TIPS

Some things you might want to bring -- depending on what you plan to do -- while visiting Laguna Bacalar and the Costa Maya area:

In Bacalar your ATM card is the easiest way to get pesos and usually offers the best exchange rate.
Sun screen and sun glasses. You will especially need sun screen if you visit the Costa Maya and when you go to the ruins. It is important that you use biodegradable sunscreen if swimming near the reefs (it is a must in the National Park of Xcalak) and a good idea all the time when going into the water.
A hat
Walking shoes for the ruins or casual walks
Sandals or open shoes for heat and water
Bug stuff of your choice. If the winds dies down the mosquitoes can sometimes get bothersome. In Bacalar you will find them typically only at dusk and dawn. They are not bad at all during the rest of the day and evening; in fact, often there are none around. There are usually more in Mahahaul and Xcalak because of the mangroves.
Warm or rain clothing for cool or wet weather
A long-sleeve shirt/blouse and long pants; sometimes it can be cloudy and windy and, if there are showers, it can be cool (mid-fifties) – not often though especially in summer.
Swim suit
Snorkel gear
Binoculars for bird or wild life watching
A few books to read. Some of the Hotels in Bacalar will have books to exchange but there is no book store of library here.
Favorite game, puzzles, etc

You will need a passport
You can rarely use a credit card in Bacalar. There are stores, hotels and restaurants in Chetumal and at the Plaza de las Americas Mall where you can.
There are 3 ATMs in Bacalar; each has a daily withdrawal limit of 5000 pesos a day per card; your ATM daily limit may be less.
There are a variety of banks in Chetumal, where you can cash traveler’s checks or get credit card cash advances, if your credit/debit card is not supported by the ATM. There is often a long line so be prepared to wait.
Debit cards, not ATM cards, may be blocked in Mexico; ATM cards may need to be "authorized" for foreign use. In either case, you might want to check with your bank before departure.
May through October is considered the rainy season so expect some showers. These are often dramatic but quickly over. On the other hand, it may not rain at all while you are here. Or, it may rain some in November and December.

Use the scroll bar below to access more links - we hope you find these useful.

Palapa on Laguna Bacalar