The 20 Best Excursions in the Riviera Maya: The Complete Guide
From Chichén Itzá to Holbox, secret cenotes, Tulum, Cozumel and Isla Mujeres: our curated selection of the 20 best Riviera Maya excursions, organized as private, tailor-made experiences.
Within a few hundred miles, the Riviera Maya packs in the very best of Mexico: ancient Mayan cities, crystal-clear cenotes, Caribbean islands, biosphere reserves and coral reefs. Here is our selection of the 20 best excursions, tested and arranged privately by our concierge team.
Unmissable Mayan archaeological sites
1. Chichén Itzá, privately
A Wonder of the World and the most visited site in Yucatán. On a private tour with an early departure and a dedicated guide, you'll reach the pyramid of Kukulkán before the tour buses arrive. Check out our private Chichén Itzá excursion.
2. Tulum and Cobá
The only Mayan ruins perched above the sea, paired with the jungle of Cobá and its Nohoch Mul pyramid. A full day that perfectly balances history and swimming: see our private Tulum & Cobá tour.
3. Ek Balam
Less famous, more intimate. Visitors can still climb to the top of the Acropolis for a 360° view over the jungle canopy, often nearly alone.
4. Muyil and the Sian Ka'an lagoon
A Mayan site tucked inside the biosphere reserve, followed by a gentle float down a freshwater channel originally dug by the Maya.
5. Uxmal and the Puuc Route
For architecture lovers: the Pyramid of the Magician and a Puuc style found nowhere else in Mexico. Best combined with an overnight stay in Mérida.
Cenotes and freshwater adventures
6. Private Riviera Maya cenotes
Dos Ojos, Casa Cenote, Cenote Azul: our guides pick the cenotes based on how busy each one is that day. See our private cenotes excursion.
7. Cenote Suytun
The most photogenic cenote in Yucatán, with its round stone platform pierced by a single beam of light.
8. Rio Secreto
An underground river explored on foot and by swimming, winding past stalactites and stalagmites.
9. Cenote (cavern) diving
For certified divers: the Dos Ojos line and the famous hydrogen-sulfide cloud at Angelita.
10. Jungle, cenote and Mayan spa day
A wellness break combining a zip line, a cenote swim and a traditional temazcal: see our jungle & spa tour.
Islands and sea excursions
11. Isla Mujeres by private catamaran
The region's most beautiful day at sea: the turquoise waters of Playa Norte, reef snorkeling and lunch on board. Discover our private catamarans.
12. Isla Holbox
White sand, a pink lagoon, bioluminescence and flamingo sightings. See our Isla Holbox excursion.
13. Cozumel and the Palancar reef
The world's second-largest barrier reef: a must for diving and snorkeling.
14. Swimming with whale sharks
From June to September, off the coast of Cancún and Holbox. A rare experience led by certified guides.
15. Private sunset yacht cruise
Champagne, music and a sunset swim: our most requested experience for couples. See our private yachts.
16. Valladolid, the colonial town
Colourful streets, the Sisal convent and in-town cenotes: a private day that pairs easily with Chichén Itzá or Ek Balam.
Nature, wildlife and unique experiences
17. Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve
A UNESCO World Heritage site: lagoons, mangroves, dolphins and birdlife, explored by private boat from Punta Allen.
18. Bacalar, the Lagoon of Seven Colors
A three-hour drive away, but colors found nowhere else on earth. Best enjoyed as a two-day excursion with an overnight stay.
19. Sea turtle watching
From May to October, on the beaches of Akumal and Xcacel, always following strict conservation protocols.
20. Private dinner under the stars with a private chef
On the beach or by your villa's pool: our tailor-made team designs the menu with a private chef.
How to plan your Riviera Maya excursions
When to go
November to April for the dry season; May to September for whale sharks; try to avoid September and October, the rainiest months.
Private or group tours?
Private excursions let you leave early, set your own pace and skip the commercial shopping stops. It's the option we recommend to every guest.
Getting around
Arrange a private Cancún airport transfer on arrival, then a chauffeured vehicle rental or a full-day driver for your excursions.
Where to stay
Most of our guests choose a private villa in Playa del Carmen, Puerto Aventuras or Tulum, perfectly positioned to explore the whole Riviera Maya.
Ready to discover the Riviera Maya?
Our team helps you plan every detail of your trip, from excursions to private yachts, catamarans, transfers, vehicle rentals and tailor-made experiences.
FAQ
What is the best excursion in the Riviera Maya?
A private tour of Chichén Itzá remains the most iconic, but Isla Holbox and private cenotes are often named the most memorable experiences by our guests.
How many excursions should I plan for a week?
We recommend three to four excursions over seven days, alternating cultural days, days at sea and relaxed days at the villa.
Are private excursions suitable for families?
Yes. The private format lets you adapt schedules, pace and activities to your children's ages, with an air-conditioned vehicle and an English-speaking guide.
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