Cozumel: Island Buggy Tour with Mayan Cooking & Tequila Stop

Summary

Buggy rides, Mayan flavors, and wild Caribbean coastlines

You’ll zip around Cozumel Island in an open buggy with a local guide, hear Maya legends at ancient sites, sample artisan tequila at a lively hacienda, try your hand at Mayan cooking workshops, and soak up quiet moments on hidden beaches only locals talk about.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t really expect to start my day in Cozumel by squinting up at a stone goddess while our guide, Luis, spun stories about Maya Ixchel and fertility. The buggy was still warm from the sun when we parked—top down, hair everywhere. I could smell salt and dust mixed together. Luis had this way of pausing before each story like he was letting us catch up or maybe just enjoying the silence too. I liked that.

After that, we rolled over to My Mexico Lindo—a hacienda that felt both grand and lived-in. They greeted us with laughter (and a little teasing when I tried to pronounce “tequila” with flair). The tequila tasting wasn’t rushed; we learned how it’s made and why you don’t shoot it back like in college. There was a dance—colorful skirts flying—and I realized I’d been smiling for ages without noticing.

The drive along the east coast was louder than I thought—wind howling through the buggy and waves smashing against those weird rock formations at El Mirador Lookout. We stopped there just long enough for me to get sand in my shoes and watch spray leap through these natural “eyes” in the rocks. It’s not a cliff exactly—more like a wild edge where the Caribbean keeps trying to reshape things. There were stalls selling bright crafts; I bought a carved turtle for my niece (she’ll probably lose it).

Chen Rio was last—locals’ secret, apparently. Warm pools edged by stubby rocks, almost empty except for two kids chasing each other in the shallows. The water was so clear you could count your toes. It smelled faintly sweet from some flower I couldn’t name. We just sat there awhile, not talking much. Even now, sometimes when it’s noisy at home, I think about that quiet spot on Cozumel Island.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Cozumel Island and Mayan culture

• Visit Goddess Maya Ixchel monument
• Enjoy guided tequila tasting at Hacienda
• See natural rock formations at El Mirador
• Relax at Chen Rio natural pools

Top questions

How long is the Cozumel island buggy tour?

The tour covers several stops across Cozumel Island and typically takes most of the day including transfers between locations.

Is lunch included on this buggy tour?

The experience includes hands-on Mayan cooking workshops where you'll taste what you make.

Are there any age or weight restrictions for drivers?

Only drivers over 18 years old can drive buggies; weight limit is 130kg or 280lb per person.

Does the tour include pickup?

No hotel pickup is listed; public transportation options are available nearby if needed.

Is this suitable for families with young children?

Infants must sit on an adult’s lap; not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal/cardiovascular issues.

What attractions are included in this day trip?

You’ll visit El Mirador Lookout, My Mexico Lindo Hacienda for tequila tasting and dance, and Chen Rio beach pools.

Will we have free time at each stop?

You travel at your own pace without pressure; there’s time to enjoy each location before moving on.

What’s included

Your day includes use of an open-roof buggy to explore Cozumel Island with a local guide leading the way, entry to all scheduled stops like El Mirador Lookout and My Mexico Lindo Hacienda for tequila tasting and dance demonstrations, plus hands-on Mayan cooking workshops before relaxing at Chen Rio’s natural pools.