Where is Bacalar?
Nestled in the southern part of the Yucatán Peninsula, Bacalar is an emerging gem that’s starting to attract the attention of savvy travelers and investors alike. Often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors, Playa del Carmen and Tulum, Bacalar is reminiscent of what these now-bustling destinations were like just 5-10 years ago—a hidden paradise waiting to be discovered. If you haven’t heard of Bacalar yet, it’s time to put this stunning destination on your radar.
Why Bacalar Should Be on Your Radar
Bacalar, known as the “Lagoon of Seven Colors,” offers an idyllic blend of natural beauty, tranquility, and a laid-back lifestyle that’s becoming increasingly rare in more developed tourist hotspots. With its crystal-clear turquoise waters, charming local culture, and an emerging real estate market, Bacalar is quickly becoming the place to watch for those seeking a unique investment opportunity or a serene getaway.
Much like the early days of Playa del Carmen and Tulum, Bacalar is on the cusp of a transformation. The increased accessibility due to improved infrastructure, including new transportation options like the Mayan Train and the newly operational Tulum International Airport, is poised to change the face of this hidden paradise—just as it did for its northern neighbors.
But first, let’s tackle the most common question: Where exactly is Bacalar, and how do you get there?
How to Get to Bacalar?
Bacalar is located about 345 kilometers (214 miles) south of Cancún, near the Belizean border. Despite its remote location, getting to Bacalar is becoming increasingly convenient, thanks to several transportation options from major airports in the region.
1. From Cancún International Airport (CUN)
- By Driving:
The most common route to Bacalar from Cancún International Airport is by car. The drive is straightforward, taking you south on Highway 307. The distance from Cancún to Bacalar is approximately 345 kilometers (214 miles), and the drive takes about 3-4 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. This scenic drive along the Caribbean coast offers glimpses of the region’s natural beauty, with opportunities to stop in Playa del Carmen or Tulum along the way. - By Mayan Train (Coming Soon):
Once the Mayan Train becomes operational, traveling to Bacalar will be even more convenient. The train is expected to connect Cancún with Bacalar in a few hours, offering a comfortable and scenic journey through the lush landscapes of Quintana Roo. This new option will make Bacalar more accessible to travelers who prefer not to drive.
2. From Tulum International Airport (TIU)
- By Driving:
Now that Tulum International Airport is operational, Bacalar is even more accessible. From Tulum, Bacalar is approximately 215 kilometers (134 miles) away, a drive that takes about 1.5 – 2 hours. This route follows the same Highway 307, offering a shorter and more direct path to Bacalar compared to driving from Cancún. The drive is comparable to driving from Cancun to Tulum. - By Mayan Train (Coming Soon):
With the upcoming Mayan Train, the journey from Tulum to Bacalar will be both quick and scenic, covering the distance in under 2 hours. This will be a game-changer for those looking to explore Bacalar as a day trip or weekend getaway from Tulum.
3. From Chetumal International Airport (CTM)
- By Driving:
Chetumal International Airport is the closest airport to Bacalar, located just 40 kilometers (25 miles) away. The drive from Chetumal to Bacalar takes less than 45 minutes, making it the most convenient option for those flying domestically within Mexico or from nearby international destinations. - By Mayan Train (Coming Soon):
The Mayan Train will also connect Chetumal to Bacalar, offering an alternative to the short drive. This will further enhance accessibility and provide travelers with a seamless connection between these two destinations.
The Fastest Route from Your Country
- From the U.S. and Canada:
The quickest way to Bacalar from the U.S. or Canada is now to fly into Tulum International Airport, which offers a shorter drive or upcoming train ride to Bacalar. Alternatively, you can still fly into Cancún International Airport and either drive or take the Mayan Train south to Bacalar. - From Europe:
For European travelers, flying into Tulum International Airport provides a more direct route to Bacalar. However, Cancún International Airport remains a practical option with several direct flights from major European cities. From there, the drive or upcoming train ride to Bacalar will complete your journey. - From Mexico:
For domestic travelers, flying directly into Chetumal International Airport is the easiest and fastest way to reach Bacalar. From there, a short drive or train ride will take you directly to your destination. Alternatively, Tulum International Airport offers another convenient option for those traveling from other parts of Mexico.
Bacalar: The Next Big Thing in Real Estate
As Bacalar becomes more accessible, its real estate market is expected to experience significant growth, much like what we witnessed in Playa del Carmen and Tulum. The distance from Cancún to Tulum is roughly the same as from Tulum to Bacalar, and we all know how the Tulum real estate market exploded once it became more connected to Cancún. We project a similar trend for Bacalar, with increasing interest from investors looking to capitalize on this emerging market.
Now is the time to consider Bacalar for your next investment. With new infrastructure projects making it easier than ever to reach, Bacalar is on the brink of becoming a major player in the Yucatán Peninsula’s real estate scene.