Los Rápidos de Bacalar

"The Los Rapidos are something I didn't hear about until this unique activity until I got chatting to people in Bacalar, however it is a fun day out and chance to swim in the beautiful waters surrounding Bacalar. Los Rapidos is basically an area by the mouth of a river where there are strong currents, so you are able to enter the river at one point and have a leisurely cruise to another point. The water is incredibly clear due to the limestone stromatolites. These stromatolites are only found in this area of the world and are rock-like formations created by microorganisms, similar to coral. These Stromatolites at Los Rapidos are believed to be around 12,000 years old and they are incredibly fragile so it is important to watch where you step and avoid chemical filled suncreams etc. At Los Rapidos, it is like a water park, you pay an entrance fee of around 100 MXN (€ 5) and there is a cafe with sun loungers and even hammocks over the river. If you are not able to swim confidently, life jackets are provided free of charge. They also provide a locker for your belongings for a small deposit fee. I would recommend doing this as when I went with friends, we chose to leave our belongings in a locked car and they did get stolen. Other than that, Los Rapidos were great and a fun day out!"

"Photos do this place no justice - it is other worldly to see all the different shades of blue whilst being carried down along the rapids naturally. Whether you can swim or not I recommend using the free life jackets to help float better. There is an entry fee so make sure to have your cash or card, you can also rent a locker or kayak should you wish. If you feel peckish after having so much fun you can dine here aswell, bear in mind prices are higher than what you would pay in the actual center."

"Amazing place to visit during your stay in Bacalar! Be ready to pay an entrance fee, but it's worth it. Just please be mindful of the stromatolites - ancient, rock-like structures formed by cyanobacteria and some of the oldest living fossils on Earth, dating back billions of years."