Cancun, located on the Yucatan Peninsula, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Mexico. While it’s renowned for its pristine beaches, clear blue waters, and exciting nightlife, there’s much more to this part of Mexico!
I personally like Cancun – I think Cancun’s beaches are much better than Playa del Carmen’s and Tulum’s, so I get why it might be tempting to just lounge at the beach for the entire duration of your stay.
However, to learn more about the cultural heritage of the region, explore some natural wonders, or have fun at a theme or adventure park, you’ll need to get out of the city. You should include a day trip or two in your Cancun itinerary.
I designed this list of Cancun tours and excursions to help you discover the best attractions in the region. I’ve previously written loads of posts about specific activities in town, so it was time for me to write the ultimate list of tours.
Whether you’re interested in Mayan ruins, crystal clear cenotes, or local cuisine, you’ll find some fun activities on this list. There’s even the option to swim with whale sharks, the largest fish in the sea! Check out these excursions in Cancun, Mexico.
➥ Why can you trust my picks? I’ve spent more than 6 months exploring Mexico, and quite some time in Cancun itself. Not only that, but I also have a decade of experience going on tours around the world and picking the best ones to recommend to readers like you.
From snorkeling in cenotes to ziplining through jungles, I’ve carefully selected each Cancun tour in this guide. This is to ensure you experience the best of what this destination has to offer. My picks aren’t just random suggestions; they’re the result of expertise and a genuine love for Mexico.
I use Viator and Get Your Guide to book tours when I travel. I especially recommend them for their free cancellation policy. If your travel plans change, you can cancel most activities up to 24 hours in advance and get a full refund.
Are you in a rush? These are the ultimate tours:
| CHICHEN ITZA | Chichen Itza, Cenote, and Valladolid All-Inclusive Tour |
| CENOTES TOUR | Tour Cenotes Oasis Maya by Xcaret from Cancun |
| ADVENTURE TOUR | ATV Adventure, Bridges, Ziplines, Cenote & Lunch |
| CATAMARAN | Luxury Catamaran and Snorkel with Lunch & Open Bar |
| TULUM RUINS | Tulum Ruins, Reef Snorkeling, Cenote and Caves |
Cancun Tours to Chichen Itza & Valladolid
Most Cancun visitors will take a day trip to Chichen Itza, which is why I’ve written a whole post about the best Chichen Itza tours from Cancun. But in a nutshell, here are the very best options.
▶️ Discover the rich history of the Yucatán Peninsula on a full-day Chichen Itza, Cenote, and Valladolid: All-Inclusive Tour.
Marvel at the ancient Maya city and its main attraction, the pyramid of Kukulcan, as an expert tells you the story of its inhabitants. Then pay a visit to Cenote Saamal, where you’ll enjoy a refreshing dip in its sacred waters.
Afterward, savor a mouthwatering buffet meal in Valladolid, an enchanting colonial town. There will be plenty of time for you to wander around the city center and snap some envy-inducing photos. Hotel pickup is included for a hassle-free experience.
This Chichen Itza tour includes: Hotel pick-up and drop-off, cenote admission, a bilingual guide, and lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Embark on a journey of discovery to the most famous archaeological site. This Skip the Line Chichen Itza Private Tour, Sacred Cenote & Lunch is the perfect excursion for it!
Explore the fascinating ruins and learn about the people who once thrived in this mystical site from your expert guide. Then cool off with a swim in a sacred cenote, and head to the town of Valladolid.
This enchanting location boasts incredible architecture and delicious cuisine. Make the most of it by strolling along its narrow streets and indulging in a Yucatecan lunch (own expense).
This tour includes: Roundtrip transfers, a guide, National Park fees, drinks, and snacks. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
➤ Looking for more private excursions? I’ve got you- check out this other list of private tours from Cancun.
The Best Cenote Tours from Cancun
Cenotes ought to be on anyone’s itinerary of Yucatan or Quintana Roo. I’ve already written more in detail about the best cenote tours from Cancun if you’d like some more recommendations.
▶️ Join this Xcaret – 4 Cenotes – Guided Tour – Snacks, Lunch and Drinks included for a fun-filled day in the water. You’ll explore 3 different types of mystical cenotes, and paddle through underground caverns on kayaks. Then, snorkel in subterranean aquatic habitats and float on inner tubes on azure waters.
Your guide will introduce you to Mayan folklore, recounting mythical stories about the guardians of the cenotes. This tour includes snacks, a gourmet picnic lunch, and round-trip transportation from your hotel.
This tour includes: Hotel pick-up and drop-off, a local guide, lunch, refreshments, all equipment, and priority access. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Step into mesmerizing caves with this full-day Rio Secreto Underground River Tour with Crystal Caves. It’s one of the most breathtaking natural wonders in Mexico!
Upon reaching Rio Secreto you’ll gear up and follow your guide through the caves. Swim, wade, and walk on the underground river, marveling at the rock formations all around you.
End your adventure with a delicious buffet lunch before heading back to Cancun. You can upgrade the tour to include a visit to the iconic Tulum ruins.
This tour includes: Optional transfers, a professional guide, use of equipment, lunch, lockers, and towels. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Ride an ATV in Cancun
Riding an ATV is a must-do if you’re hitting up Cancun and are an adventurous person. Check out our detailed guide on the best Cancun ATV tours for all the deets.
▶️ Check out this ATV Adventure, Interactive Bridges, Ziplines, Cenote & Lunch. Taking place in the jungle, the 4-hour trip will gear you up to hit the bumpy trails and mud paths like a pro.
You’ll get acquainted with your ATV before revving up and making your way through the lush Cancun landscapes. But the fun does not end there.
Ziplining above the canopy, walking across hanging bridges, and swimming in a gorgeous cenote are also part of the deal. Cap off the experience by witnessing a pre-Hispanic show with magnificent artists.
Hungry? A tasty Mexican lunch is included, along with a tequila-tasting session. It’s certainly one of the best excursions in Cancun for adrenaline seekers!
This tour includes: Transfers, entrance fees, all activities, equipment, lunch, and tequila tasting. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Ziplining in Cancun
Ziplining in Cancun is the thrill you didn’t know you needed. Fly through the jungle and feel alive! For the inside track on the best zipline experiences, head to our comprehensive guide about Cancun zipline tours.
▶️ Get ready for an action-packed day with Xplor Park Day Trip with Lunch and Transportation. This thrilling park allows you to fly through the air on multiple zip lines, and drop into underground caves and cenotes.
You’ll also get to drive an amphibious vehicle through the jungle, and explore hidden subterranean chambers on a raft.
Enjoy a delicious all-you-can-eat buffet and unlimited drinks from an open bar. The trained staff ensures your safety, and all equipment is included.
This Cancun jungle tour includes: Hotel pick-up and drop-off, entrance fee, all safety gear, lunch, drinks, and facilities. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Catamaran Tours to Isla Mujeres from Cancun
Sailing on a catamaran in Cancun is one of the epitome of a Riviera Maya vacation. Sun, sea, a cocktail on hand…what’s not to love?
For more info on the best catamaran cruises in Cancun, check out our detailed guide. These below are, in our opinion, the top options:
▶️ Enjoy the stunning beauty of the Mexican Caribbean coastline with a half-day trip. This Isla Mujeres Luxury Catamaran Sailing plus Lunch and Open Bar checks all the boxes.
You’ll go snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, sip on drinks from the open bar, and indulge in a gourmet lunch aboard your catamaran.
Visit the charming island of Isla Mujeres and explore its must-see spots on a guided tour, or choose to wander around on your own. Finally, sail leisurely back to Cancun with a cocktail in hand.
This Cancun boat tour includes: Hotel pick-up and drop-off, lunch, open bar, snorkel gear, life jacket, and Isla Mujeres visit. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Ready to set sail? This Private Cancun to Isla Mujeres Catamaran Cruise with Open Bar allows you to experience the Caribbean Sea like a boss. It’s undoubtedly one of the best Cancun boat tours for groups!
Step aboard your very own catamaran and relax on deck with 8 friends as you cruise the shimmering waters. Enjoy fabulous stops by the coral reefs, where you’ll get to snorkel among schools of fish and corals.
Visit secluded beaches, and enjoy free time to explore Isla Mujeres. As you sail from one stop to the other, make the most of the onboard open bar, sipping your favorite cocktails.
After several hours of uninterrupted fun, your expert captain will take you back to the mainland. Private Cancun tours are usually top-notch, and this one isn’t an exception!
This tour includes: A private cruise, snorkel equipment, all activities, and an open bar. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Rent a Private Boat in Cancun
Sail away on a Private 46FT Yacht Rental in Cancun Bay and spend 2, 4, or 6 hours in the water. Joined by 14 of your closest friends, you can choose to let the captain call the shots or plan your own itinerary.
Options range from exploring the bay of Cancun to venturing to Isla Mujeres, where you can go shopping and relax on Playa Norte beach. Snorkel in the reef, and bask under the sun on the catamaran’s deck with drinks from the open bar.
This tour includes: A yacht rental, a flexible itinerary, snorkel gear, crew, and an open bar. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Snorkeling in Cancun
Snorkeling in Cancun is like jumping into a real-life aquarium. Rich marine life, healthy and colorful coral reefs, crystal-clear waters…it’s the perfect place to dive deep.
Want the full scoop? Check out our ultimate guide on the best Cancun snorkeling tours.
▶️ Check out this 5-in-1 Cancun Snorkeling Tour: Swim with Turtles, Reef, Musa, Shipwreck, and Cenote. It takes you to five incredible underwater locations to snorkel, all of which are vastly diverse.
You’ll get to swim with sea turtles, then move on to explore the colorful coral reef and its inhabitants. Snorkel around a shipwreck and visit Musa, an underwater museum full of life-size sculptures. The last snorkeling spot is a fresh-water cenote, one of the Riviera’s most precious attractions.
With hotel pickup and drop-off included, all you need to do is show up with your sense of adventure, and get ready for an experience you won’t forget!
This Cancun excursion includes: Hotel roundtrip transfers, snorkel gear, facilities, and insurance. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ The Full-Day Luxurious Catamaran Adventure – Cancun to Isla Mujeres is a memorable sea adventure that takes you sailing on the Mexican Caribbean, toward the iconic Isla Mujeres.
You’ll enjoy snorkeling stops at prime reef locations along the way, and then make the most of the free time to explore the island’s attractions.
Enjoy exclusive access to a beach club, where you’ll be able to sunbathe, swim, snorkel, and relish tasty local food. Back onboard, relax on the boat’s deck with drinks from the open bar, and make use of the spinnaker before returning to Cancun.
This tour includes: Use of snorkeling gear, an open bar, access to a beach club, lunch, and a spinnaker, ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Adventure Parks in Cancun for Adrenaline Lovers
Cancun’s adventure parks are where fun meets adrenaline. From water slides to obstacle courses, they offer a thrilling day for all ages.
Dive deeper into the action with our full guide on Cancun’s top adventure parks, or check the ones below.
▶️ Looking for the ultimate adventure? Look no further than Selvatica Park Ziplines, Cenote, and ATV Tour from Cancun. You’ll be treated to an epic day filled with ziplines, rope courses, bungee swings, parachute jumps, ATV rides, and many more jungle activities.
The only downside to this tour is having to choose between all the exhilarating activities, because they’re ALL included! So is lunch to help you refuel at the end of the trip.
This tour includes: All activities and safety gear, lunch, and a snack. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Get your adrenaline pumping with XAVAGE Park Tickets with Transportation *Official Product*. With roundtrip transfers from your hotel’s front door and instant admission to the park, this trip offers nothing but a successful day.
At Xavage you’ll get to try all the activities, from off-roading to ziplining, water sliding, rafting, and jet-boating. The park features a kid’s friendly area with plenty of activities, and your entry includes a scrumptious lunch to refuel.
You can choose between a half-day and a full-day experience to best suit your interests and schedule.
This tour includes: Hotel pick-up and drop-off, entrance fee, all activities, equipment, a buffet lunch, and beverages. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Tours to the Tulum Ruins
Taking a day trip from Cancun to Tulum is like a mini-vacation. Ancient ruins, dreamy beaches, great food – it’s a destination you don’t want to miss!
For more of the best Tulum tours from Cancun, check out our guide.
▶️ Want to experience the best of Yucatán in a day? Join this Viator Exclusive: Tulum Ruins, Reef Snorkeling, Cenote and Caves. It takes you around the striking Mayan ruins with a professional guide.
Marvel at its location, perched atop a cliff, and learn about Mayan culture and history as you explore the ruins. After the visit, take a boat trip to a coral reef, where you’ll go snorkeling among schools of tropical fish.
Next up, venture into a limestone cave and take a walk through the jungle before cooling off in Cenote Xtun. Refuel between activities with a delicious buffet lunch.
This tour includes: Hotel pick-up and drop-off, entrance fees, snorkel gear, a buffet lunch, bottled water, and a guide. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Join this Cancun Jungle Tour: Tulum, Cenote Snorkeling, Ziplining, Lunch for a full day of adventures. The journey begins in Tulum, where you’ll follow an expert guide around the archaeological site.
After learning about the history of the Mayans in the city, hike into the jungle for a thrilling afternoon. You’ll go snorkeling in the underground river systems of Sac Actun and Nohoch Nah Chich to refresh.
Then, head deeper into the rainforest to zipline above the canopy, rappel into a cenote, and visit a Mayan community. Top it all off with a delectable buffet lunch.
This tour includes: Hotel pick-up and drop-off, a guide, entrance fees, all activities, equipment, and lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Tequila Tasting in Cancun
Have you even been to Mexico if you don’t have some tequila there? Discover where you can go tequila tasting, or check out the activity below.
Get ready to learn everything about Mexico’s national drink on this tour! The Tequila University – Puerto Morelos Tequila Tasting and Tapas Pairing is a 1.5-hour experience led by a master tequilero.
You’ll discover fascinating insights about the drink and its production. The best part? Taste many different tequilas! Pair them with traditional bites as you drink and nibble on a spectacular rooftop with views over the sea.
This tour includes: Tequila tasting, snacks, a t-shirt, a diploma, and water. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
A Food Tour in Cancun
When in Cancun, eating your way through the city is a must. Tacos, anyone? Get the lowdown on where to find the best bites with our ultimate guide to food and taco tours in Cancun. You can also book one of the tours below!
▶️ Get ready to taste your way through the city’s foodie scene with this Cancun Taco Tour, Local Beer and Night Market with Transportation. Skip the lines and enjoy a variety of delicious tacos in five different eateries.
Try the classics al pastor, surtido, and cochinita pibil, and wash them down with four refreshing beers. You’ll enjoy a sweet churro for dessert in a local park, enjoying the live music from a Mariachi band.
With convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, discover the best taco joints in the city in a hassle-free, fun way.
This tour includes: Hotel pick-up and drop-off, a guide, all food and drink tastings, and vegetarian alternatives. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Take a Cooking Class in Cancun
Want to take a piece of Cancun home with you? Try a cooking class! Learn to whip up local favorites and be the envy of your foodie friends. See our top picks in our comprehensive guide on Cancun cooking classes.
▶️ Spice up your culinary skills with a Mexican Cooking Class with fresh Local Market Ingredients Selection and Transport. Explore the local market with a chef guide, who will help you pick the freshest ingredients for your meal.
Afterward, learn how to use traditional techniques like stone mortars and clay pots to prepare a four-course feast. While the menu changes depending on the season, some of the delicacies you’ll prepare (and eat!) are guacamole, tortillas, enchiladas, and arroz con leche for dessert.
With limited group sizes, you’ll get individual instruction and enjoy delicious drinks with your food.
This tour includes: A market tour, a cooking class, all ingredients, lunch, drinks, and transfers. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Swim with Whale Sharks in Cancun
Swimming with whale sharks is the epic Cancun adventure you’ve been waiting for. Get up close and personal with these gentle giants in a responsible, eco-friendly way. Want to know more? Dive into our in-depth guide on whale shark tours from Cancun.
▶️ Experience the ultimate aquatic activity with a Whale Sharks Small-Group Tour in Cancun. It enables you to snorkel with the gentle giants of the sea on a full-day excursion.
A professional guide will provide a comprehensive narration about the whale sharks, and ensure you have a safe encounter.
Get geared up with the provided equipment, and go snorkeling with the beautiful creatures. You may also get to spot manta rays and dolphins as you swim. Later, enjoy a blissful beach time on Isla Mujeres and savor a delicious traditional lunch.
This tour includes: Snorkel equipment, a naturalist guide, lunch, and transfers. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Day Tours from Cancun to Las Coloradas, Bacalar and Holbox
Venturing out from Cancun? Las Coloradas, Holbox, and Bacalar are bucket-list spots. From pink lakes to paradise islands, these day trips are game changers.
For more info, see our detailed guides on tours to Las Coloradas and the best Holbox tours from Cancun. Below are the top tours!
▶️ Prepare to dive into the natural treasures of the Yucatan Peninsula with Rio Lagartos & Las Coloradas Day Trip & Lunch from Cancun. This 12-hour day starts with a journey to Rio Lagartos, where you’ll go on a scenic boat ride around the reserve.
Keep your eyes peeled to spot flamingos, herons, eagles, and pelicans, among other beautiful bird species. Then, hop on a bike and ride across a bridge to Las Coloradas, also known as Mexico’s Pink Lakes.
These spectacular lagoons are very photogenic, and you’ll learn the reason behind their color from your guide. Cap off the trip with a Mayan Bath (aka: mud bath!) and swim in a sandy beach to clean off.
Relish a sea-based meal at a local restaurant to cap off the trip.
This tour includes: Roundtrip transfers, a guide, all activities, equipment, and lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Take a break from the city’s hustle and sail to a charming town on this Bacalar Lake of Seven Colors Tour from Cancun. Also known as the Lagoon of Seven Colors, Bacalar Lake is a sight for sore eyes!
Enjoy a blissful boat tour around the lagoon, getting to explore its major attractions. Swim in crystal-clear cenotes, discover the Pirates Channel, and enjoy stunning landscapes.
Then it’s time to explore Bacalar Town with a visit to the San Felipe Fort and its pirate museum. A grilled lunch and snacks will keep you going until you return to your hotel.
This tour includes: Roundtrip transportation, a boat tour, a bilingual guide, lunch, and snacks. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Escape to a remote island paradise with the Full Day Excursion to the Best of Holbox From Cancun. The trip promises a day of relaxation and fun as you explore its pristine, white-sand beaches and swim in turquoise waters.
Enjoy a boat tour of the island’s main attractions, such as Punta Mosquito and Isla Pasion, as you learn about them from your guide. Be on the lookout for pink flamingos and pelicans, and swim in Yalahu Lagoon.
You’ll then have free time to stroll along the sandy streets of Holbox Town, admire its street art, and have lunch. This trip lasts a full day and offers optional hotel pick-up.
This tour includes: Transfers by van, a guide, a boat tour, lunch, and drinks. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
