Quintana Roo isn’t just about beaches and resorts—it’s a playground for those seeking engaging tours that showcase the region’s natural beauty, rich marine life, and cultural richness. Whether you’re interested in a lively pirate cruise, exploring pristine lagoons, or diving into Mayan traditions, this stretch of Mexico offers unique experiences. For example, Coastal cruises with open bars or snorkeling with stingrays provide a perfect way to enjoy the Caribbean vibe, while eco tours like the Kaan Luum Lagoon visit reveal more authentic, less touristy sights. We particularly love the whale shark swimming safari for its awe-inspiring encounters, and the Chocolate Workshop in Cozumel for a tasty, hands-on cultural dive.
If you’re after a quick taste of adventure and local flavor, you’ll find plenty here. This guide lists the 16 best tours in Quintana Roo, highlighting what makes each special, practical details, and who it’s best suited for. Whether you’re a family, a thrill-seeker, or a cultural explorer, there’s something for all.
1. Cozumel: Pirate Ship Cruise with Open Bar, Dinner, and Show
At number 1, the Pirate Ship Cruise in Cozumel offers a lively evening packed with fun, food, and entertainment. The replica 17th-century Spanish galleon is the setting for a show filled with sword fights and pirate antics that entertain both kids and adults. The cruise includes a gourmet dinner and open bar, making it a festive experience where you can dance under the stars to Caribbean beats. The reviews give it a 4.8/5 with 141 reviews—highlighting the immersive atmosphere and friendly crew. This tour is perfect if you’re looking for a memorable night out with a playful twist on maritime history.
Bottom Line: A lively, immersive experience ideal for families or groups wanting a fun, all-in-one evening of food, drinks, and entertainment.
2. Bacalar: Magnificent Bacalar Lagoon Exclusive Boat Tour
Number 2 on our list is a boat tour exploring Bacalar Lagoon’s vibrant waters and scenic islands. Rated 4.9/5 with 45 reviews, this tour takes you along the southern part of the lagoon, where you’ll visit cenotes, islands, and channels. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to snorkel in crystal-clear waters and admire the striking color variations of the lagoon. The tour provides a peaceful, scenic escape that’s perfect for nature lovers and photography buffs. The guide’s insights make it more engaging, and the boat’s private setting adds a touch of exclusivity.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those wanting to unwind on the water while discovering Bacalar’s hidden corners, with plenty of swim stops and scenic views.
3. Cozumel: El Cielo & Palancar Snorkel with Open Bar & Ceviche
Taking the third spot, this snorkeling tour offers a fantastic day exploring some of Cozumel’s top reef sites. The highlight is El Cielo, famous for its starfish and tranquil, turquoise waters. You’ll also snorkel at Palancar Reef, marveling at giant corals, sea turtles, and diverse marine life. With an open bar and fresh ceviche, this tour balances adventure with relaxation. It has a solid 4.1/5 from over 300 reviews, with many travelers praising the guides’ friendliness and the chance to see abundant marine life.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded day for snorkelers who want to combine marine encounters with good food and drinks in a friendly setting.
4. Cozumel: Seaside Chocolate Workshop and Wine Tasting
Number 4 is a sweet escape—Chocolate Making and Wine Tasting in Cozumel. For just $49, learn about Aztec and Mayan techniques, then craft your own chocolate bar while enjoying seaside views. Afterward, indulge in a chocolate and wine pairing on a beautiful terrace, topped off with a chocolate martini. With a 4.9/5 rating from 29 reviews, it’s clear that this hands-on experience combines education with indulgence. It’s perfect for those with a sweet tooth or anyone interested in indigenous traditions.
Bottom Line: A flavorful, cultural experience that’s fun and educational, especially for chocolate lovers and those wanting a relaxed, intimate activity.
5. Bacalar: Group Sailing Tour with Guide
The fifth tour offers a sailing adventure on Bacalar Lagoon, rated 4.6/5 from 66 reviews. It’s a 3-hour trip exploring three main spots: Black Cenote, Birds Island, and Pirates Channel. The guided commentary enhances the experience, giving you insights into the region’s ecology and history. Travelers enjoy seeing a variety of wildlife and the peaceful pace of sailing. This tour is suited for those who prefer a relaxed, scenic outing over high-energy activities.
Bottom Line: An ideal option for nature lovers and those seeking an easy-going way to see Bacalar’s diverse scenery.
6. Cancun: Speedboat tour to a Virgin Beach
Number 6 takes you on a speedboat adventure to Isla Blanca, with a maximum of 30 people per day. This tour includes two hours of speedboat fun, plus some free time at Isla Blanca. The transfer from Cancun or Costa Mujeres takes about 45 minutes. Guests rave about the exclusivity and the chance to drive their own two-passenger speedboat, making it a favorite for thrill-seekers.
Bottom Line: A high-adrenaline trip perfect for small groups or couples wanting a quick escape from Cancun’s busy resorts.
7. Whale Shark swimming ocean safari all included tour
Number 7 is a bucket-list experience—swimming with the gentle giants of the sea, whale sharks. Starting from Cancun, Riviera Maya, or Isla Mujeres, this full-day tour combines reef snorkeling, Isla Mujeres visits, and whale shark encounters. Rated 4.6/5 from 36 reviews, the tour emphasizes avoiding over-pricing and big crowds — it’s run by a local family business with 15+ years of experience. You’ll get 2-3 swims with the whale sharks, making it a rare, intimate experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want an authentic, small-group adventure with the chance to see the world’s largest whale shark congregation.
8. Puerto Aventuras: Dolphin Swim, Sea Lions, Manatees, & Lunch
Number 8 features a full-day marine interaction in Puerto Aventuras. You’ll swim with dolphins, meet sea lions and manatees, and enjoy a buffet lunch. The Royal Swim Plus program gives you a memorable, hands-on experience with these friendly creatures. With a 4.6/5 rating and only 28 reviews, it’s appreciated for its personal touch and inclusive facilities.
Bottom Line: Ideal for families or those wanting an up-close encounter with marine mammals combined with a relaxing meal.
9. From Riviera: Kaan Luum with Cenotes & Lunch ECO
This eco-friendly tour is a 10-hour journey to Kaan Luum Lagoon and two cenotes, perfect for cooling off and exploring. Rated 4.8/5, it includes a visit to Canamayte Eco Park for a Mayan honey and cocoa experience. The quiet lagoon, with its striking dark center, offers spectacular photo opportunities. It’s a great choice for travelers interested in nature, Mayan traditions, and sustainable tourism.
Bottom Line: A longer, immersive day suited for curious travelers who want a mix of nature, culture, and eco-awareness.
10. Paradise Island – Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres
Rated 4.9/5, this full-day luxury tour combines visits to Isla Contoy, a protected paradise, and Isla Mujeres, with snorkeling and sightseeing. Starting from Cancun or nearby, it features personalized service, guiding you through coral reefs and scenic beaches. The trip includes a seafood lunch and plenty of free time for relaxing and exploring.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a luxurious, all-inclusive day exploring two iconic islands with excellent scenery and marine life.
11. Cozumel: ATV Jungle Adventure
Number 11’s ATV Jungle Adventure immerses you in Cozumel’s lush wilderness. Rated 4.8/5 from 6 reviews, it’s a 2.5-hour adrenaline rush through jungle trails with a professional guide. It’s small-group, off-road fun designed for those who want to get dirty and experience nature up close.
Bottom Line: Best for active travelers craving a quick, energetic jungle ride with safety and instruction included.
12. Puerto Aventuras: Dolphin Encounter with Buffet Lunch
This intimate experience, rated 5/5 from 3 reviews, allows you to swim and interact with dolphins in Puerto Aventuras. It’s a shorter, 50-minute encounter, complemented by a buffet lunch with drinks. The focus here is on personal interaction and family-friendly fun.
Bottom Line: For those who want a meaningful dolphin experience with a relaxed atmosphere, this is a great choice.
13. Tulum Beer School and create your own beer
Number 13 offers a beer-making class in Tulum. You learn about brewing secrets, then create your own personalized beer. This tour is ideal for craft beer enthusiasts or anyone interested in the brewing process, offering a hands-on, creative experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for beer lovers wanting an interactive, educational experience in a laid-back setting.
14. Wild Jade Cavern ATV Tour with Transfers in Cozumel
Number 14’s Jade Cave ATV Tour combines adventure with exploration of Cedral’s caves and jungle. Rated 5/5 from 3 reviews, it includes swimming and jumping in Jade Cave, plus tequila tastings. It’s for travelers who want a bit of history, fun, and a splash of local flavor.
Bottom Line: An exciting, off-the-beaten-path adventure for those eager to combine nature, caves, and tasting local spirits.
15. Cozumel: Private Buggy Tour to Punta Sur Park All Inclusive
Number 15 offers a private buggy experience exploring Punta Sur Park. With a 4.5/5 rating from 13 reviews, it includes visits to El Mirador and Celarain Lighthouse, plus a beach break at Coco’s Beach Club with snorkeling and a Mexican lunch. The all-inclusive nature makes it a flexible, personalized trip.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want flexibility and privacy, combined with scenic views and beach time.
16. Cozumel: General Admission to the Mayan Cacao Experience
Finally, the Mayan Cacao Experience offers a 45-minute culture into cacao’s history. With a 4.7/5 rating from 6 reviews, you visit a Mayan hut, walk botanical gardens, and taste traditional chocolate. It’s a short but insightful journey into Mayan culture.
Bottom Line: An affordable, enriching activity perfect for those interested in Mayan traditions and chocolate.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Quintana Roo
When selecting a tour, consider your interests, budget, and physical activity level. For example, if you crave marine encounters, the whale shark safari (see here) or snorkeling at El Cielo (see here) are excellent choices. Looking for a cultural experience? The Chocolate Workshop (see here) or Mayan Cacao Experience (see here) fit the bill.
For adventure lovers, the ATV jungle rides (see here) and buggy tours (see here) offer adrenaline-packed fun. If you prefer relaxing scenic days, consider the Bacalar Lagoon boat tour (see here) or island-hopping trips (see here).
Booking early can secure spots, especially for popular activities like whale shark encounters or private tours. Think about your group size, activity level, and what type of experience resonates most—whether that’s high-energy adventure, culture, or leisure on the water.
Final Thoughts
Quintana Roo offers an impressive array of tours that cater to all tastes—whether you want the thrill of swimming with whale sharks, the tranquility of sailing Bacalar, or the hands-on fun of a chocolate workshop. Top picks include the whale shark safari for its once-in-a-lifetime feel, and the pirate cruise for pure entertainment. For a quieter day, the Kaan Luum Lagoon trip offers a peaceful escape, while the Punta Sur Buggy Tour combines scenic views with personalized adventure.
With such a diverse selection, it’s wise to think about what fits your interests and travel style. Booking early ensures you don’t miss out on these memorable experiences. Whatever your choice, Quintana Roo promises an exciting journey filled with authentic sights, flavors, and fun.