In a corner of Mexico that tells the tales of azure waters and legends, Bacalar is a unique destination for the intrepid backpacker seeking both solitude and camaraderie. This guide is your compass to the hostels and social stays that dot this picturesque locale, each offering a blend of communal experiences, adventure, and the serene embrace of nature.
The Yak: For Solo Traveler's
At The Yak Lake House, solitude finds its match in social spaces designed to foster connections. Located just a stone's throw from the St. Felipe Fort Museum and the pulsating heart of the city, this hostel serves as a gateway to Bacalar's soul. Mornings here start with the sun stretching its golden fingers across the private dock, casting a glow on the lagoon's placid waters, best enjoyed with a steaming cup of coffee in hand.
The hostel's outdoor area, adorned with hammocks and lounge chairs, invites weary travelers to unwind under the canopy of the sky. The Yak's blend of private and dormitory rooms, each boasting its own bathroom, offers a sanctuary for those seeking a moment of solitude or a space to share stories with fellow wanderers. The spirit of adventure is kept alive with many activities, from kayaking through the lagoon's embrace to hiking along its sandy fringes, ensuring that every day is a new chapter in your Bacalar saga.
Che Bacalar Hostel & Bar: The Social Butterfly's Retreat
Che Bacalar Hostel & Bar, a newcomer on the Bacalar scene since 2021, quickly claimed its spot as a social hub for travelers from across the globe. A mere ten-minute amble from the town square, the hostel is ideal for those drawn to the Laguna de Los Siete Colores' mesmerizing hues. With a selection of shared and private accommodations, the hostel caters to every kind of traveler, ensuring comfort and community go hand in hand.
The hostel's heart beats in its bar, where cold beers and fresh juices flow freely, encouraging tales of the day's adventures to unfurl. The pool, a liquid oasis, offers a respite from the Yucatan sun, while the evening brings the hostel to life with karaoke, beer pong, and a kaleidoscope of themed parties. For the digital nomad, the co-working space becomes a locale of productivity, proving that adventure and ambition can coexist under one roof.
Guarumbo: The Backpacker's Basecamp
Guarumbo has a strategic location in town and ensures seamless connectivity to the wider wonders of the region. The hostel's garden and terrace are sanctuaries of tranquility, where time slows down, allowing one to soak in the verdant beauty of Bacalar.
The simple rooms are cozy and communal, and feature amenities like free Wi-Fi and shared bathrooms that maintain an impeccable standard of cleanliness. The sprawling backyard, dotted with hammocks, invites guests to indulge in the simple joy of a lazy afternoon. With rentable bikes, the surrounding natural beauty—from cascading waterfalls to mystic caves—is just a pedal away, making every day an invitation to explore.
Bacalar's hostels are more than just places to sleep; they are gateways to experiences, to friendships forged over shared adventures, and to moments of introspection amidst nature's splendor. Whether you're a solo voyager seeking a quiet corner and a good book or a social butterfly ready to spread your wings, Bacalar's hostels offer a mosaic of possibilities, each promising an unforgettable chapter in your travel story.