The Bacalar Rapids: Quintana Roo’s Best-Kept Secret
Just south of the famed Bacalar Lagoon lies a mesmerizing and lesser-known treasure: Los Rápidos de Bacalar. This narrow turquoise channel is a secret stretch of water connecting the Seven Colors Lagoon to the Xul-Ha Lagoon. With swift currents, ancient stromatolites, and rustic Caribbean charm, it’s the perfect spot for adventurers seeking something beyond the ordinary. Whether you’re kayaking, floating with the flow, or savoring a cold ceviche by the water, a day at the Bacalar Rapids is an unforgettable escape into nature.
Nature’s Own Water Park
What makes the Bacalar Rapids unique is the natural current created between two major lagoons. This constant water flow transforms the area into a natural lazy river—but with a stronger twist. Swimming is possible, but it’s not for the faint of heart; the current can get strong depending on the season. Luckily, there’s a helpful chain across the channel to pause and catch your breath. For a gentler experience, renting a kayak is your best bet, allowing you to glide through the channel while soaking up the stunning scenery.
The Bacalar Rapids. Respect the Stromatolites
One of the most fascinating features of the Bacalar Rapids is the presence of stromatolites, ancient microbial formations that resemble smooth rocky walkways. While they might look like the perfect spot to stand or pose for a photo, stepping on them is a big no-no. These formations are living fossils that grow incredibly slowly—sometimes taking hundreds of years to form a single inch. So enjoy their beauty, but let them thrive in peace!
Rustic Comforts and Caribbean Flavors
After working up an appetite in the water, visitors can recharge at the on-site restaurant. The style is charmingly rustic, but the flavors are full-on Caribbean. Think ceviches, whole fried fish, tacos, and icy beers under the shade of palm-thatched palapas. It’s not fine dining—it’s something better: fresh, flavorful, and full of local color.
The Bacalar Rapids. How to Get There
Los Rápidos de Bacalar is located just 10 minutes from the town of Bacalar and 25 minutes from Chetumal. You’ll find the entrance off Highway 307 (Cancún – Chetumal). From the turnoff, follow a short dirt road (about 2-3 km) until you reach the park. It’s a little out of the way, but the peace, views, and clear waters are absolutely worth it. Entrance is only $100 MXN per person, making it one of the most affordable natural attractions in the region.
Make It Part of a Bigger Trip
If you’re heading to or from Bacalar Lagoon—or even exploring further south in Chetumal—the rapids make for the perfect half-day detour. Combine it with a boat tour of the Lagoon of Seven Colors, or chill in the pueblo mágico of Bacalar afterward. It’s also a beautiful way to cap off a road trip down the Costa Maya or a journey through southern Quintana Roo.