Costa Maya’s standout tours deliver authentic experiences without the usual tourist traps. The snorkeling excursions excel at delivering close encounters with sea turtles and coral reefs in crystal-clear waters. At Chacchoben, expert guides bring Mayan history to life among impressive ancient pyramids. I’m particularly fond of the Bacalar Lagoon tours – the stunning blue waters and laid-back vibe remind me of what the Caribbean was like 30 years ago. The beach club experiences offer good value, combining water activities with quality amenities. For maximum cultural and natural exposure, grab a combo tour linking the ruins with lagoon exploration. Let’s explore the finest tours Costa Maya has to offer.
Key Points
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For snorkeling and water activities, the Snorkel Boat Tour and Costa Maya Reef Snorkeling + Beach Day offer good experiences, though visibility can be impacted by weather conditions.
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The Chacchoben Mayan Ruins Tour provides an in-depth exploration of a lesser-known Mayan site, with knowledgeable guides and inclusive amenities, receiving a 100% recommendation rate.
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Bacalar Lagoon Excursions, including the Lagoon of 7 Colors Boat Tour, offer scenic boat tours, swimming, and authentic Mexican cuisine, with high traveler recommendation.
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Private and luxury excursions, such as the Bacalar Private Charter and Private Luxury Beach Club Excursion, provide personalized experiences with unique attractions and all-inclusive packages.
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Combo tours, like the Chacchoben and Bacalar Combo, combine cultural and leisure activities, offering convenient transportation, meals, and activities at both the Mayan ruins and the lagoon.
Snorkel Boat Tour in Search of Turtles
What better way to experience the underwater wonders of Costa Maya than the Snorkel Boat Tour in Search of Turtles? This tour boasts a 91% recommendation rate from 186 travelers, making it an ideal choice for beginner snorkelers and those with limited time.
The small group size, capped at 12 participants, ensures personalized attention from the guides. During the tour, you’ll snorkel in the calm, protected waters of a shallow reef lagoon, with the chance to spot turtles, tropical fish, and vibrant coral.
The tour includes snorkeling equipment, bottled water, coffee, and a fruit snack, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free experience.
While some reviews mention challenges like rough waters and larger group sizes impacting visibility, the overall feedback is overwhelmingly positive. Participants highlight the guides’ assistance, especially for first-time snorkelers, and the quality of the snorkeling equipment.
With a convenient meeting point and accessible transportation from the cruise port, this tour is a must-try for anyone seeking to enjoy the marine wonders of Costa Maya.
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Chacchoben Mayan Ruins With Local Experience Costa Maya Excursion
Travelers seeking an immersive cultural experience in Costa Maya will find the Chacchoben Mayan Ruins with Local Experience excursion an exceptional choice. This 5-star rated tour offers a guided exploration of one of Mexico’s least explored Mayan sites, the Chacchoben ruins.
With a maximum group size of 14, guests receive personalized attention from knowledgeable guides who share detailed insights into Mayan history and culture.
The tour includes round-trip transfers, snacks, and refreshments, ensuring a comfortable and convenient experience. Unique local stops for fruit and salsa tasting add to the authentic flavor of the excursion.
Travellers consistently praise the guides’ friendliness and accommodating nature, as well as the small group size that enhances the overall experience.
Whether you’re interested in ancient architecture, Mayan traditions, or simply seeking a captivating cultural adventure, this tour comes highly recommended, with a 100% recommendation rate from past participants.
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Costa Maya Reef Snorkeling Excursion + Beach Day by Lachilangaloense Freeshuffle
For travelers seeking a mix of underwater adventure and beach relaxation in Costa Maya, the Costa Maya Reef Snorkeling Excursion + Beach Day by LaChilangaloense FreeShuffle offers a well-rounded experience.
This tour highlights the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, the second-largest reef globally, providing snorkelers the chance to glimpse colorful marine life. The tour includes snorkeling equipment, lunch, snacks, and an open bar at a nearby beach club.
Reviews of the tour are generally positive, with travelers praising the friendly staff and good snorkeling experiences. However, some found the snorkeling conditions challenging due to rough waters and limited visibility.
The beach club is described as small and crowded, with concerns about inadequate seating and delays in service. Nonetheless, many enjoyed the relaxing beach atmosphere, massages, and shopping opportunities.
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Bacalar Private Charter Shore Excursion
Although a bit of a drive from the Costa Maya Port, the Bacalar Private Charter Shore Excursion offers travelers a chance to enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the Lagoon of Seven Colors.
This 3-hour tour, rated 4.4 out of 5 by 27 reviewers, provides private transportation and includes bottled water, soda, snacks, and fresh local fruits. Guests can enjoy scenic views of the lagoon, visit the San Felipe fortress, and explore the Cenote Azul.
While the tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, some travelers felt the experience was overpriced and the time at each stop limited. For families, ensuring timely arrival is crucial to adhere to the itinerary.
The Bacalar Private Charter Shore Excursion offers a unique opportunity to discover the natural wonders of the region, though the lengthy drive may be a deterrent for some.
Travelers are advised to consider alternative tours that include boat rides for a more immersive experience.
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Day Excursion to a PRIVATE LUXURY BEACH CLUB With Transportation.
Venturing beyond the Lagoon of Seven Colors in Bacalar, the Day Excursion to a PRIVATE LUXURY BEACH CLUB With Transportation offers cruise passengers a chance to indulge in the resort-style amenities of Hayhu Beach Club.
Recommended by 96% of travelers, this excursion provides a designated driver to transport guests from the cruise port to the private beach club in just 20-30 minutes.
At the club, visitors can enjoy a range of activities, including swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
A private deck with a bathroom and shower offers a relaxing retreat. The all-inclusive price covers food and drink credit up to $300, as well as towels, snorkeling equipment, and kayaks.
Optional add-ons like kiteboarding lessons and massages are also available.
The menu features an extensive selection of starters, main dishes, and desserts, catering to a variety of tastes.
With positive reviews highlighting the excellent service, beautiful beach, and delicious food, this excursion is a well-recommended highlight of the Costa Maya cruise experience.
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Costa Maya Beach Day , All Inclusive Beach Break Excursion
The Costa Maya Beach Day, All Inclusive Beach Break Excursion provides cruise passengers a chance to indulge in the sun-soaked splendor of Mahahual Beach. The package includes lounge chairs, snacks, a Mexican buffet lunch, and unlimited drinks like beer and tropical cocktails.
Pickup from the cruise port is included, though return transportation costs $4 per person.
The excursion has a maximum of 30 travelers, with the meeting point located one block from the cruise port. Feedback on the food quality is generally positive, though some reviews mention issues with quantity and service.
The overall customer ratings are mixed, with praise for the hospitable staff and relaxing atmosphere, but complaints about confusion at the meeting point, aggressive vendors, and cleanliness concerns.
The beach club is wheelchair accessible and offers shaded areas, recliners, and tables. While the transportation to the site is included, some travelers have reported difficulties navigating to the meeting point and issues with cab service.
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Costa Maya Snorkel Tour
What better way to explore the vibrant underwater world of Costa Maya than the Costa Maya Snorkel Tour? This small-group experience takes you to the Meso-American Barrier Reef, one of the largest in the Northern Hemisphere.
With a maximum of 12 travelers, you’ll enjoy personalized attention from the knowledgeable guides as you snorkel among a variety of marine life, including tropical fish, sea turtles, and lobsters.
The tour departs from the convenient meeting point near Yaya Beach Club, a 5-minute taxi ride from the cruise port. After receiving your snorkeling equipment, you’ll be transported to the reef, where you can learn about the crystal-clear waters.
Guests have praised the tour for its safety, guide expertise, and the abundance of diverse marine life on display.
While a few reviewers noted limited visibility near the beach area, the Costa Maya Snorkel Tour remains a top-rated option for those seeking a more intimate and private snorkeling experience away from the crowds of cruise excursions.
With a 93% recommendation rate and a 4.6-star rating, this tour is a must-do for nature lovers visiting Costa Maya.
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Bacalar – 7 Colors Lagoon Excursion Costa Maya
Travelers seeking to enjoy the stunning natural beauty of Costa Maya’s Bacalar Lagoon can embark on the captivating “7 Colors Lagoon Excursion.”
This guided tour takes visitors on a journey to explore the renowned 7-colored lagoon, Cocalitos, Black cenotes, and the Pirate Channel. Located in Bacalar, the excursion offers an approximately 2-hour experience at the lagoon, with round-trip transportation from the cruise ship terminal.
The tour includes lunch, snacks, and beverages, along with insurance and gratuities. With a maximum group size of 20 travelers, the experience provides personalized attention from knowledgeable guides who share insights into the region’s history and natural wonders.
Highlights include swimming in the lagoon, discovering the cenotes, and enjoying local refreshments at the Cocalitos Beach Club. Reviewers praise the tour’s guides, the beautiful scenery, and the authentic Mexican cuisine, making this excursion a must-do activity for visitors to Costa Maya.
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One Day Tour to Chacchoben Mayan City and Bacalar Lagoon With a Certified Guide
This one-day tour takes travelers on an immersive exploration of the Chacchoben Mayan archaeological site and the captivating Bacalar Lagoon.
With a certified guide, visitors will discover the ruins of Chacchoben, dating back to 200 BC, and enjoy leisure time at the stunning Bacalar Lagoon.
The tour includes a delicious lunch of fajitas, drinks, and access to kayaking equipment for those who wish to experience the lagoon up close.
Travelers are transported in an air-conditioned vehicle with hassle-free transfers from the Costa Maya dock.
While cameras are allowed, a $5 USD fee applies, and tripods and drones are prohibited.
This highly recommended tour, with a 91% traveler approval rating, offers an excellent opportunity to take in Mayan history and the natural beauty of Bacalar.
Despite some logistical challenges noted in reviews, the overall experience is deemed worthwhile by most participants.
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Chacchoben Mayan Ruins and Bacalar Lagoon Combo Tour From Costa Maya
Although the Chacchoben Mayan Ruins and Bacalar Lagoon Combo Tour from Costa Maya combines two distinct destinations, the experience provides travelers with a well-rounded exploration of the region’s historical and natural wonders.
This certified guided tour offers insights into the ancient Mayan civilization at Chacchoben, followed by a relaxing visit to the stunning Bacalar Lagoon.
The tour includes convenient transportation, bottled water, and a delicious lunch at the lagoon, as well as the use of kayaks to explore the serene waters.
Travelers can also enjoy complimentary drinks, including sodas, beer, and margaritas. While tripods and drones are prohibited at the ruins, a $5 USD copyright fee allows visitors to capture their memories with cameras.
With a maximum of 80 participants and an average rating of 4.5 stars, this tour offers a balanced blend of cultural education and leisure activities.
Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the opportunity to enjoy the region’s rich heritage and natural beauty.
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BACALAR Seven Color Lagoon Boat Excursion From Costa Maya
Exploring the captivating Bacalar Lagoon, often referred to as the “Lake of Seven Colors,” is a must-do activity for visitors to Costa Maya. This 1.5-hour drive from the Costa Maya port takes travelers on a journey to this natural wonder, where they can enjoy a boat tour and soak in the stunning vistas of the lagoon’s vibrant hues.
The excursion includes a variety of amenities, such as healthy fruit snacks, alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, and a taco lunch. Transportation, insurance, and gratuities are also covered, making it a convenient and inclusive experience.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate. Reviewers praise the beauty of the lagoon, the quality of the food, and the friendly guides. However, some have noted long bus rides and limited communication from the guides.
To ensure a smooth experience, it’s essential to carefully review the meeting and pickup information. Priced starting at $139.99 per person, with the option to reserve now and pay later, the Bacalar Seven Color Lagoon Boat Excursion is a popular and affordable way to explore this natural wonder in Costa Maya.
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Chacchoben Mayan Ruins Tour With Certified Guide
Offering a captivating glimpse into the ancient Mayan civilization, the Chacchoben Mayan Ruins Tour with Certified Guide takes visitors on an immersive exploration of one of the least discovered archaeological sites in Costa Maya.
With a 100% recommendation rate from 20 reviews, this tour boasts a Badge of Excellence and promises an unforgettable experience.
Visitors will be transported in an air-conditioned vehicle from the cruise port, with bottled water provided throughout the journey. A certified English-speaking guide will lead the tour, offering insights into the local flora, fauna, and the history of the Chacchoben ruins, which date back to 200 BC.
Highlights include spotting spider monkeys and learning about the site’s significance. A $5 USD camera fee is payable on-site, though tripods and drones are prohibited.
The tour departs one hour after the cruise docks, with a maximum of 80 travelers, and returns to the meeting point.
Flexible cancellation policies and full refunds for non-docking ensure a stress-free experience.
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CHACCHOBEN Ruins and BACALAR Lagoon Boat Excursion From Costa Maya
This excursion offers visitors a captivating combination of Mayan history and natural beauty, as it takes them on a journey to explore the ancient Chacchoben Ruins and the stunning Bacalar Lagoon.
Set in the scenic Costa Maya region of Mexico, the tour boasts an impressive 4.8-star rating based on over 100 reviews, with 91% of travelers recommending the experience.
The tour includes transportation, a guided visit to the Chacchoben Ruins, and a boat excursion on the famous Bacalar Lagoon, known for its vibrant “seven colors.”
Travelers will enjoy a provided lunch, snacks, and beverages, including beer and tequila. While some found the pace a bit rushed, others appreciated the guide’s expertise and the breathtaking beauty of the lagoon.
Despite minor issues with the meeting point, the overall feedback remains highly positive, with many praising the knowledgeable guides and the opportunity to discover both Mayan history and the natural wonder of Bacalar.
For a well-rounded Costa Maya experience, this excursion is worth considering.
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Chacchoben Mayan Ruins Excursion
Although located in the scenic Costa Maya region of Mexico, the Chacchoben Mayan Ruins Excursion provides visitors with more than just picturesque surroundings. Rated 4.8/5 from 80 reviews, this half-day tour allows travelers to explore the ancient Mayan archaeological site of Chacchoben, learning about the rich history and culture from knowledgeable local guides.
The experience begins with round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, followed by a visit to the ruins. Visitors can marvel at the scenic jungle views and enjoy complimentary bottled water, sodas, and snacks during the tour.
With a maximum group size of 21, the excursion offers a personalized experience, allowing for more intimate interactions and deeper insights. Highly recommended by 93% of travelers, the Chacchoben Mayan Ruins Excursion is a must-do activity for those seeking to enjoy the fascinating world of the Maya civilization.
The tour’s accessibility, inclusions, and responsive customer support further contribute to its appeal as one of the best tours in the Costa Maya region.
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Lagoon of 7 Colors From Costa Maya – Boat Tour and Transportation
Situated within the picturesque Costa Maya region, the Lagoon of 7 Colors Boat Tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the area’s stunning natural beauty. Boasting a remarkable 96% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this tour promises an unforgettable experience.
The tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, as well as a range of refreshments, including bottled water, alcoholic beverages, beers, and snacks. The pickup location is conveniently located at the Costa Maya cruise port, where the driver will meet guests with a personalized sign.
With operating hours from 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM, Monday through Sunday, the tour can accommodate up to 30 travelers. Guests are advised to confirm the start time with the local provider in advance.
While the tour isn’t suitable for individuals with serious medical conditions, most travelers can participate.
Priced at a low $120 per person with a lowest price guarantee, the Lagoon of 7 Colors Boat Tour offers an excellent value for the experience it provides. Travelers can enjoy the convenience of free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour begins.
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Chacchoben & Bacalar Combo Excursion Costa Maya
The tour’s exceptional 4.9-star rating from 255 reviews and Badge of Excellence recognition make it a must-do activity for visitors to Costa Maya.
Flexible booking options and accessibility features further enhance the overall experience.
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Kohunlich Mayan Ruins Private Shore Excursion
Travelers seeking an immersive exploration of ancient Mayan civilization will find the Kohunlich Mayan Ruins Private Shore Excursion an unparalleled experience.
With a stellar 5.0 rating from 8 reviews, this private tour offers the opportunity to discover the well-preserved pyramids, citadels, and plazas of the Kohunlich archaeological site in Costa Maya, Mexico. Guests will travel in a private, air-conditioned vehicle and enjoy complimentary snacks and unlimited bottled water.
All fees and taxes are included, and pickup options are available or guests can meet at the designated point. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller accessible, and service animals are allowed. A moderate level of physical fitness is required.
Priced at $800 for up to 12 people, the tour can be booked with the option to pay later, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience. Operated by CM Tours, this private excursion provides an immersive glimpse into the rich Mayan heritage of the region.
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Kohunlich Maya Ruins Excursion
What better way to explore the captivating Mayan ruins of Kohunlich than through the Kohunlich Maya Ruins Excursion? This highly-rated tour, with a stellar 4.9/5 star average based on 10 reviews, offers travelers an immersive experience at this remarkable archaeological site.
With a maximum of 24 participants, the tour ensures an intimate and personalized exploration. Guided by the knowledgeable and engaging Leo and Chucky, visitors can expect detailed explanations about Mayan culture as they wander through the ruins.
The tour may also include stops at local attractions, such as a lighthouse and roadside stands, enhancing the overall experience. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it welcomes strollers and service animals, making it accessible to a wider audience.
Travelers have consistently praised the flexibility of the guides and the quality of the provided snacks and drinks.
With its excellent reviews and highlights, the Kohunlich Maya Ruins Excursion is a must-consider option for anyone seeking to uncover the rich history and captivating beauty of the Mayan civilization in Costa Maya.
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Chacchoben Mayan Ruins and Mayan Experience Tour From Costa Maya
Though the Costa Maya port offers a range of tours, the Chacchoben Mayan Ruins and Mayan Experience Tour stands out as a must-do excursion for cruise passengers.
The 5.5-hour experience provides a comprehensive introduction to Mayan culture, including a guided tour of the impressive Chacchoben ruins and an immersive visit to a local Mayan village.
Travelers can look forward to a tortilla-making demonstration and a traditional Mayan lunch, as well as ample opportunities to interact with the friendly hosts.
With pickup and drop-off from the cruise port, this tour caters to the needs of vacationers, making it an effortless way to explore the region’s rich history and customs.
Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, the authenticity of the experiences, and the delicious cuisine, making this tour a highlight of any Costa Maya visit.
Whether you’re seeking culture or simply an engaging day trip, the Chacchoben Mayan Ruins and Mayan Experience Tour is a top choice.
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BACALAR Lagoon BOAT TOUR From Costa Maya With Lunch
The Bacalar Lagoon boat tour from Costa Maya offers visitors a chance to explore the stunning turquoise waters and scenic landscapes of this natural wonder.
This small-group experience, limited to a maximum of 14 travelers, has earned a 95% traveler recommendation based on 21 reviews. The tour has also been awarded a Badge of Excellence, further validating its quality.
Guests will be picked up from the Costa Maya cruise port and transported to the lagoon, which is about 1.5 hours away.
Once there, they’ll embark on a private boat cruise, with opportunities to swim and enjoy fresh fruit onboard. Lunch at a local restaurant, featuring seafood tacos and non-seafood options, is also included.
The tour package covers round-trip transfers, lunch, snacks, alcoholic beverages, and insurance, with gratuities covered.
Travelers have praised the knowledgeable guides, the breathtaking scenery, and the delicious lunch.
However, some have noted the travel time to the lagoon and occasional delays during the lunch service.
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The Sum Up
Costa Maya offers a diverse range of tours that allow visitors to explore the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. From snorkeling and beach days to Mayan ruin excursions, there’s something for all. Whether you’re interested in the stunning Bacalar Lagoon or the ancient Chacchoben ruins, these tours provide an opportunity to experience the best of what Costa Maya has to offer.