Not staying long in the Riviera Maya? No worries! Whether you have just a half-day, a full day, or up to three days to explore beyond your resort, we’ve handpicked the best Riviera Maya private tours to help you make the most of your time.
Forget crowded group excursions—our expert-guided, fully customizable private tours make every hour count.
And if you have 2 or 3 days available, it’s even better to spread them out with a rest day in between. That way, you can recharge and fully enjoy each experience without feeling rushed.
Here’s how to plan the perfect getaway based on your schedule:
Top Riviera Maya Private Tours: 1, 2, or 3-Day Itineraries
1-Day Riviera Maya Private Tour Options – Full Day
Only one free day during your stay? No problem.
Even with limited time, you can still enjoy a well-rounded, unforgettable day exploring some of the region’s most famous attractions.
These 2 full-day private tours are ideal if you want a balance of cultural discovery, natural beauty, and convenience—whether that means visiting the legendary Chichen Itza or combining several activities like ruins, snorkeling, and swimming in a cenote.
Both options are carefully designed to maximize your time and enjoyment.
Need help deciding? Read our full guide on Chichen Itza vs Tulum—Which Should You Visit?
Chichen Itza & Cenote
Step back in time at the iconic Chichen Itza, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. After exploring this majestic Mayan city, cool off in a nearby cenote and savor a freshly prepared Yucatecan lunch. A must for history lovers.
Tulum Ruins Cenote and Turtles
Prefer less driving and more activity? This tour is a guest favorite for its perfect mix of culture, nature, and wildlife. Visit the stunning Tulum ruins by the sea, swim in a crystal-clear cenote, and snorkel with sea turtles in their natural habitat.
If You Have 1 Day – Half-Day Options
Want a shorter outing that still delivers a real sense of place?
Our half-day private tours are perfect for those who prefer to spend part of the day at the resort but still want to connect with the region’s culture or nature.
These 3- to 4-hour experiences offer flexible start times, no unnecessary stops, and smooth logistics—making them great for families, cruise passengers, or guests with packed itineraries. Each tour is efficient, educational, and fun!
Tulum Ruins Private Guided Visit
A quick yet enriching visit to the Tulum archaeological site with a certified private guide—ideal for travelers who want a cultural touch without spending the whole day out.
Tulum ruins & Cenote
Combine a visit to the scenic Tulum ruins with a swim in a beautiful cenote. A refreshing way to experience both history and nature in just a few hours.
Tulum ruins & Swim with Turtles
Explore the ruins of Tulum before heading to Akumal Bay to snorkel with sea turtles in their natural habitat. A memorable half-day marine and cultural adventure.
If You Have 2 Days – Plan the Perfect Combo
With two full days at your disposal, you can begin to explore the diversity of the Riviera Maya.
Whether you’re interested in famous ruins like Chichen Itza and Tulum, hidden archaeological gems like Ek Balam, or swimming in jungle-fringed cenotes, this is your chance to blend history, adventure, and relaxation.
We’ve curated themed combinations—ruins-only, ruins plus cenotes, or off-the-beaten-path alternatives—to help you shape your ideal two-day getaway based on your interests and energy levels.
2 Days of Mayan Ruins
History lovers and culture seekers, this one’s for you!
Dive into the world of the ancient Maya by visiting their most iconic cities—each with a different vibe, setting, and story. From the grandeur of Chichen Itza to the coastal beauty of Tulum and the jungle-shrouded ruins of Coba, you’ll come away with a deep appreciation of this advanced civilization.
Chichen Itza
Discover Mayan history at this iconic Chichen Itza archaeological site, complete with expert guiding.
Tulum & Coba
Visit Tulum ruins by the sea and then head deep into the jungle to explore the ancient city of Coba, home to one of the tallest Mayan pyramids.
2 Days with Ruins & Cenotes
Get the best of both worlds with a mix of exploration and refreshment. In this combination, you’ll walk through ancient Mayan cities in the morning, then cool off with a swim in a stunning natural cenote.
It’s the perfect blend of education, adventure, and relaxation, giving you a complete taste of the region’s heritage and landscapes.
Chichen Itza & Cenote
A rich cultural day with the perfect refreshing break—ideal for first-timers to the Yucatán Peninsula.
Tulum ruins & Cenote
Visit the breathtaking Tulum ruins, followed by a swim or snorkel in a calm, jungle-surrounded cenote.
2 Days of Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
Prefer to avoid the crowds? These tours take you to quieter corners of the Yucatán Peninsula. Explore lesser-known ruins like Ek Balam, where you can still climb the main pyramid and see intricate stone carvings up close. Pair that with a peaceful visit to two beautiful cenotes off the tourist radar, and you’ve got a unique, immersive experience far from the usual routes.
Ek Balam & Cenote
Explore the unique Ek Balam ruins, known for their preserved carvings and climbable pyramid, then swim in a secluded cenote nearby..
2 Cenotes Adventure
Escape the crowds with visits to two hidden cenotes. Enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and the peace of nature at your own pace.
If You Have 3 Days – Ultimate Riviera Maya Combo Ideas
Three days give you the perfect amount of time to dive deeper into the region’s most iconic and rewarding experiences.
From world-famous ruins to crystal-clear cenotes, colorful coral reefs, and local towns rich with culture, this is your chance to fully enjoy everything the Riviera Maya has to offer.
We’ve curated several tour combinations that balance history, nature, water activities, and off-the-beaten-path charm—all with optimized routes so you spend more time enjoying and less time on the road.
3 Days: Best of Culture, Wildlife & Mayan History
Looking for an itinerary that captures the heart of the Riviera Maya in just three days?
This thoughtfully crafted combination brings together the region’s most iconic Mayan ruins, vibrant cultural landmarks, and unique wildlife experiences.
You’ll explore the majestic Chichen Itza and the charming colonial town of Valladolid, discover the jungle-covered pyramids of Coba, connect with nature at Punta Laguna Reserve, and end your journey with a magical day of Tulum ruins, a refreshing cenote swim, and snorkeling with sea turtles.
It’s the perfect balance of culture, nature, and authentic experiences, ideal for travelers who want to see it all—without rushing.
Chichen Itza & Valladolid
Visit the breathtaking ruins of Chichen Itza in the morning, then explore the colorful colonial town of Valladolid—perfect for photos, a walk in the main square, and tasting local treats.
Tulum Ruins Cenote and Turtles
A full day of variety: visit the Tulum ruins, swim in a cenote, and snorkel with sea turtles in the calm bay of Akumal.
Coba & Punta Laguna
Explore the jungle-covered Coba ruins by bike, followed by a nature immersion at Punta Laguna Reserve with monkeys, canoeing, and optional zipline fun.
3-Day Essentials: The Must-See Highlights of Riviera Maya
This itinerary is ideal for first-time visitors who don’t want to miss a thing.
You’ll visit the most iconic Mayan ruins, swim in a cenote, snorkel with turtles, and explore the charming colonial town of Valladolid.
It’s the best way to check off the must-sees of the region—without the stress of planning or crowds.
Tulum ruins & Swim with Turtles
Explore the ruins of Tulum before heading to Akumal Bay to snorkel with sea turtles in their natural habitat. A memorable half-day marine and cultural adventure.
Chichen Itza
A full day dedicated to discovering this world-famous site, learning about Mayan engineering, astronomy, and ceremonial life.
3 Days for Snorkeling Lovers: Cenotes, Turtles & Reef
If your idea of a perfect trip includes clear water and colorful fish, this one’s for you.
This itinerary focuses on the region’s best snorkeling spots—from freshwater cenotes to turtle-rich Akumal Bay and the vibrant coral reef in Puerto Morelos.
Whether you’re a beginner or experienced snorkeler, you’ll enjoy safe, private, and guided aquatic experiences every day.
3 Cenotes Adventure
Start your trip with a day of cenote exploration—choose from open-air, semi-open, or cave cenotes. Swim and snorkel in crystal-clear freshwater surrounded by nature and tranquility.
Swim with Turtles & Yalku lagoon
Begin your day snorkeling with sea turtles in Akumal Bay, then continue to Yal Ku Lagoon, a calm and scenic inlet where freshwater meets the sea, perfect for spotting colorful tropical fish in a peaceful mangrove setting.
Reef Snorkeling in Puerto Morelos
Hop on a private boat to snorkel over the vibrant coral reef just off the coast of Puerto Morelos. Calm waters, colorful marine life, and a relaxed pace make it the perfect finale.
See our full selection of private tours in Riviera Maya.
Riviera Maya Private Tours FAQ
Why Choose a Private Tour in Riviera Maya?
Booking a private tour in Riviera Maya gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, with a flexible schedule and a dedicated guide just for your group. Y
You’ll avoid crowded buses, rushed stops, and cookie-cutter itineraries.
Whether you’re visiting ancient ruins, swimming in cenotes, or snorkeling with turtles, a Riviera Maya private tour offers a more personal, comfortable, and rewarding experience—tailored to your interests and travel style.
Why Booking a Private Tour with Absolute Adventure Mexico?
Our private tours aren’t just excursions—they’re experiences built around you.
With us, you’ll skip the crowds, avoid unnecessary stops, and enjoy the personal attention of a certified guide.
Whether you’re traveling with kids, on a couple’s getaway, or in a small group of friends, we make sure your day runs smoothly—from hotel pickup to drop-off.
Plus, our flexible itineraries and expert planning allow you to see more and enjoy more, even in just a few days.
Learn more about us!
Are these tours suitable for kids or seniors?
Absolutely. We adjust the pace and activities to suit all ages and fitness levels. Let us know your needs—we’ll plan accordingly.
How do I book multiple days of tours?
You can book one day and add others later, or secure multiple days in advance to lock in availability.
With Absolute Adventure: if you book multiple tours in the same booking, don’t forget to use the coupon code MULTITOUR at checkout for 10% off (*T&C).
As always, we offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before your tour starts.
How far in advance should I book?
We recommend booking as early as possible, especially during high season (December to April and July to August), as our private tours have limited availability.
If you’re planning multiple tours or traveling during a busy period, booking at least 1–2 weeks in advance helps ensure you get your preferred dates and start times.
Last-minute bookings are welcome, but availability is not guaranteed.
With Absolute Adventure: if you book more than 60 days ahead, don’t forget to use the coupon code EARLY2MONTHS at checkout for 10% off (*T&C).
