Tulum, Coba, Cenote Kuxtal and Playa Del Carmen! Deluxe Tour

If you’re trying to squeeze in a taste of Mayan history, natural beauty, and some lively city vibes into a single day, this tour from Cancun might catch your eye. It promises visits to iconic archaeological sites like Tulum and Coba, a refreshing swim in a stunning cenote, and a quick stroll along Playa del Carmen’s famous Fifth Avenue—all in around 11 hours. Whether you’re short on time or want a thorough overview without the hassle of planning each detail, this kind of guided experience could be just what you need.

What we especially like about this tour is how it packs so many highlights into a single day—it’s designed for travelers who want a comprehensive snapshot of the Riviera Maya without dedicating multiple days. Plus, the inclusion of a regional buffet lunch and drinks makes the whole experience more relaxed and worry-free. On the flip side, the tour is quite full, and if you’re hoping for a leisurely, in-depth exploration of each site, this might feel rushed.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a busy, structured itinerary and appreciate having transportation, guides, and meals all arranged in advance. It’s a good pick if you’re after a practical overview and don’t mind the hustle—perfect for first-timers or those with limited time.

Key Points

• All-in-one day trip covering Tulum, Coba, Cenote Kuxtal, and Playa del Carmen
• Guided tours of archaeological sites with knowledgeable guides
• Includes transportation, meals, and drinks, making it convenient
• Swim in Cenote Kuxtal—a highlight for nature lovers
• One free hour to explore the lively Fifth Avenue in Playa del Carmen
• Preservation tax of $32 per person is not included, so budget extra

The Basics of the Tour

This tour is designed to give you a broad overview of the Riviera Maya’s most iconic sights—all in just over half a day of sightseeing. Starting early at 7:00am, you’ll be picked up from your hotel in Cancun in a comfortable vehicle, heading straight to the heart of Mayan civilization and natural beauty. The fact that the tour is priced at $94 per person makes it fairly accessible, especially considering it covers transportation, guides, meals, and entry to some sites.

Booking in advance is common—most travelers reserve around 79 days ahead—showing that it’s a popular choice for those wanting a scalable, organized experience. The mobile ticket makes for quick check-in, and the tour is capped at 50 participants, keeping the group manageable without feeling crowded.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Tulum Archaeological Site

We love how this tour begins with Tulum, arguably the most famous Mayan ruin on the coast. Sitting on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean, Tulum’s scenic setting is a major draw. Your guide will walk you through the site’s highlights, sharing insights about its history and significance. While admission isn’t included, the guided tour offers enough context to make the visit meaningful.

Expect about 1 hour and 30 minutes here. It’s enough time to take photos, soak in the views, and learn a bit about the ancient city. If you’re a history buff or simply enjoy stunning scenery, this spot will not disappoint. Keep in mind that you’ll need to buy the entrance ticket separately, which is typical for many archaeological sites.

Stop 2: Coba Ruins

Next up is Coba, another well-preserved site with the tallest pyramid in the Yucatán Peninsula. The guided tour here is a highlight, especially since Coba’s ruins feel a bit less crowded than Tulum. The site’s lush jungle setting and the towering pyramid are impressive—ideal for those who appreciate architectural scale and archaeological significance.

You’ll have about an hour to explore, and again, the entrance fee isn’t included. The tour’s focus on conservation and preservation is noted, and the guide will probably share stories about the ancient Mayan civilization that built these structures.

Stop 3: Cenote Kuxtal

The cenote is a true jewel of this trip. After a morning of walking through ancient ruins, nothing beats jumping into the cool, clear waters of Cenote Kuxtal. The cenote’s natural beauty, with its stalactites and lush surroundings, makes it a perfect spot to relax and reconnect with nature.

Here, entry is included, and you’ll spend about an hour swimming and enjoying the tranquility. This is often cited as a favorite part of the tour—being able to cool off in such a stunning setting after the archaeological adventures. Remember to bring your swimsuit, towel, and extra clothes, as well as biodegradable sunscreen and insect repellent to protect this pristine environment.

Stop 4: Playa del Carmen’s Fifth Avenue

The final leg of the day is a free hour to explore Playa del Carmen’s lively Fifth Avenue. This bustling street is packed with shops, eateries, street performers, and a vibrant atmosphere. It’s a perfect way to soak in some local culture, grab a snack, or do some quick shopping before heading back.

While no admission is required here, it’s a chance for you to wind down and enjoy the city’s energy. Just keep an eye on the time—your guide will give a designated meeting point and time to reunite.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour packs in a lot: guided tours of Tulum and Coba, transportation, a regional buffet lunch, a box lunch with juice, sandwich, and fruit, and drinks during the meal and transportation. The included swim at Cenote Kuxtal is a big plus, as many similar tours charge extra for cenote visits.

However, some costs aren’t included—most notably the $32 USD preservation tax for Tulum and Coba ruins, which you’ll need to pay on-site. Also, drinks at the restaurant outside of the provided beverages are extra, so plan accordingly.

The Experience: What We Think

Reading through the reviews and the tour details, we appreciate how well-organized and comprehensive this experience appears. Guides are described as knowledgeable, which makes a big difference when wandering through ancient sites. The scenic views at Tulum and the towering Coba pyramid are genuinely memorable, and swimming in Cenote Kuxtal sounds like a refreshing break from the walking.

One traveler mentions, “The guides were very knowledgeable and made the history come alive,” which shows the value of having a professional guide explain the significance of each site. The flexibility to explore Fifth Avenue for an hour adds a nice touch, giving you some personal time amid the structured day.

That said, some travelers note that the schedule can be quite tight, especially with the added cost of the preservation tax and optional extras. The tour’s pace might feel rushed if you prefer to linger longer at each site or explore independently.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is well-suited for those who want a timed, organized experience covering multiple highlights without the hassle of logistics. It’s perfect for first-time visitors or travelers with limited time, wanting an overview of the region’s key sights.

If you’re comfortable with a busy day and appreciate having meals and transportation arranged for you, this could be a great choice. Conversely, if you prefer a more relaxed, in-depth experience at each site or want to avoid extra costs like the preservation tax, you might want to consider alternatives.

The Sum Up: Should You Book?

In the end, this tour offers a practical, efficient way to see some of the most iconic spots of the Riviera Maya on a single day. The guided approach, combined with included meals and transportation, takes a lot of planning off your plate—making it a good pick for travelers who want convenience.

While it’s not a laid-back, slow-paced trip, it’s ideal for those eager to check off key highlights in a short amount of time. If history, natural beauty, and city strolls appeal to you, this tour strikes a good balance of adventure and practicality.

Overall, it’s best for curious travelers who enjoy structured days, appreciate informative guides, and want to maximize their time exploring the Riviera Maya’s treasures.

FAQ

Do I need to pay for the Tulum and Coba ruins separately?
Yes, the tour price doesn’t include the ruins’ preservation tax of $32 USD per person. You’ll pay this at the entrance.

What’s the duration of the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately 11 hours, starting at 7:00am and returning later in the day.

Is transportation included?
Yes, comfortable first-class transport is provided from Cancun to all the stops.

Can I swim at Cenote Kuxtal?
Absolutely. Entry is included, and many travelers enjoy taking a refreshing dip in the cenote’s cool waters.

What should I bring?
Wear comfortable clothes and shoes, bring your swimsuit, towels, extra clothes, biodegradable sunscreen, and insect repellent.

Are drinks included during the tour?
You get two drinks during transportation and one during your meal. Extra drinks at the restaurant are extra cost.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the information doesn’t specify, the busy schedule and walking might be more suitable for older kids or teens.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 50 travelers, which helps keep the experience manageable and organized.

What kind of food is served?
A regional buffet lunch featuring local flavors, plus a box lunch with juice, a sandwich, and fruit.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if needed.

If you’re looking for a whirlwind, well-organized day that hits the highlights of the Riviera Maya, this tour could be just what you need. It balances history, nature, and city life—all with some comforts built in. Just remember, it’s a busy day, so come prepared to enjoy a fast-paced, rewarding adventure.