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7 best cancun tours: chichen itza, snorkeling & more.

These excursions will show you what lies beyond the city's bright beaches.

The Best Cancun Tours

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Experience some of Cancun's history with a visit to Chichen Itza.

From Mayan ruins to the turquoise Caribbean Sea to abundant coral reefs, there is so much to see in and around Cancún . To make the most of your time on the Yucatán Peninsula, consider signing up for a guided tour. U.S. News selected the top Cancún tours by relying on expert opinion and traveler sentiment. Whether you pick an easygoing bus tour or a thrilling speedboat excursion, you're sure to have the adventure of a lifetime.

Amigo Tours – Chichen Itza VIP Tour

Price: From $52 Duration: 12 hours

To beat the crowds at the ancient Mayan site of Chichén Itzá , this excursion starts at 6 a.m. After picking you up at your hotel, a bilingual guide leads the full-day, 12-hour tour of the UNESCO World Heritage Site while giving a history of Mayan culture and the ruins. The tour also includes a buffet lunch, a tequila tasting, the opportunity to swim in a cenote (a natural well) and a visit to the city of Valladolid. Reviewers enjoy the swim and praise their guides, while others advise bringing bug spray and cash for additional fees, including the historic site's tax and a life vest rental at the cenote.

Tours, which are offered daily and include pickup at a location of your choosing, start at $52 for participants 3 and older; children younger than 3 can join for free. The company also offers tours of the site at sunrise, as well as tours of Tulum and Isla Mujeres , among others.

View & Book Tickets:  Option 1 | Option 2

Jungle Tour Adventure Cancún – Speedboat & Snorkeling Tour

Price: From $45 Duration: 2 hours

Travelers on this two-hour excursion will drive their own speedboat while exploring mangrove canals and the Punta Nizuc bay alongside a guide. Afterward, tourgoers will snorkel through the clear waters of the Punta Nizuc coral reef. Reviewers say the tour is super fun and appreciate the guides' attention to safety.

Tickets start at $45 per person for a shared boat. Solo travelers will pay about $80 for their own boat. Additional dock fees (about $20) are not included in the ticket price. Children must be at least 4 years old to participate and some health restrictions apply. Tours operate at 9 a.m., noon and 3 p.m. daily. No boating experience is required. The company also runs a mangrove tour using the speedboats.

View & Book Tickets: Viator | GetYourGuide

Contoy Adventures – Contoy Eco Adventure

Price: Adults from $110; kids from $85 Duration: 7.5 hours

Only 200 people per day are allowed to visit Isla Contoy , a protected natural reserve and bird sanctuary north of Cancún. Contoy Adventures takes you by boat to this preserved area, where you will have ample opportunities to swim and snorkel after you take a guided tour of the island. You'll also stop at Isla Mujeres on the way back to Cancún. Reviewers say they enjoy the excursion, but note that the stop at Isla Mujeres is short without much time to explore.

Tickets start at $110 per adult and $85 per child ages 5 to 11; kids 4 and younger cost $45. Breakfast, lunch and pickup from select hotels are all included in the ticket cost; however, a $20 fee that covers dock and national park fees must be paid in cash the day of your tour is not. The tour runs from about 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Monday through Saturday. Contoy Adventures also offers whale shark tours, among others.

Courtesy of EcoColors Tours

Though large, whale sharks are gentle and safe to swim with. Meet these creatures on a tour with EcoColors.

EcoColors Tours – Whale Sharks Cancun Tour

Price: Adults from $195; kids from $169 Duration 5 to 8 hours

This adventure gives travelers the opportunity to swim alongside magnificent whale sharks. Guides lead the small-group tours to the whale shark feeding ground, where travelers can snorkel alongside the gentle giants. After snorkeling, you'll stop on Isla Mujeres to relax. Tourgoers describe the excursion as an amazing experience and report seeing many whale sharks. Others advise taking motion sickness medicine before boarding the boat and wearing rash guards or bringing cover-ups for the trip, as you cannot wear sunscreen (even reef-safe sunscreen options) for environmental reasons.

Tours, which last approximately five to eight hours, are offered May to mid-September. Tickets start at $195 for participants 8 and older and $169 for children ages 5 to 7. Tickets include snacks and lunch, but not the dock and environmental taxes, which are $15 per person and must be paid in cash. Patrons must be at least 5 years old to participate. Tours pick up at hotels in Cancún around 7 a.m.; they also pick up from Playa del Carmen at 6 a.m. EcoColors Tours offers other nature tours, such as a sea turtle snorkeling tour.

Ocean Tours – Tulum Ruins, Cenotes and Snorkeling Tour

Price: Adults from $119; kids from $99 Duration: 10 hours

If you want to enjoy a day trip to Tulum, but don't want to deal with the logistics of planning your own transportation and activities, consider this popular tour. Tourgoers take a morning guided tour of the Tulum archaeological site , snorkel at Tulum's beach alongside colorful fish and stingrays, and swim in two cenotes. Reviewers praise their guides and recommend the tour, saying it is fun and worth the cost.

Tickets start at $119 for adults and $99 for children ages 4 to 11, and include lunch, snacks and refreshments, but do not include the $15 marine fee. Pickup from area accommodations begins at 6 a.m., and the tour concludes around 4 p.m. Ocean Tours also offers excursions to Coba , Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres, among others.

KayTours Mexico – Puerto Morelos

Price: Adults from $195; kids from $180 Duration: 8 hours

This adventurous private tour includes snorkeling in the national marine park of Puerto Morelos followed by a visit to several cenotes for activities like rope swings and zip lines. Reviewers highly recommend the company and describe the tours as fun and amazing.

The full-day tour runs daily and you can select your own pickup time between 7:15 and 11 a.m., though the company recommends a pickup no later than 8 a.m. Tours include lunch and snacks, as well as round-trip transportation. Ticket prices vary depending on the number of people in your group; a couple can expect to pay about $195 per person; fees for children ages 4 to 17 start at $180. KayTours Mexico also offers excursions to Mayan ruins, Las Coloradas pink lake, whale shark tours and more.

Cancun Sailing – Plus Experience Tour to Isla Mujeres

Price: Adults from $89; kids from $59

Duration: 7 hours

Public ferries from Cancún to Isla Mujeres are readily available, but if you're looking for a tour option that allows for swimming and snorkeling, reviewers say this excursion from Cancun Sailing fits the bill. The seven-hour catamaran tour also includes transportation, a buffet lunch and an open bar. Plus, you'll have time to explore Isla Mujeres on your own. Reviewers describe the tour as fun but wish they had more time for snorkeling. They also note there are heavy crowds at the snorkeling stop.

Tickets start at $89 for adults and $59 for children ages 5 to 10. Children 5 and younger can join for free, though Cancun Sailing recommends alerting them if you're traveling with kids so they can place you on a more family-oriented tour. Cancun Sailing also offers a few premium experiences of this tour that can include snacks, a luxury boat and more free time.

View & Book Tickets: Option 1 | Option 2

You may also be interested in:

• The Best Things to Do in Cancun
• The Best Puerto Vallarta Tours
• The Best Mexico City Tours
• The Best All-Inclusive Resorts in Cancun
• The Best Cancun All-Inclusive Family Resorts
• The Best Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts in Mexico

Tags: Tours , Vacations , Travel , Mexico

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• Last Updated On
• October 2, 2023

13 Best Excursions in Cancun – The Top-Rated Tours You Shouldn’t Miss!

Because of its immaculate beaches and crystal-clear waters, Cancun is the favorite destination of many for a relaxing and adventurous getaway.

But this Mexican city goes beyond its beaches.

This list of the best excursions in Cancun proves just that.

Our family enjoys traveling around Mexico, but Cancun will always be our favorite.

That’s why I decided to share our adventures and tips to help you make the most out of your stay.

I understand the challenge of planning an itinerary, especially for those traveling to Cancun for the first time.

My reviews, backed up with research and interactions from other travelers and trustworthy websites, will help you prepare for an ultimate family vacation.

I also made comparisons based on family-friendliness, safety, educational value, fun factor, and convenience.

Check out our best picks below and prepare for a fun Cancun adventure.

Best Excursions In Cancun Compared

Adventure lovers and history enthusiasts of all ages will enjoy Cancun. 

Here’s a quick guide to our favorite excursions in the city:

Editor’s Choice

Amigo Tours – Chichen Itza Plus

Chichen Itza has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the top excursions in Cancun.

• Family-Friendliness: 5/5
• Safety: 5/5
• Educational Value: 5/5
• Fun Factor: 5/5
• Convenience: 5/5

#2nd Best Choice

Jungle Tour Cancún Adventure (from $45)

This is a two-hour speedboat ride through the jungles in Cancun and is one of the adventures you should not miss.

• Educational Value: 3/5
• Convenience: 4/5

#3rd Best Choice

Jungle Buggy Tour from Playa del Carmen, Including Cenote Swim

If you’re in for a thrilling yet relaxing adventure, you’ll want to consider joining this tour. 

• Family-Friendliness: 4/5
• Educational Value: 2/5

Here are the top 13 excursions in Cancun.

1. Amigo Tours – Chichen Itza Plus (from $46) (Editor’s Choice)

Av Tulum 4, Capilla Ecumenica 77500 Cancún, Q.R (554) 950-5529 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Ratings Criteria

• Fun and informative
• Reasonably priced
• The tour can be longer

This is an early morning excursion to Chichen Itza, which is an ancient Mayan site.

The tour organized by Amigo Tours will last for 12 hours and you will be taken around the site and briefed of its history and culture.

Included in the tour is also a lunch buffet before and after which (preferably before, so you can work up an appetite) you can take a dip in the cenotes, a natural sinkhole formation that the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico is famous for.

Children younger than three years of age can join the tour for free though the ticket price for adults and children aged between 3 and 12 are different.

You can also book yourself tours to Chichen Itza at sunrise and can also make a trip to Tulum and Isla Mujeres with the same company.

Both Chichen Itza and Tulum are great sites to explore for history buffs.

2. Jungle Tour Cancún Adventure (from $45)

12.5, La Isla, Zona Hotelera 77500 Cancún, Q.R (998) 280-0872 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Breathtaking views
• Great tour for all ages
• Can get canceled or rescheduled due to the weather

You will be riding through canals overgrown with mangroves along the Punta Nizuc bay.

During the tour, you will also be able to snorkel and explore the coral reefs in the bay.

If you purchase tickets to the tour online, you may also get a cheaper deal and book a shared boat.

You also do not need any boating experience and can book any of the slots out of 9 am, 11 am, 1 pm and 3 pm.

The tours happen every day.

3. Jungle Buggy Tour from Playa del Carmen, Including Cenote Swim

Calle 12 Norte, esquina con Av. 10 Norte, Col. Centro, Gonzalo Guerrero 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico (984) 218-2973 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Exciting jungle adventure
• Safety equipment is provided
• The ride can be uncomfortable, especially for children

Aside from the scenic jungle, you can take a refreshing dip in a secluded cenote filled with pristine waters and greenery.

The cenote is so private that you’ll feel like you have the spot for yourselves.

Driving a two-seater buggy, you’ll pass through terrains, paths, and hills as you enjoy jungle and wildlife views.

The guides are also entertaining, knowledgeable, and experienced.

The tour is also more interactive since it’s done in small groups.

It’s recommended to bring a hat since dust can get into your hair while riding the buggy.

4. EcoColors Tours – Swim with Whale Shark Tour (from $167)

Calle Caucel Lt 2 Mz. 352 SM 307 Fracc. Lol-Beh, Alfredo V. Bonfil 77560 Cancún, Q.R (998) 884-3667 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

For a memorable experience of swimming with whale sharks, EcoColors Tours – Swim with Whale Shark Tour is an excellent alternative to Amigo Tours – Chichen Itza Plus and Jungle Tour Cancún Adventure.

Whale sharks are often called gentle giants of the ocean and truly remarkable creatures.

If you have seen photographs of these mammals, you know what I am talking about — magnificent, aren’t they?

Now, imagine being able to swim alongside these wonders of nature.

In Cancun, you can!

These tours are typically offered between May and mid-September and you can book them well in advance.

The tours will also last for 7 hours which will include breakfast and lunch.

I would highly recommend carrying some medicine to prevent motion sickness if you are prone to that.

You may also want to inquire about rash guards as the operators are likely to discourage you from wearing sunscreen in the water in order to protect the reefs and local marine life.

You will arrive at the dock by 7:30 am after being picked up from the hotel.

This is truly an experience of a lifetime!

Related: Unique Things to Do in Cancun

5. Cancun Adventure – Cobá and Tulum Private Tour (from $385)

3.5-Local 5, Kukulcan Boulevard Zona Hotelera, 77500 Cancún, Q.R (998) 849-4911 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

This is a private tour offered by Cancun Adventure.

It takes only 12 people every day and the operators treat all their guests with the greatest amount of comfort and luxury.

This includes an air-conditioned bus or van that will pick you up from your local hotel and drive to Coba and Tulum, archaeological sites that are located slightly more than an hour’s drive from Cancun.

You will be given two hours at each of these sites and you can explore on your own within that stipulated time.

Of course, the tour guides are always available if you would like anything clarified.

The cost of the trip also includes a lunch buffet of traditional Mayan food.

You can ask for a hotel pickup as early 7 am and be on your way before other tourists start thronging these sites.

6. Xcaret – Tour Xenotes (from $131)

Carretera Chetúmal Puerto Juárez Kilómetro 282 Solidaridad, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R (998) 883-3143 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Xcaret is a theme park in Cancun that includes some of the most popular activities one can partake in when in Xcaret.

With this tour of Xcaret, you can explore four different kinds of cenotes and also try your hand at adventure sports like rappelling, zip lining, cliff jumping, etc.

This is a daylong tour and you can spend it kayaking and swimming in the underground rivers and exploring the natural as well as man-made wonders of the park.

The trip also includes a “jungle picnic” in which you can enjoy snacks, wine and beer.

Your transportation to and fro will also be taken care of.

7. Caribbean Connection – Contoy Eco-Adventure (from $100)

4.1 Smz 86 Mz 9 Lote 4 77400 Cancún, Q.R (998) 295-1140 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Contoy Eco-Adventure is one of the most amazing local tours and attractions.

Isla Contoy is an island you must make a trip to if you are in Cancun.

This is a protected natural reserve and not too many visitors are allowed per day.

If you make a reservation early on, you and your family can be one of the 200 people that are allowed to visit the island everyday.

This preserved area offers some of the most stunning sights that nature can provide.

You will be able to spot a variety of different birds and also a vibrant marine life if you decide to snorkel.

On the way back to Cancun, you will also make a stop at Isla Mujeres, another stunning slice of nature in the Carribean Sea.

From the preliminary research I have conducted, I find that the reviews indicate this is a good tour for young adults, couples and groups of friends.

If you are traveling with a baby or young kids, you may find the atmosphere a bit too boisterous.

The cost of the ticket also includes breakfast and lunch and the tour begins at 9:30 in the morning and goes on till 5 pm every day.

8. Nautik Adventours – Isla Mujeres Tour (from $607 per group)

Blvd. Kukulcan Km 16 Zona Hotelera, 77500 Cancún, Q.R (998) 147-8454 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Isla Mujeres is a stunning island and is one of the best tours to do in Cancun, Mexico.

On this tour with Nautik Adventours, you can explore natural mangroves and other flora and fauna by boat.

Pack your swimsuit, because you can get off to swim and snorkel if you wish.

You can also spread out on the beautiful beach and soak in some sun.

There are two types of trips you can choose between — one that lasts six hours, another that lasts eight hours.

Both trips accommodate up to eight people.

The tour begins at 10 am and depending on the trip you have chosen, you will be back by either 4 pm or 6 pm.

Related: Cancun Packing List

9. Ocean Tours – Snorkeling, Tulum Ruins and Cenotes Tour (from $113)

Calle Diagonal 55 Sur Manzana 22 Lote 1, entre 18, Ejidal 77712 Playa del Carmen, Q.R (984) 206-1444 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The ruins of Tulum are a must visit if you are in Cancun.

This is a tour that will take you through Riviera Maya and packs in a variety of different treats for the senses in a single day.

This trip will include ancient ruins, coral reefs and a lot of nature.

Apart from the ancient Mayan ruins in Tulum, you can also visit the waterfalls that are one of the biggest attractions of Tulum.

You will also be able to swim in a cenote and also take a soothing walk through the jungle.

The tour will include a lunch buffet and also transportation to and from your resort, hotel, or accommodation.

The tour will last approximately 7 hours.

10. Private Isla Mujeres Catamaran Tour — Nal Gone Boat — For up to 13 people (from $165)

2.5, Kukulcan Boulevard Zona Hotelera, 77500 Cancún, Q.R (998) 980-3309 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

When you are traveling, it is always wonderful to travel in style (if your pockets allow it).

Book yourself on a luxury catamaran trip to Isla Mujeres where you can enjoy your day at a private beach club.

On the luxury tour, you can explore the island on your own sweet time and will practically feel like the whole island is for you.

The tour also includes lunch alongside an open bar.

The cost of the ticket also includes a pick up and drop off from your hotel.

If you are traveling with a large group, you can easily book the whole catamaran for you and your friends.

Even if you are not traveling with a large group, you are bound to meet some interesting people since the tour takes only 13.

11. Horseback Riding and Cenote Swim from Cancun (from $92)

Km 45 Carretera Federal, Carr Cancún – Tulum, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R (998) 881-9414 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you are holidaying in Mexico, there is a way to experience your time here like you are in an old-school Western, Mexican style.

This tour allows you to go horseback riding through the jungle and then also go swimming in the cenotes.

You can also zipline through the tropical forest and take in the fresh air and beauty of all that surrounds you.

What is great about this tour is that all these adventures are packed into only a few hours.

If you are short on time but want to squeeze in as much fun as possible into your day, this is a great tour for you to pick.

You do not need to be an experienced horseback rider, nor do you need to have certification to dive in the cenotes.

You will also be provided with all the equipment and there will be transportation to and from your hotel.

12. Rio Secreto Underground River Tour with Crystal Caves (from $82)

Puerto Juárez Km 283.5, Ejido Sur 77712 Playa del Carmen, Q.R (984) 242-0074 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Rio Secreto Underground River Tour allows you to experience the nature reserve near Cancun.

This excursion will go on for the whole day and you will be able to swim in some of the most stunning and awe-inspiring underground cave complexes in Mexico.

The crystal caves of the Yucatan Peninsula are some of the most breathtaking sights in the part of the hemisphere and are truly a sight to behold.

Through this trip, you will be able to explore all these natural wonders.

If you pick the right package, you will also get a pickup and drop back to your hotel.

This is a full day’s excursion but is actually a very peaceful way to spend the day given that you will be exploring and swimming in underground caves the whole time.

You may work up an appetite from all that swimming so I would suggest you confirm about meals being provided by the tour operators or pack some snacks of your own.

13. Priority Access: Xplor Adventure Park from Cancun (from $134)

Carretera Chetumal, Puerto Juarez Km 282 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R (998) 883-3143 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

This priority access to Xplor Adventure Park is one of the most exciting ways to experience this park.

Xplor in the evening and after dark is when the forest is the most alive.

The Yucatanean jungle opens its arms to tourists who want to experience the wildlife in the darkness and observe (quietly and respectfully), animals in their natural habitat.

This is a 7-hour tour that takes you through the forest.

You can swim in the underground river systems, zipline through the tropical forest and enjoy the night sky in complete silence but for the sounds of the jungle.

The tour includes an all-you-can-eat buffet (though I would suggest you take it easy because you will have a long night of action ahead of you).

Related: Best Things to do in Cancun at Night

Traveler’s Guide 

Comparing excursions: which one is right for you.

Choosing the ideal excursion for your Cancun getaway is child’s play.

Consider the pros and cons of each activity, and then think of your preferences, such as your budget.

For a reasonable price, you’ll have a fun and informative experience at  Amigo Tours – Chichen Itza Plus.

But it would be better if the tour was longer.

Travelers of all ages will enjoy the views and adventure at Jungle Tour Cancún Adventure.

However, it’s dependent on the weather.

Jungle Buggy Tour from Playa del Carmen, Including Cenote Swim, is thrilling and safe.

Keep in mind that the ride can be bumpy.

EcoColors Tours – Swim with Whale Shark Tour is an excellent alternative for Amigo Tours – Chichen Itza Plus and Jungle Tour Cancún Adventure.

But other travelers mentioned that they didn’t see whale sharks or the wait can be long to see them.

If ancient wonders stir your soul, Chichen Itza Plus will be like stepping into a living history book. 

For thrill-seekers, the Jungle Tour offers high-speed fun and breathtaking views. 

If you’re more about off-beaten-track adventures, the Jungle Buggy Tour will feed your adventurous spirit. 

And for ocean lovers, the Swim with Whale Shark Tour is a rare opportunity to connect with nature’s majestic giants.

How I Picked The Tours

Mexico is our family’s go-to vacation spot, and Cancun is the city we’ve most visited.

To ensure that my reviews, tips, and experiences were accurate and more detailed, I asked for insights from other travelers and researched the activities comprehensively.

Travel review sites and platforms did a lot of help for the excursions we have yet to try.

Our Rating Method

I rate these tours based on the following criteria.

• Family-Friendliness: This criterion is used to assess family-friendliness. Are the activities suitable for every member of the family? Are there age restrictions? Are there entertainment options for kids of all ages? I ask myself these questions when rating family-friendliness. 
• Safety: I use this to evaluate safety. Is the staff trained for emergencies? Are there easily accessible first aid kits? Are the safety protocols properly explained and strictly followed? These are the factors I consider when assessing safety. 
• Educational Value: This is used to evaluate the educational value of every tour. Is it enriching and educational? Are there fun and engaging learning activities for kids? Are there opportunities to experience and learn about the area’s history, culture, and traditions? I consider these factors when rating educational value.  
• Fun Factor: I use this criterion to evaluate the fun factor of the excursion. Did the previous participants enjoy this excursion? Does it feature thrilling and exciting activities or locations? Are there opportunities to participate in one-of-a-kind experiences? I ask myself these questions when assessing the fun factor. 
• Convenience: I use this to assess the convenience of each option. Do they provide complimentary shuttle services? Is it easily accessible by public transportation? Are the tour schedules flexible? These are the factors I consider when rating this criterion.  

Frequently Asked Questions

How many days is best to visit cancun.

The ideal duration for a visit to Cancun is typically around 5 to 7 days, allowing you to experience the stunning beaches, explore the Mayan ruins, enjoy water sports, and immerse yourself in the vibrant nightlife while still having time for relaxation and leisure.

What Is The Best Month To Visit Cancun?

The best time to visit Cancun is from December to April when the weather is warm and clear.

Nothing beats the experience you’ll have at the best excursions in Cancun on this list.

Driving a speedboat was an experience for us at the Jungle Tour Cancún Adventure.  

We were brought to the top snorkeling spots on this excursion.

What made the Jungle Buggy Tour from Playa del Carmen, Including Cenote Swim, very enjoyable for us was swimming at the cenote.

We also swam with whale sharks and saw flying fish and other wildlife on the boat.

If we had to pick the best, it would be the Amigo Tours – Chichen Itza Plus, with exciting history and sights.

My eyes widened as the vastness of the pyramid unfolded before me, and my little ones’ faces were glowing with awe and curiosity.

At that moment, we were not just tourists but time travelers, transported to an era where ancient civilizations thrived.

We learned a lot and felt safe while navigating narrow trails.

It’s best to do the tour early to avoid crowds and heat.

Amigo Tours – Chichen Itza Plus (from $46)

Grand Tour Guide

10 best cancun excursions 2022 (updated).

What are the best Cancun excursions this year? Cancun is famous for its beaches and nightlife, but the city also has some of the best excursions, tours, and day trips of any city in Mexico. Whether you are an adrenaline junkie, looking for your next big thrill, or a history buff interested in exploring Mayan ruins, Cancun has something for you. Here are the top 10 best Cancun excursions this year.

10. Catamaran Tours to Isla Mujeres

A great way to spend a day on your Cancun vacation is taking a catamaran to Isla Mujeres. Isla Mujeres is a beautiful island 8 miles off the coast of Cancun. The island has serene beaches, great restaurants, beautiful scenery, coral reefs, and much smaller crowds than Cancun. Getting there via catamaran is an incredible experience. You will enjoy the beauty of the calm, shallow Caribbean waters as you sail out to your destination. Along the way, there is ample opportunity to swim and snorkel in the waters around the boat. Or just kick back, relax, and enjoy the trip. 

Once you arrive on the island, you can go for a swim, enjoy a gourmet lunch buffet on the beach, then explore everything the island has to offer. Popular activities include visiting the island’s secluded beaches, renting a golf cart to drive around and tour the island, fishing, scuba diving, snorkeling, doing some shopping, or going to the bars and restaurants. In the afternoon, your catamaran will sail you back to Cancun.

Learn more about the tour and sign up here .

9. Speedboat Tour of the Nichupte Lagoon and Jungle

Located on the eastern coast of Cancan, the Nichupte Lagoon and its two channels running through the jungle are one of the most stunning natural sites in Cancun. Unfortunately, the lagoon is often overshadowed by the beaches and other sites. However, a visit to the lagoon is well worth the trip. 

One of the most popular activities on Nichupte Lagoon is a speedboat tour. The tour is led by a boat captain and tour guide, who take you through the lagoon and mangrove, and channels surrounded by jungle. The scenery on all sides of the boat is incredible, and the tour makes two stops, one at Punta Nizuc coral reef for snorkeling at the reef and viewing the sculptures, and one at the lagoon’s beach, so you can swim just off shore.

Nichupte Lagoon is an excellent way to see the natural beauty of the area, see marine wildlife and birds, and experience the adrenaline rush of speeding through the lagoon and channels in a motorboat.

Learn more about this tour here .

8. Day Trip to Tulum

One of the best Cancun excursions is taking a day trip to the historic city of Tulum, located about an hour and a half drive from Cancun. Tulum is an incredible city, with some of the best preserved Mayan ruins in the country, all concentrated in one area, surrounded by a stone wall built by the Mayans. The best-preserved and most interesting structures in Tulum include the Temple of the Frescoes, the Temple of the Descending God, and El Castillo.

After touring the archaeological site, visitors can swim at Tulum’s beaches, including Playa Ruinas, just feet from the Mayan ruins. Tulum has great snorkeling and scuba diving sites, which are accessible from the beach. Many day trip excursions to Tulum also include walking tours of the jungle, and visits to the local cenotes–underwater caves and sinkholes with warm, calm waters, that make incredible places to snorkel and swim.

A tour to Tulum includes a tour guide who will pick you up at your  hotel in Cancun and drop you back off there at the end of the day. The tour is an incredible way to experience some of the best archaeological and natural sites that Mexico has to offer.

Learn more and schedule your tour here .

7. Swimming with Whale Sharks

Swimming with whale sharks is one of the most incredible Cancun excursions, and a once in a lifetime experience. Available between the months of May and September, when whale sharks migrate to the waters off Cancun, the tour includes transportation from your hotel to the marina, a light breakfast, then an approximately 45-minute boat ride out to where the sharks congregate. 

Once you arrive at the location, you will be given snorkel gear and can rent a gopro. Then you will jump into the water and swim with the whale sharks. Watching these massive, filter-feeding fish is an incredible experience that presents no danger, as the sharks only feed on plankton and very small fish. There are also rays, dolphins, and sea turtles in the area. 

A few things to note about this tour–the trip is generally estimated to take 45 minutes, but can take longer depending on where the whale sharks are congregating. The ride to the sharks can also be bumpy, and cause seasickness. The tours also do not allow you to use sunscreen, as it can be toxic for the animals. So be sure to wear long sleeves and a hat if you are prone to burning.

Schedule a tour with the tour operator here .

6. Horseback Riding Tours

One of the best Cancun excursions are the horseback riding tours from Rancho Bonanza. The tours take visitors through the jungles and incredible landscapes of the Riviera Maya backcountry, stopping at cenotes and lagoons along the way for a refreshing swim. The tours are designed for people with little to no experience riding horses, so you can feel comfortable regardless of your experience level. 

The tours are led by experienced, bilingual tour guides, who will explain where you are going and what you are seeing as you go. The wildlife in the area includes beautiful tropical birds and iguanas, which are plentiful in the trees and on the ground.

The tour is fascinating, educational, fun, and an excellent way to get off the resort and enjoy a couple hours partaking in a unique experience.

Learn more and sign up for a tour here .

5. Cenote Exploration Tours

One of the most unique of Cancun’s excursions are the cenote exploration tours. The whole eastern Yucatan area, where Cancun is situated, is full of incredible underwater caves, caverns, and sinkholes, which are not found anywhere else in the world. The cenotes are full of fresh rainwater, which is usually surprisingly warm. The Mayans were fascinated by the cenotes, and believed that they were entryways to the underworld. 

Today, the fascination with cenotes continues, as hundreds of thousands of visitors flock to them each year, for swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and other eco-adventures. You can book guided tours of the cenotes that leave from the resorts in Cancun and take the tour group to stunning cenotes, where you can rappel down rock walls to explore semi-covered cenotes, zipline over open cenotes, or swim with fish and aquatic flora.

Your tour guide will regale you with Mayan myths and legends regarding the particular cenotes you are visiting, as well as the history of the area. The tours include lunch, and pickup and dropoff from the resorts in an air conditioned vehicle. 

The cenote tours are an incredible experience that anyone visiting Cancun should be sure to do. You can read more about them and sign up here .

4. Riviera Maya ATV Tours

One of the must-do Cancun excursions for adrenaline junkies are the ATV tours of the Riviera Maya. Leaving from the hotels, the ATV tours will take you deep into the jungle of the Yucatan. You will stop to swim at incredible cenotes, go ziplining through the jungle, rappel down cliff sides, and see the jungle fauna and flora.

The tours are led by bilingual tour guides, who will take you on the best routes through the jungle, explaining the sites, history, and Mayan mythology of the area. The tour concludes with a great lunch consisting of authentic Mexican tacos and guacamole, and a tequila tasting.

Learn more about the ATV tours and sign up for one here .

3. Exploring Chichen Itza

Visiting Chichen Itza is an incredible experience that will fascinate both history buffs and casual tourists alike. The area was the site of a thriving Mayan city for hundreds of years, and today has some of the best preserved ruins from that time period. 

The site is dominated by a pyramid called Temple of Kukulcán or El Castillo, which stands 98 feet in height, and served as a sacred site to the Mayans. Other ruins at Chichen Itza include the Columns in the Temple of a Thousand Warriors, The Grand Ballcourt, and El Caracol. All of these structures are stunning to see in person, and make the trip well worth it.

The jungle around Chichen Itza is the site of numerous cenotes, which make for great places to cool off after exploring the ruins. Most tours include a buffet lunch, and options to visit the cenotes, go on tequila tours of the area, and more. Schedule a tour of Chichen Itza and read more about it here .

2. Beginners Scuba Diving Tours

One of the best Cancun excursions are the scuba diving tours for beginners. Cancun is an incredible place to learn how to scuba dive. The city has excellent scuba instructors, calm, crystal-clear waters to practice in, and amazing reefs and an underwater museum to explore once you get the hang of it.

The tour begins by outfitting you with your scuba gear and a short class instructing you on how to use it. Then you take a boat out to the warm, shallow waters by the underwater museum, where you will practice diving until you are able to do it comfortably. Next, the boat will take you out to the coral reef where you will dive with tropical fish, turtles, coral, and sponges.

Learn more about the beginner scuba diving tours and schedule yours here .

1. Snorkeling Tours of the Reefs and Shipwrecks

The number one Cancun excursion is snorkeling at the scenic reefs and shipwrecks that surround the island. It is no secret that Cancun’s beaches and beautiful Caribbean waters are its premier attraction, and snorkeling is one of the best ways to experience all that Cancun’s oceans have to offer.  

See tropical fish, sea turtles, rays, and more, as you swim above vibrant coral reefs and stunning shipwrecks nestled in the sands just feet below you. The tours are guided by experienced boat captains and snorkelers, who provide instruction and assistance, so even novice snorkelers can enjoy the tour. If you are not comfortable snorkeling with no floatation assistance, you can take a life jacket to float above the reefs and shipwrecks.

Sign up for a reef and shipwreck snorkeling tour here .

Tulum vs Cozumel: Best Vacation Destination 2022

Cancun vs Riviera Maya: Best Vacation Destination 2022

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THE 10 BEST Cancun Tours & Excursions

Tours in cancun.

• Archaeology Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Walking Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Chichen Itza, Cenote and Valladolid All-Inclusive Tour

2. Cancun ATV Jungle Adventure, Ziplines, Cenote and Tequila Tasting

3. Viator Exclusive: Tulum Ruins, Reef Snorkeling, Cenote and Caves

4. Luxury SUV transfers from Cancun Airport

5. Isla Mujeres Luxury Catamaran Sailing plus Lunch and Open Bar

6. Chichen Itza, Cenote, and Valladolid Tour with Tequila and Lunch

7. Early morning Chichen Itza Tour, Cenote and Tequila Tasting

8. ATVs at Full Speed in Cancún w/ Ziplines, Cenote and Lunch

9. 5-in-1 Cancun Snorkeling Tour:Swim with turtles, reef, Musa,shipwreck and cenote

10. Private Round Transfer Airport-Cancun Hotel Zone - Airport

11. Cancun Best ATV Tour, Ziplines and Cenote Swim with Lunch

12. Transfers in Private MiniVan wi fi on board

13. Isla Mujeres Catamaran Tour with Snorkel, Open bar and Transport

14. Adults only Hip Hop Sessions Boat Party Cancun

15. All Inclusive Isla Mujeres Catamaran

16. Cirque du Soleil JOYA Admission Tickets

17. Tulum Day Trip Mayan Ruins With Cenote Swim

18. Xcaret Park Day Trip with Priority Access, Lunch and Night Show

19. Horseback Riding Tour with ATV, Ziplines Cenote and Lunch

20. Xplor Tour with Rafting & Ziplining

21. ATV, Ziplines & Cenote. Tequila Tasting & Transportation included

22. Great Maya Reef Snorkeling Tour with Lunch in Puerto Morelos

23. Mayan Jungle Tour: Speed boat, Snorkel & Snack

24. Transfer in Luxury Mercedes Benz Minivan

25. Transfers in Luxury Sedan from Cancun Airport

26. Cancun Taco Tour, Local Beer and Night Market with Transportation

27. Isla Mujeres Cruise with Beach Club, Snorkel, Lunch and Open Bar

28. Jungle Tour Cancun Speedboat and Snorkel Adventure

29. 4x1: Coba, Cenote, Tulum and Playa del Carmen Tour from Cancun

30. ATV Ziplines Cenote Tequila Tasting and Horseback Riding

What travellers are saying.

• Chichen Itza, Cenote and Valladolid All-Inclusive Tour
• Chichen Itza, Cenote, and Valladolid Tour with Tequila and Lunch
• Cancun ATV Jungle Adventure, Ziplines, Cenote and Tequila Tasting
• Viator Exclusive: Tulum Ruins, Reef Snorkeling, Cenote and Caves
• 5-in-1 Cancun Snorkeling Tour:Swim with turtles, reef, Musa,shipwreck and cenote
• Dolphin Discovery
• Dolphinaris Cancun
• Delphinus Punta Cancun
• CARM Tours & Transfers
• Unique Private Transportation
• USA Transfers
• Brasileiros em Cancún
• Brasil em Cancun Turismo
• Canada Transfers
• Dantia Luxury Services
• Reliable Transfers & Tours
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• Sagitario Private Catamaran
• Contoy Adventures
• Mexique Decouverte
• Mexique Essentiel
• Alleiva Travel
• Cancun With Me
• Atrévete DMC & Travel Services
• Aquafueled Adventures Tours
• Entertainment Plus
• Flights Cancun

Everything you need to know before visiting Cancún

Jan 24, 2024 • 6 min read

Prepare for your visit to Cancún with our guide to health, safety and etiquette in the Mexican hotspot © Wei Fang / Getty Images

If my frequent travels to Cancún have taught me anything, it's that paradise will throw you a curveball from time to time.

Among the setbacks, I've experienced a costly car break-in, brazen price gouging and a debilitating bout of sickness with dengue fever, an ordeal that still makes my joints ache just thinking about it. But every time I found myself in need of help, the good folks in Cancún have stepped up big-time, and that's no small thing.

While some first-time visitors never leave the touristy, high-gloss hotel zone – which I get, the stunning resort offers pillow-soft Caribbean beaches – you’ll kick yourself later if you overlook the Centro, a bustling downtown.

This is where you can mingle with locals in the neighborhood cantinas and barter at traditional markets. Visit one atmospheric taco joint and you’ll be glad you made the effort. 

With that in mind, here are nine essential tips to make your Cancún trip run as smooth as possible.

1. Stay alert but don't let the clickbait headlines spook you

Despite all the grim news about Mexico 's drug-related violence, Cancún and the wider Yucatán Peninsula are generally considered safe.

Granted, you should never treat the crime problem lightly, but drug gangs rarely target tourists, especially if you avoid illicit activities.

That said, it's important to keep a close watch on your drink in bars and nightclubs. There have been reports of some tourists getting their drinks spiked with so-called date rape drugs. You should also avoid withdrawing money from ATMs at night, and never carry large amounts of cash.

2. Monitor hurricane season and seaweed surges

Cancún's hurricane season runs from June to November, and over the years the city has seen powerful storms cause devastating damage. Always check the latest weather forecast before you board a plane.

Also, keep a close eye on sargassum seaweed surges ( sargazo in Spanish), which can turn Cancún's turquoise waters brown. These blooms leave mounds of smelly, decomposing macroalgae carpeted across otherwise white sands. An influx of seaweed makes swimming and sunbathing downright unpleasant.

If it happens when you're in Cancún, consider doing less beach time and splash around in hotel pools and cenotes (freshwater sinkholes) instead.

The invasive surges occur intermittently, usually from March to August, but they can be unpredictable. The NGO  Red de Monitoreo de Sargazo posts daily updates on beach conditions in Cancún and the nearby Riviera Maya .

3. Tip generously and haggle respectfully

Keep in mind that many Cancún service workers (namely restaurant and hotel employees) depend on tips to supplement miserable wages. In restaurants, leave a 15% gratuity if the service is not already included.

Remember to check the bill carefully, though – some unscrupulous establishments have been known to tack on a "service fee" in the hope that customers unknowingly leave an additional tip.

For airport and hotel porters, tip about M$25 a bag, while for tour guides give an extra 10–20% of the cost of the outing, or perhaps a bit more for full-day excursions. Gas station attendants typically get about M$5 to M$10.

Bartenders, baristas and taxi drivers generally do not expect tips but always welcome them. It's acceptable to haggle with the market and street vendors to a certain degree, but remember that they're just trying to make a living.

4. Don't forget to pack ID, bug spray and casual clothing

To rent a car, you'll need to show a passport, driver's license and credit card. Mexican law requires you to have liability coverage, known in Spanish as daños a terceros .

Citizens from the US, Canada and EU countries, as well as residents from dozens of other nations, do not need visas to enter Mexico as tourists.

To protect yourself from mosquitoes and the sun, pack biodegradable insect repellent, long-sleeve shirts and a pair of pants. You'll definitely need the bug spray when visiting during the muggy wet season from May through October.

Even if you have repellent or sunscreen of the biodegradable variety, do not use them while swimming or snorkeling in fragile ecosystems such as coral reefs and cenotes. Loose-fitting clothes that dry quickly will serve you well for water activities and rainy days.

5. Explore the surrounding countryside

You can usually find plenty of things to do in the hotel zone and downtown Cancún but try to squeeze in at least one trip to see a different side of the Yucatán Peninsula. Seven to 10 days should give you ample time to tour Cancún and beyond.

Venture south to check out ancient ruins, jungle-set swimming holes and small fishing towns along the Riviera Maya, or head east on a day trip to  Valladolid , a colonial city with a rich Maya history.

Alternatively, the nearby islands of  Isla Mujeres and  Isla Holbox provide blissful nature escapes for snorkeling, diving and kayaking adventures.

6. Carry cash and bring a credit and/or debit card

Even though most places in Cancún accept major credit cards, it's always useful to carry some cash, especially in the smaller surrounding towns and islands.

Many hotels, and even some restaurants, accept US dollars, but they normally offer an unfavorable currency exchange rate.

The ubiquitous ATMs accept foreign debit cards but expect to get dinged with international transaction fees for withdrawals.

The same goes for many retail purchases as well. Some major credit cards won't charge such fees, giving you the most bang for your buck. Cancún's ATMs dispense Mexican pesos.

7. All-inclusive resorts are great, but you're missing Cancún's food scene

The hotel zone is home to most of Cancún's all-inclusive hotels, though high-end resorts are also cropping up in Punta Sam and along the sublime  Isla Blanca peninsula, north of downtown.

The all-inclusive experience ranges from luxurious adults-only setups with above-and-beyond service (personal butlers and all) to slightly more affordable family-friendly accommodations.

If you're looking for a safe, self-contained environment with multiple restaurants, bottomless drinks, easy beach access, alluring outdoor pools, and kid-focused activities, book an all-inclusive.

If you prefer the resort experience without the meals and booze, some places offer room-only rates. This pushes you to get out and dive into Cancún's diverse culinary and nightlife scene. Budget travelers will find more options downtown, where hostels and mid-range digs abound.

8. Rideshare services are available in Cancún

The app-based transportation service Uber operates in Cancún, but due to a long-running dispute by taxi union members, drivers and their passengers have faced harassment and, in some cases, attacks.

If you decide to use Uber, do so at your own risk. Do not order a car from the airport, bus station, ferry terminals, or other points where rival taxis may be watching.

For the most affordable transportation from the airport, look for the red ADO bus , which runs frequently from the airport terminals to downtown Cancún's first-class bus terminal. However, if you're staying in the hotel zone, you're better off taking a shuttle or cab.

9. Don't drink the water, and try street food with caution

Cancún's tap water is generally not safe to drink unless you know it's filtered (agua filtrada) . The same goes for drinks prepared with ice; when in doubt go without. Bottled or purified (purificada) water is your best bet to stay hydrated, and you'll need plenty of it to avoid heat exhaustion.

Eating street food can be somewhat dicey in Cancún, but it's a tantalizing risk that many visitors are willing to take.

This article was first published October 2023 and updated January 2024

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The Best 11 Mayan Ruins Tours from Cancun to Do in One Day

 Disclaimer:  This page may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase using one of those links, I may earn a commission at zero cost for you. You can read my  disclaimer policy  and  privacy policy .

If you’re looking for the best Mayan ruins tours from Cancun, you’ve come to the right place! I have selected the top-rated tours that you can join from Cancun and immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of the ancient Mayan civilization while listening to a certified guide sharing their knowledge.

You can visit the famed site of Chichén Itzá, explore the Mayan archeological site of Tulum, or visit Coba and Ek Balam–two unique sites nestled into the jungle.

Or maybe you’ll decide to theme your trip and hit multiple destinations during your vacation.

Read on to discover the best Mayan ruins tours available according to your preferences, budget, and travel style.

The Mayan Ruins at a glance

Did you know that sixteen different Mayan provinces populated the Yucatán Peninsula in the early 16th century? Knowing that it’s easy to see how this area came to be known as the gateway to the Mayan world. 

Many fascinating archaeological sites are spread across the Yucatán including Chichen Itza, the Tulum Ruins, Uxmal, the lesser-known Ruta Puuc, Mayapan (my favorite), and many more.

Several of these Mayan ruins have been declared world heritage sites, which is all the more reason to visit!

Cancun itself is home to two Mayan archeological sites (El Rey and San Miguelito) and was an important center of trade during the Mayan era. Although these sites are worth checking out, this post is about more impressive ancient sites that are a bit further away.

It’s easier to visit the ruins on this list with a tour company. If you have been reading my blog for a while you will know that I prefer to travel by car and be more independent.

However, I reckon that looking at this majestic Mayan City with a guide is much more interesting because you also get to learn about the building you are looking at.

Also, tours will help you save time if you are in a rush and want to see as much as you can.

However, if you have time and want to drive your car around the Yucatan Peninsula, you can do that too and hire a guide at the site entrance. They are available at almost every major archeological site.

Now let’s get to the good stuff. Here are the best Mayan ruins excursions for a great day trip from Cancun .

The best Mayan ruins tours from Cancun: Chichen Itza

1. chichen itza mayan ruins tour.

If you are looking for my favorite tour operator, look no further than Chichen Itza Tours. This company has a 5-star rating and 104,038 reviews! Talk about social proof!

Pick your favorite tour by this operator:

👉 Chichen Itza Tour Classic

The classic tour is the crowd favorite, offering visitors the opportunity to explore Chichén Itzá, swim in a cenote, eat a delicious buffet lunch, and visit the colonial city of Valladolid all in one go! 

This tour includes roundtrip transportation, a buffet lunch, a visit to a cenote, an express stop in Valladolid, the entrance fee to Chichen Itza, a guided tour inside Chichén Itzá, and free time to explore the Mayan ruins on your own.

This tour does not include any drinks or snacks, so be sure to bring water!

👉 Chichen Itza Tour Express

Let’s face it, the classic tour can be a bit much. Those are all fun stops, but stack them one atop the other and you may come out exhausted!

If you aren’t as keen on visiting Valladolid and a cenote but want to focus your time on the archaeological site itself, the “express” is the tour for you! 

Head straight to Chichen Itza for a guided tour and free time, then straight back to your hotel.

This tour includes roundtrip transportation, a box lunch, the entrance fee to Chichen Itza, a tour guide who will lead you through the ruins, and time on your own to enjoy them.

👉 Chichen Itza Tour Plus

If you like the sounds of the classic tour plus VIP treatment, the Chichen Itza Tour Plus is a perfect choice. Enjoy all the perks of the classic tour with unlimited drinks and a waiter to serve you on the bus.

This tour includes roundtrip transportation with unlimited sodas, beer, and water served by a waiter on board, a buffet lunch (no drinks included), a visit to a cenote, an express stop in Valladolid, the entrance fee to Chichen Itza, a guided tour inside Chichén Itzá, and free time to explore the mayan ruins on your own.

👉 Chichen Itza Tour Deluxe

Take the amenities one step above the Plus tour with the Deluxe. This tour includes everything you get on the Plus tour, but with a light to-go breakfast and a drink with your buffet lunch.

You’ll also have a towel available for swimming, and an umbrella available if it rains while you’re at the Mayan ruins.

You’ll also have the option of drinking tequila on the bus. Bottoms up!

👉 Chichen Itza Tour Diamante

The Diamante tour takes the amenities one level further. This luxury tour offers even more drink options while on board the bus, including whisky, tequila, or Xtabentun (a Mayan liquor). You’ll also have access to a life jacket as well as a towel during your swim in the cenote.

👉 Private Chichen Itza Tour

Skip the mandatory itinerary of a group tour and go where you want when you want with this private tour. You can even start off with a 6 am departure, beating the crowds and enjoying Chichen Itza in the cooler morning hours.

You’ll have ten hours to do as you wish, whether that means spending a ton of time enjoying Chichen Itza, visiting Cenotes of your choice, and/or hitting up a famed restaurant.

Note: This tour includes an English-speaking driver, but not a guide. It also includes a cooler with water, ice, and beers, toll road and parking fees, and roundtrip transportation. Entrance fees are not included.

👉 Luxury Chichen Itza Tour

The luxury Chichen Itza tour is just like the private tour above, except you get transported in the style and comfort of a suburban!

Top-rated tours to Chichen Itza Mayan ruins on Viator

If you don’t like any of those top-rated options I listed, consider these excellent tours to Chichen Itza, with awesome Cancun cenotes and colonial cities added to the mix.

2. Chichen Itza, Cenote and Valladolid All-Inclusive Tour

This tour will take you on a great adventure complete with Mayan ruins, a cenote, and the colonial city of Valladolid on this fabulous tour! With a 5-star rating and upwards of 8,732 reviews, there’s no question this is one of the best excursions out there!

The tour starts off with pickup from your hotel in the Riviera Maya and transportation to Chichen Itza. Although the drive takes a few hours, you won’t be bored. During the travel time, your expert guide will dive right in by giving you wonderful information about the ruins.

The fascinating information will keep pouring in once you reach the Chichen Itza itself. You’ll learn about the history of the site and the significance of the structures to the Mayans.

Next, you’ll visit Saamal, a beautiful open cenote complete with a waterfall and viewing platforms.

After a yummy buffet lunch, you’ll get a quick tour of the majestic city of Valladolid, with its ancient temples and rich history.

This excursion includes roundtrip transportation from your hotel, a bilingual guide, the cenote admission fee, and a buffet lunch.

It does not include beverages, the Chichén Itzá entrance fee, lockers, life jacks, and gratuities. 

3. Chichen Itza English Tour, Buffet Lunch, Cenote,Tequila tasting & Valladolid

Another wonderful option for visiting Chichen Itza is this 4.5-star badge of excellence tour! With over 6,073 reviews to offer social proof, there’s no question you’ll be in good hands. It even includes tequila tasting. Talk about an upgrade!

Choose the VIP option to include hotel pickup, then travel to Valladolid for a quick stop. Stretch your legs and enjoy the beautiful central park and a Catholic church.

Around noon, you’ll get to Chichen Itza! Start off with a 90-minute guided tour, and then 90 minutes of free time. You’ll learn a lot about the ancient Maya, the equinox, the moon, and the stars.

You’ll end the day with a refreshing swim in Selva Maya, a beautiful cenote.

Lunch, tequila tasting, a bilingual guide, and entrance fees to the cenote are included. The tour doesn’t include drinks, the Chichen Itza entrance tax, and life vests for swimming.

Travelers’ loved the service, tour guide, and food on this tour.

The best Mayan ruins tours from Cancun: Tulum

The Tulum ruins are truly one-of-a-kind. These are the only Mayan structures built on a seaside cliff, and the vistas are stunning. You won’t want to miss these!

Let’s dive into the best tours of Tulum Ruins.

5. Viator Exclusive Combo Tour: Tulum Ruins, Reef Snorkeling Plus Cenote and Caves

This is the Top Rated Tour from Cancun to Tulum on Viator with 2524 5-star reviews and counting. You can’t go wrong!

Start the day off by getting picked up at your hotel and being driven to the Tulum archaeological site. After a guided explanation of the ruins, you’ll have free time to take pictures and enjoy the spectacular sights!

Next, you’ll get outfitted with snorkel gear and swim over a gorgeous coral reef populated by colorful fish. In the afternoon, you’ll visit an underground cave full of intricate stalagmites and stalagmites, walk through the jungle, and swim in Cenote Xtun.

Travelers loved how well-organized this tour was, the wonderful guides, and the variety of activities.

This tour includes a bilingual guide, roundtrip transportation with AC, lunch, bottled water, and the use of snorkeling equipment.

It does not include the Natural Marine Reserve Fee, tips, and souvenir pictures (available for purchase).

6. Tulum and Cenotes Tour

Another wonderful tour will take you to three of Tulum’s most-prized sites: the Mayan ruins of Tulum, and the Chen Há and Mariposa Cenotes.

Enjoy an incredible guided tour of the ruins plus free time to explore them and snap photos on your own. Next, you’ll visit Chen Há, a beautiful open Cenote where you can swim to take the edge off the heat. You’ll also visit Mariposa, a cave cenote with tranquil turquoise waters. You can swim here too!

This is sure to be a day full of amazing scenery and information.

This 5-hour badge-of-excellence tour includes roundtrip transportation from your hotel, a multilingual tour guide at Tulum Archaeological Site, and visits to two cenotes. It does not include the entrance fee at the cenote, gratuities, and personal expenses (such as food and drinks).

7. Tulum Adventure (archeological zone-Atv-ziplines-cenote-lunch-drinks-rappel)

Another fun Mayan ruins tour from Cancun is this Tulum Adventure experience. If you’re into adrenaline, this is the choice for you!

Start the day off with a guided visit to the Tulum ruins. Next, swim in beautiful cenote caves, and then zoom through the treetops on a zipline! You’ll also get a boost of endorphins while you whoop and holler your way through the jungle on the back of an ATV . Hang on tight, it’ll be a fun ride!

The best part of this tour is that the groups are small, you don’t have to wait in line, and your guide is guaranteed to be awesome.

The Tulum adventure tour includes roundtrip transportation, a guide, a life jacket, equipment for everything, bottled water, and a delicious lunch. It does not include alcoholic beverages or the camcorder tax.

This 7-hour tour has a 4.5-star rating. Travelers said this action-packed day was tiring but so worth it.

8. Tulum Guided Tour, Magical Cenote, Lagoon Snorkeling, and Beachside Lunch

If the prior tours sound jam-packed to you, consider this lovely alternative instead! Rather than hopping from one destination to another, enjoy the day more fully at only three separate locations.

The day starts off with a guided tour through the ruins of Tulum. The stories and information your guide shares are sure to spark your imagination.

Picture the city as it was at its prime and wonder at its mysteries. After the guided section, you can spend an hour exploring on your own. (Hint: Search for the secret beach.)

By then, the heat will be getting to you, so it’s time to go snorkeling ! Visit Yal Ku Lagoon and don a mask and snorkel. This spot is an incredible location for seeing marine life in an edge system, where seawater and salt water mingle.

Finish off the tour with a delicious beachside lunch at Punta Venado, a pristine location featuring turquoise water and white sand. Delightful.

The best Mayan ruins tours from Cancun: Coba

Another super cool archaeological site you won’t want to miss while you’re in the Yucatan is Coba.

These ruins are located between Valladolid and Tulum and are super unique. 

Coba features one main pyramid and several settlements interconnected by roads. Although there are about 6,000 structures at this site, only a few of them have been excavated.

It makes it easy to picture what it must have been like for archaeologists to discover these in the middle of the lush jungle!

9. Coba Ruins Day Trip from Cancun or Riviera Maya

This tour will take you from your hotel in Cancun or the Riviera Maya to the ancient ruins of Coba! During the ride, your guide will give you wonderful information about Coba’s history and its significance to the Mayan civilization.

Once you reach Coba, you’ll have two hours to explore the ruins, climb to the summit of the city’s tallest pyramid, follow the guide for an informative tour, or rent a bicycle to zoom around and see it all yourself.

Next, you’ll visit a Mayan village to see what Mayan communities look like in present-day Mexico. At the end, you’ll take a refreshing swim in a cenote, then head back to your home base.

Coba Ruins Day Trip includes a tasty lunch, light refreshments, a local guide, and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included.

The tour lasts approximately ten hours and has earned a 4.5-star rating and Viator’s badge of excellence.

The best Mayan ruins tours from Cancun: Ek Balam

Ek Balam is one of the least visited sites in the Yucatan and yet one of the most magical. Visit these Mayan ruins if you prefer less-crowded destinations.

No elbowing people out of the way to see the sites on this one.

Plus, the architecture at Ek Balam is incredibly unique!

10. Visit the ancient Ek Balam, the colonial town of Valladolid & Cenote Hubiku

Set yourself up for an amazing time by joining this awesome tour to Ek Balam, Valladolid, and Cenote Hubiku. 

After getting picked up at your hotel, you’ll head straight to Ek Balam. An expert tour guide will lead you through the mystical ruins, explaining them to you and helping to bring them to life in your imagination.  

Next, you’ll visit Cenote Hubiku, also known as “the nest of iguanas.” But don’t worry, there aren’t iguanas there now. Instead, you’ll climb down 115 stone steps to this underground cenote which has a circular hole in the cavern roof. Sunlight falls through onto the turquoise water. It’s spectacular and the perfect spot for a refreshing swim and tasty lunch.

Last, but not least, you’ll visit the magical town of Valladolid, one of Mexico’s most picturesque cities. Wander the streets and learn about its culture and history.

This tour includes a certified guide, entrance tickets to Ek Balam and Cenote Hubiku, lunch (no beverage), tequila tasting, and a box lunch breakfast.

11. Ek Balam Tour from Cancun Including Cenote Maya Park

This awesome tour combines a guided visit to the Ek Balam ruins and a more adventurous stop at the Cenote Maya Park where you can either swim and relax in the cooling waters of the magical cenote or enjoy a variety of outdoor activities like rappelling and ziplining.

The tour also includes round transportation from most Cancun hotels and a delicious buffet based on Yucatecan cuisine.

What to wear on an excursion to the Cancun Mayan Ruins

Like for every tour, wearing the right clothes and taking the right equipment will make your trip better and much more enjoyable.

So here are my pro tips on what to wear during a Mayan Ruin excursion.

✔️ Dress lightly and comfortably – linen or hiking pants would be ideal, and a top tank or a linen shirt will help with the heat.

✔️ Hiking or tennis shoes will be ideal – although you are not actually hiking, closed shoes will prevent you from being bitten by bugs, like ants or mosquitos as you walk around the archeological sites. For me, these are a lifesaver. You can bring some flip-flops in the backpack for when you will move to the cenote.

✔️ Swimsuit – for the cenote – check out these beautiful and cheap ones from CupShe (my absolute favorite)

✔️ Sunscreen and a hat (but make sure you wash it away before entering the cenote)

✔️ Mosquito Repellent – mosquitos are omnipresent in the jungle, so make sure you protect yourself

Keep mosquitos away!

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✔️ Water bottle – always stay hydrated in Mexico, especially when you go on a tour and stay in the heat for a while. Remember tap water is not drinkable in Cancun , so you can get a cute water bottle and refill it in restaurants or your hotel.

Click on one of the below water bottles to purchase your favorite one ⤵️

✔️ Beach Towel – usually hotels provide a beach towel that you can carry on excursions but they are fluffy and big and occupy a lot of space. So you can buy either a cute linen Turkish towel or a more practical quick dry towel.

✔️ Foldable backpack – you can get a nice and cheap foldable backpack on Amazon and use it on these tours to carry your stuff.

Mayan Ruins Tours from Cancun: Final Thoughts

As you can see, there are many incredible Mayan ruins to visit while you’re on vacation in the Mexican Caribbean. I wouldn’t miss out on the big-ticket ruins of Chichen Itza, the gorgeous seaside site of Tulum, and the mystical jungle ruins of Coba and Ek Balam.

No matter which tour you choose, you are bound to have the experience of a lifetime! In between visiting ruins, you can swim in cenotes, explore the colonial streets of Valladolid, eat delicious Yucatec food, and snorkel over coral reefs! It’s going to be awesome!

Hey there! This is Isabella, the founder and author of this site. I have been living in Cancun for the past 13 years and although I have been roaming around Mexico, Cancun's spectacular turquoise waters and pristine beach draw me back to this popular Mexican beach destination. That is why I decided to start this blog, to show you all the beauty you can find in Cancun and share helpful travel tips to help you plan a fabulous vacation in Cancun!

10 Mistakes People Make When Visiting Cancun

...and what to do instead.

Cancun’s white sand and turquoise waters are what primarily attracts visitors to the famous Mexico beach town. Enjoy your Caribbean vacation to the fullest by doing proper research on Cancun , as travel mishaps often lead to wasted money and missed opportunities. 

A little planning goes a long way when it comes to the basics, such as exchanging money, booking tours, buying food, and even necessities you should include in your luggage. Travel smarter by checking out this list of common travel mistakes to avoid in Cancun, Mexico.

Exchanging money at the airport

Get a better rate for your money outside of the airport.

Cash is a necessity in Cancun, given that many restaurants and gift shops don’t accept credit cards. Like many other airports around the world, the Cancun airport is jam-packed with money exchange kiosks looking to convert your money into Mexican pesos. Do yourself (and your wallet) a favour by not exchanging money as soon as you arrive at the airport.

The rates offered are always less than favourable. Hold on to your vacation money and exchange it at smaller kiosks in town, which will provide you a bigger bang for your buck. 

Choosing your hotel by price alone

Avoid booking a hotel that’s far away.

When planning a vacation to Cancun, it’s often a good idea to check a hotel’s location before making your reservation. Many hotels are located over 1 hour away from the city centre and far away from all the action in Cancun. A great way to ensure your hotel is within a reasonable distance is to use the map feature. 

Not only can you filter hotels according to budget, you can also see the precise location of where a specific property is located – whether that’s in Downtown Cancun, the Hotel Zone, or right on the beach.

Chichén Itzá near Cancun

Cancún Underwater Museum

10 Great Restaurants in Cancun

Taking a taxi at the airport, most hotels offer free shuttles.

After passing baggage claim and through the exit doors of Cancun International Airport, you’ll come face to face with an enormous crowd of taxi drivers. The experience can sometimes be a bit harrowing, as you’ll likely to find yourself surrounded by drivers shouting out different prices. 

Avoid starting out your vacation with a hefty taxi bill by calling ahead and booking a shuttle with your resort. Almost all hotels in Cancun offer a free ride to and from the airport, provided you contact them the day before with your travel details.

photo by Shinya Suzuki ( CC BY 2.0 ) modified

Buying everything at the listed price

Haggle for a better price on food and souvenirs.

Haggling is a common practice throughout Mexico, especially at places like street fairs, food stands, and beach huts. Whether you’re looking for a few authentic trinkets to bring home or purchasing a kilo of fresh figs, the locals are used to a bit of back and forth when it comes settling on a price. 

Always allow the seller to give you a price first before offering about 40% lower. Many times, the seller will come back with a 2nd price that falls in the middle. Paying in cash will also help you get a better rate.

photo by David Stanley ( CC BY 2.0 ) modified

Drinking water from the faucet

Stick to bottled water.

A common mistake many people make while traveling is drinking unfiltered water and ending up with an upset stomach. Although the tap water in Cancun does in fact meet the standards of safety, it is always a good idea to stick with bottled water. 

Head to the nearest supermarket and stock up on your favourite brand. It might set you back a bit (about $4.50 per bottle), but spending money on clean water could spare you from feeling sickly during your Cancun holiday. 

Booking tours from stand-alone tour guides

Most one-person tour agencies are scams.

Whether you’re looking to visit Mayan ruins, island-hop on a yacht, or dive with whales, Cancun’s got a tour for it. There are several options to choose from when booking a daytrip, which also means there are many opportunities to get scammed if you’re not careful. 

Avoid booking tours with ‘representatives’ who stop you on the street, usually offering a price that’s too good to be true. Stick to brick-and-mortar stores that have plenty of pictures, brochures, and reviews to back up what they’re offering. For a better price, find a private tour agency in the city instead of booking through your resort.

Visiting during Spring Break

Plan your vacation for april through july.

The best time to visit Cancun is usually between May through November, when hotel prices are low and crowds are manageable. Not only is the city much more enjoyable, but it’ll make a huge difference on your travel budget. 

Tours are about half the price of rates offered during Spring Break, and food in general is also much more affordable. Avoid visiting during Christmas, New Year’s, and especially Spring Break as these are the most hectic travel periods for Cancun. If possible, avoid Mexico’s hurricane season, which stretches from late-July to late-October.

Only packing beachwear

Bring a light jumper for night time.

When visiting a tropical destination, many travellers often forget to pack for night-time activities. Instead of loading your luggage with swimsuits for the beach, remember to bring a light sweater or jumper for outdoor dinners or late-night walks on the beach. 

It’s a good idea to pack a few warm clothes and a small umbrella, as nights in Cancun can be rather chilly and rains are common from August through February. Keep daytime clothing casual – shorts, tank tops, and flip flops are perfect for most days in Cancun.

Thinking that all of Cancun’s surrounding areas are safe

Stick to downtown cancun and the hotel beach zone.

Cancun is a safe town to visit – locals are friendly and crime rates are very low compared to other cities in Mexico. While most people never run into any trouble, there are several troublesome areas close to Cancun. 

Unless you’re travelling with an authorized tour or knowledgeable local, stick to well-populated areas like Downtown Cancun and the Hotel Zone. The latter has a 13-mile arc of beautiful white-sand beaches lined with resorts and hotels, and considered the safest part of Cancun.

Only touring Chichen Itza

Include other daytrips in your itinerary.

Chichen Itza is one of the most famous Mayan ruins in Mexico. While the site is definitely worth the visit, but you should also include Cancun’s many landmarks into your itinerary. Book a daytrip to Playa del Carmen and Tulum for pristine beaches, or Cenote Zacil-ha if you want to swim in crystal clear waters surrounded by a lush jungle. 

Scuba diving and snorkelling at Isla de las Mujeres are also popular excursions in Cancun, so book with a reputable tour company to make the most out of your trip.

This article includes opinions of the Go Guides editorial team. Hotels.com compensates authors for their writing appearing on this site; such compensation may include travel and other costs.

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