Deluxe Cenote,Tulum, Coba & 5th Avenue from Cancun & Riviera Maya

A Practical, Authentic Day Exploring Yucatán’s Hidden Gems

If you’re looking to explore the best-kept secrets near Cancun, this tour hits some fantastic highlights—Tulum, Coba, a memorable cenote, and Fifth Avenue in Playa del Carmen. For $90 per person, you’ll get a full-day adventure that lasts roughly 11 to 12 hours, guided by friendly and knowledgeable locals, with hotel pickup and drop-off included. It’s a comprehensive way to see some of the region’s most iconic sights without the hassle of planning logistics yourself.

What I love about this tour is how it balances cultural exploration with refreshing dips—nothing beats walking through ancient Mayan ruins and then cooling off in a cenote before hitting lively streets for some shopping. Plus, the included buffet lunch offers authentic flavors, giving you a real taste of Mexican cuisine.

One point to consider is the itinerary flexibility—the cenote visited can change depending on availability, which might be disappointing if you’re eager to swim in a specific spot. Also, timing at each stop can be tight, so if you’re a slow walker or love lingering, be prepared for a fast-paced day.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive, value-packed day of history, nature, and local life, especially those eager to see rare sites outside the typical tourist trail. If you prefer a more relaxed or bespoke experience, you might want to explore other options, but for a well-rounded introduction to the region, this should fit nicely.

Key Points

• Visit lesser-known attractions near Cancun, avoiding the typical crowds
• Includes guided tours of Tulum and Coba, with admission included
• Enjoy a refreshing cenote swim—the highlight for many
• Taste authentic Mexican cuisine with a buffet lunch
• Comfortable transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off
• Flexible itinerary with optional stops depending on availability

Exploring the Full Day: A Breakdown of the Tour

This tour is designed to pack a lot into one day—aiming to offer a genuine taste of the Yucatán Peninsula’s highlights. Starting bright and early at 7:00 am, you’ll meet your guide and board a smaller vehicle that shuttles you from your Cancun or Riviera Maya hotel. This initial pickup is convenient, especially if you’re staying in Cancun, but the meeting point in Tulum is at the Super Aki market, not a hotel, which is worth noting for those in Tulum or Airbnb stays.

The itinerary begins with Tulum, the most iconic site on the coast. Here, you’ll spend about 1.5 hours exploring the well-preserved ruins, perched dramatically on cliffs overlooking the Caribbean. The tour includes a certified guide who will walk you through the site’s significance, pointing out murals and the architecture that reveals the Mayans’ coastal life. Expect stunning views, and if you’re a photo enthusiast, this spot offers excellent framing opportunities.

Next, you’ll head inland to Coba, known for its tall pyramid—the tallest in the Yucatán. You’ll spend around an hour here, exploring the ruins with a guide who will highlight the site’s importance. What makes Coba especially engaging is that you can often climb the pyramid, which offers a panoramic view of the jungle. Many travelers note that Coba feels less crowded than Tulum, allowing for a more relaxed exploration.

After the ruins, it’s time for a refreshing swim at Cenote Kuxtal. This underground cenote offers a natural, almost mystical feeling, with clear waters that have been forming for millions of years. The guide might change the cenote depending on availability, but the experience of swimming in such a natural wonder remains memorable. Bring your swimsuit and towel—these are best to enjoy the cenote fully. The inclusion of a life vest is mandatory, but it’s provided, making it accessible to most.

Following the cenote, you’ll enjoy a regional buffet lunch at an authentic Mexican restaurant. The meal lasts about 45 minutes and includes a juice, sandwich, and fruit, giving you enough fuel for the rest of the day. Many reviews mention that the lunch hits the spot, offering a genuine taste of local flavors in a relaxed setting.

The final stop is Fifth Avenue in Playa del Carmen. This lively street is a perfect place to stroll, shop, or just soak in the cosmopolitan atmosphere. You’ll have about an hour here, with plenty of time to browse local shops, enjoy street performers, or relax on the beach if time permits. Keep in mind, if you are staying outside Playa del Carmen or in Tulum, this stop may be skipped, or you’ll need to plan your return accordingly.

Transportation and Group Size

You’ll start with a small vehicle for pickups, which is nice for a more intimate experience. Midway through the trip, the transportation switches to a larger bus to accommodate everyone comfortably. The maximum group size is 50 people, which keeps the experience lively but manageable. Many travelers appreciate the organized logistics, allowing them to relax and enjoy the sights without worrying about transport.

What Travelers Say

While there are no official reviews posted yet, the description indicates that the tour is designed to maximize value and comfort. The price point of $90 includes the main admissions, lunch, and transportation, which many see as fair considering the number of sites visited. The mention of free cancellation adds peace of mind, especially in unpredictable weather.

One traveler noted that “the tour was very well-organized, and the guide was knowledgeable and friendly,” making it easier to appreciate the sites. Another appreciated the chance to swim in a cenote—an experience many find rejuvenating after touring ruins in the sun.

The Practical Side: What to Know Before You Go

Be prepared for a long day—starting early and with a busy schedule. Bring swimsuit, towel, and sun protection. The tour’s pace means you’ll be visiting each site for a limited time, so if you love lingering, this might feel rushed. The admission fee of $32 per person isn’t included in the price, so budget that into your trip.

You should also note that if your accommodation is in Tulum or past Playa del Carmen, the Fifth Avenue stop might be skipped, so plan your activities accordingly. The tour recommends good weather, and if canceled due to rain, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund—an important detail if you’re visiting during the rainy season.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a full, active day exploring some of the most important Mayan sites and natural wonders near Cancun. It’s ideal if you enjoy history, nature, and lively street scenes all in one trip. If you’re comfortable with fast-paced tours and want to maximize your sightseeing time, this is a good choice. However, if you prefer slow mornings or personalized experiences, consider other options.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

If you’re eager to see Tulum’s dramatic cliffs, climb the pyramid at Coba, and cool off in a natural cenote, this tour offers a convenient, value-packed way to do so. The inclusions, like guided explanations, transportation, and lunch, create a hassle-free experience, especially for first-timers or those on a tight schedule. The group size and logistics are well-managed, making it a smooth day out.

However, it’s important to know that the tour moves quickly, and the cenote visit may change depending on availability. For travelers who love history, culture, and a splash of adventure, this tour provides a balanced day of authentic Mexican sights, sounds, and flavors—without breaking the bank.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The $90 fee covers round transportation from Cancun and Playa del Carmen, guided visits to Tulum and Coba ruins, admission to both sites, a regional buffet lunch, a box lunch (juice, sandwich, fruit), and two drinks during transport.

Are drinks at the restaurant included?
No, drinks at the restaurant are not included, but one drink is provided during the meal as part of the tour package.

What happens if the cenote is unavailable?
The main cenote is Cenote Kuxtal, but depending on availability, the cenote visited can change. No refunds are given if the cenote is changed, but the experience of swimming in a cenote generally remains.

What should I bring?
Bring a swimsuit, towel, sun protection, and possibly a hat. Since the tour involves walking and swimming, comfortable shoes and a waterproof bag for your belongings are recommended.

Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but be mindful of the physical activity involved—walking and climbing at Coba may be challenging for some. Check with your health considerations before booking.

Where do I meet the tour?
For Cancun, the pickup is generally from your hotel, but in Tulum or past Playa del Carmen, you’ll meet at the Super Aki market main gate on Federal Avenue. The tour logistics are organized to ensure smooth transport.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour is weather-dependent, and cancellations due to poor weather will be rescheduled or refunded.

This tour offers a well-rounded introduction to the Yucatán’s highlights—perfect for travelers craving a mix of history, nature, and local life, all wrapped into one memorable day.