Tulum is famous for its white-sand beaches, coral reefs, lush jungles, cenotes, and Mayan Ruins. Plus its hip eateries, beach clubs, and Insta-famous spots… there’s a lot to do in Tulum, that’s for sure. And all that is going to keep you busy for a few days!
But did you know that Tulum also makes a perfect starting point for other adventures in the Riviera Maya? You’re not far from Playa del Carmen and Cancun, but also super close to Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve and to the Coba ruins. Plus a few other great destinations that can be visited on a day trip like Chichen Itza.
I’ve already written plenty of posts about specific excursions from Tulum, but it was time for me to publish a comprehensive guide of Tulum tours, so you can easily plan all your day trips knowing you’re getting your money’s worth, and only the best of experiences.
Note: This is a list of tours that depart from Tulum or are in the Tulum area for people staying there. If you’re looking for Tulum tours from Cancun, you can check our article about it, or the post about Tulum Ruins tours from anywhere in the area.
➥ Why can you trust me? I’ve traveled the Riviera Maya extensively over the past few years (and I was in Tulum three times). That, combined with my 10+ years of expertise in selecting tours all over the world, makes me the right person for the job. You can be sure that the excursions on this list are the most fun, the safest, and provide good value for money.
I generally use Viator and Get Your Guide to book tours around the world. I especially recommend them for their great cancellation policy. You can cancel most activities up to 24 hours in advance and get a full refund.
On a time crunch? These are the best tours:
| THE BEST TOUR FOR FIRST TIMERS | Tulum Ruins, Reef Snorkeling, Cenote and Caves |
| CENOTES | Cenote Triple Adventure Tour in Tulum |
| ADVENTURE PARK | Xplor Park All-Inclusive Admission |
| CHICHEN ITZA | Chichen Itza, Cenote and Valladolid |
| SNORKELING TOUR | Snorkeling in the Caribbean Sea and a Cenote |
| BOAT CHARTER | Luxury 34′ Catamaran Adventure |
| SIAN KA’AN DAY TRIP | Sian Ka’an Adventure to Punta Allen |
| COOKING CLASS | Mexican Cooking from Scratch and Mezcal |
OUR PICK: The BEST Tulum Tour for First Timers
Dive into a day of adventure with the Viator Exclusive: Tulum Ruins, Reef Snorkeling, Cenote and Caves excursion. This tour is a triple treat, taking you to some of the top attractions in Tulum, which is why I think this is the perfect tour for those visiting for the first time (and who want to see as much as possible).
You’ll start your day early with a guided tour around the Tulum Ruins, avoiding the mid-morning crowds. Learn about the history of the ancient city, and then hop on a boat to approach the colorful reef in the Caribbean Sea.
Get geared up with snorkel masks and fins to swim among tropical fish, coral, and other marine creatures. If you’re lucky, you might even spot turtles and stingrays!
After the adventure, make your way to the jungle, where you’ll visit a stalagmite and stalactite-filled cenote at Parque de Cenotes Yax-Muul.
Refuel with a lunch of fajitas and BBQ pork (vegetarian and gluten-free options are available). Your driver will then return you to your hotel.
➤ Why is this the top tour? With over 3,500 reviews, this excursion is rated at 5 stars. It covers the most important highlights in Tulum, ensuring that if you only go on this tour, you’ll have seen the best of the area. Entry tickets are included for the uttermost convenience.
Read what the reviews say:
“Everything was beautiful! The ruins, snorkeling and cenote were amazing. We went snorkeling and swimming with turtles and string rays! And at the underground river we saw bats sleeping. So much fun, and our tour guide was very knowledgeable. Lunch is included. It’s worth the price, I highly recommended!”
Jaleesa_D – Read more reviews
This tour includes: Hotel pick-up and drop-off, a guide, entrance fees, snorkel gear, water, and lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Tulum Ruins Tour from Tulum
The Tulum Ruins is one of the prettiest archaeological sites in the Riviera Maya. Add incredible history, well-kept ruins, and a secret beach and you’ve got one of the most sought-after attractions in the region.
Since you’re already in Tulum, you can visit on your own, or you can join a tour to the Tulum Ruins to be able to visit with a guide.
Check out this Tulum Ruins and 3 Cenotes – Jungle Adventure and spend a full day immersed in culture and nature. The tour starts with a visit to the majestic Tulum Archaeological Site. You’ll arrive early to avoid the crowds, and have free time to explore it on your own.
Then, make your way to Tankah Park, located in the lush Mayan jungle boasting thrilling activities. You’ll have the chance to cool off in three cenotes, zipline above the canopy, hike a jungle trail, canoe, and snorkel.
A tasty lunch, as well as water and snacks, are included, and so are the transfers!
This tour includes: Hotel pick-up and drop-off, Tulum Ruins entrance fee, all activities, lunch, snacks, and bottled water. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Tulum Tours to Cenotes & Underground Rivers
Tulum is one of the best places to explore cenotes, because there are so many beautiful ones around town. I have written a comprehensive list of the best cenote tours in Tulum, and below you’ll find a few of my favorite options.
▶️ Plunge into Tulum’s cenote trifecta with a half-day Cenote Triple Adventure Tour in Tulum. You’ll visit Casa Cenote, where mangroves and marine life create a jungle swim paradise.
Next, channel your inner Indiana Jones at Grand Cenote, with its sunlit caverns and mystical rock formations. You’ll have time to swim and relax before heading to Cenote Zemway, which boasts 18-foot cliff jumps.
Snorkeling, free diving, and soaking in the scenery are on the menu. The trip takes place in the morning, leaving you with a free afternoon to plan other activities.
This tour includes: Roundtrip transfers, a guide, snorkel gear, snacks, and bottled water. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Join this Rio Secreto Plus Tour in Playa del Carmen to discover the magnificent Mayan underworld.
This subterranean river network is one of the most impressive in the region, and you’ll get to explore it by walking, swimming, and snorkeling in its fresh waters with a professional guide.
Learn about the geology of its caves, most of which are covered with stalactites and stalagmites, and keep your eyes open to meet some of the tunnels’ inhabitants!
The tour also allows you to hike and cycle on the nature trails around the area, and to walk along the dry route, which ends at the Room of Peace cave. There, you’ll enjoy a beautiful light and sound show that highlights the rock formations. Cap off the day with a buffet lunch.
This tour includes: Roundtrip transfers, a guide, entrance fees, snorkel gear, lunch, and beverages. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
ATV Tour in Tulum
Surrounded by lush Mayan jungle, there’s no shortage of outdoor adventures in Tulum. ATVing ought to be a favorite among visitors, as there’s nothing more thrilling than revving up on bumpy trails and mud roads. There are many Tulum ATV tours to choose from, but you can’t go wrong with this one.
This Riviera Maya Jungle Half-Day Tour: ATV, Ziplines, Cenote Swim, Rappel offers an exhilarating trip. You’ll have the chance to choose between a single or double ATV.
Once you’re acquainted with your vehicle, take on the jungle trails for the ride of a lifetime. Then, soar above the treetops on a zipline course, and relax with a swim in a cenote. Snorkeling and rappelling is also in the cards!
To wrap up a memorable half-day, Immerse yourself in a traditional temazcal ceremony, a cultural treat not found on most tours. Snacks and bottled water will keep you hydrated and energized.
This tour includes: Transfers, all activities, equipment, water, and snacks. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Zipline Tours & Jungle Tours in Tulum
The jungle adventures are not limited to ATV, so if that’s not your thing (or even if it is!) you might want to check out one of these fabulous Tulum zipline tours.
▶️ The Xplor Park Admission with Lunch and Drinks *Official Product* is one of the best options. You’ll have full access to one of the best adventure parks in the region.
The trip offers 6 hours of pure enjoyment with activities that include soaring over the canopy on 14 (!) high-speed zipline courses. You’ll also get to drive an amphibious vehicle through rugged terrain, and paddle a raft on underground rivers.
Explore caves brimming with stalactites and stalagmites, and take a refreshing swim in clear waters. Recharge with a tasty buffet lunch and endless fruit drinks. Plus, all the equipment and safety gear is included so your only concern is having too much fun.
This tour includes: Access to Xplor Park, all activities, equipment, lockers, a buffet lunch, and beverages. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ This Selva Maya Eco Adventure Park: Ziplining, Hanging Bridges, Rappelling and Cenote is a worthy alternative. Zip, swim, and climb your way through Tulum’s rainforest at Selva Maya Park.
This half-day tour takes you from ziplining above the treetops to cooling off in crystal-clear cenotes. You’ll walk on hanging bridges, snorkel, and rappel down into the natural pools.
The cherry on top? A delicious Mayan lunch to refuel. Trust me – you’ll need it! You can schedule the experience in the morning or afternoon, whatever works best for your itinerary.
This tour includes: Access to the park, a guide, all activities, equipment, water, and lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Chichen Itza Tours from Tulum
Chichen Itza is, without a doubt, the most famous archaeological site in all of Mexico. Celebrated around the world not only for its history but for its fascinating facts and strange phenomena, it’s a no-miss if you’re in the country.
There are numerous Chichen Itza tours worth considering. If you’re visiting from Tulum, these below are the best options.
▶️ Discover the magic of Yucatan with this Chichen Itza, Cenote and Valladolid Small Group Day Trip. It’s a full-day trip that starts with a van journey to Chichen Itza. Since tickets are covered, you’ll head straight to the site for a guided tour around it.
Learn about the history of the ruins, and discover mind-blowing details about its ancient inhabitants. Then, cool off with a swim in the enchanting Cenote Xux Ha.
Your adventure wraps up in Valladolid, strolling along narrow streets and savoring local cuisine.
This tour includes: Hotel pick-up and drop-off, a guide, entrance fees, snacks, drinks, and lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ A magnificent alternative is this Chichen Itza, Cenote and Valladolid Tour with 3 Options. You’ll visit the mesmerizing archaeological site with a professional guide. Learn everything about its history and heritage before moving on to Cenote Chichikan.
Refresh in its cool waters, and enjoy some downtime followed by a visit to Valladolid. This charming colonial town is worth exploring, and you’ll be treated to a scrumptious buffet lunch at a local restaurant.
You can choose to include the ruins’ entrance ticket in the tour or to book it separately at checkout.
This tour includes: Hotel pick-up and drop-off, entrance fees, lockers, lifejackets, a guide, and lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Tulum Snorkeling Tours
From thriving marine life to natural sinkholes, the region offers plenty of snorkeling opportunities. These Tulum snorkeling tours will help you take your underwater adventures to a whole new level.
▶️ Dive into a half-day Snorkeling with Caribbean Fish and Private Cenote Exploration. You’ll have the chance to explore the turquoise, warm waters of the sea and a cenote in a single excursion.
Start with a boat ride to an inlet, where you’ll snorkel among colorful fish and, if you’re lucky, sea turtles. You’ll then head to a private cenote and cave. You’ll get to admire the impressive limestone formations and swim in its refreshing waters.
Your guide will also enlighten you on the importance of cenotes for the Mayans, who considered them an entrance to the Underworld. Refuel with lunch before returning to your hotel.
This tour includes: Hotel pick-up and drop-off, a guide, snorkel gear, entrance fees, bottled water, and lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Check out this 2-Hour Snorkeling in Two Spots of Tulum’s Reef, ideal for those with little time. You’ll enjoy a boat trip to the barrier reef, where an expert guide will lead you on two fabulous underwater adventures.
You’ll visit two spots on the reef, full of marine life and color. Your high-quality equipment will help you admire this mesmerizing world from up close, swimming with fish, rays, and turtles.
You’ll also enjoy an introduction to Tulum’s history as you zip past the staggering Tulum Ruins, perched atop a cliff.
This tour includes: A guide, boat transfers, and snorkel equipment. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Boat Tours & Catamaran Charters in Tulum
Check out some of the best boat tours in Tulum, and set sail on the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea. Cruise along the coastline, enjoy swimming stops, and drink from well-stocked open bars as you celebrate a day in the sun with your friends.
▶️ Set sail on a Half-Day Luxury Sailing Experience in Tulum with Open Bar. You’ll board a spectacular catamaran, and glide on the shimmering Caribbean waters.
Fun stops will allow you to snorkel with tropical fish, swim, and paddleboard, unless you prefer to sunbathe on the spacious deck. Savor a gourmet lunch onboard, paired with drinks from the open bar, and relax for a blissful few hours on the water.
This tour includes: Roundtrip transfers, a catamaran trip, snorkel gear, paddleboard, an open bar, and lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Hop aboard a private vessel on this All Inclusive Tulum: Luxury 34´Catamarán Aventura. Your group will sail along the Riviera Maya for unlimited fun for four hours.
Enjoy snorkeling stops, try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding, and relax on the beautiful catamaran. The professional crew will treat you to à la carte premium dishes for lunch, and you’ll get to sip unlimited drinks from the open bar.
Morning or afternoon? Whichever works best for you! The crew takes care of everything else, from all the activities and equipment to your food and drinks.
This tour includes: A private catamaran, snorkel gear, paddleboards, lunch, and an open bar. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Tour to Sian Kaan from Tulum
Sian Kaan is, in my opinion, one of the most precious gems in the Riviera Maya. The Biosphere Reserve is home to incredible marine and wildlife, ecosystems, Mayan Ruins, and beaches. In short, it offers fabulous adventures!
You’ll need to join one of the Sian Ka’an tours from Tulum to visit, as driving there is less than desirable. Below you’ll find one of the best trips.
This Sian Ka’an Adventure Full Day Trip to Punta Allen is a full-day, incredible excursion. You’ll be picked up at your hotel and head south to Sian Ka’an. There, board a boat to explore the magnificent mangroves and lagoons, looking for manatees.
Weather permitting, you’ll get to snorkel in the vibrant Mesoamerican reef, and you’ll also visit Ascension Bay to find nesting birds. You’ll cap off the trip in Punta Allen, an enchanting fishing village where you’ll have lunch.
This tour includes: Hotel pick-up and drop-off, entrance fees, a guide, all activities, snorkel gear, and lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Coba Tour from Tulum
Coba Archaeological Site is an absorbing ancient city surrounded by jungle. It’s believed that most of the city remains hidden in the lush vegetation! Another element that sets it apart from most Mayan ruins is that you can actually climb one of its pyramids.
The Coba, Tulum Multun-Ha Cenote and Paradise Beach Reduced Group tour is one of the best excursions. It starts with a trip to Coba, where you’ll marvel at the majestic structures (and hopefully climb the steps to the top of the tallest pyramid if they’ve reopened it by then!).
Then, plunge into the crystal-clear waters of Choj Ha Cenote, and move on to the next historical site: the Tulum Ruins. You’ll tour the cliff-top Mayan city with a professional guide, and soak in the breathtaking views it offers.
Finally, unwind on Paradise Beach, which true to its name offers the perfect image of paradise. You’ll have time to relax and go for a swim, and be treated to a local lunch. The tour is capped at 15 people for a personalized experience.
This tour includes: Hotel pick-up and drop-off, a guide, entrance fees, bottled water, and lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Whale Shark Tour from Tulum
Curious about swimming with whale sharks? It’s possible in the Riviera Maya between December and March, when the creatures migrate to the region. However, I can’t stretch how important it is to choose eco-friendly, responsible whale shark tours from Tulum.
This Whale Sharks Small-Group Tour in Cancun and Riviera Maya offers a memorable experience. You’ll embark on a trip with a professional guide, who will educate you on the whale sharks and their habits as you sail toward them.
Learn how to interact with them safely, and then jump into the water for the most special swim of your vacation. If you’re lucky, you’ll also get to spot turtles, rays, and dolphins.
After the snorkeling session, head to Isla Mujeres for some beach time and a mouthwatering Mexican lunch.
This tour includes: Hotel pick-up and drop-off, an expert guide, snorkel gear, and lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Horseback Riding in Tulum
Fan of horses? Then you can’t miss a memorable horseback riding experience in Tulum! The Mayan jungle and the pristine beaches are the perfect setting for a romantic, relaxing ride in a beautiful steed.
Saddle up for a unique journey on this Horseback Riding in the Jungle w/ Transfers and Lunch from Tulum. The tour starts with safety instructions and riding techniques to ensure an enjoyable experience.
You’ll then ride your friendly horse to two stunning cenotes in Tulum National Park, perfect for a refreshing swim. Keep your eyes peeled for exotic birds and maybe even monkeys as you trot along the lush jungle.
You’ll be following an experienced guide, and get to cap off the tour with a delicious Mexican lunch, making it a ride to remember!
This tour includes: Roundtrip transportation, horseriding activity, a guide, water, and lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Kayak Tour in Tulum
Kayaking is one of the many fun and adventurous activities to enjoy in the area. You’d be surprised at how many great Tulum kayak tours there are, but the one below is one of the top ones.
Embark on an awesome day trip with this Coba Ruins, Punta Laguna Nature Reserve, Cenote and Mayan family. You’ll enjoy an enlightening visit to the Coba Ruins, cycling around the structures and climbing the tallest pyramid.
Then, head to Punta Laguna Nature Reserve. There will be plenty of time for you to zipline through the jungle, hike on beautiful trails, and kayak on the serene lagoon.
Look for monkeys on the lush vegetation, and enjoy an eco-tour at a Mayan community. Cap off the trip with a tasty local lunch.
This tour includes: Hotel pick-up and drop-off, entrance fees, a guide, all activities, equipment, and lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Cooking Class in Tulum
What’s better than eating your way through a Mexican city is learning to cook. Taking part in one of these cooking classes in Tulum will turn you into an expert in Mexican fare. Discover the secrets behind local flavors so that you’re able to recreate your favorite dishes at home!
Check out this Mexican Cooking from Scratch and Mezcal Tasting in a Local Home in Tulum. Dive into a cozy, small-group lesson in which you’ll whip up a 3-course Mexican feast.
You’ll keep yourself busy preparing zesty guacamole, salsas, mouthwatering Tacos al Pastor, and a sweet dessert. Learn the techniques behind the making of each dish, and in between cooking and plating get a taste of mezcal with a few samples.
The best part? Relish your creations at the end of the class! It’s a pinch of tradition, a dash of fun, and a whole lot of flavor. This tour is only for up to ten participants, ensuring an intimate setting.
This tour includes: A cooking class, all ingredients, mezcal tasting, and a meal. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Food Tour in Tulum
If you feel that cooking is not your calling, you can always eat your way through the Riviera Maya by joining one of the many Tulum food tours on offer. The one below is my top pick.
Discover the town’s hidden food gems on this Tulum Local Walking Food Tour. Led by an expert, this small-group adventure (max 10 people) takes you off the beaten path.
You’ll savor everything from street stand juices to traditional mole, tamales, tacos, and sweet desserts.
No need to worry about language barriers or tips; your bilingual guide’s got it all covered. Vegetarian options are on the menu, so the tour can accommodate groups and families with different diets.
In just over three hours, you’ll visit seven unique spots, including a local market and a legendary taquería, and taste the very best of Tulum.
This tour includes: A walking tour, all food tastings, water, fresh juices, and a guide. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Barcrawl in Tulum
Party animal? Check out this Social Pubcrawl Barcrawl Tulum, and jump into Tulum’s electric nightlife.
Kick off the night with unlimited drinks and team games at Aldea Tzunun Hostel. Next, head to Che Tulum Hostel & Bar for a free drink and shots, plus the chance to dance in a pool and relax in a jacuzzi.
The night then moves on to a rooftop bar where you’ll challenge yourself to try the beerbong, play spin-the-wheel, and dance on tables.
Crash a party with confetti and UV paint, and finish your night with a groove at Santino Bar, where you’ll get another free drink. Ready for the hottest night of your trip?
This tour includes: A guide, all stops, free drinks, and all party games, and activities. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Other Day Tours from Tulum
Planning to join one or a few day trips from Tulum? Being such a great base in the Riviera Maya, it’s close to many unmissable locations. Check out some of the best excursions you can embark on.
▶️ Set off on a dazzling journey with this Tour Las Coloradas & Rio Lagartos only from Tulum. You’ll glide on a boat through lush mangroves in Rio Lagartos, spotting flamingos, pelicans, and maybe even crocodiles.
Then, make your way to Las Coloradas, where you’ll marvel at the striking pink lakes and learn the secrets behind their color. Indulge in a Mayan mud bath that’s very beneficial for the skin, and wash off in the crystal-clear waters of a beautiful beach.
Cap off the adventure with a local seafood lunch, prepared by the locals in a small village. This tour is a kaleidoscope of nature, culture, and vibrant hues.
This tour includes: Roundtrip transfers, entrance fees, a guide, all activities, bottled water, and lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Enjoy a day in paradise with this Holbox Full-Day Tour with Lunch from Riviera Maya. Kick off your adventure with a convenient pickup from your hotel, and travel comfortably to the ferry port, where you’ll catch your ride to the island.
Enjoy a boat tour around Holbox, checking out the stunning Isla Pasion, Punta Mosquito, and other landmarks. Navigate the tranquil beaches, meet the flamingos, and discover the enchanting Yalahau Cenote.
Lunch and three beverages, which you’ll get to pick between water, soda, and beer, are included.
This tour includes: Hotel pick-up and drop-off, a guide, a boat tour, entrance fees, lunch, and drinks. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
