Cenote Esmeralda: Our most recommended tours and activities

Bacalar: 3 Hour Boat Trip with Swimming & Drinks

1. Bacalar: 3 Hour Boat Trip with Swimming & Drinks

Discover sights like the Stromatolite Barrier and the Bird Island while sampling inclusive snacks and drinks. Begin at the famous Casa China, perhaps taking a panoramic photo from the observatory tower before boarding the ship. Settle in as your boat takes you through the Cenote Esmeralda. This is the largest cenote in Bacalar, more than 500 meters in diameter and around 70 meters deep. Stop for a swim at the famous Pirate Canal and learn about the history of Bacalar along with its flora and fauna. Experience a relaxing boat journey, taking advantage of the inclusive drinks and snacks provided on board. After reaching a lagoon, jump into the crystal clear turquoise waters, and enjoy a swim surrounded by virgin vegetation. Back on board, see the Stromatolite Barrier, home to the oldest organism on the planet. You boat will also stop at a bird sanctuary, where you can admire different species of local and migratory birds.

Bacalar: Sunrise Paddleboard Tour with Floating Picnic

2. Bacalar: Sunrise Paddleboard Tour with Floating Picnic

Embark on a guided paddleboarding tour of Bacalar Lagoon. Watch the sun rise over a freshwater lake with 7 different shades of blue. Paddle from Cenote Esmeralda to Cenote Cocalitos, and swim around Bird Island. Savor a floating picnic with a symphony of birds in the background. Start with some quick stretching and a warm-up session. Get familiar with your paddleboard equipment and get a safety briefing. Begin the tour at Cenote Esmeralda, a piece of paradise in the Mexican Caribbean. Feel like you're rowing on clouds, thanks to the mirror effect of the clear water. Next, paddle to Cenote Cocalitos, a sanctuary of stromatolites and corals. Learn what makes them so special and how to preserve them. Then, see the sunrise while rowing towards Bird Island. Cool off while soaking up the first rays of the sun in the warm, shallow waters. On the island, watch endemic and migratory bird species such as roseate spoonbills, cormorants, and snail kites. Finally, unwind with a floating breakfast that includes a delicious selection of seasonal fruits, snacks, and refreshing juices.

Bacalar: Seven Colors Lagoon Day Tour With Pickup & Drop-Off

3. Bacalar: Seven Colors Lagoon Day Tour With Pickup & Drop-Off

This Bacalar tour from Playa del Carmen immerses you in the natural beauty, culture, and history of a “Magic Town” of Mexico. Explore the charming village of Bacalar known for its famous Lagoon of Seven Colors and relax with lunch provided on the tour. With round-trip transportation and an expert guide, explore the lagoons and canals looking for pirate treasure and learning about the fascinating history of this place. Sail in a small boat with your guide who will introduce you to Bacalar's fascinating history dating back to the ancient Maya, the Spanish conquistadors, and the pirates of the Caribbean too. Cruise down Pirates Channel and listen to tales of days gone by. Swim in the natural beauty of Bacalar and immerse yourself in the Cocalitos and Esmeralda cenotes to refresh from the heat and take in the perfect day in paradise.

Bacalar: Magnificent Bacalar Lagoon Exclusive Boat Tour

4. Bacalar: Magnificent Bacalar Lagoon Exclusive Boat Tour

Discover the mesmerizing beauty of Bacalar's traditional route and the enchanting southern lagoon on this 4-5 hour guided boat tour. From the thrilling rapids channel to the mystique of the pirates channel, this adventure promises awe-inspiring sights and experiences. Throughout the journey, you'll be equipped with essential gear, including masks, life jackets, and a cooler. The captain, doubling as your guide, will lead you on a 20 km voyage through this natural wonder. Immerse yourself in the serene waters at three different locations, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Guided snorkeling sessions will introduce you to the stunning underwater world of Bacalar. During this excursion, you'll encounter: 3 cenotes: black, emerald, and cocalitos. 3 islands: Bird Island, Breeding Island, and Emerald Island. 2 channels: the Rapids channel and the Pirates channel. 2 rivers: the Lol ha and the secret river. 4 distinct ecosystems. Witness the breathtaking diversity of colors that the lagoon offers, all while receiving high-quality attention and information about this remarkable destination. The adventure begins as you embark on a 4-5 hour boat ride, accompanied by water, a life jacket, and a water mask, provided by the captain. Your knowledgeable guide will enhance your experience with insights into the lagoon's history and ecology. Taxes are included in the package.

From Tulum: Punta Laguna Nature Reserve, Cenote & Cobá Tour

5. From Tulum: Punta Laguna Nature Reserve, Cenote & Cobá Tour

Located about 40 miles north of Tulum, Punta Laguna Nature Reserve offers one of the most unique sightseeing attractions in all of the Yucatán. The unique eco system in this area is characterized by lagoons, a Cenote of particular interest for sub-aquatic archeology, a sub evergreen forest and an extraordinary biodiversity of flora (more than 300 species) and fauna. Experience this amazing region with us with all your senses! We will cross a stretch of the lagoon on a zip line and canoe and hike around the lagoon. We will swim in a semi-open Cenote Esmeralda, where natural sun rays radiate off the walls, allowing us to admire the various beautiful colors reflecting off the crystalline water. We will stop in the community of Nuevo Durango where we meet Don Manuel and his beautiful family serving us a delicious and traditional meal in their home. Not only do we enjoy an amazing meal but also contribute to Don Manuel's efforts to achieve self-sufficiency and take care of his culture and environment. On our tour we will explore this ancient city of Coba on a bicycle along beautiful paths under the shade of the majestic trees.

Other Sightseeing Options in Cenote Esmeralda

Want to discover all there is to do in Cenote Esmeralda? Click here for a full list.

What people are saying about Cenote Esmeralda

Overall rating

4.5 / 5

based on 41 reviews

Unreal experience and prime service! Everything was well organized from start to finish. The equipment is 'out of the box' custom paddles that glide beautifully thru the water. Adrian is a paddle wizard, he taught us some tricks to fully enjoy the experience. We enjoyed a very well presented picnic in front of an island with deliciuos fruit and cold drinks. Would recommend 10/10!!!

Amazing boat trip around Lake Bacalar. Great guide Omar, who was chilled and provided some interesting facts about our trip. Some nice beverages were included and overall it was truly an amazing experience. Definitely worth every penny

Beautiful tour and a great start to the day. Our guide Andres ensured a personal atmosphere and made the tour a wonderful experience. Clear recommendation!

Adrian was a super good guide! We even went out in the rain! He encouraged us to do it and in the end it opened up the super beautiful sky!

Boat trip on the lagoon, guide does not speak French but is extremely kind.