Los Rapidos Park is a recreational area situated along the shores of Bacalar Lagoon in Bacalar, Mexico, and one of the most popular spots to visit in this magical area! Here’s a brief travel guide to help you plan your visit to Los Rapidos:
HOW TO GET THERE
Los Rapidos is located here, about 8 miles south of the main town of Bacalar. There are a few different ways to get there:
RENT A CAR
Car rentals are anywhere from 900 to 1200 MXN ($50 to $70 USD) per day. If you plan on travelling around the surrounding areas, renting a car might be the way to go!
TAKE A TAXI
A taxi costs about 170 to 200 MXN ($10 USD) each way. It’s best to exchange contact info with your driver to organise what time they should pick you up
TAKE A COLECTIVO
The cheapest way to get to Los Rapidos is by Colectivo. The Colectivos pick up from next to the ADO Bus Station, and cost 25 MXN ($1.45 USD) per person to get to Los Rapidos. The Colectivo will drop you off on the side of the highway and it’s another ~2 km walk to the entrance of the lagoon. It’s important to remember to alert the driver to pull over and let you out when you arrive near Los Rapidos. Keep in mind that you would need to take a taxi home or find an alternative ride, as the colectivos don’t generally pick people up from there.
COST
As of December 2023, the entrance fee to Los Rapidos was 200 MXN ($11 USD) per person.
Renting a locker costs 50 MXN. Renting a single kayak is 200 MXN per hour, and a double kayak is 400 MXN per hour.
The tour runs 3 times a day: 8 am, 11 am, and 3 pm. We opted to do the 8 am tour.
FACILITIES
Seating Areas: Los Rapidos Park provides tables where you can relax and enjoy a meal from their restaurant.
Restrooms & Showers: There are restroom and shower facilities within the park for your convenience.
Hammocks and Lounge Chairs: There are hammocks and lounge chairs for guests to enjoy.
WHAT TO DO
FLOAT DOWN THE RIVER
One of the highlights of Los Rapidos is its proximity to Bacalar Lagoon. Enjoy the scenic views and relax by the water. You can walk down the beautiful wooden walkway, and float down the river, taking in the beautiful sights.
KAYAK
If you want to explore further into the lagoon, renting a kayak is a great way to explore!
GO ON A NATURE WALK
There is a beautiful wooden walk way along the edge of the waters, where you can stroll while taking in the mangroves, birds, and stromatolites
GO BIRD WATCHING!
Bacalar is home to various bird species, so bring your binoculars if you enjoy bird watching.
RELAX!
Use the park as a place to unwind and enjoy the tranquility of the lagoon.
ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS
The Bacalar Lagoon is surrounded by stromatolites: layered structures formed by the activity of microorganisms. These structures are some of the oldest evidence of life on Earth and have been present for over 3.5 billion years. However, they are fragile life forms that need to be conserved.
- Do not step on the stromatolites! They can easily be damaged so stick to the wooden walkway
- Do not wear any sunscreen while entering the lagoon. The chemicals can easily disrupt the fragile ecosystem, so cover up using a UV shirt instead.
Los Rapidos is the perfect way to spend a day while visiting Bacalar. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or outdoor activities, the park has something for everyone!
To check out our full Bacalar gallery, click here!