10 Best Private Tours in Playa del Carmen Mexico in 2023
Are you looking for the best private tours in Playa del Carmen, Mexico?
You’ve come to the right guide because I live in Playa del Carmen and am here to share with you my top private tour recommendations for the most unique and personalized tour experiences you’ll find in Riviera Maya.
A private tour is the perfect option for families, larger groups, and those looking to avoid the crowds and customize their 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 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 Playa del Carmen private tour is the Skip-the-Line Private Chichen Itza Tour + Cenote Swim with over 640 5-star reviews!
And in Playa del Carmen, there is a private tour option for every interest, whether it be snorkeling in freshwater cenotes or exploring ancient Mayan ruins.
In this post, I’m going to share with you the top private tours in Playa del Carmen 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 Playa del Carmen?
Let’s dive in, starting with my top pick – this Skip-the-Line Private Chichen Itza Tour – the most deluxe way to see one of the 7 Wonders of the Modern World!
Best Private Tours in Playa del Carmen
1. Skip-the-Line Chichen Itza Private Tour
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 640 5-star 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 a visit to the iconic Chichen Itza ruins, but it can be a hassle to navigate the crowds on your own.
This private full day Chichen Itza tour is one of the best private Chichen Itza tours and solves that problem with VIP skip-the-line access and private transportation.
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
- Round trip private transportation from all hotels in Cancun, Puerto Morelos, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum
- Snacks
- Free time if desired
2. El Cielo Snorkel by Private Boat
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 85 positive reviews)
🕘 TOUR LENGTH: 4 hours
🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Check prices & availability here
Why book this tour?
El Cielo is a snorkeling spot on Cozumel Island where you can snorkel with giant starfish in unbelievably crystal clear waters.
This private El Cielo boat tour takes you there for a unique starfish snorkeling experience, as well as snorkeling at the world-famous Palancar and Colombia coral reefs.
Awesome experience, private boat is the best way to go. We’ve done group excursions and they were fine but the private tour was the ultimate experience. This company does it right and you can count on a great time.
–Beau (read more reviews)
Plus, enjoy fresh ceviche and cold margaritas on the private boat, with a maximum of 6 guests on board for the most intimate experiences–away from the usual snorkeling crowds.
What’s included in the El Cielo Snorkel by Private Boat Tour:
- Private boat tour of El Cielo and nearby coral reefs
- Stop at secluded white sandy beaches
- Use of snorkeling equipment
- Soda, bottled water, and alcoholic beverages
- Fresh ceviche
- Professional certified staff
3. Private Tulum Ruins, Turtles in Akumal and Cenote Adventure
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 100 positive reviews)
🕘 TOUR LENGTH: 7 hours
🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Check prices & availability here
Why book this tour?
This full day private Tulum Ruins tour gives a taste of everything the Riviera Maya has to offer–Mayan ruins, swimming with turtles in Akumal Bay, and cenote swimming.
You’ll have private transportation and a private guide for a personalized tour of the Tulum Ruins, the only beachfront ruins in the state of Quintana Roo.
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)
Next up, you’ll swim with wild sea turtles in natural Akumal Bay, and finish off with a refreshing swim in a cavern cenote, unique to the Yucatan peninsula.
What’s included in the Private Tulum Ruins, Turtles in Akumal, and Cenote Adventure Tour:
- Guided tour of the Tulum 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, bottled water
- Lunch
4. Private Turtles and Cenotes Adventure
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 130 positive 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 sea turtles which can be found right off the beach.
Turtle sightings are guaranteed on this fun-packed tour with undivided attention from your private tour guide.
We had an amazing experience – Our group was here for a bachelorette party, and they went above and beyond for us. Overall – I can’t recommend this tour highly enough.
–Jessie (read more reviews)
You’ll also get to trek through the private Xtun Cenote, a stunning cavern cenote full of impressive stalactites and stalagmites.
I’ve personally done this Akumal snorkeling tour with Ocean Tours Mexico and can attest to its amazingness!
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 from all hotels in Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and Riviera Maya
- Private bilingual guide
- Bottled water
- Snacks
5. Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres Private Tour
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars (with over 10 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 amazing tropical islands with stunning white-sand beaches.
This private island combo tour allows you to visit both in one day, with private transportation and a bilingual guide included.
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)
Only allowing 600 visitors per day, Isla Contoy is an exclusive private island with the most beautiful beach in the entire region–it’s honestly the prettiest beach I’ve ever seen! 😍
And a private tour is the most epic way to experience this 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
6. Private Reef Snorkeling + 3 Cenotes + 5 Zip-lines + Mayan Lunch Tour
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars (with over 70 5-star reviews)
🕘 TOUR LENGTH: 6 hours
🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Check prices & availability here
Why book this tour?
This Cenote Zapote private tour offers a unique combination of activities for an action-packed day for the whole family.
First, you’ll have the opportunity to snorkel in the stunning reefs off the coast of Puerto Morelos.
Then, you’ll explore three different cenotes at Cenote Zapote, zip-line through the jungle, and enjoy an authentic Mayan lunch with private transportation and guide.
Absolute best tour you’ll ever experience! They made you feel super safe in all the events during the tour and made it even more fun than imaginable. What a great experience.
–nina (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 – you can spot me in many of the tour 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 anywhere in the Riviera Maya
- Professional photography
7. Discover Tulum and Coba Private Tour
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars (with over 145 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 of the most famous ancient Mayan ruins in Mexico – Tulum and Coba.
Excellent day! Ruben was our guide for the day and he was incredibly knowledgeable about all of the different archeological finds at Tulum and Coba.We would highly recommend this combo tour!
–Sarah (read more reviews)
Your private guide will share informative insights about each location while giving you plenty of time to wander and explore on your own.
Plus, you can 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, entrance fees and handling charges
- Beverages and bottled water
- Snacks
- Private driver
- Local guide
- Private round-trip transportation from all hotels in Playa del Carmen or the Riviera Maya
🏝 Related Reading: 10 Best Private Tours in Tulum
8. VIP Cenotes Private Tour
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars (with over 210 5-star reviews)
🕘 TOUR LENGTH: 6 hours
🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Check prices & availability here
Why book this tour?
This private Playa del Carmen cenote tour is the perfect way to experience the unique and beautiful cenotes in the Riviera Maya.
You’ll have private transportation and a bilingual guide to take you to three different cenotes, where you can snorkel, go cliff jumping, and participate in water activities.
Definitely a MUST tour! Much better than expected. Jony was our guide. Very knowledgeable and friendly. Was worth every penny.
–Ronald (see more reviews)
Plus, this custom tour includes snorkeling equipment and can be personalized to your preferences.
What’s included in the VIP Cenotes Private Tour:
- Visit to Yal-Ku Lagoon
- Visit to Cenote Xunaan-Ha
- Visit to Cenote Tak Be Ha
- Use of snorkeling equipment
- Expert snorkeling guide
- Private transportation from all hotels in Playa del Carmen or the Riviera Maya
- Bottled water
9. Private Yacht Rental from Puerto Aventuras
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars (with over 125 5-star reviews)
🕘 TOUR LENGTH: 4 hours
🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Check prices & availability here
Why book this tour?
Departing from the marina in Puerto Aventuras, this private yacht rental offers the ultimate luxury experience in Playa del Carmen.
You’ll have a private captain and crew to take you on a private cruise for four hours, with options for snorkeling, paddle boarding, or just relaxing on deck with drinks from the open bar.
Book it! Amazing time on this cruise! Santos, Noel & Jacob are the most amazing hosts!!! It’s well worth it! The food and drinks were fresh and Santos was the best snorkeling guide.
–millicent (read more reviews)
On this Playa del Carmen private boat tour, you can even customize your own itinerary with the boat’s captain and crew.
What’s included in the Private Yacht Rental from Puerto Aventuras:
- 4-Hour Private Yacht Rental on a 51′ Sea Ray
- Snorkeling at Inah Reef
- Use of paddle boards
- Use of snorkel equipment
- Lunch
- Open bar with unlimited alcoholic beverages
- Private captain and crew
- Bluetooth sound system and Spotify
10. Private ATV Jungle & Cave Adventure
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars (with over 50 5-star reviews)
🕘 TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours
🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Check prices & availability here
Why book this tour?
Experience the jungle like never before on this private ATV tour with a knowledgeable guide leading the way.
Fantastic!! This is great for small groups of 2 or if you’re by yourself. Awesome experience. You spend more time on the ATV and the cave adventure was great! Quiet and serene!
–Julius (read more reviews)
You’ll also get to cool off with a swim in an underground cenote, unique to the Yucatan peninsula.
What’s included in the Private ATV Jungle & Cave Adventure Tour:
- ATV adventure in the Mayan jungle
- Cenote swim
- Helmets, bandanas, flashlights, and water shoes
- Professional guide
- Bottled water
What to Bring on Playa del Carmen Private Tours
No matter the 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 Playa del Carmen: FAQs
Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about private sightseeing tours in Playa del Carmen:
Some popular private tour spots near Playa del Carmen include the Tulum Ruins, Akumal Bay, and many different cenotes, as well as nearby islands such as Cozumel, Isla Mujeres, and Isla Contoy.
Many private tours can be customized to fit your preferences or specific requests. It’s best to discuss any customization with the tour company before booking.
Some private tours that are ideal for couples include private yacht rentals, private snorkeling or scuba diving trips, and private catamaran cruises.
The cost of private tours 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 and personalized attention.
Private tours 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 options for families!
Conclusion: Best Private Tours in Playa del Carmen
Overall, private tours in Playa del Carmen 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 cenotes and ATV adventures through the jungle, there are countless private tours to choose from.
The Skip-the-Line Chichen Itza private tour from Playa del Carmen is my top pick and shouldn’t be missed when visiting the Yucatan 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 they 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 you choose, you will no doubt have an unforgettable experience!