Ancient Mayan Cities, Tulum, Coba Ruins Exploration and Lunch

Playa del Carmen , Mexico

Ancient Mayan Cities, Tulum, Coba Ruins Exploration and Lunch

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About this experience

This tour offers an unparalleled deep dive into the Mayan world, standing apart by fusing historical mastery with authentic local flavors:

Dual Mayan Grandeur: Visit Tulum, the stunning clifftop city, and Coba, the expansive jungle metropolis with ancient roads. Gain a comprehensive understanding of two vastly different, significant Mayan powerhouses.

Unmatched Historical Insight: Expert guidance uncovers their stories. We prioritize fascinating discussions, bringing Mayan history, architecture, and daily life vividly to light at both sites for a richer appreciation.

Authentic Local Taste: Your journey is perfectly complemented by a genuine culinary experience at Tacos Honorio. Savor traditional, freshly prepared Mexican flavors, truly tasting the region and supporting local business.

This is a meticulously crafted expedition for history enthusiasts and cultural explorers, ensuring vivid, lasting memories of the Mayan legacy.

Available options

Ancient Mayan Cities, Tulum, Coba Ruins Exploration and Lunch

Pickup included

What's included

Restaurant Lunch. Enjoy a delicious authentic Mexican lunch at a charming local restaurant. It's the perfect time to relax and savor fresh, regional flavors after your morning adventures.

Snacks & Refreshments in the Van Stay energized with snacks and iced drinks available in your private van throughout the tour.

All necessary admission fees are included.

Private A/C Transportation Enjoy private, round-trip air-conditioned van transportation directly from your location, exclusively for your group

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

At the iconic Tulum Ruins, discover a magnificent ancient Mayan city dramatically set atop cliffs overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Here, you'll explore key structures like El Castillo, once a lighthouse, and the Temple of the Frescoes, adorned with celestial imagery. Your guide will illuminate Tulum's vibrant history, its strategic importance as a thriving port, and the profound astronomical knowledge of the Maya. Beyond the archaeological wonders, take in the breathtaking coastal vistas, where ancient stone meets pristine turquoise waters.

Stop 2

Delve deeper into the Mayan world at the sprawling archaeological site of Coba. Nestled amidst dense jungle, Coba was once a vast and powerful Mayan city, distinguished by its extensive network of ancient 'sacbeob' (white roads) that connected various settlements. Here, you'll have the unique opportunity to explore the site's impressive structures, including its well-preserved ball courts and numerous carved stelae that depict ancient Mayan life and rituals. While climbing the main pyramid, Nohoch Mul, is no longer permitted for preservation, its towering presence and the surrounding lush canopy offer a truly immersive sense of discovery and a glimpse into the scale of this historical marvel.

After your exploration of ancient Mayan cities, you'll savor an authentic and satisfying lunch at Tacos Honorio. This acclaimed local eatery is a true culinary gem, celebrated for its traditional Mexican flavors. Dive into a variety of freshly prepared tacos, from cochinita pibil to lechon, all served in a vibrant, casual setting that truly captures the essence of local Akumal cuisine.

What's not included

Gratuities for your tour guide and driver are not included. While optional, tips are customary in Mexico for excellent service and are much appreciated.

Personal expenses, such as souvenirs or any food and drinks beyond those provided, are not included.

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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