At Habitas Bacalar, everything begins with the environment. From the location to the layout, from the daily activities to the building materials, nature is the main highlight in the atmosphere, and it’s the priority. The entire concept was built to give guests a direct, uninterrupted connection to the outdoors in a way that feels grounded and real. It's situated on the shores of Bacalar Lagoon, also known as the Lagoon of Seven Colors, in the Mexican province of Quintana Roo, and is close to the southern end of the lagoon. Join this episode of architecture in nature to find out more.
Nature Comes First at Habitas Bacalar In Every Sense
Habitas is a holistic retreat designed to recharge the body, mind, and soul. Set between the calm waters of the lagoon and the Mayan jungle, the hotel, or 'oasis', draws inspiration from this unique natural environment — and gives back to it in return.
Instead of clearing large areas or putting up traditional buildings, Habitas worked with the land without touching or harming the original nature surrounding the space. The rooms are placed on raised platforms that fit between trees, without cutting them down. Much of the structure was prefabricated elsewhere and assembled on-site to avoid heavy construction. The result is a resort that exists within the jungle and by the lagoon, not over it.
The rooms themselves are minimal and open. Walls and roofs use natural materials, windows are wide to let in light, and many rooms include outdoor showers. The goal isn’t over-the-top luxury — it’s giving people a space that feels connected to where they are, instead of shutting it out.
How the Jungle Shapes the Guest Experience
Being surrounded by the jungle changes how people feel. The sound of the trees, the light filtered through the leaves, and the quiet that comes from being away from roads and cities help people slow down. The jungle creates a calm rhythm that makes it easier to disconnect from stress and focus on the present. Many guests say they sleep better, feel more relaxed, and think more clearly after just a couple of days.
The lagoon also plays a big part in how people experience the place. Its still water, open views, and constant presence bring a sense of balance. Swimming or just sitting by the edge helps people feel grounded. It’s not designed as a backdrop—it’s there to be part of the day. Whether guests are kayaking at sunrise or just floating quietly, the water has a clear effect on the nervous system. Both the jungle and the lagoon create the kind of environment where people naturally reset, without needing to try too hard.
Wellness That Comes From the Land
Wellness here doesn’t mean a closed-off spa. It happens outdoors, in sync with the surroundings. Yoga, breathing exercises, and traditional Mayan ceremonies are held in open-air settings. Local farms provide the ingredients for treatments and meals, most of which are plant-based, not only for health but to keep the environmental impact low.
What differentiates this hotel is the fact that nature shapes the experience, not the other way around. Guests can walk through the jungle, swim in nearby cenotes, or join lagoon boat tours focused on education. You don’t need to fill your schedule with planned entertainment. Just being in that environment offers the reset people come looking for.
The people behind Habitas Bacalar have taken responsibility for their surroundings. They work with local groups to protect the lagoon and keep tourism sustainable. This includes limiting light pollution, using solar energy, reducing waste, and sharing knowledge about the area with guests.
One to add for your travel destinations this year! See more of their locations and settings on Habitas Bacalar's Instagram account.
Photos by: @habitasbacalar.
