Travel Guide Laguna De Bacalar

Nicknamed the Lagoon of Seven Colors for its crystal clear waters that vary in hue from turquoise to blue depending on the location and climate, it is one of the little-known jewels of the Mexican Caribbean, a place where you can relax and enjoy swimming in a setting worthy of the most beautiful postcard landscapes. On one of its shores is the small village of Bacalar, with a typically Mexican aesthetic. Founded by the Spaniards in the middle of the 16th century, during the conquest of the Yucatan Peninsula, it was a strategic point for ships heading to the distant provinces of Guatemala and Honduras. During the 17th century, Bacalar was constantly attacked by pirates who sought to seize the wood of Campeche and the goods carried by the Spanish ships. To counteract this situation, the Intendant of the Peninsula built the Fort of San Felipe in 1733, which is now converted into a museum. Today, the village of Bacalar has a population of about 10,000. Its patron saint fiestas, in honour of San Joaquin, are held from 10 to 19 August, and there are many festivities