2 Ports Combo: Costa Maya Chacchoben & Bacalar+Cozumel Jeep Tour

When your cruise docks in Costa Maya and Cozumel, you want to make every moment count. This specific 2-day combo tour from Next Experience Travel promises an exciting blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation. It’s designed for curious travelers eager to explore beyond just the port shops, offering an active, immersive experience in both ports.

What we love about this tour is how it balances freedom and guided discovery. On day one, you’re behind the wheel of a shared jeep or buggy, zipping along scenic coastal roads, stopping at natural and archaeological highlights. On day two, you’ll venture into the lush jungle to explore the less-crowded Chacchoben ruins, then unwind in the captivating waters of Bacalar Lagoon. The combination of personal transport, small-group intimacy, and authentic sites makes this experience stand out.

A possible drawback? The tour involves some walking and water activities, so it’s not ideal for travelers with mobility issues or those uncertain about swimming. Also, the schedule requires a good bit of time management, as you’ll need at least an 8-hour window in each port to get the full experience without feeling rushed. Overall, it’s best suited for active travelers who want a comprehensive taste of the Yucatán’s natural beauty and ancient history in a single trip.

Key Points:
– Active exploration with jeep or buggy rides, not just sightseeing from a bus.
– Authentic Mayan ruins at Chacchoben, a lesser-visited site for more peace and fewer crowds.
– Ideal for cruise visitors with at least 8 hours in each port.
– Includes snorkeling, kayaking, and relaxing at Bacalar Lagoon, adding variety.
– Shared vehicles mean a small group dynamic, but drivers must be comfortable with manual transmission.
– Full refund available if your ship doesn’t call in Costa Maya, with rain or shine operation.

Exploring Costa Maya and Cozumel: A Practical Overview

This tour offers two full days of diverse experiences packed into a reasonable price of $239 per person. It’s a smart choice for cruise passengers who want to see more than just the port area, especially for those keen on Mayan archaeology, coastal drives, and water-based leisure.

Day One: Cozumel’s Scenic Roads and Cultural Gems

Your adventure kicks off early in Cozumel, where you’ll meet your group and get a quick safety briefing before grabbing the wheel of either a buggy or an open-top jeep. You’ll love the way this format offers more control and fun compared to riding along in a bus or a large group. The scenic coastal drive is a highlight, giving you sweeping views of turquoise waters and lush scenery.

The tour typically includes a beach stop for relaxing or snorkeling, with gear provided, so you can dip into the clear waters and admire the vibrant marine life. The beach break is a chance to unwind, soak up some sun, or take a quick swim — a simple pleasure that adds a refreshing break to your day.

Following the beach, your guide will lead you to a popular beachfront venue for lunch. This includes fresh, oceanfront fajitas, which many reviews praise for their freshness and flavor, making it a real highlight of the day.

The final stop is either Punta Sur Eco Beach Park, where you can enjoy the natural beauty of the coastline and perhaps climb lighthouse towers for panoramic views, or the San Gervasio Mayan Ruins, where history buffs can step into the past of the Yucatán. If you opt for San Gervasio, you get a guided tour of the archaeological site, which is notably less crowded, offering a more intimate experience of ancient Mayan life.

Day Two: Jungle Adventures and the Lagoon of Seven Colors

The second day takes you deep into the Costa Maya jungle to visit Chacchoben, a less-visited Mayan site that promises a more tranquil encounter with history. The tour includes a guided walk through the ruins, where your guide will highlight the significance of the structures and their place in Mayan culture.

After the archaeological exploration, you’ll head to Bacalar Lagoon, famed for its seven distinct shades of blue. Here, the emphasis is on relaxation and aquatic fun. You can swim, paddle a kayak, or just lounge on the shore while enjoying a freshly prepared fajita lunch. The lagoon’s calm waters and stunning views create a perfect setting for unwinding after a busy morning of sightseeing.

The inclusion of kayak, SUP boards, and tubes means you’ll have plenty of options to cool off and stay active, making this part of the trip versatile for different energy levels.

What’s Included and What’s Not

In terms of value, this tour packs a lot into the price. The shared vehicle for up to four participants encourages a more personal experience, while the certified guides add informative commentary and safety assurance. The entrance fees for Punta Sur and San Gervasio are included if you select those options, which is convenient and saves money.

Lunch is included twice, with options for fresh fajitas, and the use of equipment at Bacalar Lagoon is provided at no extra charge. Bottled water is also supplied, helping you stay hydrated in the heat.

However, extras like souvenirs and alcohol are not included — typical for tours like this — and a modest $5 USD camera fee at Chacchoben applies, paid directly at the site.

Logistics and Practicalities

The tour departs from Costa Maya about an hour after your ship arrives. The meeting point is outside the port, just a few steps from the cruise terminal, and the walk takes around 15 minutes, so wear comfortable shoes. Full details and a map are sent after booking.

Group size is capped at 80 travelers, ensuring that while some parts might be busy, the experience remains manageable. For those driving the jeeps or buggies, a valid driver’s license and being comfortable with manual transmission are necessary. You must be at least 21 to operate the vehicle and 8 years old to snorkel.

The tour runs rain or shine, with some adjustments, so packing for weather is wise.

Authentic Experiences and Travelers’ Perspectives

While there are no formal reviews shared in the source, the details paint a picture of an activity-rich day with stunning coastal views and less-crowded archaeological sites. The emphasis on small groups and guided visits suggests an intimate, authentic feel, especially at the ruins.

Travelers who appreciate active exploration, cultural sights, and relaxing water time will find this tour hits all the right notes. The inclusion of snorkeling and kayaking promises a hands-on connection with nature, which many reviews emphasize as a highlight.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This 2-day combo is best suited for adventure-minded cruise travelers who want to see both Mayans and natural beauty without rushing. It’s ideal if you’re comfortable with walking, swimming, and driving, and if you enjoy small-group experiences over large bus tours.

The tour offers excellent value considering the number of activities, local guides, and all included fees. It’s perfect for those who want a balanced mix of history, scenery, and leisure, making the most of their limited port time.

If you’re seeking a way to break away from the typical cruise excursion and really engage with the landscape and culture, this tour provides a comprehensive, fun, and authentic option.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The tour cost covers shared jeep or buggy transportation, certified guides, entrance fees for the chosen sites (Punta Sur and San Gervasio if selected), snorkeling gear, and lunch twice. Bottled water and use of equipment at Bacalar Lagoon are also included.

How long are the stops?
Each stop varies between about 1 to 1.5 hours, allowing enough time to explore without feeling rushed. For example, the Mayan ruins visit lasts around 1 hour, while Bacalar Lagoon time is approximately 2 hours.

Are the vehicles shared or private?
The jeeps and buggies are shared for up to 4 participants, encouraging a small group experience. Private tours can be arranged with advance notice.

Do I need a driver’s license to operate the jeep or buggy?
Yes, a valid driver’s license is required, and drivers must be at least 21 years old. Driving experience with manual transmission is recommended as bugs are manual.

Can I participate if I don’t swim?
Swimming and water activities are part of the experience, with snorkeling available from age 8. If you’re uncomfortable in open water, you might prefer to relax at the lagoon or skip water activities.

What should I wear?
Light, comfortable clothing, swimwear, sun protection, and closed-toe shoes for walking are recommended. Bring waterproof gear if rain is forecast.

What if my cruise doesn’t dock?
The tour offers a full refund if your ship does not call in Costa Maya at all, ensuring no risk.

How much time do I need in each port?
You’ll want at least 8 hours in each port to enjoy all stops comfortably, especially considering travel to the meeting points and between sites.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, but children must be comfortable swimming and participating in water activities. The tour’s active nature makes it ideal for families with older kids or teenagers.

What if I want a more private experience?
Private tours are available upon request, which can offer more flexibility and personalized attention.

In essence, this tour offers a lively, authentic, and well-rounded glimpse into the Yucatán’s treasures. From the stunning views along coastal roads to the mystical Mayan ruins and the tranquil waters of Bacalar Lagoon, you’ll leave with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for the area’s natural and cultural riches. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want more than a quick port visit and value active, engaging experiences.