An Honest Look at the 4×1 Tulum, Coba, Cenote, and Playa del Carmen Tour
If you’re planning a trip to Cancun or the Riviera Maya and looking for a way to see some of the most popular sites without fussing over every detail, this 4×1 tour might catch your eye. It promises a full day of exploring Tulum, Coba, a cenote, and finishing up with some chill time in Playa del Carmen—all for about $72 per person. Sounds like a good deal, right? Well, it’s worth digging into what you actually get, what’s worth your attention, and where it might fall short.
What we like about this experience is, first, the convenience. You get transportation, guided tours, and meals included, which makes planning a lot easier. Second, the diversity of stops means you’re not just stuck looking at ruins but also enjoying natural spots and a lively town vibe. On the flip side, a key consideration is that with such a packed schedule, you’ll spend a lot of time on the move, which could mean less time at each site than you’d ideally want.
This kind of tour really suits travelers who want to hit the highlights of Riviera Maya efficiently—especially if you prefer guided experiences and don’t want to worry about logistics. It’s good for those who enjoy a mix of history, nature, and local culture, but maybe less ideal for folks seeking a deep-dive, leisurely exploration.
Key Points

- All-in-one package: Includes transportation, guides, entrance fees, and a buffet meal.
- Variety of sites: Visit Tulum, Coba, a cenote, and Playa del Carmen, offering a complete snapshot of Riviera Maya.
- Time management: The tour is approximately 11 hours, so expect a long day with tight scheduling.
- Value for money: For $72, you get a lot, but consider if it’s enough time at each location.
- Safety priorities: The tour emphasizes hygiene, with disinfected transport and health measures.
- Mixed reviews: Some travelers found the tour a bit lengthy and rushed, but others appreciated the included food and guides.
A Closer Look at the Tour Itinerary

Planning more time in Cancun? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
Tulum Archaeological Site
Your day kicks off with a visit to Tulum, one of the most iconic Mayan sites. Its location right on the Caribbean coast makes it a stunning backdrop for exploring ancient ruins. The guided tour lasts about 2 hours, during which the guide will share insights into the history and significance of this city. You’ll get to walk through the well-preserved structures and enjoy views of the turquoise sea—definitely a highlight for many visitors.
From reviews, it seems the guides do a decent job of making this part informative, though some found it a bit rushed. One traveler commented that the tour was quite extensive, and it’s true—packing Tulum, Coba, the cenote, and Playa del Carmen into one day means each site gets only a snapshot. Still, if you’re tight on time or want a guided overview, it’s a solid start.
Coba Archaeological Site
Next, the tour takes you to Coba, another major Mayan ruin located deep in the jungle. With enormous historical importance, Coba was once a significant power center. Here, you get about an hour, which is enough to walk around and get a sense of the scale. Some reviews mentioned the possibility of biking or riding in tricycles around Coba, adding a bit of fun to your visit.
Walking in the jungle to reach the archaeological areas can be a charming experience, and the site’s remote setting offers a different vibe than Tulum. Although the visit is brief, it’s enough to see some of the major structures and appreciate the lush surroundings.
Cenote Kuxtal
After soaking up history, you’ll enjoy a refreshing dip at Cenote Kuxtal. This natural freshwater pool is close to Coba, making it a perfect spot to cool off. We loved the idea of including a cenote—nothing beats swimming in clear, cool water in the middle of a busy tour day. It’s one of those simple pleasures that make your trip memorable.
The cenote visit lasts about an hour, giving plenty of time to relax, take photos, or just enjoy the tranquility. Many travelers rave about the “delicious” experience of swimming here, and it’s a great break from the walking and sightseeing.
Playa del Carmen – Quinta Avenida
The final stop is Playa del Carmen’s Fifth Avenue—a lively pedestrian street full of shops, cafes, and restaurants. With an hour to explore, you can walk, browse, or pick up some souvenirs. It’s a good way to end the day with a taste of local life and maybe a snack or drink before heading back.
Some reviewers mentioned that the time in Playa was just enough to get a quick feel of the area, but if you’re a serious shopper or want more time relaxing on the beach, you might find this stop a bit hurried.
- Cancun ATV Jungle Adventure, Ziplines, Cenote and Tequila Tasting
- Chichen Itza Early Access Tour with Expert Guide & Buffet Lunch
- ATV Adventure, Interactive Bridges, Ziplines, Cenote and Lunch
- Viator Exclusive: Tulum Ruins, Reef Snorkeling, Cenote and Caves
- Isla Mujeres Luxury Sailing: Adults Only or Family Friendly
- Early morning Chichen Itza Tour: Cenote and Tequila Tasting
What’s Included and What’s Not
The tour’s included features are quite comprehensive for the price: an air-conditioned vehicle, pickup and drop-off at your hotel (which is a huge plus), certified guides, the cenote experience, and a buffet lunch. The emphasis on hygiene and safety is clear, with disinfected vehicles and measures to keep everyone safe.
However, keep in mind that drinks at the restaurant, souvenirs, photos, and certain fees are not included. You’ll need to pay a 600 pesos conservation fee and a 360 pesos ticket for Parque Jaguar if you choose to visit or participate in additional activities.
Some reviews pointed out the value of the included food, describing it as “excellent,” which adds to the overall appeal, especially after a long morning of touring.
The Practical Side: Transport, Group Size, and Timing

With about 11 hours of activity, this tour is a long but organized day. The group size is capped at 42, which might feel a bit crowded but is typical for this type of day trip. The pickup time is early—7:00 am—so be prepared for an early start, but it means you’ll maximize your sightseeing.
The transportation is air-conditioned, making the long hours in the bus more comfortable. Pickup and drop-off are included, which saves you the hassle of arranging your own transfers.
What the Reviews Say

From the few reviews available, opinions are mixed. One traveler noted that the pick-up was smooth and that the included Coba visit was a key reason for choosing this tour. They appreciated the guide’s effort, although they didn’t comment on the overall experience length.
Another reviewer found the tour “too extensive” and mentioned that it felt overly long, especially with so many sites crammed into one day. They also pointed out that walking or biking in Coba added a nice touch, but the overall pace might be tiring for some.
Despite these mixed feelings, both reviews agree that the included buffet and the chance to see notable sites make the tour worth considering if time is limited.
Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a rundown of Riviera Maya’s highlights without the hassle of planning each step. If you’re okay with a long day and don’t mind tight schedules, you’ll appreciate the convenience of this guided, all-inclusive trip. It’s perfect for those interested in history, natural beauty, and a taste of local culture, especially if you’re visiting Cancun and want to see the main attractions quickly.
However, if you prefer to explore at a more relaxed pace or want more time at each site, this might feel rushed. It’s also a good choice if trying delicious food and enjoying safe, hygienic conditions are priorities for you.
Final Thoughts

The 4×1 Tulum, Coba, Cenote, and Playa del Carmen tour offers a practical way to pack a lot into one day, especially if your time is limited. For $72, the price is fair considering the included food, guides, and entrance fees. Still, be prepared for a full day of travel and sightseeing, with less leisurely moments at each stop.
If you’re someone who loves guided tours with all logistics handled and enjoys experiencing a mix of history, nature, and urban vibes, this could be just the ticket. Do keep in mind that some travelers found the schedule a bit packed, and the experience might be more superficial than in-depth.
Overall, it’s a good option for curious travelers eager to tick off key Riviera Maya sights without the stress of planning every detail themselves.
4×1 Tulum, Coba, Cenote and Playa del Carmen for one price today!
“I'm guessing tge tours depends on the tour company Viator contracts. The tour company that we had was BK?, I can't remember the full name (sorry). …”
FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is generally suitable for most travelers, though it involves a lot of walking and long hours. Kids who enjoy exploring ruins and swimming in cenotes will likely have a good time.
Are meals included?
Yes, a buffet lunch is included, and travelers have praised the quality of the food, describing it as “excellent.” Drinks at the restaurant are not included, though.
What safety measures are in place?
The tour emphasizes hygiene, with disinfected vehicles and products, and adheres to health protocols to keep everyone safe.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 11 hours, starting early at 7:00 am.
What’s the group size?
The maximum number of travelers is 42, which helps keep the group manageable but still lively.
Do I need to bring anything?
It’s wise to bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, some cash for souvenirs or extras, and swimwear for the cenote.
Is there enough time at each site?
The schedule is tight, with around 1-2 hours per stop, so don’t expect to explore every corner thoroughly—think of it as an overview.
Is this experience family-friendly?
While not explicitly marketed as a family tour, it’s generally appropriate for those comfortable with a full day of activity and walking.
If you’re looking for a well-organized, all-inclusive way to see some of the best spots in Riviera Maya without the fuss, this tour offers a balanced mix of history, natural beauty, and local flavor. Just come prepared for a packed day and keep expectations aligned with the quick visits.
More Tour Reviews in Cancun
- The Most Mexican Party Tour in Xoximilco & Open Bar only from Cancun
- Catamaran Sailing Experience & Snorkeling Tour to Isla Mujeres
- Kuxtal Cenote with Coba and Tulum Ruins Guided Tour from Cancun
- Isla Mujeres Catamaran Tour with Snorkeling, Open Bar and Buffet
- Transportation from Cancun Airport to Costa Mujeres or Playa Mujeres
- Private Round Trip from Airport to Hotel Zone Cancun
More Cancun experiences we've covered
- The Most Mexican Party Tour in Xoximilco & Open Bar only from Cancun
- Catamaran Sailing Experience & Snorkeling Tour to Isla Mujeres
- Kuxtal Cenote with Coba and Tulum Ruins Guided Tour from Cancun
- Isla Mujeres Catamaran Tour with Snorkeling, Open Bar and Buffet
- Transportation from Cancun Airport to Costa Mujeres or Playa Mujeres
- Private Round Trip from Airport to Hotel Zone Cancun
- From Cancun: 2 Dives in Cenote Dos Ojos for Certified Divers
- Chichen Itza Classic Tour
- Holbox, Punta Cocos, Punta Mosquito! Full Beach Adventure
- Isla Mujeres in Catamaran
- 4×1 Tulum, Coba, Cenote and Playa del Carmen for one price today!
- ChichenItza from Cancun Full Day Experience Cenote and Valladolid
