These towns near Bacalar give real authentic vibes

Less than an hour from the Belizean border, the small Mexican town of Bacalar hides away in the south of Mexico. It’s a well-liked vacation spot for locals who swarm to the state of Quintana Roo for their holidays, but foreign tourists to Mexico still don’t know much about it. The town of Bacalar, which has less than 12,000 residents according to the most recent census, is a Pueblo Mágico in 2006. Here are some towns near Bacalar where you can complete your experience.

Towns near Bacalar: Mahahual

Mahahual comes to life when cruise ships dock there. Less than two hours from Chetumal, Mahahual is a part of the Grand Costa Maya and is the location of Mexico’s largest coral atoll. Mahahual is one of the top diving locations in the Mexican Caribbean thanks to the Banco Chinchorro Biosphere Reserve. This great place is in southern Quintana Roo. The reserve, which is a section of the second-largest barrier reef in the world, is regarded as a true maritime cemetery because more than 60 wrecked ships can be found there, including English and Spanish galleons from the 16th and 17th centuries.

Towns near Bacalar: Chacchoben

Chacchoben is Mayan for “place of the colored corn.” Thanks to Carmen Mondragón, a native of Mexico City who created this stunning intervention through her project Pueblerismo, color has taken over this town. Mondragón’s enormous heart and artistic talent have helped the people rediscover their sense of identity and pride in their homeland. A visit to this town fills your Instagram account with color.

Towns near Bacalar: Calderitas

In addition to having excellent cuisine, Calderitas is known for having a few archaeological sites that are interesting to study and visit. These sites have a significant cultural impact since they provide visitors a glimpse into the country’s history and allow them to travel back in time. The Oxtankah Archaeological Zone is one of these locations. You can enjoy the views provided by the remnants of an abandoned city at this location. You can enter the facilities, which include parking, an information center, and restrooms, for 50 pesos.

Final tip

Bacalar remains a pleasant and charming destination on the Riviera Maya. It is a very peaceful location, a little town surrounded by the natural environment that predominates in the area, with nearby cenotes that will also attract your attention. The towns around Bacalar are also a good one-day trip alternative.