Customizable Private Buggy Tour in Cozumel with Lunch and Snorkel

Taking a trip to Cozumel isn’t just about relaxing on a beach (though that’s wonderful too). For those craving adventure, this private buggy tour offers a flexible way to see the island’s standout sights, learn about its culture, and enjoy some fantastic food and drinks—all tailored to your interests. Priced at $79 per person and lasting around five hours, this tour has earned a solid 4.5-star rating from over 100 reviewers, many highlighting its personalized approach, knowledgeable guides, and variety of stops.

What we really love about this experience is its customizable nature—you get to decide what you want to see, whether that’s snorkeling at a pristine beach or exploring Mayan ruins. Plus, the inclusion of a tequila tour offers a fun, educational twist on Mexico’s signature spirit, and the lunch at a beach club provides a relaxing finale. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that a few guests found the buggy a bit outdated or were surprised by the stick-shift requirement, so come prepared for some driving!

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of culture, scenic views, and relaxed beach time, especially those eager for a more personal, flexible experience than the typical group outing. If you’re the type who loves discovering less-trodden spots and having a say in your itinerary, this private Cozumel adventure could be just the ticket.

• Customizable experience means you can tailor the day to your interests.
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the trip with local insights and friendly service.
• Varied stops include Mayan sites, beaches, and cultural monuments, offering a well-rounded day.
• Inclusive lunch and snacks at a beach club provide good value and comfort.
• Snorkeling equipment is included, with options for water fun if weather permits.
• Small group/private setting ensures personalized attention and flexibility.

If you’re considering this tour, you’ll want to know what to expect at each step. Let’s break down the 5-hour adventure to understand why so many travelers find it worthwhile—and where it might fall short.

Starting Point and Introduction

Your day begins at a customized meeting point on the island, where your guide (often Ricardo or Sergio, based on reviews) greets you warmly. This initial meeting sets the tone: relaxed, friendly, and eager to customize your experience. The guide will review your preferences, answer questions, and go over the itinerary. Expect a brief overview, but the real joy is in the flexibility that follows.

Monumento a la Hispanidad and Waterfront Sights

The first stop is around Cozumel’s waterfront and downtown, where you’ll see landmarks like the Monumento a la Hispanidad and the Mestizaje Monument, celebrating Cozumel’s diverse cultural roots. This is a quick but meaningful introduction to the island’s identity. We love how this sets the stage for the day—getting a feel for Cozumel’s blend of history, culture, and modern life.

Rancho Alejandra and the Tequila Experience

Next, the tour takes you to a local tequila ranch, where you’ll meet the family behind the operation. As one reviewer noted, “Ricardo was very knowledgeable and spoke good English,” making this stop both educational and fun. You’ll learn about the distillation process, enjoy tasting different flavors, and see the vibrant colors of Mexico’s national drink.

While some may wish to buy tequila directly, be aware that prices can be high—one guest mentioned they would have loved to buy some but found it expensive. Still, the experience of tasting and learning about tequila adds a genuine, cultural flavor to your day.

East Side Beaches and Virgin Spots

The tour then ventures to the East side of Cozumel, known for its less developed, pristine beaches. Stops include Playa Chen Rio, with its lagoon and occasional crocodile sightings (yes, “Ancho” sometimes makes an appearance), and Playa San Martin, a turtle-nesting hotspot where guides will discuss local conservation efforts.

Another favorite stop is El Mirador, where artisanal huts display handmade crafts. Here, you’ll find opportunities to pick up unique souvenirs that aren’t mass-produced. Many reviewers appreciated the chance to explore these less touristy spots—a real contrast to crowded beaches.

The Beach Club Finale

The highlight for many is the two-hour lunch and relaxation at The Money Bar Beach Club. This spot provides a comfortable setting with a bar, bathrooms, and plenty of seating. After snorkeling (equipment included), you’ll have time to enjoy the delicious food and drinks, often Fajitas or local specialties, with some reviewers praising the quality and value of the meal.

One guest summed it up as, “Great lunch on the beach, and the snorkeling was a lot of fun.” The beach club’s relaxed atmosphere makes it an ideal place to unwind after a busy morning of sightseeing.

Return and Reflection

Finally, you’ll be driven back to your original meeting point, with plenty of time to reflect on your day. Many guests commented on how flexible and accommodating their guides were, tailoring stops to their preferences. However, a few noted that the buggy was older or had manual transmission, which could be a surprise if you’re not comfortable with a stick shift.

The reviews paint a picture of a tour that’s generally well-loved for its personalized approach and diverse stops. Many highlight guides like Ricardo, Sergio, or Katy as friendly, knowledgeable, and flexible, adding a lot of value to the experience.

One guest shared, “The car may be old but who cares. The wind hits your face and you feel the openness of your surroundings.” That sense of freedom and adventure is central here. Another noted, “This was so much fun! Our guide Katy was great. The snorkeling and lunch on the beach were fantastic,” emphasizing the balance of active and relaxing moments.

A few reviews mention minor downsides: some found the buggy outdated or not fully driving themselves, and a couple had issues with the tequila shop prices or pickup times. Still, these seem like small trade-offs compared to the overall fun and cultural insights gained.

For $79, you’re getting a lot of bang for your buck. The price covers private transportation, several scenic stops, tequila tasting, snorkeling gear, and a hearty lunch. Compared to typical shore excursions, this private tour offers a more intimate and flexible experience—especially valuable if you dislike being herded in large groups.

The five-hour duration is just right—long enough to see diverse sites without feeling rushed. The inclusion of drinks and snacks keeps everyone hydrated and energized, and the stops on less touristy beaches are a real highlight for those seeking authentic beach escapes.

While a few travelers found the buggy less modern or felt they didn’t get to drive themselves, the overall impression remains positive. If you’re comfortable with a manual transmission and enjoy personalized tours, you’ll find this a great way to see Cozumel beyond the typical cruise-ship excursions.

This experience is ideal if you want to control your day and explore at your own pace. It’s perfect for adventure-minded travelers who enjoy seeing both cultural and natural sights, and who appreciate good food and drinks along the way. Families, couples, or small groups looking for a personalized, authentic experience will find this tour especially appealing.

If you’re shy about driving a stick shift or prefer newer, more modern vehicles, you might want to inquire beforehand or consider alternative options. But if you’re eager for a fun, flexible, and culturally rich day, this Cozumel buggy tour offers excellent value.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour is private and designed to be adaptable based on your interests and preferences, allowing you to choose stops like snorkeling, Mayan sites, or beaches.

Is snorkeling included?
Yes, snorkeling gear is provided, and you can enjoy it at designated spots like Playa Publica San Martin or the beach club, weather permitting.

How long is the tour?
The total experience lasts about 5 hours, giving enough time for sightseeing, tasting, relaxing, and lunch without feeling rushed.

What’s the price?
It costs $79 per person, which includes private transportation, snorkeling equipment, lunch, and tequila tasting, providing good value for a personalized experience.

Do I need to drive the buggy myself?
The tour description suggests you will be driven by a guide in a buggy, which might be older or a stick-shift; confirm with the provider if you prefer to drive yourself.

What stops are included?
Stops typically include waterfront monuments, tequila ranch, virgin beaches on the east side, artisanal markets, and a beach club for lunch and snorkeling.

Are drinks included?
Yes, bottled water, soda, and alcoholic beverages are provided during the tour.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and perhaps a waterproof camera for snorkeling. Wear comfortable clothes suitable for driving and exploring.

To sum it up, this private Cozumel buggy tour combines culture, scenic beauty, and leisure in a flexible package that’s perfect for those wanting an authentic island adventure. It’s especially suited for travelers who value guides’ local knowledge, enjoy discovering lesser-known spots, and prefer a tailored experience over cookie-cutter excursions. With good reviews highlighting its friendly guides, beautiful stops, and delicious food, it’s a memorable way to explore Cozumel beyond the typical tourist routes.