Top 10 Most Memorable & Must-Do Tours in Cancun (2024)
Looking for the very best Cancun tours on offer?
You’re in the right place. 🙌
Our local team knows these tours inside and out!
Cancun has some once-in-a-lifetime activities for you to enjoy from swimming with whale sharks to ticking off the natural wonders of the world.
We’ve got it all!
If you manage to squeeze just 2-3 of these tours into your trip… we guarantee it will be one of the most memorable vacations of your life.
Let’s get started.
Top Cancun Tours for Amazing Experiences
- Chichen Itza Tour
- Tulum Full-Day Explorer Tour
- Jungle Buggy Adventure
- Luxury Sailing and Snorkeling
- Paradise Islands
- The Traveler’s Table Food & Drink Tour
- Coba and Reef Adventure
- Captain Hook Cancun
- Cirque Du Soleil
- Swim with Whale Sharks
1. Chichen Itza Tour
I’d always recommend Chichen Itza tours from Cancun.
You get the chance to visit the ruins of the famous ‘city of temples.’
There’s something totally magical about this place.
While you’re at the historical site, see an array of amazing buildings including:
- Temple of Warriors
- Platform of Venus
- Ball Court
- Snail
- Observatory
And, the famous pyramid Kukulcan.
What does the Chichen Itza Tour include?
Choose to experience this tour and you get inclusions such as:
- Transportation throughout the trip
- Entrance fees to Chichen Itza
- Expert guide for the entire tour
- Guided tour of the ruins
- Buffet lunch
This chance to see one of the most incredible archaeological ruins in the world shouldn’t be missed.
And…
You get to swim in a cenote (freshwater sinkhole) after your visit to the ruins.
How much does the Chichen Itza Tour cost?
The cost of this tour is $169 for adults (aged 12+) and $118 for children aged 5-11.
Infants aged four and under can take the tour free of charge.
Book this tour in advance and you save 15% on the cost.
Quick tips for this tour:
- Remember cash for tips for guides and servers.
- Taking some snacks and drinks for the journey is a good idea.
- The Chichen Itza site is wheelchair accessible but the tour buses can only accommodate collapsible wheelchairs.
Call us at 888-537-9797 if you would like more information about this tour.
2. Tulum Full-Day Explorer Tour
Considering Tulum tours from Cancun?
I’d say definitely go for it.
Tulum is one of my favorite parts of the world and the ruins give you a great insight into its history.
Taking this tour of Tulum also gives you the opportunity to have other experiences during your day of adventure.
First, learn the secrets of the historical site.
Then see marine wildlife by snorkeling the reef before taking a dip in a freshwater cenote.
How amazing is that 😍?
What does the Tulum Full-Day Explorer Tour include?
This is one of the best Cancun tours for having several great experiences on the same day.
It includes:
- A visit to Tulum ruins
- Snorkeling the reef (equipment provided)
- Cenote swim
- Light snacks
- Soft drinks
How much does the Tulum Full-Day Explorer Tour cost?
The cost of this tour is $129 for adults (aged 12+) and $109 for children aged 4-11.
Infants aged three and under can take this tour free of charge.
Book this tour in advance and you save 15% on the cost.
Quick tips for this tour:
- Remember to bring a towel and a change of clothes.
- Comfortable footwear is a good idea.
- Apply biodegradable sunblock before you take the trip
- It’s a good idea to have extra cash for tips, souvenirs, etc.
- The tour is not accessible for people with limited mobility.
If you’re looking for Cancun tours that combine Tulum with another location, you may want to take a look at this Tulum and Xel-Ha tour.
I’d also recommend having a read of my blog post to get you acquainted with the Tulum ruins before you visit.
“12 Things You Need to Know About the Tulum Ruins (2024)”
Call us at 888-537-9797 if you would like more information about this tour.
3. Jungle Buggy Adventure
Love an adrenaline rush on your vacation.
I have great news…
There are Cancun tours that get your pulse racing and are amazing fun at the same time.
The Jungle Buggy Adventure is my favorite.
It’s an exciting jungle tour in Cancun that creates unique memories.
You drive a dune buggy through the jungle and visit Mayan villages.
So, you feel energized and cultured at the same time!
What does the Jungle Buggy Adventure include?
Decide to take this tour and you can expect the following things to be included:
- Roundtrip transportation
- Necessary equipment
- Light snacks
The driving part of the day is around four hours (on and off-road).
You also have time to swim in a cenote and explore part of an underground river.
It’s an adventure you’ll never forget.
How much does the Jungle Buggy Adventure cost?
The cost of this tour is $128 for adults (aged 11+) and for children aged 7-10.
Book this tour in advance and you save 10% on the cost.
Quick tips for this tour:
- Be prepared to get dirty.
- Bring along a bandana and sunglasses.
- Have a towel with you and wear your swimwear under your clothes.
- Drivers must be 16+ and hold a valid license.
- This tour is not accessible for people with limited mobility.
Take a look at my blog post for more info about this tour.
“My HONEST Review of The Jungle Buggy Tour in Playa del Carmen (2024)”
Call us at 888-537-9797 if you would like more information about this tour.
4. Luxury Sailing and Snorkeling
Cancun snorkeling tours give you the perfect opportunity to see the marine wildlife of the Caribbean up close.
It’s a mesmerizing experience.
For the ultimate adventure, why not combine snorkeling with a luxury catamaran sailing trip?
This amazing tour takes you around the coast of the Riviera Maya.
And you can enjoy a gourmet lunch, an open bar, and paddleboarding along the way.
What does the Luxury Sailing and Snorkeling tour include?
Choose this Cancun tour and you get features including:
- Round trip transportation
- All necessary equipment
- Gourmet lunch
- Open bar
Start by spending time on deck in the tropical sunshine.
Then plunge into the Caribbean waters to explore the colorful reef before chilling out with some gourmet food and drinks.
The perfect combination of relaxation and adventure.
How much does the Luxury Sailing and Snorkeling tour cost?
The cost of this tour is $139 for adults (aged 12+) and $109 for children aged 4-11.
Book this tour in advance and you save 15% on the cost.
Quick tips for this tour:
- Don’t forget your swimwear and a towel.
- Have extra cash to hand for tips.
- The tour is not accessible for people with limited mobility.
- Pregnant women may not be allowed to participate for safety reasons.
- You cannot participate if you have a heart condition or other health issue that may cause you to lose consciousness.
Call us at 888-537-9797 if you would like more information about this tour.
5. Paradise Islands
Looking for Cancun tour packages that let you explore this stunning part of the Caribbean?
The Paradise Islands adventure is an excellent choice.
You have the opportunity to visit two beautiful islands on one incredible day.
As well as exploring Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres, you also come face to face with colorful marine life when you snorkel the reef.
What does the Paradise Islands tour include?
- Round-trip transportation
- Professional guide
- Lunch
- Snorkeling equipment
When you arrive on the beautiful uninhabited Isla Contoy, you have the opportunity to enjoy optional activities including an ecological tour of this island that’s home to more than 140 species of birds.
After traveling on to Isla Mujeres, enjoy the included lunch and maybe treat yourself to refreshing ice cream as well as taking some time to shop for souvenirs.
How much does the Paradise Islands tour cost?
The cost of this tour is $169 for adults (12+) and $159 for children aged 4-11.
There’s an additional $15 charge for the following pick-up areas:
- Tulum – Hotel Zone
- Tulum – Downtown
- From Cabañas Tulum until Be Tulum
- From Papaya Playa until Ana y Jose
- From Villas Pescadores until Kore
Book this tour in advance and you save 15% on the cost.
Quick tips for this tour:
- There’s a maximum of 12 people per tour group.
- Don’t forget to bring your swimwear and a towel.
- It’s a good idea to have extra cash to hand for tips.
- The tour is not accessible for people with limited mobility.
- Pregnant women may not be allowed to participate for safety reasons.
- You cannot participate if you have a heart condition or other health issue that may cause you to lose consciousness.
Call us at 888-537-9797 if you would like more information about this tour.
6. The Traveler’s Table Food & Drink Tour
This tour is the perfect blend of food and fun.
What’s not love ❤?
Interaction, storytelling, and gastronomy are all the order of the day for travelers on this adventure.
Take a trip through time as you learn the story of the Mayan empire while enjoying a five-course meal and accompanying wines, mezcals, and tequilas.
And have a ton of fun along the way.
What does the Traveler’s Table Food & Drink Tour include?
Choose to have some fun on this gourmet cuisine tour and you can expect the following features to be included:
- Roundtrip transportation
- Professional guide
- Necessary equipment
And…
Three hours of food, drink, and Mayan stories.
How much does the Traveler’s Table Food & Drink Tour cost?
The cost of this tour is $159.
Book this tour in advance and you save 15% on the cost.
Quick tips for this tour
- You’re recommended to wear smart casual clothing.
- Have some extra money to hand for tips and souvenirs.
- The minimum age for this tour is 18.
- Dietary requirements should be advised in advance.
- This tour is wheelchair accessible.
Call us at 888-537-9797 if you would like more information about this tour.
7. Coba and Reef Adventure
Like the idea of a trip to the heart of the jungle where an ancient Mayan city awaits?
This Coba and Reef adventure is exactly what you’re looking for.
Explore the city of Coba and discover its role in the Mayan civilization of more than 2,000 years ago.
If you’re feeling energetic, climbing the temple of Nohoch Mul is well worth it.
The views are FABULOUS!
After this Mayan adventure, spend some time snorkeling the reef before heading for an EXCLUSIVE beach hideaway where lunch and relaxation are on the menu.
What does the Coba and Reef Adventure Include?
This tour that blends an exploration of the beauty and history of the region includes:
- Professional guide
- Roundtrip transportation
- Buffet lunch
- All necessary equipment
- Light snacks
- Soft drinks
And…
Six hours of unforgettable adventures with insights into Mayan history and the stunning Caribbean landscape of today.
How much does the Coba and Reef Adventure cost?
The cost of this tour is $149 for adults (aged 13+) and $119 for children aged 8-12.
Book this tour in advance and you save 10% on the cost.
Quick tips for this tour
- Remember to bring your swimwear, a towel, and a change of clothes.
- Wear Biodegradable sunscreen and bug repellent.
- Bring your camera to capture those amazing views.
You may also find it useful to have a look at this info about another amazing Coba tour.
“Our Coba Mayan Encounter Tour Review (2024) | Riviera Maya”
Call us at 888-537-9797 if you would like more information about this tour.
8. Captain Hook Cancun
Ready for some swashbuckling pirate adventures?
All aboard the El Bucanero or El Galleon for the Captain Hook Cancun experience.
This Cancun tours package is amazing fun for all the family.
Listen to the stories of Captain Hook, savor a delicious meal fit for a pirate, and be immersed in high seas shenanigans.
What does Captain Hook Cancun include?
Join this pirate adventure in Cancun and expect features including:
- Professional Guide
- A meal of lobster, chicken, steak, or surf & turf with accompaniments.
- Open bar
- Soft drinks
And…
A truly magical dinner cruise that includes music, games, and a battle between two pirate boats.
How much does Captain Hook Cancun cost?
The cost of this tour is $110 for adults (13+) and $55 for children aged 2-12.
Infants aged 0-1 can participate in this tour free of charge.
There’s an additional pier surcharge of $15 per adult and $8 per child to pay on top of the tour price.
Transportation to the starting point of the trip can be included at an additional cost as follows (price is for a private service for up to 12 people):
- Cancun- $50
- Playa Mujeres – $60
- Costa Mujeres/Isla Mujeres/Puerto Morelos – $65
- Playa Del Carmen – $90
- Puerto Aventuras – $110
- Akumal – $120
- Tulum – $130
Book this tour in advance and you save 10% on the cost.
Quick tips for this tour
- Have some extra cash on hand for tips, souvenirs, and photos with the pirates.
- Bring some bug spray for the trip.
- Wearing comfortable clothing is a good idea.
Call us at 888-537-9797 if you would like more information about this tour.
9. Cirque Du Soleil
Heard about the magic of Cirque Du Soleil and want to experience it on your Mexican vacation.
You can, with one of the most popular Cancun tours.
Be inspired by the impressive strength and skill of the performers.
And, immerse yourself in the story of Joya, the show’s name, told in the form of acrobatics, special effects, and enchanting music.
What does Cirque Du Soleil include?
There are four options for your Cirque Du Soleil experience.
- VIP Dinner, Show, and Champagne includes a three-course dinner, unlimited champagne, and priority theater access.
- Dinner, Show, and Champagne includes a three-course dinner, one bottle of champagne per couple, and great seats for the show.
- Premium seats, Drinks, and Appetizers includes champagne, savory bites, and a ticket for the show.
- Show tickets only.
How much does Cirque Du Soleil cost?
The cost of this tour is dependent on which option and which tickets you choose.
You can select your tickets at time of booking.
It’s also possible to add transportation to the theater from Playacar Center for $15 per person and from La Isla Shopping Village for $18 per person.
You can book this tour here.
Quick tips for this tour
- Dresscode for the theater is upscale casual.
- Each ticket attracts a handling fee of $6.
- ID and the credit card used for booking must be taken with you to the theater in order to collect your tickets.
- Remember to bring extra cash for refreshments and souvenirs.
Call us at 888-537-9797 if you would like more information about this tour.
10. Swim with Whale Sharks
Cancun whale shark tours are hugely popular with visitors to the area.
It’s easy to see why.
These gorgeous creatures are so impressive.
They’re the largest fish in the ocean and you can swim with them.
Just head to the area between June and September and take to the water with a professional guide.
What does Swim with Whale Sharks include?
Embark on this whale shark adventure as part of your vacation and expect features including:
- Professional PADI guides
- Snorkeling equipment
- Small breakfast
- Lunch
- Soft drinks
- Round trip transport
And…
A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to get up close to one of these giants of the ocean that usually measure between 25 and 40 feet in length.
These gentle giants are amiable and quite happy swimming alongside human visitors so you’ll have no problem seeing them.
How much does Swim with Whale Sharks cost?
The cost of this tour is $220 for adults (12+) and for children aged 4-11.
There’s also an additional reef preservation fee to pay of $15 per person (paid in cash at the dock).
You may also want to pay for optional extras such as:
- T-shirt – $25 per person
- Photo reportage – $40 per person
- Wetsuit – $25 per person
Book this tour in advance and you save 20% on the cost.
Quick tips for this tour
- Wear your swimsuit under your clothes.
- Use only biodegradable sunscreen.
- Wearing a hat and a long-sleeve shirt for protection from the sun is a good idea.
- Bring a snack to eat during the day.
- Take seasick medication an hour before boarding the boat if necessary.
- Participants must be able to swim and have a minimum level of physical fitness.
- No one with heart or lung problems can participate.
Call us at 888-537-9797 if you would like more information about this tour.
Ready to Plan Your Tour in Cancun?
Like the sound of these amazing Cancun tours?
That’s excellent news.
The PlayaDelCarmen.Com is excited to help you book tours and activities for your Mexican vacation.
And we’ll make sure you get the best bang for your buck.
Call us at 888-537-9797 to ask about any of these tours, and many more we can advise you on and book for you.
Have questions about any of the tours in this article or Cancun tours in general?
I’d love to hear from you.
Just pop something in the comments and I’ll get on it ASAP.
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- Best Group Tours to Do On Vacation in Mexico