The Maya people were spread out over a region of over 500 thousand square kilometers, covering the present-day Mexican states of Yucatan, Quintana Roo, Tabasco, Chiapas and Campeche, and the Central American countries of Guatemala, Belize, the western portion of El Salvador and Honduras. Their origins date back over 5000 years, or perhaps further, although the first recorded settlements are more recent, as in Guatemala, around 2500 B.C. or in Yucatan, dating from 1600 B.C.

The Maya culture left an enormous cultural imprint, with their unique architecture, their design of jewelry and ceramics, their development of an advanced written language, and an amazing knowledge of mathematics and astronomy, more advanced than that of European civilization at the time.

Even though the Maya culture remains present in the Riviera Maya, through the many indigenous communities still found here which preserve the traditions, religion and social structure of the Maya people, the splendor of ancient Maya civilization is most evident in the numerous archaeological sites in this area. It is through the pyramids, "pelota " ( ball ) playing fields, sculpted stone pillars, plazas and temples that some of the mysteries still surrounding one of America's most important cultures have been partially deciphered.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS - Cobá Ruins, Punta Laguna & Cenote

• Explore the ancient ruins of Cobá
• Discover nature, history, and Mayan culture
• Observe jungle wildlife and unique ecosystems
• Adventure activities: zipline, canoe, hike, bike, and swim
• Refresh in a stunning Cenote
• Enjoy authentic local cuisine
• Support eco-tourism and conservation efforts

TOUR OVERVIEW - Cobá Ruins, Punta Laguna & Cenote

THIS TOUR HAS IT ALL! Culture, Nature & Excitement… This is the perfect excursion for those who want to experience and learn about the current Mayan culture and its colorful past. Enjoy the nature of the Yucatan Peninsula in a day full of activities, such as bicycling, canoe riding, zip lining and hiking. Ideal for the whole family.

1) NATURAL RESERVE IN PUNTA LAGUNA NATURE RESERVE

Located about 40 miles north of Tulum, Punta Laguna Nature Reserve offers one of the most unique sightseeing attractions in all of the Yucatán: spider monkeys. The creatures are a top draw for the reserve, which also showcases jaguars, pumas, howler monkeys, ocelot, white-tailed deer, red deer, agouti and more than 300 species of birds. The unique eco system in this area is characterized by lagoons, a Cenote of particular interest for sub-aquatic archeology, a sub evergreen forest and an extraordinary biodiversity of flora (more than 300 species) and fauna. 

Experience this amazing region with us with all your senses! We will cross a stretch of the lagoon on a zip line and canoe and hike around the lagoon.

The nearby Mayan community of Punta Laguna, aware of the rapid development of tourism has opted to actively participate in eco-tourism by promoting low-impact activities that don’t interfere with the environment and culture. Stroll through the village and get a glimpse of indigenous Mexican lifestyle, where you can tour thatched roof houses and watch people cook over open fires.

2) CENOTE ESMERALDA

We will swim in a semi-open Cenote where natural sun rays radiate off the walls, allowing us to admire the various beautiful colors reflecting off the crystalline water.

3) LUNCH IN THE MAYAN COMMUNITY OF NUEVO DURANGO

We will stop in the community of Nuevo Durango where we meet Don Manuel and his beautiful family serving us a delicious and traditional meal in their home. Not only do we enjoy an amazing meal but also contribute to Don Manuel's efforts to achieve self-sufficiency and take care of his culture and environment. Don Manuel has a special permit that allows him to raise animals on his land such as the white-tailed deer and the endangered birds such as the snout and the endemic ocellated turkey. After raising these amazing animals he releases and repopulates these species in their natural habitat.

4) ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE OF COBÁ

Cobá means ‘waters stirred by the wind’, a fitting Mayan name as this settlement is surrounded by two large lagoons. For many years Cobá was a forgotten piece of Mayan history due to its remoteness. Located between Tulum in the state of Quintana Roo, and Valladolid in the state of Yucatan, archeologists first found out about this site in the mid 1800’s, but dense jungle, the Caste War and lack of funds made this site a difficult area to explore. This Mayan site is still largely un-excavated making it a true wonder in the Yucatan. Visitors can enjoy shaded walkways that are the original sacbe (white roads), three settlements that show the architecture and vast area of this once large city, 2 ball courts and climb the highest Mayan pyramid in the Yucatan, Nohoch Mul.

On our tour we will explore this ancient city on a bicycle along beautiful paths under the shade of the majestic trees. For those who feel up for it, we can climb one of the largest temples in the area to admire the surrounding landscape of a great city that is now covered by the jungle.

TOUR SUMMARY - Cobá Ruins, Punta Laguna & Cenote

• Price - $155 per person (Small Group Tour)
• Minimum 4 guests to operate this tour. Please inquire with our reservation team.
• Duration - 9 hours
• Start time - 8:00am - 8:30am
• Visit the archeological site of Cobá (guided tour of history, travel on bicycle, view from the top of the Nohoch Mul temple)
• Delicious Lunch at the house of a Mayan family 
• Explore the Punta Laguna Nature Reserve! Hike through the jungle in search of monkeys and wildlife, paddle across a turquoise lake, zipline over the water, and take part in a traditional Mayan ceremony.
• Take a refreshing swim in a pristine, crystal-clear Cenote.
• Excursion finishes between 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM

WHAT'S INCLUDED

• Air-conditioned transportation (Hotel Pick up in Tulum Area. Outside of Tulum, there will be an Extra Fee depending on location)
• Water, fruit and snack
• Professional guide (English/Spanish)
• All entrance fees
• All activities in Punta Laguna
• Cobá Guide
• Bicycle in Cobá
• Lunch, Snacks and Drinks

WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED

• Gratuities

WHAT TO BRING

• Comfortable and adequate clothing to protect yourself from the sun and thus avoid the use of sunscreen. Creams (even biodegradable ones) are polluting and for that reason we do not promote their use
• Comfortable and safe footwear for walking in the jungle
• Swimwear
• Sun glasses
• Towel
• Camera
• Cap or hat
• A reusable bottle to fill with water during the day
• Cash for tips and souvenirs

Please Note:

• There are no ATMs in the area, vendors do not accept card payments either. Cash Only!
• It is customary to tip guides and field equipment as a thank you for excellent service

FAQ

Who is this tour for ?

The Mayan Inland Expedition offers an immersive journey into the Mayan past and present while exploring the natural wonders of the Yucatán Peninsula. Enjoy a day full of adventure with ziplining, swimming, canoeing, and biking.

One of our top-rated eco-tours, this experience is perfect for all ages—kids and adults alike!

In Cobá, choose between biking or riding a traditional "Mayan Taxi." Ziplining and canoeing are optional, so you can simply relax and enjoy the scenery if you prefer.

What is the size of the group ?

The van will accommodate a maximum of 10 participants, in addition to the guide and driver.

Is this tour weather dependent ?

This tour operates rain or shine! In the case of severe weather or major events, we will contact you.

Is there a minimum number of participants for this tour ?

Our shared group tour requires a minimum of 4 participants. If this minimum isn't met, we may cancel the tour. In that case, we’ll contact you to offer an alternative tour or issue a refund.

How do I know my Pick Up / Drop Off time ?

Your confirmed pick-up time will depend on your hotel/villa location and the day's logistics. It will be sent to you via a personalized email and may be subject to change until 9 PM the day before your tour.

Additionally, drop-off times may vary depending on the location of your hotel/villa and the pace of each group.

Where can I be Picked Up /Dropped Off ?

Our prices include pick-up and drop-off at your hotel/villa in Tulum City and the Tulum Hotel Zone.

If you’d like to be picked up from a different location in the Riviera Maya, this is possible for an additional fee, depending on the area. When booking, you will see the available zones and their respective prices.

CANCELATION POLICY

Please read our Tour Cancelation Policy before booking our tours.