Cozumel: Private Jeep or Van Tour with Custom Stops & Pickup

Summary

Private Cozumel day tour with local guide, custom stops, beaches, ruins

You’ll shape your own Cozumel adventure with a friendly local guide—choose between Jeep or van, stop at Mayan ruins or bee sanctuaries, wander markets or relax on beaches. With pickup included and bottled water always handy, you set the pace—and find those small moments that stay with you.

What’s the experience like?

I was honestly a little nervous about trying to plan our own day trip in Cozumel — I mean, there’s so much talk about “doing it your way” but it’s hard to know what that really means until you’re there. Our guide, Luis, greeted us right at the port (he waved first — I always worry I’ll miss the sign) and immediately made us feel like we had all the time in the world. He asked what we wanted from the day and didn’t blink when my partner blurted out “bees and ruins?” So that’s how we ended up bouncing along in a Jeep toward San Gervasio with a bottle of cold water already sweating in my hand.

The air smelled like salt and something sweet — maybe those wildflowers growing along the road? Luis told us stories about his childhood on the island as we rattled past tiny roadside fruit stands painted in colors that almost hurt my eyes. At San Gervasio, he showed us how to spot old Mayan carvings I would’ve walked right by. There was this moment where everything went quiet except for some birds arguing overhead, and I just stood there thinking about how many people must’ve passed through here before us. Not sure why that hit me so hard.

Later, we stopped at a little market downtown (I tried to say “miel” for honey and got a good-natured laugh from one of the vendors). The heat pressed down but stepping into the shade felt like slipping underwater. We could have gone straight to Punta Sur or Chankanaab Beach Park — honestly, Luis would’ve driven anywhere — but instead we lingered over fresh juice and watched locals haggle over pineapples. It wasn’t rushed; nobody herded us back into the van. I still think about that slow hour sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Customizable private Cozumel tour

• Meet personal guide and driver
• Travel in modern van or jeep
• Choose preferred sightseeing spots
• Visit East side of island
• Explore Downtown and Municipal Market
• See San Gervasio Mayan Ruins
• Visit Mayan Bee Sanctuary
• Relax at Chankanaab Beach Park
• Explore Punta Sur Eco Beach Park
• Discover hidden gems off beaten path

Top questions

How long is the private Cozumel tour?

The private tour lasts 5 hours by van or Jeep; a 3-hour option is available for smaller groups.

Is hotel or cruise port pickup included?

Yes, pickup is included for your convenience.

What kind of vehicle can I choose?

You can choose between a modern van (up to 12 passengers) or a Jeep for your private tour.

Are entrance fees to attractions included?

No, entrance fees are not mentioned as included in this tour.

Can we customize our itinerary during the tour?

Yes, you can fully customize your itinerary with help from your local guide.

Is lunch provided on this tour?

No lunch is included; however, you can stop at markets or restaurants if you wish.

Are guides fluent in English?

Your guide will speak English or Spanish depending on your preference.

Is this tour suitable for families with young children?

Yes, infants and small children can join; strollers are welcome too.

What’s included

Your day includes private transportation in an air-conditioned van or Jeep with pickup at your hotel or cruise port, bottled water throughout the trip, flexible timing for up to five hours (or three if you prefer), and an English- or Spanish-speaking local guide who helps shape every stop based on what you want—whether that's ancient ruins, bee sanctuaries, markets, or beach time.