Tulum is a standout destination for travelers seeking more than just its stunning beaches. This vibrant town offers a rich mix of cultural, archaeological, and natural sights that are best explored through carefully curated tours. Whether you’re drawn to the ancient Mayan ruins, colorful river cruises, or underwater reefs, Tulum’s variety of tours makes it an ideal base for immersive experiences. For example, the Xoximilco Night Cruise offers a lively taste of Mexican heritage with traditional music and regional snacks, perfect for an evening out. Meanwhile, the Explore Tulum and Swim in 4 cenotes combines natural beauty with a full day of swimming in crystal-clear sinkholes. Tulum’s tours cater to different interests, budgets, and activity levels—making it easier than ever to tailor your trip.
Quick Overview
In this list, you’ll find a mix of cultural cruises, archaeological day trips, snorkeling excursions, and art-focused tours. Ranging from full-day adventures at UNESCO World Heritage sites like Chichen Itza to a magical Bacalar lagoon experience, each tour offers a different slice of Tulum’s rich landscape. Some tours, like the Coba, Tulum, and Cenote trip, combine multiple sites for a comprehensive day, while others focus on specific highlights such as snorkeling at Cozumel reefs or art visits like Tulum’s City of Arts and the Come Into the Light sculpture. Keep reading for detailed insights into each tour.
1. Xoximilco Night Cruise With Round Transportation from Tulum City
This 7-hour evening cruise immerses you in Mexican music, food, and traditions aboard colorful trajineras—Mexican-style gondolas. This tour is perfect if you want a fun night out with regional snacks, mariachi, marimba, and lively games. The small-group setting ensures an intimate experience, and hotel transfers from Tulum make logistics simple. The highlight is floating along scenic waterways while enjoying beer and tequila from the stocked bar, with an animated host guiding the fun.
Most travelers appreciate the authentic cultural vibe and the chance to relax after a day of sightseeing. With a rating of 5.0/5 from three reviews, it’s clear that visitors love the warm, festive atmosphere. The only potential drawback is the price—$173 per person—but the all-inclusive boat experience and hotel pickup are worth it for many.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those seeking a lively, culturally rich evening cruise with excellent hospitality and local flavor.
2. Explore Tulum and Swim in 4 cenotes (Casa Tortugas) from Tulum City
This full-day adventure offers a fantastic balance of history and natural beauty. After visiting the iconic Tulum archaeological site, you’ll spend around three hours exploring four different cenotes at Casa Tortuga—some of the most accessible and scenic sinkholes in the region. The tour includes a simple boxed lunch and a traditional meal at a local restaurant, making sure you stay energized throughout the day.
What sets this apart is the combination of Mayan ruins and freshwater swimming. The cenotes’ crystal-clear waters provide excellent opportunities for relaxing swims, and the tour’s rated 5.0/5 by two reviews highlights how well-organized and enjoyable it is. The tour is most suitable for those wanting a full scope of history and natural immersion in one day.
Bottom Line: An all-around hit for families and history lovers who want to see both ruins and cenotes with minimal planning.
3. Full-day Tour of Chichen Itza, Cenote & Valladolid City
For those craving a classic Mayan experience, this 12-hour day trip is hard to beat. It includes a guided tour of Chichen Itza, one of the New7Wonders of the World, combined with a visit to a limestone cenote and the charming colonial town of Valladolid. The tour’s admission to Chichen Itza is included, and you’ll get ample free time to explore the ruins on your own, along with a buffet lunch.
What makes this tour stand out is its balance of guided insight and personal exploration. Reviewers mention their guides’ expertise and the seamless logistics, noting that it’s a great way to experience top Mayan sites without stress. The price of $139 and the inclusion of two meals make it a good value, especially for history buffs.
Bottom Line: Ideal for visitors who want a comprehensive experience of Yucatan’s most iconic archaeological and cultural sites.
4. Tulum Ruins, Coba & Cenote Deluxe Tour from Tulum City
This 11-hour tour begins with the Tulum ruins, where a certified guide shares history and legends while offering fantastic views of the Caribbean coast. Next, the group heads to the Coba ruins, known for the tallest pyramid in the Yucatán, before plunging into the sacred Tamac-Ha cenote for a refreshing swim.
The tour’s appeal lies in its blend of archaeological exploration and natural swimming spots. It’s rated a perfect 5.0/5 by one reviewer who appreciated the knowledgeable guide and the scenic ruins. At only $88, this tour offers good value, especially for travelers eager to see multiple sites in one day.
Bottom Line: Great for those wanting a comprehensive, active day that combines history and nature with relaxed pace.
$88.00 per person
5. Chichen Itza, Valladolid & Cenote Luxury Tour from Tulum City
If comfort and style matter, this luxury 12-hour tour from Tulum hits the mark. It features hotel pickup, air-conditioned transport, and a guided visit to Chichen Itza, along with time in Valladolid and a swim in the scenic Cenote Saamal. The tour includes breakfast and lunch with traditional regional dishes and an open bar on the return leg, making it ideal for relaxation.
Rated a perfect 5.0/5 from one review, travelers praise the smooth logistics and the informative guides. At $83, it offers excellent value for travelers looking for a stress-free, upscale experience that combines archaeology, culture, and leisure.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a luxurious, hassle-free day with plenty of comfort and cultural insights.
$83.00 per person
6. Amazing Snorkel at Cozumel Gorgeous Reef! Round Transportation from Tulum City
This full-day snorkel tour takes you to explore Cozumel’s renowned reefs, including El Cielo, Palancar, and Colombia reefs. You’ll swim among starfish, stingrays, and schools of colorful fish. After snorkeling, relax at a restaurant with a pool and enjoy free time in downtown Cozumel for shopping.
Rated 5.0/5 by one reviewer, most travelers love the marine diversity and the chance to snorkel in some of the best reefs in the Caribbean. The price of $165 includes round-trip transport, lunch, and all snorkeling gear.
Bottom Line: A top pick for snorkelers seeking a day of underwater exploration with excellent guides and vibrant marine life.
$165.00 per person
7. Cozumel Snorkel Experience! El Cielo Beach & Reef from Tulum City
Similar to the previous, this 13-hour tour emphasizes snorkeling in Cozumel’s famed reefs, including El Cielo, where you can see starfish in shallow waters. The tour also visits Palancar and Colombia reefs, with ample time for relaxation at the restaurant and swimming in the pool afterward.
The $180 price point includes transport, equipment, and a delicious meal. With just one review at a perfect 5/5, it’s favored for marine life enthusiasts and those who want a longer day with more snorkeling.
Bottom Line: Best for serious snorkelers wanting an extended, immersive reef experience.
$180.00 per person
8. Tulum Instagram: Giant Sculpture, Cenote Atik & City of Arts
This 7-hour tour combines art, nature, and photo opportunities. Visit the Instagram-famous “Come Into the Light” sculpture, swim at Cenote Atik, and explore the surreal City of Arts in Tulum. The tour includes private transportation, making it comfortable for those wanting to tick off multiple iconic Instagram spots.
Rated 5/5 by one reviewer, travelers love the mix of artistic and natural sights. The $294 price reflects the boutique experience, perfect for art lovers and social media enthusiasts.
Bottom Line: Ideal for visitors wanting a photo-heavy, artful day in Tulum.
$294 per person
9. Chichen Itza, Valladolid & Sacred Cenote from Tulum City
This 11-hour tour offers a well-rounded cultural experience—visiting Chichen Itza, exploring Valladolid, and swimming in Cenote Saamal. The tour provides guided insight and free time at each stop, with admission included.
Rated 4.5/5 from four reviews, travelers appreciate the smooth organization and informative guides. It’s priced at $75, making it a budget-friendly way to see major Mayan sites.
Bottom Line: Perfect for budget-conscious travelers seeking a comprehensive Yucatan experience.
10. Deluxe adventure! 2 Sacred Cenotes, Chichen Itza and Valladolid from Tulum City
This 13-hour tour combines Chichen Itza, two sacred cenotes, and a visit to Valladolid. It’s rated 4.0/5 with enthusiastic reviews praising the guide Hector (“Foca”) and the beautiful cenotes. The tour includes admission to cenotes and a buffet meal, offering a full-day immersive experience.
At $121, it’s good value, especially for travelers wanting multiple site visits and authentic regional cuisine.
Bottom Line: Suitable for those eager for an adventure-packed day blending history and mysticism.
11. Chichen Itza Full-Day Adventure from Tulum City
This full-day trip is designed for maximizing your time in the Yucatán. It includes Chichen Itza, Cenote Saamal, and a ** leisurely stroll** through Valladolid. The guided tour provides informative commentary, and admission is included.
Rated 4.0/5, travelers praise the efficient itinerary and expert guides. For $85, it’s a solid budget option with comprehensive sights.
Bottom Line: A good choice for those wanting a full day of archaeology, nature, and culture.
12. Mayan Adventure! Tulum Ruins, Coba, Cenote + Transportation from Tulum City
This 9-hour tour covers Tulum and Coba ruins, plus a swim at the Sacred Cenote. The tour includes hotel pickup and transportation, making it a hassle-free way to see multiple archaeological sites.
Rated 4.0/5, travelers mention the friendly staff but note some late arrivals. Priced at $87, it’s a practical choice for visitors wanting variety without a long day.
Bottom Line: Good for history enthusiasts who want to visit several ruins with easy logistics.
13. The 7 Colors Of Beauty Lagoon, Bacalar Experience from Tulum City
A full-day nature tour exploring the Bacalar Lagoon, known for its seven shades of blue. The tour includes swimming at Cenote Azul, a boat ride, and spotting wildlife like howling monkeys and jaguars. The day begins with a regional breakfast and ends with a scenic boat trip.
Rated 4.0/5, travelers love the natural beauty and relaxed pace. Costing $136, it’s a worthwhile option for those seeking a scenic escape from Tulum.
Bottom Line: Best for nature lovers wanting a peaceful day immersed in the landscape.
14. 4×1 Mayan Experience! Tulum Ruins, Coba, Cenote + Transportation from Tulum City
This 10-hour tour packs Tulum ruins, Coba, and a cenote into one day. It features first-class transport and guided visits, with admission not included to some sites. Travelers appreciate the efficient itinerary and the chance to see multiple highlights.
Rated 4.0/5, it’s perfect for time-conscious travelers who want a well-organized day.
Bottom Line: An excellent option for multi-site exploration with convenience.
15. Iconic Chichen Itza Experience! Classic Tour from Tulum City
This 12-hour guided tour offers a comprehensive look at Chichen Itza, plus free time in Valladolid and a swim at Cenote Saamal. It emphasizes historical insights and local flavor with admission included.
Rated 3.5/5, it’s suited for budget travelers who want to experience the highlights without frills. The reviews mention friendly guides and well-organized logistics.
Bottom Line: Suitable for those seeking an economical, educational day of Yucatan sights.
$86.00 per person
16. Eco Biosphere Tour, Sian Kaan Swim from Tulum City
This 11-hour eco-tour takes you into the Sian Kaan Biosphere, the perfect spot for animal sightings and nature lovers. The tour includes a boat ride, swimming, and lunch. The guide points out wildlife like manatees, dolphins, and turtles, making it a wildlife enthusiast’s dream.
Rated 4.0/5, travelers find the boat ride and wildlife sightings especially rewarding. The $175 price includes all transportation and lunch.
Bottom Line: Best for nature explorers eager to see rare species in a pristine environment.
$175.00 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Tulum City Tour
When selecting a tour, consider your interests, budget, and activity level. Want a cultural night? The Xoximilco cruise offers an authentic Mexican party. Looking for archaeology and history? The Chichen Itza and Valladolid or Coba and Tulum trips serve well. Interested in snorkeling and marine life? Tours to Cozumel reefs or El Cielo reef are excellent choices.
For travelers who want luxury and comfort, the Chichen Itza Luxury Tour and the Bacalar Lagoon excursions provide a more relaxed, upscale experience. If wildlife and nature are your priorities, the Sian Kaan Biosphere stands out.
Practical tips: book early during peak season, and choose tours that match your fitness level and time constraints. Combining tours is possible if your schedule allows—just ensure you don’t overextend yourself.
Tulum offers a wide array of city tours that suit every style of traveler. Whether you prefer a cultural cruise, exploring ancient ruins, snorkeling along vibrant reefs, or relaxing at scenic lagoons, there’s an adventure waiting for you. For a well-rounded trip, consider a mix of archaeological, natural, and cultural experiences. If you’re after iconic sites, the Chichen Itza tours are hard to beat, while those seeking nature and wildlife should look into the Bacalar or Sian Kaan options. Remember, booking ahead guarantees you a spot on these popular tours, so plan your trip accordingly to enjoy all that Tulum has to offer.