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Latest update: 16 March 2023
For my visit to Bacalar in Mexico, I obviously want to find the best hotel or hostel I can. You too, right? I’ve tested no less than three hotels and one hostel for you.
Hotels and hostels in Bacalar
I hadn’t planned to sleep in four different hotels and hostels in Bacalar. During a backpacking trip, I usually don’t book my accommodation that far in advance, so I sometimes miss out on my favorite. In Bacalar too, as some of the accommodations fill up quickly. In addition, I like the town so much that I stayed longer than expected and returned a second time. So please also check out my restaurant tips and reasons why you absolutely must visit Bacalar.
Azul 36 Hotel in Bacalar
Bacalar is the last stop for one of my friends, so we opt for a slightly more luxurious room than I would typically do on a backpacking trip. The choice for Azul 36 was made quickly: the interior is modern, and the rooms look clean, spacious, and new. On arrival, our expectations became reality. Everything is exactly as in the pictures, and the shower is wonderfully warm and has sufficient power.
But unfortunately, the wifi doesn’t work in our room (we’re all the way in the back) and is not working at the pool either. Normally I don’t make a big deal out of it, but there are a few things I need to sort out online these days. The man at the reception understands the problem and comes up with a surprising solution. We can get our money back and move to the hotel next door tomorrow. He calls the neighbor and arranges it within a few minutes. What a service! Hopefully, the wifi has also been fixed by now.
Book Hotel Azul 36 at Booking.com.
Hotel & Suites Oasis in Bacalar
Right next to Azul 36 is Hotel & Suites Oasis. The price level is the same; we even feel we are getting a little more bang for our buck here. We do not have a room, but a suite including a sitting area, kitchen, and private outdoor area. So it turns out to be a good trade for us. The wifi is also a lot better here. Regarding styling, it may be less pretty than Azul 36, but it is a lot more comfortable for us. The swimming pool here is also bigger, and we enjoy it fully.
Hotel & Suites Oasis on Booking.com.
Hostal Pata de Perro in Bacalar
When I have said goodbye to my accompanying friends, I am on my own for the first time during my Mexico trip. I want to go to a hostel and mingle with people, but the Yak Lake House is already packed, and the reviews about the Green Monkey hostel are so bad (poo smell?!). So I decide to go for a private room. I end up at Hostal Pata de Perro.
That is not a bad choice at all. Hostal Pata de Perro is in the main square, the shared bathroom is spotless, and I have a huge room. The room is light, and although I hear the noises from the street, I can relax here. The rooms have since my stay had a huge upgrade. The whole atmosphere in Hostal Pata de Perro is soothing. The lady behind the reception is very sweet when I burst out crying because I feel very alone right now. Yes people, traveling alone is sometimes just not that much fun – it’s all part of the experience.
Check Hostal Pata de Perro at Booking.com.
The Yak Lake House in Bacalar
The Yak Lake House is the most popular hostel in Bacalar. It is almost always full, so I’m glad I managed to get a bed here during my second visit to Bacalar. The hostel is right on the lake; it doesn’t get any better than this! It’s spacious and freshly decorated. It is also remarkably clean. The cleaners are constantly keeping everything spick and span. The dorms have a lot of space, and the shower is modern. The Yak Lake House also has private rooms. The staff organizes all kinds of activities every day: from sangria workshops to salsa lessons.
Everything is at a nice relaxed pace and with a lot of personal attention. You can also do a SUP tour here (weather permitting), and the hostel is the starting point of the Free Walking Tour. The common room is set up to meet people, and there is enough space to quietly read your book. Upon arrival, you will get a welcome drink in the outdoor bar so that you can immediately enjoy the view over the lake.
Book your stay at Yak Lake House.
Favorite hotels in Bacalar?
My favorite is The Yak Lake House. Especially as a solo traveler, but the hostel also has private rooms that look very comfortable. Do you have another favorite hotel or hostel in Bacalar? I like to hear it! I will surely come back again.
More Mexico inspiration?
Helpful links for your Mexico trip
- Accommodation. All-time favorite: Booking.com. Find hostels via Hostelworld.
- Activities. You book the best tours and activities with GetYourGuide and Viator. You could also try WithLocals. ‘Free’ walking tours are available at GuruWalk. And for bike tours, try Baja Bikes.
- Attractions and museums. Get a 5% discount on museums and attractions at Tiqets with the coupon code KIMOPREIS22.
- Bus. Book bus trips in Mexico with Busbud or 12Go.
- Car rental. Compare prices at Discover Cars and Rentalcars.com.
- Flights. Compare all your options! Definitely check out Skyscanner, Kiwi, and Trip
- Money. Your debit and credit cards may not get accepted everywhere. You could opt for a Revolut card as an additional card when you travel.
- Package deals. Rather go on a catered trip? You could try CheapOair or Expedia.
- SIM card. Beware of unexpectedly high calling and internet costs. Buy a local SIM card when you arrive, or arrange one online via Airalo.
- Travel guides. I love the practical travel guides from Lonely Planet, buy them at Amazon.
- Visum. Make sure you have the right documentation to travel to Mexico. iVisa can help you out.
- Yoga retreat. Or: try a yoga retreat in Mexico!
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First published: April 2018. The article has been updated since.
