Laguna Bonanza vs. Los Rapidos, Bacalar: Which Should You Visit?
When planning a visit to Bacalar's iconic rapids and stromatolites, most people flock to Los Rapidos, a restaurant located right at the main stromatolite and rapid area. But did you know a second and arguably better option is a 10-minute kayak ride away? Introducing Laguna Bonanza. If you are curious about why this hidden gem might be worth the extra paddle, read on for a detailed comparison.
What is a stromatolite? A stromatolite is a rock formation created by cyanobacteria or photosynthesizing microorganisms. They are the oldest known fossils of mankind. You can see a photo of this unique fossil to the left. Typically, they are not entirely submerged. During the dry season, they peek out of the water, looking even more impressive.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, my blog may receive a commission at no additional cost to you.
Bacalar: Laguna Bonanza vs. Los Rapidos
Kayaking through the Stromatolites
Seeing the ancient stromatolites near Los Rapidos is one of the more iconic things to do in Bacalar. A stromatolite is a layered rock that has formed over billions of years. It is the oldest fossil known to mankind. If you want to get more scientific, these rock-like structures have been created by colonies of microscopic cyanobacteria (blue-green algae).
The best way to experience the stromatolites is by driving to Los Rapidos or Laguna Bonanza, renting a kayak, and paddling through the rapids lined with these fascinating formations. I visited Bacalar in the rainy / hurricane season, so the water was less blue and had more of a green tint, as you can see in my photos. Outside of the rainy season, the stromatolites will sit above water level. You can see what I am referring to here.
The taxi fee to get to either location is 250 pesos each way.
Pro Tip: Do not touch, hit, or get too close to the stromatolites to help preserve them.
Los Rapidos
Laguna Bonanza
So which one should you choose…. Los Rapidos or Laguna Bonanza? The main difference between the two, aside from location, is that Los Rapidos has a higher entrance price and is more club-like, expecting you to pay for food and beverages in addition to the entrance fees. Laguna Bonanza is much less expensive, and although they do not have food available for purchase, they do allow you to bring your own, unlike Los Rapidos. Essentially Los Rapidos is a more developed venue similar to a day club, whereas Laguna Bonanza is a more nature-oriented spot perfect for a picnic.
I have outlined some of the differences in more depth below to help you make your decision.
The Hours:
Los Rapidos: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Laguna Bonanza: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
The Locations:
The location of each place is only 3.9 KM from one another. Los Rapidos is right on the rapids and stromatolite area, whereas Laguna Bonanza is on an open lagoon surrounded by mangroves, with a small section of stromatolites roped off. However, Bonanza’s lagoon connects to the rapids and main stromatolite area of Los Rapidos. It only takes around 10-15 minutes to kayak to them.
There are incredible mangroves & wildlife to observe during your ride as well!
A Stromatolite
Entrance Prices:
Los Rapidos: 200 pesos | 150 pesos for children under 10
Laguna Bonanza: 80 pesos
Kayak Prices:
Can you find the bird?
Los Rapidos: Single is 200 pesos | Double is 400 pesos
Laguna Bonanza: Single is 130 pesos | Double is 260 pesos
Other Aquatic Amentities:
Los Rapidos: Hammocks available
Laguna Bonanza: Swings available
Seating Areas:
Los Rapidos: There are more options at Los Rapidos, including lounge chairs, tables, etc.
Laguna Bonanza: Picnic tables and a wooden deck area are available.
The Restroom Facilities:
Los Rapidos: Restrooms, Lockers (50 pesos)
Laguna Bonanza: Restrooms, I did not notice any lockers
Food and Beverage Options:
Los Rapidos: You cannot bring any food, drink, or coolers inside. There is a restaurant inside, and they expect you to buy food and drink while you are there.
Laguna Bonanza: They are super chill and do not mind if you bring in food and beverages. They only sell soft drinks and a few snacks.
And The Winner Is….
The answer is easy: Laguna Bonanza! It is not even half the price of Los Rapidos for entry and kayaks, is much more relaxed, and has a less touristy feel. Even if you are planning to head to the area just to kayak and leave, then Bonanza is also the better option since kayaks are much cheaper and the ride is only 10-15 minutes.
Pro Tip: Regardless of which place you head to, pack LOTS of mosquito spray.
If you prefer to stay within downtown Bacalar but still want an opportunity to see stromatolites, consider heading to Los Cocalitos. There are large stromatolites visible in one section of the water. The water ranges from deep turquoise to the clear, shallow aqua-colored waters reminiscent of the Maldives. Swings, hammocks, grassy areas, and picnic tables are spread in and out of the water for you to enjoy. The entrance fee is 100 pesos, and you can leave to grab a bite to eat without having to pay again to re-enter.
Wondering what else there is to do in Bacalar? Click here to find out more!
General Information: Bacalar
Best Time to Visit:
Hurricane Season: June - October | Dry Season: November-April
The best time to visit Bacalar for optimal weather and the clearest waters is from November to April. However, the best deals on accommodations and other expenses are during the low season, which is the opposite of these months.
I spent the last week of June in Bacalar, where it was very quiet with few people around. There was minimal rain, but mostly it was sunny and hot. The water still shimmered clear in the sunlight; however, the levels were higher than usual, and there was a slight green tint due to the rain.
How to Get to Bacalar:
Bacalar does not have an airport so you will need to fly into one of the nearby airports. I suggest choosing one of the airports below. You will then need to take one of the following: the ADO bus, a private taxi, a shared van, or a rental car to Bacalar. For an in-depth explanation of how to get to Bacalar, click here!
AIRPORTS & THEIR DISTANCE FROM BACALAR
Chetumal (CTM): 38 KM (45 minutes)
Tulum (TQO): 202 KM (2.5-3 hours)
Cancun (CUN): 333 KM (4.5-5.5 hours)
Mode of Transport in Bacalar:
Bacalar is entirely walkable and you only really need a taxi, bicycle, or motorbike to access areas like Laguna Bonanza and Los Rapidos.
Bicycle: A bicycle rental is usually around 150-200 pesos. Longer-term rentals offer a better chance at discounts. I always suggest bike locks in Mexico.
Taxi: Taxi are cheap in Bacalar. Getting around the downtown area is usually between 35-50 pesos, depending on where you are heading. Taxis to Los Rapidos and Laguna Bonanza are around 250 pesos each way.
Taxi Seguro Bacalar Phone #: +52-983-833-7421
Motorbike: If you are here short term I would suggest opting for a bicycle or taxi. For long-term visitors, a motorbike may make the most sense if you prefer not to walk everywhere. The cost per motorbike ranges from 650 pesos for a full day to 500 pesos for a half day plus a deposit fee. The longer you rent, the better discounts you may get.
Where to Stay:
As mentioned, the town is small and walkable. I recommend staying anywhere in the central area to easily access the majority of activities, food places, etc. within walking distance. I recommend staying right on the lagoon if you can, especially for those here for only a night or two.
Best Accommodation Options For Every Traveler
Best Backpacker/Hostel Option: The Yak Lake House - Hostal or Che Bacalar Hostel & Bar Adults Only
Best Low-Budget: Hostal & Suites Pata de Perro
Best Mid-Budget: Hotel Makaabá Eco-Boutique or Casa Chukum
Best Luxury: Blue Palm Bacalar
Food Recommendations:
IS IT SAFE?:
Bacalar felt extremely safe, and maybe one of the safest places I ventured to in Mexico.
How To Stay Safe:
This is all opinionated and based upon my experiences only, but you should always stay up to date with your country’s travel advisories regardless. Follow basic rules of safety while traveling.
Emergency Contact Number: 9-1-1
Never travel without the right insurance in case of any sickness, injuries, or theft. Safety Wing is by far the best travel insurance. It has saved me numerous times by covering hospital visits when I was sick during my travels in Asia.
