If you’re dreaming of a day filled with scenic drives, local flavor, and beachside relaxation, the Island Buggy Tour in Cozumel might just be your perfect escape. This tour promises more than just the usual tourist spots — it invites you to explore the island’s lesser-known beaches, take stunning photos, and enjoy some well-earned downtime at Playa Uvas Beach Club.
We love the personal touch of driving your own buggy, the chance to visit local favorites away from crowds, and the tasty Mexican lunch included. However, potential travelers should consider that the tour requires a valid driver’s license if they wish to take the wheel. It’s a flexible experience suited for those who want a mix of adventure, cultural insight, and beach relaxation, making it ideal for those looking to get off the beaten path.
Good To Know

- Self-Driving Freedom: Drive your own buggy, making your experience flexible and fun.
- Authentic Local Spots: Visit beaches and viewpoints favored by locals, away from touristy areas.
- Inclusive Beach Day: Relax at Playa Uvas with a delicious Mexican lunch and optional snorkeling.
- Guided Experience: The tour includes knowledgeable guides, like Carlos, who enhance the fun with humor and insights.
- Flexible and Family-Friendly: Kids can ride as passengers, and the tour is suitable for most travelers with a driver’s license.
- Great Value: Combining sightseeing, local flavor, and beach time all in one 5-hour adventure for $65.
Why Choose the Island Buggy Tour?
This tour offers a great mix of adventure and relaxation, perfect for travelers wanting more than just lounging on the beach. The chance to drive your own buggy—a highlight noted by many reviewers—gives a sense of freedom and control, allowing you to explore at your own pace. It’s a fantastic way to see parts of Cozumel that are often overlooked, such as the quiet Playa Chen Rio and the scenic El Mirador viewpoint.
The inclusion of tequila tasting and a local guide like Carlos further enriches the experience, providing personalized insights and making it more engaging. On the practical side, the tour is well-priced at $65 per person and offers good value considering the variety of stops, the private beach access, and the delicious lunch at Playa Uvas Beach Club.
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Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Stop 1: Playa Chen Rio
The tour kicks off with an energetic start at Playa Chen Rio, where you’re welcomed with tequila tasting. This isn’t just a quick sip — you’ll learn about how tequila is made from knowledgeable guides, adding a cultural layer to the fun. Guests have shared that Carlos, the guide, is hilarious and accommodating, making the tasting both enjoyable and educational.
After the tasting, you hop into your buggy to cruise along the coast, enjoying the fresh sea breeze and the scenic views. The drive here is relaxed, setting a laid-back tone for the rest of the day. The stop lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, giving plenty of time to take photos or just soak in the atmosphere.
Stop 2: El Mirador
Next, the journey continues to El Mirador, a favorite with locals and visitors alike for its breathtaking ocean vistas. This stop is perfect for snapping memorable photos, with panoramic views of the coastline. Reviewers mention that the scenic lookout is worth the visit, and it provides a peaceful moment away from the busier tourist spots.
Here, you’ll get about an hour and a half to enjoy the surroundings, take some pictures, and perhaps talk with other travelers about their favorite parts of the island. The guide’s insights help bring this viewpoint to life, making it more than just a pretty picture.
Stop 3: Playa Uvas Beach Club
The day winds down at Playa Uvas, a smaller, more relaxed beach club that avoids the crowds of larger resorts. The included Mexican lunch of chicken fajitas is praised for its flavor and generous portions. Guests often comment on how this meal feels like a genuine local experience rather than a tourist trap.
With two hours of free time, you can choose to lounge, swim, or explore the marine environment. The tour offers an optional guided snorkel tour, allowing you to see vibrant corals and marine life — a highlight for many. The club’s amenities, along with the friendly staff, make this a perfect spot to unwind after a day of adventure.
Practical Details That Matter

Transportation and Group Size
Travelers will enjoy the mobility of driving their own buggy, with a maximum group size of 20, ensuring a friendly and intimate atmosphere. The tour’s mobile ticket system makes it easy to organize, and the near public transportation option adds convenience.
Timing and Duration
The 5-hour duration balances sightseeing with relaxation, carefully scheduled to include enough time at each stop without feeling rushed. The tour begins in the morning, and the timing allows for a leisurely pace that suits most travelers.
Cost and Value
For $65 per person, the tour offers excellent value — combining cultural experiences, scenic drives, beach time, and a hearty lunch. The inclusion of Playa Uvas Beach Club access and optional snorkeling adds to the overall package, making it a cost-effective choice for a full day.
What Reviewers Say
Heather, one of the reviewers, highlighted Carlos’ humor and knowledge, calling him an amazing and hilarious guide. She appreciated that the tour was fun, insightful, and flexible, with the beach club being a nice bonus.
Travelers also note that most participants can drive if they are 18 or older with a valid license, making it accessible for many. Kids as young as 6 can ride along in the passenger seat, making it a family-friendly outing.
Weather and Cancellation
The tour operates with a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind. Since the experience depends on good weather, the operator will reschedule or refund if conditions are poor, ensuring no one gets caught in a mistake of planning.
Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers craving an authentic glimpse of Cozumel’s quieter, scenic spots. It suits those who enjoy driving and exploring at their own pace, as well as families or couples looking for a fun, laid-back day.
It’s perfect for anyone interested in local culture and stunning vistas, with the added bonus of beach relaxation and optional snorkeling. The inclusive lunch and comfortable group size mean it’s a hassle-free way to spend a memorable day on the island.
Final Thoughts

The Island Buggy Tour in Cozumel offers a well-rounded mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation. You’ll get to drive through beautiful landscapes, visit lesser-known beaches, and enjoy a delicious Mexican meal—all with friendly guides like Carlos leading the way.
The tour’s balance of scenic drives, local insights, and beach downtime makes it a standout choice for those wanting a genuine, fun, and affordable way to explore Cozumel beyond the typical tourist spots. With consistent high ratings and positive reviews, it’s clear many travelers find this experience to be one of their favorite memories on the island.
If you love the idea of self-driving through scenic surroundings, discovering hidden gems, and relaxing at a charming beach club, this tour is an excellent pick. It’s especially suited for those who want a personalized adventure that combines exploration with leisure, all wrapped up in a fantastic value.
FAQs

Do I need a driver’s license to participate?
Yes, all drivers need a valid driver’s license to operate the buggy. Passengers, including kids from age 6, can ride along without a license.
How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 5 hours, including all stops, activities, and free time at the beach club.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour provider offers free cancellation, making it flexible if your plans change.
Is the tequila tasting suitable for kids?
No, the tequila tasting is only for travelers 18 and older, but kids can still enjoy the scenic drives and beach time.
What’s included in the tour price?
For $65, you get the buggy drive, visits to Playa Chen Rio and El Mirador, access to Playa Uvas Beach Club, lunch, and optional snorkeling.
Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, kids from age 6 can ride as passengers, and most of the experience is family-friendly, with the main requirement being a driver’s license for the adult driver.
This tour offers a fantastic balance of adventure, culture, and relaxation—making it a memorable day for anyone exploring Cozumel.
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