Laguna Bacalar - Quintana Roo, Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico

Mexico Bacalar

How to get from Palenque to Bacalar

Travel the 486 kilometres (302 miles) distance from Palenque to Bacalar with the best available transport option. We provide you with the details on duration, cost, and comfort — and where to get your tickets.

Written by Ela - Senior Travel WriterReviewed by Maarten - Trip Planning ExpertLast updated: March 2, 2025

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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.

How to get from Palenque to Bacalar?

The bus is the only suitable way for travellers to cross the distance of 486 kilometres (302 miles) from Palenque to Bacalar. The journey takes around 9 hours 25 minutes to 10 hours 30 minutes, and ticket prices start from 870 MXN ($46).

Transport

Duration

Pricing

Transport Options

Bus

9h 25m - 10h 30m

From 870 MXN ($46)

Book Tickets

Where to stay in Bacalar?

Still looking for accommodation? Don't forget to check out our favourite places to stay in Bacalar at the bottom of this page.

Palenque to Bacalar by Bus

Duration: 9h 25m - 10h 30m

Costs: 870 MXN ($46)

Duration: 9h 25m - 10h 30m

Costs: 870 MXN ($46)

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 9 hours 25 minutes to 10 hours 30 minutes.

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 870 MXN ($46).

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 70 MXN ($3.70).

Bus schedule from Palenque to Bacalar

Palenque Bus Station

Standard

Bacalar Bus Station

16:35

9h 25m

03:00

18:30

9h 25m

04:55

AU (Autobuses Unidos)

870 MXN ($46)

Get Your Tickets

Central de Autobuses ADO

Economy

Terminal De Autobuses Bacalar

16:35

10h 25m

03:00

18:30

10h 25m

04:55

AU (Autobuses Unidos)

940 MXN ($50)

Get Your Tickets

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 110 MXN ($5.80).

Best places to stay in Bacalar

Agam Hotel - Treating Yourself

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 per night

Check Available Rooms

Casa Zazil - Mid Range

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 per night

Check Available Rooms

Hotel Ma Alob Che Bacalar - Mid Range

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 per night

Check Available Rooms

Zayali - Budget Friendly

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 per night

Check Available Rooms

Frequently Asked Questions about Palenque to Bacalar

What is the distance from Palenque to Bacalar?

The distance from Palenque to Bacalar is 486 kilometres (302 miles).

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

The fastest way to get from Palenque to Bacalar is by bus and takes 9 hours 25 minutes.

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 870 MXN ($46).

Rounding it up

We hope this guide was helpful in planning how to get from Palenque to Bacalar. If there's anything else you're wondering about, drop us a comment and we'll do our best to answer you within a few days.

PS: If you've recently travelled this route, share your experience with fellow travellers and help us improve this post. Thanks for helping out our travel community!

About the author(s)

Ela

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

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.

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