Self-Guided Audio Tour of Chichén Itzá, Tulum, Coba, and Ek Balam

Nat Geo Day Tour: Unveiling the Importance of Cancun’s Reef Restoration

Explore the wonders of the Mesoamerican Reef System on this exclusive National Geographic Day Tour. Led by marine specialists, you will have the unique opportunity to snorkel and witness the impact of humanity on the reef and see coral bleaching. This is followed by an insightful talk on actionable steps for reef restoration.Setting sail when the waters are at their calmest, you'll venture to two different reefs, each affected by bleaching due to global warming, water pollution, and microplastics. Visit the reef known as “El Meco”, which boasts the youngest corals, making it a particularly special attraction.The boats used for the tour are certified by Blue Flag for sustainable tourism, ensuring your voyage aligns with eco-conscious practices. Along the way, you'll also get to know the local fauna and savour a delicious burrito lunch. During this tour, you will be inspired to protect these marine ecosystems, which is the aim of the National Geographic-sponsored Pristine Seas project. This project has carried out expeditions to Banco Chinchorro, a significant part of the Mesoamerican Reef System. This project's work underscores the importance of safeguarding marine environments from human influence while protecting the last wild places in our oceans.By joining this tour, you will engage with the vital importance of preserving and protecting the precious Mesoamerican Reef System. See for yourself the marvels of the ocean and gain a profound understanding of coral reefs and their critical role in the biosphere.

Tour of Chichen Itza’s Maya ruins and Cenote Tsukán with Lunch

A duo of Mexican delights await on this full day tour from Cancun. The adventure begins at the break of dawn with a journey to experience the wonder of Chichen Itza, a UNESCO-listed ancient Maya city. Then, wind down with a swim in a natural underground cenote cave. Hugo, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘The early start is worth it – we'll arrive first thing in the morning to experience the magic of the ruins in the soft sunlight and beat the heat'.A guided tour of the ruined city reveals the stories of this remarkable site. It's not hard to imagine the daily lives of the community that lived here and built these impressive monuments. After the guided tour, enjoy free time to make the most of exploring this archaeological treasure trove as you wish. Hugo adds, ‘This ancient city isn't just about admiring the grandeur of El Castillo, but also about feeling the pulse of the Maya civilization that thrived here centuries ago. Don't miss the Great Ball Court—imagine the echoes of the past as players competed in this very spot.'Next, you'll be whisked away to Cenote Tsukán. Cenotes are believed by the Maya to be portals to the underworld, and they are revered in traditional culture. Here, you will plunge into the limpid waters, participate in a traditional ceremony and feel your senses awaken in glorious natural surroundings. Afterwards, you'll enjoy a tasty local lunch, savouring the flavours of regional cuisine prepared with fresh, local ingredients.

Tulum, cenote swim, turtle snorkelling and beach club combo tour

Exploring Mexico just got a whole lot easier. On this full day adventure, you'll tick off no less than four different activities. Start with a guided visit of the archaeological site of Tulum, then head to a cenote for a swim. Next, it's off to Akumal for a spot of snorkelling. Round off your day with lunch at a beach club. Carmen, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘The most photographed structure in the archaeological site is the Castillo, which is perched on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea. The Castillo might be the most famous, but there are plenty of other ancient Mayan ruins to explore, such as the Temple of the Descending God and the Temple of the Frescoes.'The marvels of the Mayan culture will be revealed on your guided tour around Tulum. You'll learn about it's past as a walled city, and its former role as a trading hub. After the tour you'll have free time to explore at your leisure. Next, prepare to be dazzled by colours at an ancient Mayan cenote, a natural cave with a freshwater pool fed by underground water sources and considered sacred by the Mayans.After a cooling swim, we'll head for the picturesque seaside community of Akumal, known for its laid-back atmosphere, natural beauty, and abundant marine life. With its intriguing underwater world, Akumal offers one of the best snorkelling experiences in the Riviera Maya. Encounter an array of tropical fish, corals, and perhaps even sea turtles. To complete your day, unwind and indulge in a tasty meal at a nearby beach club.

Guided Tour of Tulum and Visit to a Modern Maya Community

Exploring ancient ruins and swimming in underground caves make this an action-packed morning of adventure. A guided tour of one of Mexico's most important historical sites is followed by a visit to a traditional Mayan community. What's more, you'll get the chance to take a refreshing dip in a cenote too.

Isla Mujeres adults-only catamaran cruise with tour and lunch

Basking in the Caribbean Sea, Isla Mujeres boasts an enviable position on the second longest reef system in the world, the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef. Maria, one of our expert local guides, says, 'It's a brilliant spot for snorkelling amid those dazzling Caribbean colours - white sand and aquamarine sea.' This serene adults-only boat trip will give you a fresh perspective of Mexico while indulging in all the little luxuries that make holidays special. From the moment you step onto our luxury catamaran, you're greeted with a welcome soft drink to set the tone for this journey of pure bliss.After setting sail, we'll glide over the sparkling waves while you soak up panoramic views of Mexico's coastline as we head towards a secluded cove. All beverages - water, soft drinks, beer & other selected drinks – are included, ensuring your thirst is quenched throughout. If you crave some action, snorkelling equipment is provided for swim stops and at the beach club where you can also relax on Balinese sunbeds.Then it's time to tantalise your taste buds with our premium grill lunch buffet served at the exclusive Beach Club Amazonas. The live DJ sets the mood as you savour mouth-wateringly tasty dishes. After lunch, take a spin with a 50-minute shared golf car ride exploring Isla Mujeres' downtown area. To top off this unforgettable experience, unwind with cocktails at the beach club bar or engage in some water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding.

Full-day boat and golf buggy tour of Holbox Island from Chiquila

Holbox Island offers 36km of pristine white beaches washed by emerald-green seas. On this exclusive excursion, you'll discover spots like Isla Pasion on a private boat and enjoy lunch at a five-star eco-resort. There's also a golf buggy tour of the island to look forward to. Ariel, one of our local guides on this tour, says, ‘Holbox is a habitat for more than 300 endemic and migratory species. It's also something of a playground, with activities such as speedboats and beach buggies.'Board your boat at Chiquila – piloted by a local fisherman – and be whisked off on a two-hour coastal tour. Every other company uses the local ferry. Your guide will point out places known for their wildlife and explain what efforts are being made to preserve this habitat. And if you're doing the tour between June and September, you may be lucky enough to catch sight of the island's flamboyant flamingos. Plus, you'll discover the beauty of the secluded beaches of Isla Pasion and Punta Mosquito, before heading to the eco-resort for lunch followed by downtime on the sunloungers.Once your batteries are recharged, you'll hop into a golf buggy for some fun exploring the surrounding area. To round off your visit to the island, we'll make our way to Holbox's laidback main square for some free time – it's a great opportunity to pick up some souvenirs or sample local food. You'll then return by ferry to Chiquila and on to Cancun.

Catamaran cruise to Isla Mujeres with beach club visit and brunch

Set a course for the high life on this luxury catamaran cruise to Cancun's playground, Isla Mujeres. It's VIP all the way on this daytrip. You'll begin with a dedicated TUI check-in to board a brand-new catamaran that'll whisk you away to the island, just off Cancun's coastline. Stretch out and relax in the comfort of this adults-only boat, complete with an open bar. En route to Isla Mujeres, your crew will drop anchor at an exclusive snorkelling spot. The corals here are part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, the second largest of its kind in the world, stretching from Mexico to Honduras – that's over 700 miles. Dive in for a swim or snorkel (equipment is provided) to look for resident sea turtles, rays and tropical fish.Once you've towelled off, you'll dock at the northwestern tip of Isla Mujeres and head to Zama Beach Club. There's an area reserved for your group here, making it feel like your own private Caribbean retreat. Swap the sea for a freshwater dip in the two pools, relax on the sunbeds and feast on fresh Mexican fare at an exclusive brunch. After you've finished splashing, eating or lounging at the club, the crew of the catamaran will sail you back to the mainland.

Maya Coba ruins tour with pyramid, ceremony and cenote swim

A journey deep into the Yucatán jungle to discover the ancient Maya city of Coba. You'll learn about their enigmatic culture, see the Great Pyramid, meet local villagers and swim in a sacred cenote

Isla Mujeres family cruise with snorkelling and lunch with shared golf cart tour

The best of the Mexican Caribbean is calling on this exclusive boat trip to Isla Mujeres – think snorkelling, A-list landscapes, and pampering along the way. Maria, one of our expert, local guides says, "Isla Mujeres, or the 'Island of Women,' was once a sacred place for the Maya, who linked it to the goddess Ix Chel. These days, it's a sanctuary for sea turtles and sits right next to the UNESCO-sited Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, making it a prime spot for snorkelling, diving, and eco-adventures."Your day kicks off with a hotel pick-up and check-in at Marina Hacienda del Mar. After hopping aboard the exclusive TUI Collection catamaran, you'll cruise through the Mexican Caribbean waters, making your first stop to snorkel. The coral reefs here are something to shout about, plus, you'll likely spot tropical fish – and if you're lucky, maybe even a sea turtle. Kids over 8 can join in on the fun too.Next, you'll head to Isla Mujeres' downtown before arriving at our exclusive beach club, where it's relaxation to a T. Think unlimited drinks from the open bar, tasty appetisers, and a delicious grill buffet. If you're in the mood for a little adventure, a guided golf cart tour will take you to the southern tip of the island – perfect for those all-important holiday pics, with rugged coastline views and a lighthouse. After a day of exploring and unwinding, you'll sail back to the marina, soaking in the last views of the coast.

Full-day private tour of Chichen Itza with expert guide

The ruins of ancient Chichen Itza are a must-visit when in Cancun. This private tour lets you discover the site before the crowds arrive. Better still, you'll explore the complex with one of our local experts, who'll share in-depth knowledge with you. Argelia, one of our guides, says ‘You'll learn about the calendars in the Temple of Kukulkan and its sacred staircase, where each equinox the shadows represent the descent of the feathered snake.' Afterwards, you'll enjoy a cenote swim and visit a Maya village for lunch.It's an early start so as to be the first to arrive at this UNESCO World Heritage Site – the perfect time to snap a few selfies. The stillness adds even more mystery to the magnificent Maya monuments. There's the mighty Kukulkan Pyramid, the Temple of the Jaguars and the macabre Tzompantli, among many landmark sites. ‘The bas-reliefs that tell us about the magical beliefs inspired by their interpretation of the stars,' says Argelia.Next, head to an underground cenote for a swim in its clear waters. Then it's on to the village for lunch. All the food is locally grown and prepared to traditional recipes. Argelia says, ‘You'll taste typical Yucatecan food such as chaya empanadas, cochinita pibil, chicken in axiote rice and black beans and steamed vegetables.' You'll also see the locals show off their skills hand-weaving hammocks – an age-old craft – and find out how this cottage industry helps support the community.