Tulum Express Private Tour – Early Access Beat the Crowds
Active
3h - 4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Visit Tulum at the best times to avoid the crowds and heat! Top service and 100% private for your party.
Step back in time with an exclusive early access visit to the breathtaking Tulum ruins. Beat the crowds and the midday heat as your certified private guide brings the site’s fascinating history to life.
With direct entry tickets ready, you’ll skip the lines and make the most of your time on site.
After your guided exploration, enjoy free time to take more photos or browse for souvenirs before heading back in comfort.
The perfect way to experience Tulum ruins at its most peaceful.
Available options
Private Van 2
Just you, your guide & driver: Pick up from Playa del Carmen to Tulum. We recommend 7am pick up from Playa and 7:45 from Tulum to avoid crowds and heat.<br/>Pickup included
Private Van 3
Just you, your guide & driver: Pick up from Playa del Carmen to Tulum. We recommend 7am pick up from Playa and 7:45 from Tulum to avoid crowds and heat.<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Water and sodas provided in the cooler of the van
Entrance fees to Tulum ruins and national park bracelet
Pick-up and drop-off from your hotel or Airbnb by private air-conditioned minivan
Certified, experienced and dedicated private guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Experience the ultimate convenience of an early pick-up to beat the crowds and skip the line! With your knowledgeable guide holding the tickets, you'll be the first to enter the breathtaking Tulum ruins.
Prepare for an exhilarating private guided visit, where you'll have the opportunity to explore the entire site at your own leisurely pace. Feel free to ask your guide any questions that come to mind and capture stunning pictures to your heart's content!
After immersing yourself in the rich history and beauty of Tulum, take advantage of some well-deserved free time to browse and shop for souvenirs at the exit of the ruins.
We offer private transportation from all hotels and rentals from Playa del Carmen to Tulum. (approx 1h transportation from Playa del Carmen and 15-30 minutes from Tulum)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.4
7 reviews
5★
5
4★
0
3★
2
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
53 reviews
5★
53
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Specialized infant seats are available
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Important notes
• You must provide the tour operator your hotel room number no later than 4pm the day before the tour, otherwise the tour is cancelled. Without your room number, they cannot pick you up at your hotel. In case on condo/bnb sharing your location via whatsapp is mandatory.
What to bring with you:
- Comfortable shoes/clothing
- Hat/sunglasses
- Sunscreen & mosquito repellent
- Cash (tips/souvenirs)
- Ruins: In case you bring a go pro camera, a video camera or a phone with a selfie stick, there is a 60 pesos per device charged at the entrance of each archeological site, to be paid in pesos (INAH tax) - Drones and tripods for video/cameras are forbidden.
-Tulum Ruins: it is forbidden to enter the ruins with plastic water bottles. If you wish to bring water for the visit, please bring your own reusable water bottle. We'll have water in the van for you to fill or refill.
Since 2020, it is no longer authorized to access the beach located within the enclosure of the ruins.
This tour doesn't include the visit of Tulum center - Tulum Beach Club/Hotel zone area.
The tour can not be customized.
No show will apply 15 minutes after the confirmed pick up time.
About Playa del Carmen
Playa del Carmen is a vibrant coastal city in Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, known for its stunning beaches, turquoise waters, and rich Mayan heritage. It's a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, offering everything from world-class resorts to ancient ruins and vibrant nightlife.
Top Attractions
Quinta Avenida (Fifth Avenue)
A vibrant pedestrian street stretching over 20 blocks, lined with shops, restaurants, bars, and street performers. It's the heart of Playa del Carmen's nightlife and shopping scene.
Cultural/Shopping/Entertainment
Half day to full day
Free to explore, shopping and dining vary
Xcaret Park
An eco-archaeological park offering a mix of natural beauty, cultural performances, and adventure activities. It's one of the most famous attractions in the Riviera Maya.
Nature/Adventure/Cultural
Full day
Moderate to Expensive (around $100-$150 USD)
Cenote Azul
A stunning natural sinkhole with crystal-clear turquoise waters, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. It's a popular spot for a refreshing dip in the jungle.
Nature/Adventure
Half day
Budget (around $5-$10 USD for entrance and gear rental)
Tulum Ruins
Ancient Mayan ruins perched on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a breathtaking blend of history and natural beauty.
Historical/Archaeological
Half day to full day
Budget (around $10-$15 USD for entrance)
Musa (Museo Subacuático de Arte)
An underwater museum featuring over 500 life-sized sculptures submerged in the waters off Playa del Carmen. It's a unique snorkeling and diving experience.
Art/Nature/Adventure
Half day
Moderate (around $50-$80 USD for snorkeling tours)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Cochinita Pibil
A traditional Yucatecan dish made with marinated pork, slow-cooked in banana leaves. It's tender, flavorful, and often served with pickled onions and habanero salsa.
Main Course
Contains pork, gluten-free if no marinade contamination
Ceviche
A fresh seafood dish made with raw fish or shrimp marinated in lime juice, mixed with tomatoes, onions, and cilantro. It's a refreshing and light dish perfect for the tropical climate.
Appetizer
Gluten-free, dairy-free, can be made vegetarian with vegetables
Tacos al Pastor
Marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit and served on corn tortillas with pineapple, onions, and cilantro. It's a popular street food dish with a unique blend of sweet and savory flavors.
Street Food
Contains pork, gluten-free if no marinade contamination
Panuchos
A Yucatecan specialty made with fried tortillas stuffed with refried beans and topped with shredded chicken, pickled onions, and habanero salsa. It's a flavorful and satisfying snack.
Appetizer
Contains chicken, gluten-free if no cross-contamination
Popular Activities
Snorkeling
Scuba diving
Cenote exploration
Zip-lining
ATV tours
Beach relaxation
Spa treatments
Yoga
Best Time to Visit
December to April
This is the most popular time to visit with perfect weather, low humidity, and minimal rain. It's ideal for beach activities, exploring ruins, and enjoying outdoor adventures.
24-30°C
75-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in other parts
Currency
Mexican Peso (MXN)
Time Zone
Eastern Standard Time (EST) (GMT-5), Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) (GMT-4) during daylight saving time
Electricity
127VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe for tourists, but exercise caution
Playa del Carmen is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.
Important Precautions:
- • Use official taxis or pre-arranged transportation
- • Be cautious of strangers approaching you with offers or requests
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
Getting there
By air
- Cancun International Airport • 70 km (43 miles)
By bus
ADO Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common and affordable way to get around. They are frequent and cover most areas.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Didi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown (Centro)
Playacar
Zona Hotelera
Colosio
Day trips
Cozumel
80 km (50 miles) off the coast • Full day
A beautiful island known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and world-class diving and snorkeling. It's a popular day trip from Playa del Carmen.
Tulum
60 km (37 miles) south • Half day to full day
A charming town with ancient Mayan ruins, beautiful beaches, and a bohemian vibe. It's a popular destination for history lovers, beachgoers, and nature enthusiasts.
Akumal
30 km (19 miles) south • Half day
A small coastal village known for its beautiful beaches and clear waters, as well as its population of wild sea turtles. It's a great spot for snorkeling and relaxation.
Festivals
Festival of the Mayan Culture • November
Playa del Carmen International Film Festival • November
Carnaval de Playa del Carmen • February or March (dates vary)
Pro tips
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and heat at popular attractions
- Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals
- Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun with sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses
- Use official taxis or pre-arranged transportation to avoid scams and ensure safety
- Explore beyond the tourist hotspots to discover the authentic culture and beauty of Playa del Carmen
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
