If you’re planning a day trip to the Riviera Maya, the Tulum Plus tour promises a mix of cultural sights, stunning natural beauty, and plenty of opportunities for that perfect Instagram shot. This all-in-one package offers a chance to explore the legendary Mayan ruins, take a refreshing dip in a cenote, and end the day in Playa del Carmen’s lively Fifth Avenue.
What makes this tour particularly appealing are the knowledgeable guides, the beautiful vistas of the Caribbean, and the chance to experience some of the region’s most photogenic spots. However, it’s worth noting that the overall experience can vary depending on the guide and the time of year, so managing expectations is key. This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive, guided day out that combines history, nature, and culture without feeling rushed.
Good To Know

- Includes highlights like Tulum ruins, cenote swimming, and Ahau sculptoric garden.
- Transport, meals, and drinks are included for convenience.
- Group size and guides seem to influence the experience, with some reviews praising personalized attention.
- Extra fees apply for environmental protection, which is important to budget for.
- Not suitable for travelers with mobility issues due to the nature of site visits.
- Great for photo lovers and those interested in learning about Mayan culture in a scenic setting.
An In-Depth Look at the Tulum Plus Tour

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Transportation and Ease of Access
One of the biggest advantages of this tour is the round transportation from your hotel or meeting point. This removes the hassle of navigating the busy roads of the Riviera Maya on your own and ensures you start your day relaxed. The pickup process is straightforward—just be ready in your hotel lobby a few minutes before your scheduled departure, with a little patience for a 5-minute waiting window.
The Itinerary Breakdown
The day kicks off with a comfortable bus ride that sets the tone for an easy, stress-free experience. Depending on the logistics and operation of the day, the sequence of stops might vary, but you’ll generally start with a visit to the archaeological zone of Tulum. Here, you encounter the striking Mayan ruins perched atop cliffs overlooking the turquoise sea. The guided tour provides insights into the history and significance of the structures, making it more than just a photo stop.
Next, your guide will take you to the Ahau sculptoric garden, a standout feature of this tour. This garden is home to a mega sculpture called “Come to Light”, which has become an iconic backdrop for selfies and social media posts. Visitors often comment on how stunning and unique the sculptures are, and some mention how the guided commentary adds depth to the visual experience.
The Cenote Experience: Refreshing and Scenic
No trip to the Riviera Maya is complete without a dip in its famous cenotes, and this tour offers a visit to a crystalline water cenote. Expect to swim in clear, fresh water surrounded by natural limestone formations. Reviewers who visited mention that the cenote provides a refreshing break from the heat and sightseeing. You’ll need to bring biodegradable sunscreen, change of clothes, and flip-flops, as well as cash for any additional expenses.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyFood and Drinks: Tasty and Convenient
A typical regional buffet lunch is included, giving you a chance to sample local flavors. The tour also offers complimentary drinks such as water, soda, and beer, which are perfect for cooling down during the day. However, note that drinks at the restaurant are not included, and if you want to enjoy alcoholic beverages during the meal, you’ll need to pay separately.
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Additional Stops and Flexibility
A unique feature of this tour is the stop at the Tulum brewery for a photo in the “blue lyrics”—a fun spot for a quick memory snap, albeit with an extra cost. After all the sightseeing, the tour concludes with free time on Playa del Carmen’s Fifth Avenue, where you can stroll, shop, or simply soak up the lively atmosphere.
Value for Money
At $98 per person, the tour offers a solid value considering the all-inclusive nature—transport, meals, entry fees, and guided tours. However, there’s an additional fee of $45 USD for environmental protection, payable in cash, which is an important factor to keep in mind when budgeting. Some travelers feel the price is justified for the convenience and variety of experiences packed into one day, especially if you prefer guided excursions over self-organized trips.
What Travelers Are Saying: Authentic Perspectives

Review snippets reveal a mix of experiences but highlight a few common themes. Many appreciate the guides’ knowledge and friendly attitude, with one reviewer stating, “Omar, our guide, was professional and wonderful.” Small group tours seem to enhance the experience, providing a more personalized touch, as noted by another traveler.
On the flip side, some guests express disappointment, particularly regarding the accuracy of language options and the authenticity of the cenote visit. One French traveler mentioned, “The guide only spoke English or Spanish, and we couldn’t understand much in French.” Another reviewer felt that the cenote was overly touristy, describing it as a crowded park rather than an authentic natural site. These critiques underscore that while the tour offers a well-rounded experience, it might not fully satisfy those seeking off-the-beaten-path or secluded natural spots.
Practical Tips and What to Carry

To make the most of the day, bring comfortable shoes for walking, biodegradable sunscreen to protect the environment and your skin, and cash for additional expenses like souvenirs or extra drinks. A change of clothes is recommended after swimming, and light, breathable clothing will keep you comfortable in the warm weather.
Luggage or large bags are not allowed, so pack light. Since the tour is full-day, packing a small backpack with essentials is ideal. The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments due to the uneven terrain at the ruins and cenote.
Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This Tulum Plus tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive day out with minimal hassle. It’s perfect if you’re eager to see iconic Mayan ruins, take memorable photos at unique sculptures, and swim in a clear cenote—all in one accessible package. The inclusion of transportation, meals, and guides makes it a convenient choice for those new to the area or short on time.
If your goal is to learn about local culture with insightful commentary, this tour’s guides, praised for their knowledge, will likely meet your expectations. However, if you’re seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences or secluded natural beauty, you might find this tour somewhat touristy and crowded.
The value lies in its variety and ease of access. It offers a balanced look at what makes the Riviera Maya special—its rich history, stunning scenery, and lively atmosphere—without the need to plan every detail yourself.
FAQ: Your Quick Guide to the Tulum Plus Tour

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, round transportation from your hotel or meeting point is included, making the day hassle-free.
What’s the cost of the tour?
The price is $98 per person, which covers most activities, meals, and drinks. Remember the $45 USD environmental fee payable in cash.
Are meals provided?
Yes, a regional buffet lunch is included, along with complimentary drinks such as water, soda, and beer.
Can I visit the Fifth Avenue in Playa del Carmen?
Yes, after the main activities, you have free time to explore Fifth Avenue, but note that for hotels outside Playa del Carmen, this visit isn’t included.
Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It’s best suited for those without mobility impairments, as some sites involve walking on uneven terrain.
Are there options for language preferences?
The tour is led by guides speaking English, Interlingua, and Catalan. Some reviews mention issues with language, especially if a specific language was booked but not available on the day.
What should I bring with me?
Bring passport or ID, comfortable shoes, a change of clothes, biodegradable sunscreen, cash, insect repellent, and a small bag for essentials.
What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is this tour good for photography?
Absolutely. You’ll find plenty of scenic and cultural spots perfect for memorable shots, especially the Ahau sculptoric garden and the ruins’ stunning views.
In summary, the Tulum Plus tour provides a well-rounded, convenient way to see some of the Riviera Maya’s highlights. It’s a good pick for travelers wanting a guided, stress-free day of exploring history, natural wonders, and vibrant local culture. While it may not satisfy those seeking solitude or off-the-beaten-path experiences, its balance of value, scenery, and cultural insight makes it a worthwhile choice for many visitors.
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