Palenque to Bacalar

How to Get From Palenque to Bacalar

1Options
9h 25mFastest
$46From
ElaMaartenSeleneWritten by Ela · Reviewed by Maarten, Selene ·

Bacalar sits on a freshwater lagoon that shifts through every shade of blue. Swimming, kayaking and sailing are the main draws, and the town itself stays sleepy. It lies 409 kilometres (254 miles) east of Palenque. The bus from Palenque to Bacalar is direct, costing $46 (860 MXN) for a ride of 9h 25m - 10h 30m.

DISTANCE

Distance from Palenque to Bacalar

Palenque and Bacalar are about 409 km (254 miles) apart, and the journey itself covers around 493 km by road. Depending on the option, the trip takes between 9h 25m and 10h 30m.

~409 km
Straight-line distance
~493 km
Route distance
Map of Palenque – Bacalar
Travelling the other way?Bacalar to Palenque→

How to get from Palenque to Bacalar?

The bus is the only suitable way for travellers to travel from Palenque to Bacalar. The journey takes 9h 25m – 10h 30m, and ticket prices start from $46 (860 MXN).

Busfrom$469h 25m – 10h 30m

Palenque to Bacalar by Bus

AU (Autobuses Unidos) is the only company running buses from Palenque to Bacalar.

AU buses come with basic amenities like air conditioning and reclining seats. There's no toilet onboard, though, which can be inconvenient for the journey that takes 9h 25m - 10h 30m.

The bus makes at least two stops along the way, so you’ll have a chance to use the restroom and stretch your legs.

Bus ticket prices start from $46 (860 MXN).

Departure station

Buses to Bacalar depart from Palenque’s main bus terminal, Central de Autobuses ADO. It's in the town centre, just a 10-minute walk from the main square.

Travelling with heavy luggage? A taxi ride to the terminal costs around $3.80 (70 MXN).

Bus schedule from Palenque to Bacalar

AU (Autobuses Unidos) · Standard$46
9h 25m
Palenque Bus Station → Bacalar Bus Station
16:3518:30
Tickets
AU (Autobuses Unidos) · Economy$50
10h 25m
Central de Autobuses ADO → Terminal De Autobuses Bacalar
16:3518:30
Tickets

Tickets sold on Bookaway

Stations

Map of stations
Click to explore
From
To

Since trips are limited, it’s best to book your tickets online in advance to secure a seat. You can find bus tickets on BookAway.

Arrival station

The bus will drop you off at ADO Bacalar, along the town’s main road.

With the bus schedules above, you’ll arrive in Bacalar in the middle of the night. If your accommodation isn’t within walking distance, taking a taxi is your best option.

Taxis in Bacalar are not metered, so make sure to agree on the rate before getting in. Fares to the lagoon or anywhere within the city limits start at $5.90 (110 MXN).

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STAY

Our favourite places to stay in Bacalar

Here are our favourite places to stay in Bacalar for every budget.

Agam Hotel
Treat Yourself

Agam Hotel

This place is just wow! Agam hotel boasts a bright and stunning decor that will make you feel like you’re staying in one of the fancy Tulum hotels. The difference is that the price tag is a lot lower!

There’s a swimming pool and a number of comfy loungers to spend the day on, soaking up the sun. After one night here, you’ll be looking to book more!

  • Stunning swimming pool
  • Delicious à la carte breakfast
  • Bike rental available
  • Beautifully decorated, modern rooms

Double rooms start from $80 (1,480 MXN) per night

Check availability
Casa Zazil
Mid-Range

Casa Zazil

The ladies running this hotel provide an unforgettable service, and are great at recommending things to do in Bacalar. The hotel feels brand new with it’s light and airy rooms that boast a modern flare.

Added bonus: one of the host’s talents is preparing delicious vegan smoothies, coconut bowls and paninis. Waking up in the morning has never been so easy!

  • Attentive and friendly hosts
  • Delicious breakfast
  • Newly renovated rooms
  • Close to the bus stop

Double rooms between $40-$80 (740-1,480 MXN) per night

Check availability
Hotel Ma Alob Che Bacalar
Mid-Range

Hotel Ma Alob Che Bacalar

Hotel Ma Alob Che provides everything you could ask for at a very good price — spacious rooms, comfy beds and excellent hosts. It is slightly further out of town, but as Bacalar is so small, you’re never far from the action.

This comes with the advantage that you’ll be surrounded by only peace and quiet. The large and lush garden in the hotel is the perfect place to relish in this tranquility.

  • Large and modern rooms
  • Relaxing communal courtyard and garden
  • Peaceful atmosphere
  • Bicycles available to rent

Double rooms between $40-$80 (740-1,480 MXN) per night

Check availability
Zayali
Budget

Zayali

The owners of Zayali homestay welcome you as if you’re part of the family, making you instantly feel like you’re at home. The rooms are clean, spacious and well air-conditioned, guaranteeing a great night’s sleep.

The rooms also include a fridge, microwave and coffee-making facilities. Plus, there’s a great communal hangout area with hammocks and a rustic bar.

  • Super friendly host family
  • Big and clean air conditioned rooms
  • Great location
  • Free water and coffee

Double rooms between $15-$40 (280-740 MXN) per night

Check availability

ABOUT YOUR DESTINATION

Why Visit Bacalar?

Bacalar is one of Mexico’s hidden gems. Despite its growing popularity, it has somehow managed to escape the influx of tourists in the Quintana Roo. What's so special about it? Bacalar Lagoon! Also called the Lagoon of Seven Colours, its crystal clear waters glow in varying hues of turquoise.

This laidback town is the perfect place to take a step back from busy destinations in the Yucatan Peninsula like Playa del Carmen and Tulum. With its eco-friendly hotels, an unlimited number of hammocks, pristine cenotes and amazing views everywhere you look, you will fall in love with Bacalar.

Rounding it up

That's the full picture for getting from Palenque to Bacalar, roughly 409 kilometres (254 miles) apart. The cheapest fare is $46 (860 MXN). The quickest trip takes 9h 25m.

Prices and timetables change, so it's worth a quick check before you travel. Have a question, or travelled this route recently? Ask the community below and we'll do our best to help.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the distance from Palenque to Bacalar?

The distance from Palenque to Bacalar is 409 kilometres (254 miles).

What is the cheapest way to get from Palenque to Bacalar?

The cheapest way to get from Palenque to Bacalar is by bus with ticket costs starting from 860 MXN.

About the Authors

Ela
Ela

Senior Travel Writer

Ela is a storyteller, content producer, solo traveller and a mermaid-in-training. When she's not in front of her laptop, you will find her barefoot and living her best tan on some island in the Philippines. Or exploring the depths of its seas as a budding freediver. An island girl at heart, she'll be happy anywhere there is sea, sand, sun and coffee.

Maarten
MaartenReviewer

Founder & Trip Planning Expert

Based in Bali, Maarten's passion for travel is undeniable. In 2016, he decided to quit his job as a stock analyst and started doing what he always dreamed of: travelling through South East Asia and helping other people plan their trips. When he is not working on Gecko Routes, you'll find him surfing in the ocean or exploring the best gems of Indonesia.

Selene
SeleneReviewer

Travel Writer

Selene is a writer who loves coffee, travel, and planning. After spending a decade in Manila, she left the city and her career in banking to embrace a more laid-back lifestyle. Now, she is discovering the beauty of slow-paced travel and finding joy in meaningful experiences.

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