Tulum and Xel-Ha All-Inclusive Tour

The Tulum and Xel-Ha combo tour is the Riviera Maya's best value day trip, 45-minute guided Tulum ruins tour, then all-inclusive afternoon at Xel-Ha (unlimited food, drinks, snorkeling, zip lines). Tours cost $150-200 per person including transportation. You'll explore ancient Mayan ruins overlooking the Caribbean, then spend 5+ hours at Mexico's premier natural aquarium. Here's the complete guide from Tulum.

The Perfect Day: Tulum Ruins and Xel-Ha Park

One of the most popular combination tours in the Riviera Maya brings together two spectacular attractions in a single unforgettable day. The Tulum and Xel-Ha All-Inclusive Tour offers the best of both worlds: exploring ancient Mayan ruins perched dramatically above the Caribbean Sea in the morning, followed by an afternoon of aquatic adventures and unlimited food and drinks at one of Mexico's premier eco-parks.

Morning: Tulum Ruins Exploration

Guided Tour (45 Minutes)

Your day begins with a comprehensive guided tour of the Tulum archaeological site. Your bilingual guide will bring the ancient Maya civilization to life as you explore this unique coastal fortress. Learn about the site's history as a major port city and the significance of structures like El Castillo, the Temple of the Frescoes, and the Temple of the Descending God.

The clifftop setting provides breathtaking views of the turquoise Caribbean waters below, creating incredible photo opportunities. Your guide will share fascinating details about Maya astronomy, religion, and daily life that you'd miss exploring on your own.

Free Exploration Time (45 Minutes)

After the guided portion, you'll have approximately 45 minutes to explore the ruins at your own pace. This is your chance to take those perfect photos without your group, find quieter corners of the site, and really absorb the atmosphere. Many visitors use this time to walk down to the beach below the ruins for a quick swim or to simply sit and contemplate the incredible setting.

Afternoon: Xel-Ha Park All-Inclusive Experience

Arrival at Xel-Ha (11:30 AM)

After leaving Tulum, you'll arrive at Xel-Ha Park around 11:30 AM. This natural aquarium is one of the world's most beautiful inlets, where fresh water from underground rivers meets the Caribbean Sea, creating a unique ecosystem teeming with tropical fish and marine life.

Unlimited Activities

The all-inclusive aspect of this tour truly shines at Xel-Ha. Your admission includes access to all park activities and facilities:

Snorkeling

Xel-Ha's main attraction is its incredible snorkeling. The crystal-clear waters are home to hundreds of species of tropical fish, including parrotfish, angelfish, and even the occasional ray. Snorkel equipment is provided, and you can spend as much time in the water as you wish.

River Float

Drift along the lazy river that winds through the park, propelled by the gentle current. It's a relaxing way to see different areas of the park while spotting fish below.

Cliff Jumping

For adrenaline seekers, several cliff jumping platforms offer thrills at various heights. From the top platform, you'll have stunning views before taking the plunge into the refreshing water below.

Zip Lines

Soar above the jungle canopy and splash down into the cenote below on Xel-Ha's exciting zip line attractions.

Cenote Swimming

Explore freshwater cenotes connected to the main inlet, each offering unique swimming experiences and impressive rock formations.

Bike Trails

Complimentary bicycles allow you to explore the park's extensive jungle trails at your own pace.

Unlimited Food and Beverages

One of the best features of this all-inclusive tour is the food and drink. Multiple restaurants and snack stations throughout the park serve various international and Mexican dishes throughout the day. Buffet-style dining areas offer everything from fresh tropical fruits to hot entrees, salads, and desserts.

Beverages are also unlimited, including soft drinks, juices, beer, and some cocktails. Stay hydrated with purified water available throughout the park, and enjoy a cold beer or margarita while watching the sunset over the Caribbean.

What's Included in the Tour

Transportation

Round-trip transportation from most hotels in Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and the Riviera Maya is included. Comfortable, air-conditioned buses pick you up at your hotel early in the morning (typically around 7:00 AM) and return you in the evening.

Professional Bilingual Guide

Knowledgeable guides provide commentary in both English and Spanish throughout the day, sharing insights about Maya culture and the natural environment.

All Meals and Beverages

Enjoy unlimited food and drinks at Xel-Ha Park's restaurants and bars from arrival until departure.

All Equipment

Snorkel gear, life jackets, inner tubes for the river float, bicycles, and towels are all provided at no additional cost.

Admission to Both Sites

Entry fees to both Tulum archaeological site and Xel-Ha Park are covered in your tour price.

Pricing

Adults: $164.99 USD

Children (5-11 years): $123.74 USD

Children under 4: Free

Available Discounts

Advance Booking: Save 10-15% by booking 7+ days in advance

Three-Park Package: Save 20% when booking three or more Xcaret parks together

Practical Details

Schedule

• 7:00 AM - Hotel pickup begins (exact time varies by hotel location)
• 8:30-10:30 AM - Tulum ruins exploration
• 11:30 AM - Arrive at Xel-Ha Park
• 11:30 AM-5:00 PM - Enjoy Xel-Ha activities, food, and beverages
• 5:00-6:00 PM - Depart Xel-Ha and return to hotels

What to Bring

• Biodegradable sunscreen (required - regular sunscreen is not permitted)
• Swimsuit and change of clothes
• Waterproof camera or phone case
• Hat and sunglasses
• Cash for tips and souvenirs
• Water shoes (optional but recommended)

What Not to Bring

• Regular sunscreen (only biodegradable is allowed)
• Glass containers
• Single-use plastics

Tips for Maximizing Your Experience

Pace Yourself

This is a long day starting early and ending around 6-7 PM. Don't try to rush through everything at Xel-Ha. Take breaks, enjoy the food, and relax in hammocks or lounge chairs.

Use Lockers

Rent a locker (small additional fee) to store your valuables securely while you're in the water. This gives you peace of mind and allows you to fully enjoy the activities.

Arrive Hungry to Xel-Ha

The food at Xel-Ha is excellent and plentiful. Don't fill up on breakfast before arriving - save your appetite for the multiple dining options in the park.

Stay Hydrated

The Caribbean sun is intense. Drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially if you're consuming alcohol.

Explore Early, Relax Later

Hit the main attractions like snorkeling and zip lines when you first arrive at Xel-Ha, then spend the later afternoon relaxing with food, drinks, and quieter activities.

Why This Tour is Ideal

The Tulum and Xel-Ha combination tour perfectly balances culture, adventure, and relaxation. You'll experience the mystique of ancient Maya civilization, get your adrenaline pumping with water activities, and unwind with unlimited food and drinks - all in one well-organized day. The all-inclusive nature means you can truly relax without worrying about additional costs, making it excellent value for families and groups.

This tour is particularly popular with first-time visitors to the Riviera Maya who want to experience the area's highlights efficiently, as well as with families who appreciate the variety of activities suitable for different ages and interests.

Related Riviera Maya Tour Guides

• Tulum Ruins Complete Guide
• Xel-Ha Prices & Tickets
• Xcaret with Kids

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