Bacalar Laguna of Seven Colours

Bacala was a sacred place for the Mayas since the 5th century. Bacalar was founded in 1544 when attacked by Mayan rebels and pirates. In 2007 Bacalar became ‘Pueblo Magico’.

Bacalar Laguna (lagoon) is a freshwater lake formed on the foundation of stromatolites. These stromatolites are rocks formed by millions of bacteria and is the oldest life form on earth. When swimming in the laguna it is recommended to wear light rubber shoes to protect the stromatolites from damage.

They grow near the shore in the cenotes which are underground chambers/caves containing permanent water. Cenotes are natural sinkholes created from the collapse of limestone walls. There are open cenotes which appear as large deep blue lakes.

I’m yet to visit an open deep blue cenote. Kindwhile, here’s photos of my swimming location these last two days.