4 places in 1 day! Tulum, Coba, Cenote and Playa del Carmen

Discover Four Key Sites in a Single Day from Cancun

For just $89 per person, this 11-hour tour offers a comprehensive day exploring some of the most captivating locations in the Riviera Maya. Starting with hotel pickup and drop-off, it is designed for those eager to see Tulum ruins, Coba, a cenote, and enjoy Playa del Carmen’s vibrant atmosphere. The tour provides guided visits, free time, and regional buffet meals, making it a practical choice for travelers wanting to maximize their day without the hassle of organizing transport.

This tour is suitable for most travelers, with most participants able to join and a maximum group size of 50. A key feature is the guided tour of Tulum ruins, with a bilingual guide in Tulum, ensuring you learn about the sites’ history and significance. While the admission tickets for Tulum, Cenote Tamcach-Ha, and Playa del Carmen are included, the Coba ruins do not include an entrance fee, and there’s a preservation tax of $23 USD per person to be paid separately.

Key Points

• Affordable price of $89 per person for an all-day exploration of four highlights.
• Guided tour of Tulum ruins with a bilingual guide providing detailed historical insights.
• Visit to Coba ruins, an important Maya archaeological site, with free time to explore independently.
• Cenote Tamcach-Ha offers a refreshing swim in a natural underground cenote filled with history and mystery.
• Time in Playa del Carmen includes a short city tour and free time for shopping and enjoying local food.
• Pickup and drop-off are included, streamlining the day’s logistics.

Starting Point and Daily Schedule

The tour kicks off early at 7:00 am, with hotel pickup arranged for most locations. The day unfolds with stops designed to balance guided tours and leisure. The first stop is the Tulum archaeological site, where admission is included. Here, a professional guide leads you through the ruins, revealing stories behind this iconic Maya site, perched above the beach with stunning views.

Next, the Coba ruins are visited, where the guide stays on the bus and provides instructions for free exploration. This site is recognized as one of the most significant Maya locations. Afterward, the tour visits the Cenote Tamcach-Ha, a mystical underground cenote perfect for a crisp swim in crystalline waters. The admission to the cenote is included, but the cost of the entrance fee is incorporated into the tour price.

The final stop is Playa del Carmen, where around an hour is dedicated to a short city tour and free time to stroll 5th Avenue, shop, or grab some local bites. This lively spot offers a taste of local culture and vibrant street life.

Exploring the Tulum Ruins with a Certified Guide

The Tulum archaeological site is the highlight for many visitors, and this tour emphasizes its importance with a certified guide sharing insights into Mayan history. You’ll learn about Tulum’s role as a coastal Maya city and enjoy incredible views from the clifftop location. The guide’s explanations enrich the experience, turning mere ruins into stories of ancient civilization.

Visitors get around 2 hours at Tulum, ample time to walk among the ruins, take photos, and appreciate the beach surroundings. The admission ticket is included, so there’s no need to worry about extra costs on-site. The view of the beach from the ruins adds a memorable touch to the visit.

Coba Ruins: Free Exploration and Cultural Significance

The Coba archaeological site is known as a major Mayan city, once a hub of activity. While the guide remains on the bus, travelers are given approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to explore on their own. Since admission is not included, it’s a good idea to be prepared for the separate fee if you wish to enter—though this is not part of the tour price.

Coba is notable for its large ancient buildings and the possibility to climb the Nohoch Mul pyramid, the tallest in the Yucatán Peninsula. This free time allows visitors to soak in the history at their own pace, perhaps enjoy a quick snack or take in the jungle surroundings.

Swimming in Cenote Tamcach-Ha

After exploring Coba, the tour takes you to Cenote Tamcach-Ha, a natural underground cenote filled with crystal-clear waters. This site offers a refreshing cool-down in a unique setting, forming part of the authentic Mayan experience. The admission fee to access the cenote is included, giving you the opportunity to swim and relax in nature’s own swimming pool.

The cenote’s mystery and history are part of the appeal, offering a tranquil break amidst the adventure. Visitors are encouraged to bring a swimsuit and towel for optimal enjoyment. Since life vests are mandatory, they are not included and may need to be rented on-site.

Playa del Carmen: Culture, Shopping, and Freedom

The final stop at Playa del Carmen lasts about an hour, providing free time for shopping, sightseeing, or simply soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. The short city tour introduces visitors to the lively streets and local culture, with the famous 5th Avenue offering a range of shops and eateries.

This stop is a perfect way to unwind after a busy morning of sightseeing. The admission is free, and you are free to decide whether to explore more, grab a bite, or browse souvenirs.

Practical Details: Logistics and What to Bring

The tour starts early at 7:00 am, and hotel pickup is included, making travel arrangements straightforward. The group size can reach up to 50 travelers, providing a balance between social interaction and comfort. It’s recommended to bring a swimsuit and towel for the cenote, and comfortable walking shoes are advised for exploring ruins.

Beverages at the restaurant and transportation are not included, so bringing some water or snacks is wise. A preservation tax of $23 USD per person is payable separately, and life vests are mandatory for the cenote swim but are not included in the tour package.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour the Most?

This day trip suits travelers who want a cost-effective, organized way to see multiple sites without worrying about transport or logistics. It’s ideal for those interested in Mayan archaeology, beautiful beaches, and culture. The guided explanations and free time at each stop make it suitable for a range of ages and activity levels.

While the tour pace is busy, it offers a well-rounded experience of history, nature, and local culture. It’s also a practical choice for visitors staying in Cancun or nearby, looking to maximize their trip.

The Sum Up: A Full Day of Diverse Attractions from Cancun

This $89 tour offers a rundown of the region’s most iconic locations in a single day. From the ancient ruins of Tulum and Coba to the natural beauty of Cenote Tamcach-Ha and the vibrant streets of Playa del Carmen, it packs a variety of experiences into one well-organized itinerary.

The guided tours enrich understanding, and the free time at each stop provides flexibility. This tour is particularly valuable for travelers who want a full day of sightseeing without the hassle of planning and enjoy good value for the price. The main considerations are the additional fee for Coba entrance and the need for cash for the preservation tax.

This tour is a solid choice for those eager to see multiple highlights while appreciating the convenience of transport and guided commentary. It pairs well with a desire for an active, engaging day that balances exploration with relaxation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The admission tickets for Tulum ruins, Cenote Tamcach-Ha, and Playa del Carmen are included. Hotel pickup and drop-off, regional buffet, and access to Tulum and Coba ruins are also part of the package.

Are beverages included?
No, beverages at the restaurant and during transportation are not included. It’s recommended to bring water or snacks for the day.

What should I bring?
Bring a swimsuit and towel for the cenote, comfortable walking shoes for exploring ruins, and cash for the preservation tax of $23 USD.

How long is each stop?
You spend approximately 2 hours at Tulum, 1 hour 30 minutes exploring Coba (free time), 1 hour at Cenote Tamcach-Ha, and around 1 hour in Playa del Carmen.

Is there a guide at all stops?
Yes, there is a bilingual guide for Tulum. The guide remains on the bus during the Coba visit, where you have free exploration time.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour accommodates up to 50 travelers.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start. Full refunds are issued if canceled in time.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to weather, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, making it suitable for families, but consider the physical demands of walking and swimming in the cenote.

How do I book this tour?
You can reserve through the listed provider, Altustours, with contact options available for further questions.