel into the tropical jungle to explore the Chacchoben Mayan Ruins, an ancient Maya city dating back to around 200 BC. Follow your guide through the archaeological site as you discover impressive temples and ceremonial structures while learning about the history and culture of the Maya civilization. Along the way, enjoy the surrounding jungle and keep an eye out for native flora and wildlife. After exploring Chacchoben, continue to Bacalar Lagoon for the second part of your adventure.
90 minutes here · Admission included
Lake Bacalar
Continue to Bacalar’s Seven Color Lagoon, once a haven for pirates and today famous for its striking shades of blue and turquoise. Spend time by the freshwater lagoon where you can swim, relax by the water, or enjoy a kayak ride, while taking in the scenery. During your stay, enjoy fajitas and a refreshing drink by the lagoon. After your time at Bacalar, enjoy a smooth ride back to Costa Maya Port.
120 minutes here · Admission included
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Costa Maya
Your tour departs one hour after your cruise arrives at Costa Maya Port. Meet at Plaza Las Fuentes, just outside the port area. Allow 15 minutes to walk from your ship. Provide your full cruise ship name when booking. Detailed directions and a map will follow confirmation.
Hotel pickup
Pickup is available for selected locations. Pickup begins about 45 minutes before departure.
Ends at
Your tour departs one hour after your cruise arrives at Costa Maya Port. Meet at Plaza Las Fuentes, just outside the port area. Allow 15 minutes to walk from your ship. Provide your full cruise ship name when booking. Detailed directions and a map will follow confirmation.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en, es
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Shore Excursions
Know before you go
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- This tour will depart one hour after your cruise arrives to port from Plaza Las Fuentes, conveniently located just a few steps away from the main access of Costa Maya Port.
- Please note that the total walking time from your cruise ship to the meeting point is about 15 minutes.
- Maximize your afternoon in Costa Maya: Cruise guests arriving after 12PM make the most of your limited time in port by booking our Ancient Mayan City of Chacchoben Tour
- No port, no pay! Guaranteed full refund if your cruise ship does not call port in Costa Maya at all
- Please provide your full cruise ship name and scheduled docking time when booking.
- This experience is best appreciated by children ages 6 and older.
- Visitors are not permitted to climb the temples.
- Tripods and drones are not permitted inside the archaeological zone.
- Wildlife sightings, including spider monkeys, cannot be guaranteed.
- Alcoholic beverages are available only to guests 21 and older.
- Life jackets are mandatory for all water activities and are provided.
- Children must be 10 years or older to paddle a single kayak alone. Children under 10 may kayak when accompanied by a supervising adult.
- Water activities may be restricted or temporarily suspended by local authorities due to wind, lightning, or other unsafe weather conditions.
- Vegetarian and gluten-free meals are available upon request. Please advise us in advance of any dietary requirements or food allergies.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes for Chacchoben.
- Bring a swimsuit, personal towel, change of clothes, hat, and biodegradable sunscreen for Bacalar.
- Bring extra cash for personal expenses, as credit cards may not be accepted at Chacchoben.
- The tour operates rain or shine, so please dress according to the weather.
- Late Arrivals / No-Shows: Guests who arrive late or fail to show up for their scheduled activity are not eligible for a refund.
- Weight limit for a single kayak is 220 pounds or 270 pounds for a double kayak
- This tour involves walking outdoors on jungle trails, with some rocks, roots, and uneven surfaces.
- Kayaking is not permitted for pregnant guests.
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 98 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Knowledge and storytelling
8 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
The guide
7 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Food and drink
4 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Good for families
2 mentionsReviewers traveling with kids report it landed well with their group.
Traveler reviews
98 verified traveler reviews for Chacchoben Mayan Ruins and Bacalar Lagoon Combo from Costa Maya. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Good times
Tour guide was fantastic. Friendly, knowledgeable, and fun. The ruins were amazing to see. The lagoon water was beautiful. The tacos were some of the best I have ever had. Outstanding. The beach itself was rocky and would have liked to known to bring water shoes. The resort was nice but could use some up-keeping. Like the pier that lead to the water needed work and the faucets in the bathroom were coming lose from the sink. Overall though a fun experience.
via Viator
We had a great time on...
We had a great time on this tour and the tacos were fantastic. Water at the lagoon was so clear and fun.
via Viator
Learned so much and...
Learned so much and really enjoyed our guide, Rosie!! Enjoyed learning g about the history of the ruins and the authentic lunch
via Viator
Great tour to give you the best of local history and fun activity
This is a great tour that gives you a chance to learn about and see parts of ancient culture, while also giving you the opportunity for swimming and kayaking in a pristine lagoon! We are a family with 3-thirteen year olds and they loved the tour. Elliot was our guide and he was amazing, a wealth of knowledge and a friendly, awesome person!
via Viator
Great experience for our family
This excursion was wonderful. Our guides with The Native Choice were so welcoming, informative and organized. Our time included a good mix of education and relaxation. Lagoon is beautiful. Our 10 and 13 year old enjoyed it as well. Returned to port with plenty of time to spare.
via Viator
Good to know
- Duration
- 5.5 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $116 to $129
- Hotel pickup
- Available for selected locations
- Booked in 30 days
- 35
- Verdict
- Strongly Recommended
Who runs this experience
Operated by Shore Excursions, who run 28 experiences we rank across 8 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 53.1.
See everything Shore Excursions runsWhy this scores 74
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Chacchoben Mayan Ruins and Bacalar Lagoon Combo from Costa Maya: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Costa Maya.
How much does Chacchoben Mayan Ruins and Bacalar Lagoon Combo from Costa Maya cost?
+
Prices start at $116 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Costa Maya usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Chacchoben Mayan Ruins and Bacalar Lagoon Combo from Costa Maya take?
+
Plan for about 5.5 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Costa Maya is not rushed.
Is Chacchoben Mayan Ruins and Bacalar Lagoon Combo from Costa Maya worth it?
+
It holds an Outty Ranking of 74 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.6/5 across 99 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Costa Maya, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Chacchoben Mayan Ruins and Bacalar Lagoon Combo from Costa Maya?
+
Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Chacchoben Mayan Ruins and Bacalar Lagoon Combo from Costa Maya suitable for kids and families?
+
Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 5.5-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Chacchoben Mayan Ruins and Bacalar Lagoon Combo from Costa Maya?
+
Around 35 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Costa Maya can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
+
Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Costa Maya and add a light layer if any part of the 5.5-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Chacchoben Mayan Ruins and Bacalar Lagoon Combo from Costa Maya start and how do I get there?
+
The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Costa Maya within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Costa Maya?
+
On Outty we rank every Costa Maya experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Chacchoben & Bacalar Combo Excursion Costa Maya, Costa Maya Shore Excursion Chacchoben Day Trip, Chacchoben Mayan Ruins from Costa Maya. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Costa Maya?
+
Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Costa Maya?
+
Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
+
Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Chacchoben Mayan Ruins and Bacalar Lagoon Combo from Costa Maya?
+
Included: Two alcoholic drinks for guests 21+; Kayaks and life jackets; Entrance fees and tickets to Chacchoben Mayan Ruins; Access to Bacalar Seven Color Lagoon with loungers and facilities; and Round-trip transportation from Costa Maya in an air-conditioned vehicle. Not included: Gratuities; Souvenirs; $5.00 USD copyright fee for the use of cameras at the Mayan City. This fee is paid directl; and Alcoholic beverages. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Chacchoben Mayan Ruins and Bacalar Lagoon Combo from Costa Maya include hotel pickup?
+
Yes, pickup is offered, or you can meet at the start point instead from 3 listed pickup locations in and around Costa Maya. Be ready about 45 minutes before the start time.
What languages is Chacchoben Mayan Ruins and Bacalar Lagoon Combo from Costa Maya offered in?
+
It is offered in English and Spanish. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Chacchoben Mayan Ruins and Bacalar Lagoon Combo from Costa Maya?
+
Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Chacchoben Mayan Ruins and Bacalar Lagoon Combo from Costa Maya wheelchair or stroller accessible?
+
The operator notes: Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; Specialized infant seats are available; and Kayaking is not permitted for pregnant guests. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Chacchoben Mayan Ruins and Bacalar Lagoon Combo from Costa Maya if the weather is bad?
+
It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Costa Maya. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
What do travelers say about Chacchoben Mayan Ruins and Bacalar Lagoon Combo from Costa Maya?
+
Across 99 reviews averaging 4.6 out of 5, recurring themes include knowledge and storytelling, the guide, food and drink. Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Ready to lock in your spot?
Pick a date, choose your group, and see the exact price for Chacchoben Mayan Ruins and Bacalar Lagoon Combo from Costa Maya.
Pick your date




