From Playa Del Carmen: Tulum, Coba, and Cenotes Day Trip

Exploring the rich Mayan heritage of the Riviera Maya is a must for any traveler visiting Playa del Carmen. This day trip takes visitors on a journey to uncover the ancient wonders of Tulum and Coba, offering a glimpse into the remarkable civilization that once thrived in this region. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, guests will explore the history and significance of these remarkable sites. But the adventure doesn’t stop there – a refreshing swim in the sacred Cenote Kuxtal provides a perfect balance of culture and relaxation. What secrets will this day trip unveil?

Key Points

• A day trip from Playa del Carmen covering the Mayan ruins of Tulum and Coba, as well as swimming in the sacred Cenote Kuxtal.
• Priced from $59 per person, including round-trip transport, certified guide, and admission fees, with the option for a $20 USD additional tax.
• Guided tours of Tulum (1.5 hours) and Coba (1 hour), as well as a 40-minute swim in Cenote Kuxtal (additional fee).
• Includes a 1-hour regional lunch buffet showcasing local Mexican cuisine.
• Pickup and drop-off available at five locations in the Riviera Maya region for convenience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This day trip from Playa del Carmen covers the highlights of Tulum, Coba, and the sacred cenotes. Priced from $59 per person, the tour includes round-trip transportation, a certified guide, and admission fees.

Travelers can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The itinerary is valid for 1 day, with pickup and drop-off available at 5 locations.

Visitors can explore the Tulum and Coba Mayan ruins, swim in the Cenote Kuxtal, and enjoy a regional lunch buffet. Taxes for Coba and Tulum sites are an additional $20 USD, payable at check-in.

Itinerary and Experience

The day trip begins with pickup from one of five convenient locations – Tulum, Puerto Morelos, Puerto Aventuras, Playa del Carmen, or Akumal.

Guests will then explore the ancient Mayan ruins of Tulum and Coba, each with a guided tour lasting approximately 1.5 hours and 1 hour, respectively.

Next, they’ll have the opportunity to swim in the sacred Cenote Kuxtal for 40 minutes, though this is an additional fee.

Afterwards, the group will enjoy a 1-hour regional lunch buffet.

The tour then concludes with drop-off at the same five locations from which guests were picked up.

Itineraries are subject to change.

Highlights and Inclusions

Travelers can expect to discover two significant Mayan ruins – Tulum and Coba – during this day trip.

The tour includes guided tours of both sites, allowing visitors to learn about the rich history and cultural significance of these ancient landmarks. Participants will also have the opportunity to swim in the sacred Cenote Kuxtal, a natural swimming hole that was revered by the Maya people.

Plus, the tour includes a regional lunch buffet, providing a taste of the local cuisine. The package covers round-trip transportation, certified guides, and admission fees, offering a comprehensive and convenient experience.

Pickup and Drop-off Locations

The tour offers pickup from five convenient locations along the Riviera Maya: Tulum, Puerto Morelos, Puerto Aventuras, Playa del Carmen, and Akumal.

This ensures maximum accessibility for travelers. Pickup is available from most hotels in these areas, though an alternate meeting point may be necessary in some cases.

After the day’s adventures, drop-off is provided at the same five locations, allowing for a seamless start and end to the tour.

• Pickup from Tulum
• Pickup from Puerto Morelos
• Pickup from Puerto Aventuras
• Pickup from Playa del Carmen
• Pickup from Akumal

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Tulum National Park Guided Tour

Tulum National Park hosts the well-preserved ruins of an ancient Mayan coastal city, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Led by a knowledgeable guide, guests embark on a 1.5-hour tour of the archaeological site. Explorers marvel at the impressive stone structures, including the iconic El Castillo, a temple-pyramid that overlooks the Caribbean Sea.

The guide shares insights into the city’s history, architecture, and the significance of Tulum’s strategic seaside location. Visitors have the opportunity to wander through the site, capturing photos and seeing the captivating Mayan legacy that permeates the well-preserved ruins.

Coba Guided Tour

After exploring the ancient Mayan ruins of Tulum, the tour proceeds to the archaeological site of Coba.

During the guided tour, visitors will:

• Discover the largest network of stone causeways, or "sacbeob," in the Yucatan Peninsula, which connected the various temples and plazas.

• Climb the impressive Nohoch Mul pyramid, the tallest in the Yucatan, offering panoramic views of the surrounding jungle.

• Learn about the advanced agricultural techniques and complex social hierarchy of the Coba civilization.

• Explore the well-preserved stelae, or carved stone monuments, that provide insights into the site’s history and culture.

• Marvel at the dense, lush vegetation that now blankets the once-thriving urban center.

Sacred Cenote Swimming

Next, the tour takes visitors to a sacred cenote for a refreshing swim. The Cenote Kuxtal, a natural swimming hole, is sacred to the Maya people.

Visitors can spend up to 40 minutes swimming in the serene, crystalline waters. The cenote is a unique geological formation, with limestone walls and a lush, tropical environment.

After working up an appetite exploring the ancient ruins, this swim provides a rejuvenating break. An additional fee is required for access to the cenote, but it’s a highlight many travelers don’t want to miss.

Guests are advised to bring their swimwear, towel, and water shoes for this portion of the day trip.

Regional Food Lunch

Following the tour of the ancient Mayan ruins and a refreshing swim in the sacred cenote, the day trip includes a hearty regional food lunch.

The lunch features a diverse selection of authentic Mexican dishes, giving travelers a true taste of the local cuisine.

The buffet-style meal may include:

• Sizzling fajitas with grilled meats, onions, and peppers
• Flavorful chicken or beef enchiladas smothered in mole sauce
• Fresh guacamole, salsa, and tortilla chips
• Fragrant rice and savory refried beans
• Refreshing tropical fruit for dessert

The lunch provides a well-deserved break and an opportunity to refuel before continuing the exploration of the Yucatan peninsula.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Minimum Group Size Required for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a minimum group size. Individuals can book the tour, and it’ll run regardless of the number of participants. The tour operator accommodates both small and large groups on this excursion.

Can Children Participate in the Tour?

Children are welcome to participate in the tour. The tour operator does not have a minimum group size requirement, so families can join the tour with their kids. Children enjoy exploring the Mayan ruins and swimming in the cenotes.

What Is the Policy for Dietary Restrictions or Food Allergies?

The tour offers a regional lunch buffet, but doesn’t specifically mention accommodating dietary restrictions or food allergies. Travelers with special dietary needs should contact the tour operator in advance to inquire about availability of suitable meal options.

Are There Any Restrictions on Personal Photography During the Tour?

Participants are generally allowed to take personal photographs throughout the tour, except in designated areas where flash photography may be prohibited. However, it’s best to check with the tour guide for any specific restrictions.

Is Travel Insurance Recommended for This Tour?

While travel insurance is not required, it’s generally recommended for this tour in case of unexpected events or cancellations. It can provide peace of mind and financial protection during the trip.

Recap

This day trip from Playa del Carmen offers a captivating blend of ancient Mayan ruins, refreshing cenote swimming, and delicious regional cuisine. Explore the iconic Tulum and Coba sites with a knowledgeable guide, then cool off in the crystal-clear waters of Cenote Kuxtal. At just $59 per person, it’s an unbeatable opportunity to learn about Yucatan’s rich cultural heritage and natural wonders.

You can check if your dates are available here: