10 Best Private Tours in Cancun Mexico in 2024
Are you looking for the best private tours in Cancun, Mexico?
You’ve come to the right guide because I live in Playa del Carmen, just south of Cancun, and am here to share with you my top private tour recommendations!
A private tour is the perfect option for families, larger groups, and those looking to avoid the crowds and customize their own itinerary.
You’ll be treated to a more intimate experience with the option to go at your own pace and make stops along the way.
Plus, private Cancun tours often come with added luxury features like private transportation, upscale food and beverage, and top-notch guides.
MY TOP PICK
⌚️ Don’t have time to read the full article?
The best Cancun private tour is the Skip-the-Line Private Chichen Itza Tour + Cenote Swim with over 790 5-star reviews!
And in Cancun, there is a private tour option for every interest, whether it be snorkeling in freshwater cenotes, setting sail on a private yacht, or exploring ancient Mayan ruins.
In this post, I’m going to share with you the top private tours in Cancun including private snorkeling tours, private Mayan ruin tours, private boat tours, and more.
Ready to ditch the crowds and have a private, personalized experience in Cancun? Let’s get started!
Top 3 Picks: Best Private Tours in Cancun Mexico
Best Private Tours in Cancun Mexico
1. Skip-the-Line Chichen Itza Private Tour
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 790 positive reviews)
🕘 TOUR LENGTH: 7 hours
🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Check prices & availability here
Why book this tour?
A trip to Mexico’s Yucatan peninsula wouldn’t be complete without visiting the ruins of Chichen Itza, but it can be a hassle to navigate the crowds on your own.
This private full-day tour solves that problem with VIP skip-the-line access and private transportation–and is one of the best private Chichen Itza tours available!
Best tour imaginable! We had an amazing trip. Our guide was so knowledgeable and friendly. I can’t imagine a better tour is available. Highly recommend booking your trip now!
–Tim (read more reviews)
You’ll have plenty of time to explore the ancient Mayan city (officially a UNESCO World Heritage Site) with a licensed archaeological guide to explain its history and significance.
Plus, enjoy a private Yucatecan lunch at a local restaurant and a swim in Cenote Chukum–one of the most impressive cavern cenotes in Valladolid with cliff jumping and overwater ziplines.
What’s included in the Skip-the-Line Chichen Itza Private tour:
- Private tour with a professional archaeological licensed guide
- Early access to the Chichen Itza archaeological site to avoid the crowds
- Cenote swim at Cenote Chukum
- Yucatecan lunch at a local restaurant
- Local taxes & National Park fee
- Soda, bottled water, and alcoholic beverages
- Private transportation
- Round-trip transportation from all hotels in Cancun
- Snacks
- Free time if desired
2. Private Isla Mujeres Catamaran Tour From Cancun with Open Bar
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 350 5-star reviews)
🕘 TOUR LENGTH: 4-7 hours
🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Check prices & availability here
Why book this tour?
Located just off the coast of Cancun, Isla Mujeres is an absolutely stunning island destination, offering crystal-clear turquoise waters. The water is so bright near Isla Mujeres that it really should not be missed!
On this private catamaran tour from Cancun, you’ll get to set sail on the Caribbean Sea on a 32-foot catamaran with your own captain and crew.
Superb Sailing! Wonderful trip! Highly recommend! We were able to choose what we wanted to do and it was amazing!
–Pamela (read more reviews)
Plus, you’ll get to create your own itinerary and enjoy all of the best activities including snorkeling, visiting secluded beaches, and enjoying an open bar.
Be sure to schedule a stop at Playa Norte on Isla Mujeres, which is considered to be one of the best beaches in the world.
What’s included in the Private Isla Mujeres Catamaran Tour From Cancun with Open Bar:
- Private half-day catamaran cruise to Isla Mujeres (max 9 people)
- Private boat and captain
- Unlimited drinks (open bar)
- All activities
- Use of snorkeling equipment
3. Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres Private Tour
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 45 5-star reviews)
🕘 TOUR LENGTH: 8 hours
🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Check prices & availability here
Why book this tour?
Located just off the coast of Cancun, Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres are both gorgeous tropical islands with stunning white-sand beaches.
On this private exclusive island tour you’ll be able to explore both islands in one day—all with the help of a bilingual guide and private speedboat transportation.
While Isla Mujeres is undeniably beautiful, the real star of the show is Isla Contoy, which is an exclusive private island that only allows 600 visitors per day.
Best trip ever! Isla Contoy is a paradise and this trip is number one on the must-do list while you are in Mexico.
-Joanna (read more reviews)
And it’s home to the most beautiful beach in the entire region–it’s honestly the most jaw-dropping beach I’ve seen in all of Mexico! 😍
And a private tour is the most epic way to experience Isla Contoy’s untouched natural paradise without the crowds!
What’s included in the Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres Private Tour:
- Private speedboat to Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres
- Reef snorkeling
- Beach time on the islands
- Breakfast
- Soda, bottled water, and alcoholic beverages
- Caribbean lunch
- Private transportation
- Private bilingual guide
4. Private Tulum Ruins, Turtles in Akumal and Cenote Adventure
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 200 5-star reviews)
🕘 TOUR LENGTH: 7 hours
🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Check prices & availability here
Why book this tour?
This full-day private Tulum Ruins tour offers a unique opportunity to experience all the Riviera Maya has to offer – from exploring ancient Mayan ruins, swimming with turtles in Akumal Bay, and taking a dip in spectacular cenotes.
Highly recommend! Great experience. Was a lot of fun having the one-on-one with the tour guide. Would recommend getting the photographer as well.
–Steven (read more reviews)
You’ll have private transportation and a private guide for a personalized visit to the Ruins at Tulum, getting to learn about the ancient Mayan culture and enjoying the spectacular seaside views.
Then, you’ll head to Akumal Bay to swim with wild sea turtles before finishing off the day with a refreshing swim in a cavern cenote, unique to Mexico’s Yucatan peninsula.
What’s included in the Private Tulum Ruins, Turtles in Akumal and Cenote Adventure Tour:
- Guided tour of the Tulum Mayan Ruins Archeological Site
- Snorkeling with sea turtles in Akumal Bay
- Visit to the private Xtun Cenote
- Private transportation
- Use of snorkeling equipment
- Bilingual private guide
- Soda and bottled water
- Lunch
5. Private Turtles and Cenotes Adventure
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 235 5-star reviews)
🕘 TOUR LENGTH: 5 hours
🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Check prices & availability here
Why book this tour?
This private turtles tour will take you to Akumal Bay, known for its abundance of wild sea turtles which can be found right off the beach.
Turtle sightings are guaranteed on this action-packed tour with undivided attention from your bilingual private tour guide.
This tour was full of incredible memories from start to finish. Everyone went above and beyond to make it a great experience. We saw multiple sea turtles. Highly recommend!
–Jason (read more reviews)
You’ll also get to trek through the private Xtun Cenote, a stunning cavern cenote filled with other-worldly stalactites and stalagmites.
I’ve personally done this Akumal snorkeling tour with Ocean Tours Mexico and it was absolutely incredible!
What’s included in the Private Turtles and Cenotes Adventure Tour:
- Private sea turtle snorkeling in Akumal Bay
- Use of snorkeling equipment
- Visit to the private Xtun Cenote
- Private round-trip transportation with hotel pickup in Cancun
- Private bilingual guide
- Bottled water
- Snacks
6. Private 46 FT Yacht Rental in Cancun Bay
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 200 5-star reviews)
🕘 TOUR LENGTH: 2-6 hours
🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Check prices & availability here
Why book this tour?
Perfect for families, birthdays, bachelorette parties, and special occasions, this private 46-ft yacht rental from Cancun is the best way to celebrate your time in Cancun!
You’ll be treated to all the best amenities, including a private captain and crew, snorkeling equipment, and beverages.
Best best best experience of our trip! It was perfect for our group and we had the time of our life. If you are looking for a good time then book this excursion!
–Jaelen (see more reviews)
With the captain and crew ready to navigate, all you have to do is sit back and enjoy the scenic views and make some fun memories with family and friends.
Whether you want to snorkel with tropical fish or just lay out on the deck and take in the ocean breeze, this tour has everything you need.
What’s included in the Private 46 FT Yacht Rental in Cancun Bay:
- Private yacht rental (2h, 4h or 6h depending on option selected)
- Private captain and crew
- Use of snorkeling equipment
- Soft drinks, bottled water, and ice
7. Private Reef Snorkeling + 3 Cenotes + 5 Zip Lines + Mayan Lunch Tour
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 95 5-star reviews)
🕘 TOUR LENGTH: 6 hours
🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Check prices & availability here
Why book this tour?
Perfect for families, this private Cenote Zapote tour offers a unique combination of activities for an action-packed day for both kids and adults.
You’ll have the opportunity to snorkel in the stunning reefs off the coast of Puerto Morelos, a quaint beach town.
Then you’ll explore three different cenotes at Cenote Zapote, zipline through the Mayan jungle, and enjoy an authentic Mayan lunch — all with private transportation and a local guide.
We had an absolutely fantastic experience on our private excursion with just our family of 6. We have experienced 20+ excursions all over the world and this was hands down the best one yet.
–Justin (read more reviews)
I personally went on this tour and can’t say enough good things about Kay Tours Mexico!
It’s the ultimate all-inclusive private tour experience which means everything is included with no hidden costs.
Plus, all of the professional photos are included – in fact, you can spot me in many of the tour promo photos! 👀
What’s included in the Private Reef Snorkeling + 3 Cenotes + 5 Zip Lines + Mayan Lunch Tour:
- Snorkeling at Puerto Morelos coral reef
- Ziplining at Cenote Zapote
- Visit to 3 cenotes at Cenote Zapote
- Use of snorkeling equipment and wetsuits
- Bottled water
- Lunch
- Round-trip private transfers from Cancun in an air-conditioned van
- Professional photography
8. VIP Cenotes Private Tour
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 250 5-star reviews)
🕘 TOUR LENGTH: 6 hours
🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Check prices & availability here
Why book this tour?
This Cancun private cenote tour is the perfect way to experience the unique and beautiful freshwater cenotes in the nearby Riviera Maya.
You’ll have private transportation and a bilingual guide to take you to three different cenotes–Yal-Ku Lagoon, Cenote Xunaan-Ha, and the absolutely stunning Cenote Taak Bi Ha.
Definitely a MUST tour! Much better than expected. Jony was our guide. Very knowledgeable and friendly. Was worth every penny.
–Ronald (see more reviews)
At the cenotes, you’ll be able to snorkel, go cliff jumping, and participate in a variety of water activities.
Plus, this custom tour includes snorkeling equipment and can be personalized to your preferences. It’s perfect for families looking for a totally unique Cancun excursion!
What’s included in the VIP Cenotes Private Tour:
- Visit to Yal-Ku Lagoon
- Visit to Cenote Xunaan-Ha
- Visit to Cenote Cenote Taak Bi Ha
- Use of snorkeling equipment
- Expert snorkeling guide
- Private vehicle transportation from all hotels in Cancun
- Bottled water
9. Private Customizable Sailing Tour in Cancun
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 90 5-star reviews)
🕘 TOUR LENGTH: 4-8 hours
🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Check prices & availability here
Why book this tour?
If you’ve ever dreamed of going sailing on a private sailboat, then this private customizable sailing tour for you!
With your own professional crew and luxury Bavaria boat, you can set sail around the bay of Cancun or head out to Isla Mujeres for an unforgettable day on the water.
Amazing private sailing tour! Really friendly crew that took excellent care of us. Loved the privacy as we were able to customize the trip as we wanted. Totally recommend them.
–Dimitra (read more reviews)
Choose to relax on deck, try deep-sea fishing, or learn how to change the position of the sails.
But best of all, with this customizable tour, you can tailor the itinerary and activities to best suit your preferences.
What’s included in the Private Customizable Sailing Tour in Cancun:
- Private sailing tour from Cancun
- Private captain
- Professional crew
- Beverages
- Snacks
- Use of fishing rods
10. Discover Tulum and Coba Private Tour
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 230 5-star reviews)
🕘 TOUR LENGTH: 7 hours
🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Check prices & availability here
Why book this tour?
This private Mayan Ruins tour offers the perfect combination of history and nature as you explore two Mayan archaeological sites in Mexico — the Tulum Ruins and the less well-known Cobá Ruins.
Your private guide will share informative insights about the Mayan history of each location while giving you plenty of time to wander and explore the sites on your own.
Fantastic day, our guide was superb, incredibly knowledgeable, and considerate of our needs. The sites were fascinating, the service was impeccable. We’d highly recommend this experience!
–Sophie (read more reviews)
Private roundtrip transportation from Cancun is included in this full day excursion. Plus, you’ll have the option to experience Coba by bicycle or bike taxi.
What’s included in the Discover Tulum and Coba Private Tour:
- Guided tour of the Tulum Ruins
- Guided tour of the Coba Ruins
- Beachside lunch
- All taxes and entrance fees
- Beverages and bottled water
- Snacks
- Private driver
- Local guide
- Private round-trip transportation from all hotels in Cancun
What to Bring on Private Tours in Cancun
No matter the Cancun private excursion you choose, there are some essentials to bring along with you. These include:
You’ll also want to wear a swimsuit, bring a change of clothes, and don’t forget cash for tips.
Private Tours in Cancun: FAQs
Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about private Cancun sightseeing tours:
Some popular private tour spots near Cancun include the Chichén Itzá Mayan Ruins, the Tulum Ruins, and Akumal Bay, as well as nearby islands such as Isla Mujeres and Isla Contoy.
Yes, many private tours in Cancun can be customized to fit your preferences or specific requests. It’s best to discuss any customization with the tour operator upon booking.
The best tours in Cancun for couples are private luxury yachts and private catamaran cruises, which often have the option for a sunset sailing experience.
The cost of private tours from Cancun can vary depending on the activity, length of the tour, and level of luxury desired.
However, private tours often cost more than group tours due to the added convenience, private transportation, and personalized attention from certified guides.
Cancun private excursions that are great for families include private sailing excursions, private Mayan ruins tours, and private snorkeling trips.
The Private Reef Snorkeling + 3 Cenotes + 5 Zip-lines + Mayan Lunch Tour is one of the best tour options for families!
Conclusion: Best Private Tours in Cancun
Overall, private tours in Cancun offer a unique and personalized way to explore the beautiful region and all it has to offer.
From exploring ancient Mayan ruins to snorkeling in freshwater cenotes to private boat sailing on the Caribbean Sea, there are countless Cancun luxury tours to choose from.
The Skip-the-Line Chichen Itza private tour from Cancun is my top pick and really shouldn’t be missed when visiting the Yucatán peninsula!
From my experience, a private tour is definitely the way to go for a more intimate and customized experience without sacrificing your precious vacation time.
While custom private tours are more expensive than group tours, the added convenience and personalized attention is more than worth it!
Be sure to bring along all the essentials and discuss any customization with the tour company before booking. No matter which private tour in Cancun you choose, you will no doubt have an unforgettable experience!
