Bacalar to Merida Trip Overview
Price range US$ 37-US$ 45 | |
Ride Duration Range 5h-5h 50m | |
Earliest Departure 05:05 | |
Latest Departure 22:50 | |
Most Popular Operator |
Find up-to-date information on departure times, schedules, and prices so you can easily compare and book your tickets.

How to get from Bacalar to Merida
Bacalar is one of those destinations you visit and never forget. Located in Quintana Roo on the Mexico-Belize border, this is the place to go if you want to take a dip in an azure lagoon.
The question is, can anywhere top this destination? Let's see. Next up is Merida.
Merida is the capital of the Yucatan state and the largest city in the southeastern region. Home to colonial and Mayan heritage, this spot is a history lover's dream. Prepare to see colonial-era architecture and ancient Mayan temples in person (and without stress!).
The journey from Bacalar to Merida covers 345 km (215 miles) across the Yucatan Peninsula. This takes approximately four to five hours, depending on your transport provider. The main way to cross this distance is via bus.
Most buses leave Bacalar from the Terminal de ADO Bacalar and arrive at the ADO bus station in Merida.
Are you ready for the city trip of a lifetime? Scroll down to unlock Merida's secrets and how to see them like a pro.
Five things to see and do Merida
Known as the White City (Ciudad Blanca) due to its extensive use of white limestone as a building material, Merida is a must-visit destination. Don't waste a moment when you arrive. Do the research now so you can hit the ground running when you arrive.
Here are five things to do and see in Merida:
Plaza Grande — The best way to get to know a city is through the center. Plaza Grande is the heart of Merida and the best place to people-watch. You can also admire the colonial buildings, dine in authentic restaurants, and snap a few selfies by the big Merida sign.
Gran Museo del Mundo Maya — Merida has a long Mayan heritage and close ties to Maya culture. This is where you can dive deeper into its beautiful history. It's open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day except Tuesdays.
Lucas Galvez Market — Authentic markets are a staple for any city break. This market has something for everyone, including handicrafts, clothes, groceries, flowers, and, of course, delicious tacos.
Eladios Beach — Merida isn't on the coast, but you can reach pristine beaches within a 30-minute drive. Eladios Beach is a stunning white sand beach with a quiet atmosphere — ideal for a day trip or afternoon away from the city's bustle.
Chichen Itza — Chichen Itza is Mexico's most famous Mayan ruin and a great day trip from Merida. The earliest development of this structure started in 600 to 750 A.D. Yes, it's really that old! You can reach this world wonder via taxi, public bus, or guided tour. The one-way drive is approximately an hour and a half long.
What is Merida best known for?
Merida is known for its Mayan and colonial heritage.
It's also a great spot to base yourself if you want to visit the Mayan ruins on the Yucatan Peninsula, such as Chichen Itza.
The city is known for stately boulevards, colonial architecture, leafy plazas, and excellent museums. It also has a blossoming restaurant scene and lively street food markets. Delicious.
With so many things to do and see, it's clear that few cities top Merida. This is your sign to visit ASAP.
How to get from Bacalar to Merida
Buses are the only way to get from Bacalar to Merida. Here's how to hitch a ride.
By bus
Traveling by bus from Bacalar to Merida takes four to five hours, meaning you can bridge the gap in an afternoon.
Bus prices start at $40 but go up to $56, depending on which class you take. Your main options are First Class Buses and Executive Buses.
Here's how they differ:
First Class Bus — Tickets start at $40 and take around four hours to arrive. They include A/C, WCs, individual cabin seats, and a 21 kg bag per person.
Executive Bus — Executive buses cost more ($50-ish) and take between four hours and fifteen minutes to five hours to arrive. They provide individual cabin seats, A/C, WCs, a 21 kg luggage allowance, chargers, and Wi-Fi (subject to availability).
Buy snacks and drinks beforehand to ensure you don't get hungry on the route.
If you want to catch some ZZZs on the road, consider buying a travel pillow for extra comfort.
About the ride from Bacalar to Merida
Buses travel along the main highways, limiting your views. So, don't worry if you don't get the window seat.
You will technically pass by the Reserva Estatal Geohidrológica Anillo de Cenotes (the Ring of Cenotes), but you won't be able to see any of the cenotes or hiking trails from the road.
Tourists frequently travel from Bacalar to Merida, and this is a safe route for all visitors. For peace of mind, take the usual precautions, like securing your valuables before you travel.
The best time to travel from Bacalar to Merida
The best time to travel from Bacalar to Merida is February and March. These months have a temperature of 31-33°C (87-91°F) and no rain.
Don't stress if you're visiting at a different time. Merida's temperature remains around 30°C/86°F all year. The hottest months are April to August, when temperatures can get as high as 36°C/96°F.
Merida's rainy season is from May to October. However, the rain falls in short, sharp bursts. Bring an umbrella, but don't expect constant drizzle.
Where to visit after Merida?
Do you have more time to spare after Merida? Keep exploring. Why not spend a few days in Cancun, an iconic Mexican resort city? Prepare for white sands, margs by the pool, and world-class nightlife. You can get from Merida to Cancun in under four hours via car.
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