15 Most Highly Rated Tours & Things To Do In Riviera Maya

Riviera Maya is a treasure trove of unique experiences, thanks to its rich archaeological sites, sparkling cenotes, lush jungles, and vibrant coastal waters. Whether you’re a history enthusiast eager to explore ancient Mayan ruins or an adrenaline junkie craving ziplining and ATV rides, the region delivers.

We’re particularly fond of the Tulum Ruins and Cenotes Half-Day Tour because it combines cultural history with refreshing dips in jungle cenotes, offering a perfect balance of education and relaxation.

For those looking for action, the Jungle ATV Tour, Ziplining, and Cenote Swim provides a thrilling adventure in the local jungle. With so many options, it’s easy to see why Riviera Maya tops the list of Mexico’s must-do destinations.

Quick Overview

Our list features a variety of tours and activities suited for different interests and energy levels. You’ll find archaeological trips like the Coba, Punta Laguna & Cenote Guided Trip, perfect for history buffs and nature lovers alike, as well as adrenaline adventures such as ziplining and ATV rides.

For a more relaxed experience, there are eco-tours like Rio Secreto Natural Reserve, offering underground river exploration.

For a mix of culture, wildlife, and stunning scenery, the Sian Ka’an Lagoons and Cenote Escondido Tour is an excellent choice. Want to stay close to the coast? The Full Day Private Catamaran to Isla Mujeres offers a luxurious day at sea.

1. Riviera Maya: Tulum Ruins and 2 Cenotes Half-Day Tour

At number 1, this tour combines the iconic Tulum archaeological site with two plunge-worthy cenotes. The guided tour of Tulum explores the most impressive structures, including the famous Temple of the Frescoes and the Temple of the Wind.

The tour’s real highlight is the opportunity to swim in the Mariposa and Chen-Ha cenotes, which are surrounded by lush jungle. The roundtrip air-conditioned transport makes it easy to relax between sites.

With a solid 4.4-star rating based on 757 reviews and a price of just $45, this tour offers exceptional value — especially since it covers history and nature in half a day. Guests often comment on the knowledgeable guides and the peaceful swimming spots.

Bottom Line: Perfect for history lovers who want a quick, comprehensive visit combining ancient ruins with refreshing swims. It’s a great half-day escape that won’t break the bank.

2. Cancun: Jungle ATV Tour, Ziplining, and Cenote Swim

Number 2 is an adrenaline-packed trip into the Maya jungle, designed for thrill-seekers. You’ll start with a dusty ATV ride along rugged trails, followed by ziplining over treetops for panoramic views of the lush landscape. After working up an appetite, enjoy some traditional tacos and tequila tastings to fuel the next leg — swimming in Cenote Verde Lucero.

The tour’s fast-paced, with a total duration that balances action and relaxation. With over 400 reviews and a 4.4/5 rating, it’s clear this combo tour is popular among active travelers.

Visitors love the mix of adrenaline and local flavors, making it suitable for those wanting adventure with a cultural twist.

Bottom Line: Ideal for families or groups looking for a full-throttle day with plenty of photo-worthy moments and local snacks.

3. From Riviera Maya: Coba, Punta Laguna & Cenote Guided Trip

At number 3, this full-day adventure offers a rich cultural and natural experience. You’ll cycle or walk through the Coba archaeological site, home to the tallest pyramid in the region, before heading into the Punta Laguna Reserve to spot monkeys and hike through the jungle.

The tour includes a zipline over the canopy, adding an extra thrill. To cool off, enjoy a traditional Mayan meal prepared by local families, then swim in a beautiful cenote.

Rated 4.9/5 based on 47 reviews, this trip is praised for its authentic and personalized experience. The $184 price reflects a comprehensive itinerary that’s perfect for those wanting to learn and explore.

Bottom Line: Best suited for active travelers who want a full immersion in Mayan culture, wildlife, and adventure in one day.

4. From Tulum: Tulum Ruins and 2 Cenotes Tour

Number 4 offers a short and sweet tour that covers the majestic Tulum ruins and a cenote dip in the same trip. Starting from Tulum, you’ll explore the well-preserved Mayan structures including the famous pyramid overlooking the Caribbean, then cool off in the Cenote Mariposa. The 2-hour guided tour of the ruins is rich with history, and the cenote provides a refreshing break.

Rated 4.4/5, it’s an affordable way to experience the highlights in just a few hours. For those with limited time, this tour provides a balance of history and swimming without feeling rushed.

Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers based in Tulum seeking a concise overview of Mayan history plus a jungle swim.

5. Riviera Maya: Rio Lagartos & Las Coloradas Day Trip w/Lunch

Number 5 is a full-day nature expedition exploring Rio Lagartos’s pink lakes and bird-rich wetlands. You’ll ride a boat through the biosphere reserve and look for flamingos, crocodiles, and other wildlife. The trip includes a clay bath at Las Coloradas, famous for its vivid pink waters. After a local Mayan-style lunch, you can relax and absorb the scenery.

With a 4.5-star rating from 91 reviews, this tour delivers a peaceful, nature-centered experience perfect for wildlife and photography enthusiasts.

The 12-hour length makes it a comprehensive day trip, especially if you’re eager to see Mexico’s scenic northern coast.

Bottom Line: Great for nature lovers eager to see rare wildlife and colorful lakes in a relaxed setting.

6. Tulum: Discover Scuba Diving in Cenotes

Number 6 is a specialty for underwater explorers, offering a first-time scuba experience in Tulum’s cenotes. In just 4 hours, you’ll learn the basics with expert instructors then plunge into crystal-clear, underwater caves. The small group size and easy wetsuit and gear make it accessible even to beginners, and the underwater scenery is unlike anything on land.

The tour’s 5-star rating reflects how memorable this experience is for those who want to see the fascinating underground formations and aquatic life. Costing $169, it’s a good value for an immersive introduction to diving.

Bottom Line: Perfect for first-time divers and those wanting a unique underwater adventure in stunning cenotes.

7. Riviera Maya: Rio Secreto Natural Reserve Tour

Number 7 takes you underground into Rio Secreto, a pristine cave system with underground rivers and ancient rock formations. The guided tour includes swimming, snorkeling, and exploring the stunning environment. You can choose from a Classic, Plus, or Wild tour depending on your preferred level of activity. The 4.5/5 rating from 17 reviews attests to the immersive quality of this experience.

The tour’s 3.5 to 5.5 hours duration makes it manageable for most travelers, and the close proximity from Riviera Maya makes it a very accessible nature and geology tour.

Bottom Line: Ideal for adventure travelers who want to connect with nature in a spectacular underground setting.

8. Tulum: Sian Ka’an Lagoons and Cenote Escondido Tour

Number 8 explores Sian Kaan’s stunning lagoons and the ancient Muyil Mayan ruins. Float effortlessly along a canal’s current, then relax in the clear waters of Cenote Escondido. The 5-star-rated tour is praised for its peaceful scenery and wildlife sightings.

It’s a full 6-hour experience that balances cultural sites, natural beauty, and aquatic fun. This trip is perfect for travelers seeking a combination of wildlife, ancient history, and serene waters.

Bottom Line: A beautiful, well-rounded option for nature lovers and those interested in Mayan ruins and quiet lagoons.

9. Riviera Maya: Camel Caravan Expedition and Beach Club Access

Number 9 offers a relaxing yet exotic adventure involving a camel ride through the jungle plus time at Maroma Beach Club. The 45-minute tour is ideal for a short, memorable experience with great photo opportunities.

The breathtaking views of the Caribbean make it a popular choice for travelers looking to combine unique transportation with beach relaxation. With a 4.3/5 rating, it’s valued for its quirky charm and scenic setting.

Bottom Line: Great for travelers wanting a short, fun activity combined with some downtime at a stunning beach.

10. Coba, Tulum, Cenote & Lunch ECO Full Day from Rivera

Number 10 delivers a full day of culture and nature, visiting Coba and Tulum with guided tours, plus a swim in Cenote Mariposa. The trip includes a traditional Mayan lunch, giving insight into local cuisine and customs. The 12-hour duration is well suited for travelers wanting an immersive experience.

Rated 4.1/5, it offers good value for those eager to explore major Maya sites and enjoy natural swimming holes. The comfortable bus transfers make the long day manageable.

Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking an educational, hands-on day exploring the region’s ancient roots and natural pools.

11. From Riviera Maya: Tulum, Cenote, & Akumal Turtle Swim Trip

Number 11 combines Tulum’s archaeological sites with a swim with sea turtles in Akumal. You’ll explore Tulum’s ruins, then relax in a cenote before snorkeling with the gentle turtles. The 8-hour trip offers a good mix of history, wildlife, and beach time.

Rated 4.1/5, it’s suitable for nature lovers who want a balanced day of culture and marine life. The snorkeling in Akumal is often described as a highlight.

Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those wanting a combination of ancient ruins and marine encounters.

12. Chichen Itza: Valladolid and Stunning Cenote – Private Tour

Number 12 is a private, all-in-one tour that hits Chichen Itza, the colonial town of Valladolid, and a beautiful cenote. It’s a luxury experience with personalized attention, exploring Mayan history, regional cuisine, and swimming in a less touristy cenote.

The tour lasts 10 hours and costs $310 per person but offers exclusive access and tailored experiences. Rated 5/5, it’s perfect for travelers wanting comfort and depth.

Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those seeking a luxury, private exploration of Maya culture and natural beauty.

13. Playa Del Carmen’s Historical Treasures: A Walking Tour

Number 13 is a private walking tour through Playa del Carmen, covering recent and ancient history, including the 3D Museum of Wonders and Parque Los Fundadores. Costing $1,843 for up to 4 people, this is a more intimate, cultural experience tailored for those interested in local art and history. The 2-hour tour is relaxed, giving a good overview of the town’s artistic and archaeological highlights.

Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers wanting a personalized, cultural stroll through Playa del Carmen.

14. Riviera Maya: Frida Kahlo Museum Guided Tour

Number 14 offers a quick glimpse into the life of Frida Kahlo with an immersive museum experience. The 45-minute tour showcases her paintings, letters, and photographs, giving a deeper understanding of her artistic journey. It’s a great addition for art lovers or those interested in Mexican culture, priced at just $19 per person.

Bottom Line: A quick, affordable way to connect with Mexico’s iconic painter and her artistic world.

15. Riviera Maya: Full Day Private Catamaran to Isla Mujeres

Number 15 wraps up our list with a luxury private catamaran trip, perfect for celebrating special occasions or just indulging in comfort. You’ll snorkel at El Meco reef, enjoy a buffet lunch on Isla Mujeres, and relax with open bar service onboard.

The 7-hour experience is customizable, making it ideal for groups or couples seeking privacy and flexibility. Prices start at $2,250 for up to 25 people, reflecting its premium nature.

Bottom Line: Best for travelers wanting a bespoke, luxurious day at sea with snorkeling, dining, and privacy.

How to Choose the Right Tour for You

When selecting a tour in Riviera Maya, consider your interests, time constraints, and budget. For history and cultural sites, the Coba and Tulum tours are excellent, especially the Coba, Punta Laguna & Cenote Guided Trip for its mix of adventure and archaeology. If you crave adrenaline, the Jungle ATV & Zipline is a fantastic choice.

Want a relaxing eco-escape? Rio Secreto or Sian K’an tours provide quiet, scenic environments. For those with limited time, the half-day Tulum and cenote trips are perfect.

Booking early is advisable, especially during peak season, to secure spots on popular tours like the private Catamaran to Isla Mujeres or private Chichen Itza excursions. Always check tour reviews and what’s included—some tours offer lunch, snorkel gear, or private transfers, adding extra value.

Final Thoughts

Riviera Maya offers a wide spectrum of tours that cater to adventure seekers, culture lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those simply wanting to relax. If you’re pressed for time, the Tulum Ruins and Cenotes Half-Day Tour is a fantastic quick fix.

For a full-day immersive experience, consider the Coba, Punta Laguna & Cenote Guided Trip. No matter your style, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these memorable adventures—so plan ahead.

Enjoy your trip and make the most of Riviera Maya’s incredible mix of history, nature, and adventure.