Browse and Book Your Excursions in Playa del Carmen
Pick from the top excursions in Playa del Carmen and make your trip to the Carribean count!
Playa del Carmen is one of the most popular destinations in Mexico, known for its beautiful beaches, rich history, and exciting excursions. Whether you’re looking for adventure, cultural experiences, or relaxation, this area offers a wide variety of tours for every type of traveler. From cenote swimming and Mayan ruins to ATV rides, snorkeling, and nightlife tours, Playa del Carmen has something for everyone.
Based on personal experiences and top-rated excursions, this guide will help you find the best options and make the most of your trip.
Cenote Excursions: Exploring Natural Pools
Cenotes are natural sinkholes filled with crystal-clear water, and Playa del Carmen is surrounded by hundreds of them. Many excursions take you to these incredible sites, where you can swim, snorkel, or even dive in underground caves.
Best Cenote Excursions
- Dos Ojos Cenote – A mix of cave and open-water cenote, perfect for snorkeling and diving.
- Cenote Azul – Known for its clear blue water and relaxed atmosphere.
- Chacá Cenotes – Offers a combination of open and underground cenotes, giving visitors a unique experience.
Private cenote tours are available for those looking for a more personal experience, while group tours are a great way to explore multiple cenotes at a lower cost.
Mayan Ruins Excursions: A Trip Back in Time
The Yucatán Peninsula is home to some of the most impressive Mayan archaeological sites. Visiting these ruins is a must for history lovers.
Top Mayan Ruins Tours
- Chichén Itzá – One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, famous for its pyramid and unique acoustics. When you clap in front of the main temple, you can hear sounds that resemble the call of the Quetzal, a sacred bird in Mayan culture. The site also features the Mayan ball court, where the game’s winner was sacrificed as an honor to the gods.
- Coba Ruins – Located in the jungle, this site allows visitors to walk or bike through ancient roads leading to the tallest pyramid in the region.
- Tulum Ruins – A unique Mayan city by the ocean, offering stunning views of the Caribbean Sea.
These excursions often include a cenote stop or a visit to a local town, making them a full-day adventure.
Adventure & Eco-Parks: Excitement for Everyone
For those looking for an all-in-one adventure, Playa del Carmen has several well-known eco-parks that offer water activities, cultural experiences, and wildlife encounters.
Best Eco-Parks for Excursions
- Xcaret – A mix of nature, history, and entertainment, with underground rivers, Mayan performances, and wildlife exhibits.
- Xel-Há – A natural water park where visitors can snorkel, float down a lazy river, and explore caves.
- Xplor – Ideal for adventure seekers, featuring ATVs, zip lines, and underground caves.
- Xoximilco – A nighttime Mexican fiesta on boats, with live music, food, and drinks.
These parks offer all-inclusive experiences, so you can enjoy the activities without worrying about extra costs.
Jungle Excursions: ATVs, Zip-Lining & More
The jungle near Playa del Carmen is perfect for ATV rides, zip-lining, and cave exploration. Many tours combine these activities for a complete experience.
- ATV tours – Ride through muddy trails, hidden paths, and Mayan villages.
- Zip-lining – Get a bird’s-eye view of the jungle while soaring through the trees.
- Cenote swim included – Many jungle excursions include a stop at a cenote to cool off after an adventure-filled day.
These excursions are great for families, couples, and groups looking for an exciting outdoor experience.
Ocean & Island Excursions: Snorkeling, Yachts & Cozumel
The Caribbean waters around Playa del Carmen are perfect for snorkeling, sailing, and private boat tours.
Best Ocean Excursions
- Snorkeling at El Cielo (Cozumel) – A clear water paradise known for its starfish and marine life.
- Private yacht & boat rentals – Enjoy a luxury experience with food, drinks, and sunset views.
- Catamaran tours – Perfect for those looking to relax, snorkel, and enjoy the ocean breeze.
Many boat tours offer all-inclusive packages with open bars and lunch, making it a great way to spend a day at sea.
Nightlife Excursions: Bars, Clubs & Party Tours
Playa del Carmen is known for its nightlife, and there are several excursions designed for party lovers.
Best Nightlife Excursions
- Bar Crawl – Visit multiple bars in one night with an all-you-can-drink package.
- Top Nightclubs
- Mandala – A popular dance club with a great atmosphere.
- Palazzo – Known for its big parties and live DJs.
- La Vaquita – A fun, casual club with an open-air dance floor.
- Beach Clubs – Relax during the day and party at night with drinks, live music, and beachfront views.
If you’re looking for a guided nightlife experience, bar crawls are a great way to enjoy multiple venues in one night.
Unique Excursions Off the Beaten Path
If you want to explore beyond the popular spots, there are hidden places worth visiting.
- Bacalar Lagoon – Known as the “Lake of Seven Colors,” this freshwater lagoon has stunning shades of blue.
- Secret beaches and jungle tours – Less crowded options for those looking for a peaceful escape.
These excursions offer a different perspective of the Riviera Maya and are perfect for nature lovers.
Tips for Booking the Best Excursions
To get the most out of your experience, consider these tips:
- Private vs. Group Tours – Private tours offer flexibility and personal service, while group tours are more affordable.
- Book in Advance – Popular excursions sell out quickly, so it’s best to reserve ahead of time.
- What to Bring – Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a swimsuit, and cash for tips or extra activities.
- Best Time to Go – The dry season (November to April) offers the best weather for excursions.
Playa del Carmen offers a wide variety of excursions for all types of travelers. Whether you want to explore cenotes, visit Mayan ruins, experience adventure parks, or enjoy the nightlife, there’s an excursion for you.
By planning ahead and choosing the right tour, you’ll have an amazing experience in one of Mexico’s most exciting destinations.