Bacalar’s name originates from the Maya name ‘Sian Ka’an Bakhalal’ which translates to ‘where the sky is born surrounded by reeds’. In 2006, Bacalar was designated a Pueblo Mágico, giving it additional federal funding for the cultural preservation, promotion, and infrastructure improvements.
Ichkabal, a Maya archaeological site 25 miles from Bacalar is currently being excavated by the INAH and scheduled to open August 2024. Among the set of five buildings, there is a 40 meter high pyramid, 10m higher than Chichén Itzá's largest pyramid that attracts over 2 million visitors a year.
Bacalar is home to amazing flora and fauna including the sacred panther, mangroves, many migratory birds, and the all important bee genus named melipona. Melipona are stingless bees, known as noble bees, that produce the majority of honey in the Yucatán and do much of crucial pollination.
Laguna Bacalar is a stunning natural wonder in México, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant hues. It is one of México's largest freshwater lakes and unlike the ocean, there is no impact of sargassum, the brown algae that accumulates near many beaches in the USA and México.
Bacalar in the News
"Bacalar is the Maldives of Mexico"
"IchKabal Opening Date Announced"
"Ancient Mayan Beekeeping"