Off Road Ride to El Cedral town and Cenote Jade on ATVs

Off Road Ride to El Cedral Town and Cenote Jade on ATVs: An Authentic Cozumel Adventure

Imagine zooming along rugged jungle trails on an ATV, feeling the thrill of the wind and the dirt beneath you, followed by a refreshing dip in a pristine cenote. This is exactly what you get with the Off Road Ride to El Cedral town and Cenote Jade on ATVs—a mix of adrenaline, culture, and natural beauty that packs a punch for just $35 per person.

Starting from the Royal Village Shopping Center, this 2.5-hour tour introduces you to Cozumel’s vibrant history in the tiny town of El Cedral, offers a chance to cool off in the crystal waters of Cenote Jade, and even features a tequila tasting—a true taste of Mexico’s spirit.

Two things we particularly love: First, the guides’ local insight and friendliness make the experience engaging and fun, like bumping into a knowledgeable friend who just happens to be a pro at riding and storytelling. Second, the stunning scenery—lush green jungles, ancient ruins, and glistening waters—make every moment picture-perfect.

A possible drawback? The group size can reach up to 25 travelers, which might mean a bit of waiting if you’re hoping for a more intimate experience. Also, there’s an additional fee of $20 for ejidal and ecotax that you should budget for. Still, for the price, you get a lot of value, especially if you’re craving a mix of adventure and culture. This tour suits those who enjoy active outdoor experiences, are comfortable on ATVs, and want a deep dive into local life beyond the typical tourist spots.

Key Points

• Authentic off-road adventure through Cozumel’s lush jungle and historic El Cedral village
• Swim in Cenote Jade, a secluded, beautiful water-filled cavern perfect for cooling off
• Learn about Mayan culture and history directly from local guides
• Includes tequila tasting, a fun way to experience Mexican tradition
• Group sizes up to 25, making it lively but potentially busier
• Additional ecotax fee of $20 per person applies

A Deep Dive into the Cozumel ATV Tour Experience

The Itinerary: What to Expect on Your Day

Your adventure kicks off at the Royal Village Shopping Center, which makes an easy and central meeting point. From there, the fun begins as you hop onto an ATV to tour the El Cedral area—an old Mayan settlement and one of the island’s most charming villages.

El Cedral is where history comes alive. The tour’s description highlights a “rugged trail” experience, so expect some bumpy, dirt-packed paths that wind through the jungle. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness—one reviewer mentioned Isaac as being particularly helpful and welcoming, making the ride even more enjoyable. The El Cedral ruins are included, although reviews note there’s “not much to see in terms of large ruins,” so this part is more about the sense of stepping into the past than grand archaeological sites. Still, it offers a glimpse into local life and history that many visitors find enriching.

The Cenote Jade Stop: Your Refreshing Oasis

After about an hour and a half exploring El Cedral, your journey continues to Cenote Jade. This hidden gem is celebrated for its clear waters, surrounded by jungle and rocky formations. Swim, relax, or just dip your toes—many reviews mention the cenote’s “untouched beauty” and the chance to cool off after the ATV ride.

Expect to find plenty of lush greenery and tranquil waters that make for a perfect photo backdrop. The cenote’s natural setting is what makes it stand out—being a less commercialized spot means fewer crowds and more authentic vibes.

Swimmers are welcome, and the water is said to be pristine, adding to the experience’s appeal. We loved the way this part of the tour provides a peaceful escape from the adrenaline of the ride, blending adventure with relaxation.

Mexican Culture and Tasting Experiences

No trip to Mexico is complete without tasting its spirits. The tour includes a tequila tasting session led by an expert guide. For those over 18, this is a highlight—learning about tequila-making traditions and savoring some of the finest flavors. Some reviews rave about the “reliable and informative” guides making this part fun and educational.

Additional tastes like chocolate and honey are also sometimes included, offering a broader taste of local products. While the focus is on tequila, the experience adds a cultural layer that enriches the day.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour lasts approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, making it a manageable half-day activity. If you’re staying in Cozumel and want a low-stress, action-packed experience, this is a good choice. The group size tends to be up to 25 travelers, so it can be lively but may sometimes feel crowded during the peak times.

Transportation is straightforward, starting and ending at the same meeting point, so you won’t need to worry about navigating or additional logistics. The admission to the sites—El Cedral and Cenote Jade—is included, but you should budget $20 for the ecotax.

What the Reviews Say

Many travelers highlight the guides’ local knowledge and friendliness as a major plus. One reviewer said, “Isaac was amazing and so welcoming,” emphasizing how guides can make or break the experience. Others appreciated the stunning scenery and fun, safe riding—”super fun” and “a blast” are common descriptions.

A few points to consider: some reviews mention slow starts or large groups that might lessen the intimacy or excitement of the ride. Also, cancellation policies indicate that if your plans change within 24 hours, a full refund won’t be possible, so plan accordingly.

Why This Tour Is a Good Choice

This ATV tour offers a well-rounded experience—a taste of adventure, culture, and natural beauty—at a very accessible price. It’s particularly suited for active travelers who enjoy outdoor pursuits and want to learn about local Mayan history in a relaxed, fun setting. The combination of rustic trails, cenote swimming, and tequila tasting makes it perfect for those looking to pack a lot into a single half-day outing.

If you love guided experiences with knowledgeable locals, enjoy scenic outdoor activities, and appreciate a mix of adrenaline and cultural insight, this tour checks all those boxes. It’s also a good choice if you prefer an authentic rather than overly commercialized activity, especially since the cenote is less touristy.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Book This Tour?

This tour is best suited for adventure seekers who are comfortable on ATVs and eager to explore off the beaten path. It’s ideal for culture-curious travelers wanting a quick dose of Mayan history and local traditions. The price point makes it an excellent value, especially considering the inclusion of site visits, a cenote swim, and tequila tasting.

However, if you’re not comfortable on ATVs or prefer a more sedate experience, you might find the ride a bit intense or hectic at times. Also, those who prefer smaller, more intimate groups might want to consider the maximum group size as a potential downside.

This tour offers a balanced mix of fun, learning, and relaxation—a well-rounded way to enjoy Cozumel’s outdoor charms.

FAQ

Is transportation provided for this tour?
You meet at the Royal Village Shopping Center, so transportation is not included, but the location is central and easy to find.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 2 hours 30 minutes, including riding, visiting El Cedral, swimming in the cenote, and tasting tequila.

Are meals or snacks included?
No, snacks are not included; you might find local options in El Cedral town if you wish to grab something.

What is the age limit for the tequila tasting?
The tequila tasting is only for travelers over 18 years old.

Do I need prior ATV experience?
Not necessarily. The tour is designed for moderate physical activity, but some comfort riding on rugged trails is recommended.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the activity, but cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

This ATV tour in Cozumel offers a lively, culturally enriching experience perfect for those wanting a taste of adventure combined with authentic local sights. It’s a chance to connect with nature, history, and Mexican traditions—all in a compact, fun package.