The Riviera Maya is where the thrill of discovery meets the ease of coastal leisure. With its turquoise waters, ancient ruins, jungle trails, and culinary traditions, this region offers something unforgettable for every kind of traveler.
From adrenaline-pumping jungle rides and reef snorkeling to serene sailing and cultural dining, the options are as diverse as they are inspiring. In this article, you’ll find ten of the most rewarding and top-rated Riviera Maya tours, each one detailed to help you picture, plan, and personalize your perfect itinerary.
Day Trip to Isla Mujeres
Set sail aboard a spacious, modern catamaran and leave the mainland behind as you cruise toward the serene shores of Isla Mujeres. The tour begins with a guided snorkeling session over coral gardens teeming with marine life, followed by relaxation on deck with cocktails and lunch.
Once you arrive, enjoy Isla Mujeres at your own pace. Wander the quaint streets, browse artisan shops, relax on North Beach, or sample traditional snacks in the town square. With soft sea breezes and uninterrupted service, this full-day experience offers the perfect blend of adventure and indulgence.
What’s Included:
- Round-trip hotel transportation
- Snorkeling gear and life jackets
- Lunch and open bar on board
Book the Isla Mujeres Luxury Sailing Tour
Chichén Itzá Express
Step back in time with a visit to one of the most celebrated archaeological wonders in the world. Chichén Itzá, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, draws visitors from across the globe to marvel at its iconic pyramid and advanced engineering.
This express-format tour is ideal for those who want a rich cultural experience without a full-day commitment. You'll be guided through the complex by a bilingual expert who brings the ancient city to life with stories of Mayan mythology, politics, and astronomy. Comfortable transport and a light meal round out the journey.
What’s Included:
- Round-trip transportation in a small group setting
- Certified bilingual guide
- Entrance fees to Chichén Itzá
- Snacks, water, and lunch
Reserve your Chichén Itzá Express Tour
Dive in Cozumel Sea Safari
Hop aboard a high-speed boat and head out into the blue to explore Cozumel’s celebrated reefs. This tour includes a couple of snorkeling stops—including the magical El Cielo, known for its starfish-covered seabed. With calm waters and crystal visibility, the marine life viewing is unmatched.
Your expert guides will help you navigate underwater ecosystems and offer insight into Cozumel’s reef conservation efforts. Between stops, enjoy refreshments onboard and a break in a postcard-worthy setting. It's an exciting yet approachable adventure perfect for all skill levels.
What’s Included:
- Speedboat transfer and reef access
- Snorkeling gear and life vests
- Professional bilingual guides
- Refreshments onboard
Riviera Maya Luxury Sailing Retreat
This relaxed sailing experience is a floating retreat on the Caribbean. Cruise along the stunning Riviera Maya coastline on a luxury catamaran equipped with shaded lounges, sun decks, and attentive service. Stop for a guided snorkeling session at a secluded reef brimming with fish and corals.
After your swim, dry off and unwind with lunch served onboard, complete with cocktails and panoramic ocean views. It’s an elegant option for couples, small groups, or anyone who wants to unwind in style.
What’s Included:
- Round-trip hotel transportation
- Snorkeling equipment and safety briefing
- Gourmet lunch and drinks
- Attentive onboard service and sailing crew
Experience Riviera Maya Luxury Sailing
Cenotes and Paradise Lagoon
This tour combines geological wonder with quiet exploration. Begin your day at an ancient cenote, where filtered sunlight dances on fresh spring water deep inside the limestone earth. Swim, float, and discover the mythical significance cenotes held for the Maya.
Next, snorkel through Yal Kú Lagoon, a magical confluence of freshwater and saltwater ecosystems. You'll see brightly colored fish glide through sea grass as guides explain the delicate balance of this protected natural space. This peaceful experience is perfect for nature lovers.
What’s Included:
- Access to cenotes and Yal Kú Lagoon
- Snorkeling gear and safety equipment
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Light snacks and beverages
Discover Cenotes & Paradise Lagoon
ATV Off-Road Jungle Adventure
Rev up for a rugged ride through the jungle on your own all-terrain vehicle. After a quick orientation and safety briefing, follow your guide along twisting trails surrounded by lush greenery, roots, mud, and the sounds of the wild.
The highlight comes midway through the journey, when you stop at a crystalline cenote to swim, relax, and cool off. This tour is built for adventure-seekers who want an adrenaline rush followed by a serene moment in nature. Suitable for both first-time riders and experienced thrill-seekers.
What’s Included:
- ATV rental, fuel, and helmet
- Jungle trail ride with expert guide
- Cenote swim experience
- Round-trip hotel transportation
Tulum Insta Experience
Discover Tulum’s visual and natural wonders on a photo-focused tour crafted for content creators and explorers alike. Journey to some of the most stunning and Instagrammable spots around Tulum, including crystal-clear cenotes, iconic sculptures such as the renowned “Ven a la Luz”, colorful murals, and hidden gems perfect for capturing unforgettable photos.
This unique experience is guided by a professional photographer who will help you create striking images while you enjoy the vibrant art and lush scenery of the Riviera Maya. Whether you’re looking to elevate your social media feed or simply capture beautiful memories, this tour blends fun and artistry in equal measure.
Enjoy the ease of round-trip transportation from select Riviera Maya hotels, refreshments on board, a tasty lunch at a beach club, and a digital photo package to relive your adventure.
What’s Included:
- Round-trip transportation from most Riviera Maya hotels in a comfortable air-conditioned van
- Snacks served during transportation
- Professional guide and photographer throughout the tour
- Entrance fees to all included sites
- Delicious lunch at a beach club
- Digital photo package of your experience
Please note: This tour does not include a visit to the Mayan archaeological site of Tulum ruins. If you wish to visit the ruins, please consider booking the Tulum Ruins Tour or the Tulum, Cenote & Reef Snorkel.
Luxury Sunset Sailing
There’s no better way to close a Riviera Maya day than gliding across the Caribbean under a blazing sunset. This luxury catamaran tour is designed for comfort and romance, featuring shaded seating, chilled cocktails, and curated canapés served as the sky changes color.
With ambient playlists and an attentive crew, the atmosphere is serene and elevated. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply savoring the moment, this twilight escape leaves a lasting impression.
What’s Included:
- Round-trip hotel transportation
- Luxury sunset cruise
- Open bar and hors d'oeuvres
- Ambient soundtrack
Book a Luxury Sunset Sailing Experience
Ek Balam and Cenote Escape
Delve into ancient Maya heritage with a visit to Ek Balam, a powerful but lesser-known archaeological site. You’ll climb the Acropolis pyramid, view preserved sculptures, and learn about the city’s rise and fall from your guide.
Afterward, cool off in a nearby cenote and enjoy a traditional lunch before heading to Valladolid, a charming colonial town filled with colorful architecture and cultural pride. This tour is a full-day immersion in the Yucatán’s rich tapestry of past and present.
What’s Included:
- Round-trip hotel transportation
- Entry to Ek Balam ruins and cenote
- Bilingual archaeological guide
- Stop in Valladolid + lunch
Unlock the Secrets of Ek Balam
Final Thoughts
The Riviera Maya is a canvas of experiences waiting to be painted with your memories. From thrilling ATV rides and underwater exploration to gourmet meals and archaeological marvels, the tours featured here let you shape your own story.
Each Cancun Adventures experience is crafted with care, cultural respect, and local expertise, ensuring every traveler walks away with something unforgettable. Whether you want a taste of everything or a deep dive into one passion, now is the time to plan your journey.
Browse all Cancun Adventures tours and start planning today.
