Make it Up Tour Customize Your Own Tour — a flexible, private experience in Roatan that allows you to craft your perfect day on this Caribbean island. Priced at just $55 per person, this tour offers about 5 hours of personalized adventure, with all private transportation included. It’s perfect if you’re craving an intimate, tailored journey rather than a cookie-cutter excursion. Guided by a dedicated local guide, you’ll get insider tips and the freedom to choose your stops, whether it’s wildlife encounters, beaches, or cultural sights.
Two things we particularly love about this experience are the personalized itinerary and the dedicated guide service. Having a guide who’s committed solely to your group means you get tailored recommendations and the flexibility to pivot if you find something tempting along the way. Plus, the inclusion of bottled water and light refreshments keeps you comfortable during your exploration.
One potential consideration is that, since the tour is fully customizable, it relies on good communication beforehand. Travelers should clarify their interests early and stay flexible. Also, be aware that admission tickets for some attractions, like animal parks, are not included, so budget accordingly.
This tour suits travelers who appreciate local insights, want to avoid overcrowded tourist spots, and prefer to design their own day. It’s especially popular among cruise ship passengers who want a smooth, hassle-free way to see the island at their own pace.
Key Points

- Personalized Experience: Build your own itinerary with a dedicated guide.
- All-Inclusive Transport: Private vehicle and driver ensure comfort and convenience.
- Flexible Stops: Choose from wildlife, beaches, cultural sights, and more.
- Local Expertise: Guides provide insider tips and personalized recommendations.
- Affordable Price: At only $55 per person, it offers great value for a half-day private tour.
- Clear Logistics: Easy meeting point outside the cruise port and straightforward booking process.
Exploring Roatan with a Custom Touch
When deciding how to spend your time in Roatan, a completely customizable tour offers a level of flexibility that standard excursions often lack. For a modest fee of $55, you get roughly 5 hours of private, personalized exploration. Imagine having your own guide who’s eager to craft your perfect day — whether that means lounging on a pristine beach, visiting wildlife sanctuaries, or checking out local artisan shops.
One of the key advantages of this tour is the dedicated guide service. Many reviews rave about guides like Steve or Lucas, who are not only knowledgeable but also enthusiastic about sharing their island’s stories. One visitor said, “Building our own tour was the best idea! It was just my husband and me, and our guide Lucas was a pleasure to hear about life on Roatan and the cultural differences.” This personalized approach makes your day feel less like a group hustle and more like hanging out with a knowledgeable friend.
Transportation is all private and air-conditioned, which is a big plus in the Caribbean heat. You’ll start right outside the cruise port, where staff will greet you with a sign (look for RT&T) and whisk you away in comfort. This setup eliminates the stress of trying to find your group or figure out where to meet.
Planning more time in Roatan? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

The tour begins at the Roatan Trips & Tours meeting point just outside your cruise port. From there, your guide will inquire about your interests and suggest the best options available. The flexibility here is what truly makes this experience shine.
Wildlife Encounters: Many travelers love to visit the island’s animal sanctuaries, where they can hold sloths, interact with monkeys, and learn about conservation efforts. Multiple reviews praise guides like Eddie for sharing plenty of information and making interactions memorable. One guest wrote, “Eddie was great at answering questions and sharing stories about the animals.” If animals are your thing, these stops are sure to be highlights.
Beaches and Snorkeling: Roatan boasts gorgeous beaches with crystal-clear waters. Some guides will recommend a scenic beach where you can snorkel or just relax. The review from a family visiting with grandchildren mentions a “beautiful beach where my husband snorkeled,” emphasizing how accessible and enjoyable these stops can be.
Cultural and Local Flavor: You might choose to visit local markets, rum or chocolate shops, or even a cameo factory, as some guests did. These stops provide a taste of island life and are often paired with recommendations for tasty local foods.
Scenic Views and Photo Opportunities: From vantage points overlooking the sea to colorful neighborhoods, your guide can steer you to picture-perfect spots. One reviewer noted the “very nice view places,” which they appreciated after a day of sightseeing.
Dining and Refreshments: Some guides will suggest local eateries or roadside stands for a true taste of Roatan. While specific lunch spots aren’t included in the tour price, many travelers find that the guides’ recommendations lead to memorable, authentic meals.
Stops are at your discretion, and your guide will wait while you explore. This gives you the chance to make spontaneous decisions — perhaps a quick photo, a chat with a local vendor, or a dip in the water.
The Booking and Meeting Experience

Booking is straightforward — you’ll receive confirmation immediately and meet your guide outside the port. The meeting point at the Town Center in Coxen Hole is easy to find; staff will greet you with a sign and assist with introductions. The tour operates daily from early morning to late afternoon (6:00AM to 6:00PM), giving plenty of flexibility.
Most travelers find that the tour runs smoothly, with guides like George, Kenson, or Lucas making the day both informative and relaxed. Reviewers consistently mention how guides go out of their way to accommodate wishes, whether it’s a specific beach, activity, or cultural stop.
A note for travelers: If your ship is running late or you miss the meeting time, refunds are not available, so punctuality is key. Also, while light refreshments are included, extra costs for entrance fees or add-on activities are on you, so plan accordingly.
The Value of a Private, Customized Tour

Compared to large group excursions that often follow rigid schedules, this private experience offers true flexibility. For $55, you’re getting not only personal attention but also the ability to prioritize what interests you most. Many reviews highlight the value of having guides like Junior or Steve, who are knowledgeable, personable, and eager to tailor the day.
The fact that admission tickets are not included for some activities means you can choose to visit only what appeals most, making your budget more flexible. Light refreshments and bottled water keep you refreshed, and the private vehicle means you won’t spend unnecessary time waiting or moving in crowded groups.
The positive reviews often emphasize the guides’ friendliness and local knowledge. One guest said, “Kenson was THE BEST! We visited the animals, chocolate factory, rum stops, and snorkeling — all with a guide who knew everyone and made it seamless.” This approach transforms a potentially busy cruise port visit into a personalized adventure.
Who Will Enjoy This Tour?
This tour is ideal for independent-minded travelers who want to craft their own experience and avoid the typical cruise excursion crowds. It’s perfect if you enjoy local culture, wildlife, and scenic views, and appreciate having a guide who’s genuinely interested in showing you what you want to see.
It’s especially suited for families or small groups, as the tour is just for your party. If you’re looking for a relaxed, unhurried day with the flexibility to change course on the fly, this trip fits the bill.
Those who want to maximize value will appreciate the affordability paired with the personalized service. But keep in mind the importance of communicating your interests ahead of time — the guides are there to make your vision a reality.
- Roatan ATV Sightseeing, Sloth & Monkeys, Chocolate & Rum Factory
- Roatan ATV Adventure, Wildlife Eco-Park and Horseback
- Roatan 4×4 ATV East End Sightseeing Adventure
- Roatan Glass Bottom Boat Tour, Wildlife Chocolate & Rum Tasting
- Private Chocolate & Rumfactory Tour Snorkeling CoralReef WestEnd
- Mega Excursion Zipline, Sloths & Monkeys, Chocolate Factory, Beach & Shuttle
FAQs
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most travelers book about 39 days ahead. Booking early ensures you get the date and time that works best for you.
What should I expect at the meeting point?
Look for the RT&T (Roatan Trips & Tours) sign outside the cruise port’s main exit. Staff will greet you, confirm your reservation, and connect you with your guide.
Are entrance fees included?
No, some activity admission tickets are not part of the tour price — including animal parks and certain attractions. You might want to budget extra for these.
Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour is flexible enough for families, including children who can handle a bit of walking.
What if I want to visit specific sites?
Just tell your guide your preferences. The tour is fully customizable, and guides are happy to accommodate your wishes.
Can I get a vegetarian meal?
Yes, vegetarian options are available if advised at the time of booking.
What if my ship is late?
Refunds are not provided if you miss the tour due to ship delays or late arrivals, so it’s best to coordinate carefully.
Final Thoughts
The Make it Up Tour in Roatan balances flexibility, local insight, and comfort at a very reasonable price. It’s an on-island experience designed for those who want the freedom to explore on their own terms but with the benefit of expert guidance. Whether you’re seeking wildlife, scenic views, or cultural stops, this tour can be customized to match your interests, making it a fantastic choice for a half-day escape.
If you value a personal touch, local stories, and the ability to craft your perfect day, this tour is a standout. It’s especially recommended for cruise passengers who want to avoid the rush of larger excursions and instead take control of their time in paradise. Just be sure to communicate your preferences clearly, and you’ll find this experience offers genuine, memorable value.
Building your own adventure in Roatan has never been easier or more rewarding. This tour proves that sometimes, the best way to see a place is to let the locals guide you on your terms.
More Tours in Roatan
- Roatan Excursion: Rum Company, Chocolate Factory with Sloths Park
- West End Tour (Choco Factory + Rum Company + Art Gallery + Rusty Fish and more)
- Private Roatan City Tour monkeys & sloths with Zipline
- Manawakie Park, Sightseeing Island Tour & Beach
- Shore Excursion Roatan West Bay Beach and Reef Snorkel by Boat
- Roatan Shore Excursion Snorkelling, Sloths & Monkeys, Beach Break
More Tour Reviews in Roatan
- Roatan Excursion: Rum Company, Chocolate Factory with Sloths Park
- Open Water Scuba Course
- West End Tour (Choco Factory + Rum Company + Art Gallery + Rusty Fish and more)
- Private Roatan City Tour monkeys & sloths with Zipline
- 3 Stop Snorkel Hopping & Beach in Roatan
- Roatan 2 Dive Scuba Adventure for Certified Divers
More Roatan experiences we've covered
- Roatan Excursion: Rum Company, Chocolate Factory with Sloths Park
- Open Water Scuba Course
- West End Tour (Choco Factory + Rum Company + Art Gallery + Rusty Fish and more)
- Private Roatan City Tour monkeys & sloths with Zipline
- 3 Stop Snorkel Hopping & Beach in Roatan
- Roatan 2 Dive Scuba Adventure for Certified Divers
- Chocolate Making Class at the Roatan Chocolate Factory in West End
- Manawakie Park, Sightseeing Island Tour & Beach
- Chocolate Factory,Wildlife Encounter,Sightseeing,Beach in Roatan
- Shore Excursion Roatan West Bay Beach and Reef Snorkel by Boat
- Airport transportation /Ferry to your hotel
- Roatan Private Costume Adventure Chocolate Rum History Culture
