5×1 Deluxe Tour Tulum, Coba, Cenote Transportation from Tulum

A Practical Look at the 5×1 Deluxe Tour Tulum, Coba, Cenote Transportation from Tulum

Thinking about exploring some of the most iconic spots in the Riviera Maya but not wanting to spend all your time planning each detail? This 5×1 Deluxe Tour offers a solid option for travelers eager to pack in multiple highlights—Tulum ruins, Coba archeological site, a refreshing cenote swim, and a stroll along Playa del Carmen’s lively Quinta Avenida—all in one day.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it combines history and natural beauty in a way that feels manageable, even if your time in the area is limited. Plus, the included transportation and lunch help keep things simple and straightforward. That said, since it’s a busy day from start to finish, it’s not ideal if you’re craving a slow, in-depth experience or traveling with very young children who might find the schedule a bit relentless.

A possible consideration is the government fee of $32 per person, which isn’t included in the initial price. It’s a common practice, but worth budgeting for. This tour works best for those who want a rundown of the region’s top sights without the hassle of planning each stop, and who are comfortable with a full day on the move.

Overall, if you’re after a balanced taste of history, culture, and natural scenery, and don’t mind a packed itinerary, this tour can be quite rewarding. It’s especially suited for travelers who are comfortable with group tours, want to see a lot in one day, and appreciate having transportation and some meals taken care of.

Key Points

• All-in-One Experience: Combines four major stops—Tulum ruins, Coba ruins, cenote swim, and Playa del Carmen.
• Convenient Transport & Meals: Round-trip transportation from Tulum and a buffet lunch included.
• Time-Efficient: Approximately 11-12 hours, making it suitable for a day trip.
• Cost-Effective: For $88, you get several attractions plus transportation, but remember about the additional government fee.
• Natural & Cultural Highlights: Offers both historical sites and the chance to swim in pristine cenote waters.
• Group Atmosphere: Expect a guided tour with other travelers, which can be fun but less intimate.

The Itinerary in Detail

Tulum Archaeological Site

Your day kicks off with a visit to the Tulum Ruins, one of the most recognizable Mayan sites thanks to its seaside location. We loved how the guide provided context, making the ancient stones come alive. Expect about 1 hour and 30 minutes here, which should be enough for a solid overview, but don’t expect to see every detail in that time. The ruins themselves are quite photogenic—imagine walking along the cliffs with the Caribbean as your backdrop.

A common sentiment from reviews is that the site is both beautiful and a little crowded, especially mid-morning. Still, the views are undoubtedly stunning, and the sense of history is tangible. This stop sets a great tone for the day, blending natural scenery with ancient marvels.

Coba Ruins

Next, you’ll head to Coba, another impressive Maya site. The highlight here is the chance to climb the Nohoch Mul pyramid, which is one of the few accessible pyramids in the region. The tour includes a 1-hour visit, giving enough time to explore the ruins and enjoy the lush surroundings.

What’s notable is that the site isn’t as crowded as Tulum, allowing for a more relaxed experience. Many visitors find Coba’s vibe more laid-back, and the chance to walk through the jungle ruins adds a sense of adventure. Plus, the tour includes a visit to an authentic Mayan cenote—called Cenote Cho-Ha—where you can cool off in clear waters. That’s a real highlight, and we’ve read that many travelers appreciated this natural break in the schedule.

Cenote Kuxtal & Cenote Cho-Ha

The tour officially includes about 1 hour at Cenote Kuxtal, which is close to Coba, and sometimes Cenote Cho-Ha, depending on availability. These natural swimming holes are the perfect way to refresh after a morning of exploring. Expect to swim in crystal-clear waters, often described as a highlight of the tour.

Guests praise the stunning views and the tranquility of these cenotes, making them a refreshing contrast to the ancient ruins. Just keep in mind that the cenotes can be busy, especially on weekends or peak season, so arrive early if possible.

Playa del Carmen & Quinta Avenida

The final stop is a leisurely visit to Playa del Carmen, specifically its famous Quinta Avenida. You’ll have about an hour to stroll, browse local crafts, or just soak in the lively atmosphere. The Fundadores Park offers fantastic ocean views and is a great place to relax before heading back.

While some reviews mention that this part of the tour feels a bit rushed, most travelers enjoy the opportunity to see a different side of the region—urban vibrancy mixed with beachside charm. It’s a good way to wind down after a long day of sightseeing.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The tour covers round transportation from Tulum, which is a huge plus—it takes the stress out of coordinating your own transit. The buffet lunch is regional, giving you a taste of local flavors along with a juice, sandwich, and fruit. Drinks during the meal and on transportation are included, but keep in mind that drinks at the restaurant and life vests aren’t included, so if you want extra beverages or safety gear, you’ll need to pay extra.

The government fee of $32 is not included in the base price, so make sure to budget for that. It’s standard in many tours but can catch some travelers off guard if they aren’t paying attention.

The Value of This Tour

For $88 per person, this tour offers a lot—multiple sites, transportation, and meals—without the need to plan each step yourself. When you consider the cost of individual entrance fees, transportation, and lunch, it’s quite a package.

However, it’s worth noting that the day is long and packed, which might be tiring if you prefer a more relaxed pace. Yet, many reviews mention that the stunning views and variety of activities make it worthwhile. If you’re someone who likes seeing a lot in a day and doesn’t mind a busy schedule, you’ll find this tour delivers.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers who value efficiency and convenience. It’s ideal if your time is limited but you want a well-rounded glimpse of the region’s highlights. It’s also great for those who enjoy a mix of history, natural beauty, and urban culture in one trip.

While not the best choice for travelers seeking a slow, in-depth exploration of each site, it’s perfect for those who want a rundown without the hassle of organizing transport and meals. If you’re traveling with a group or don’t mind a full day on your feet, you’ll likely find this tour satisfying.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from Tulum is included, making it easy to relax without worrying about logistics.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs about 11 to 12 hours, starting early and ending in Playa del Carmen.

Are meals included?
A buffet regional lunch with juice, sandwich, and fruit is part of the package. Drinks during the meal and on transport are also included.

What is the cost for government fees?
The government fee of $32 per person isn’t included in the initial price, so plan to pay this on the day of the tour.

Can I climb the Coba pyramid?
Yes, the tour includes a visit to Coba, where you can climb the Nohoch Mul pyramid if you’re comfortable with heights and stairs.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the activities are generally suitable for older children who can handle a full day of sightseeing. Always check the specific needs of your family.

How much time is spent at each site?
Expect about 1 hour 30 minutes at Tulum, 1 hour at Coba, and 1 hour at each cenote. The final Playa del Carmen visit lasts roughly an hour.

Are drinks at the restaurant included?
No, drinks at the restaurant are extra, but two drinks are included during transportation.

In the end, this tour offers a practical, well-organized way to see some of the region’s most celebrated sights in one go. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a reliable, all-inclusive experience that balances history, nature, and city life—all without the stress of planning every detail. Just remember to be prepared for a full day and budget for the extra fees. If that sounds like your kind of adventure, this could be a great choice.