Cozumel: Private Jeep Tour, Punta Sur & Beach Lunch

Summary

Jeep along Cozumel’s wild coast, climb Punta Sur lighthouse, snorkel & taste

You’ll drive your own Jeep along Cozumel’s wild coast with a local guide leading the way—think hidden beaches, Mayan flavors at El Pueblo del Maiz or sweeping views from Punta Sur Eco Park’s lighthouse. There’s time for snorkeling at Tortugas Beach Club and a fresh Mexican lunch before heading back. It’s relaxed but full—you might find yourself grinning behind the wheel.

What’s the experience like?

“You want to drive?” That’s how it started—me hesitating in front of this shiny Jeep Wrangler in Cozumel while our guide, Javier, grinned and handed over the keys. I’m not used to driving abroad but he just nodded like he knew I’d be fine. The A/C was a lifesaver (it gets hot quick here), but we rolled down the windows anyway. The salty air on the eastern coastline is sharp and fresh—different from home. We passed stretches of empty white sand at Playa San Martin, pelicans flapping low over the surf. Javier pointed out some little roadside shrines I’d have missed on my own. He told us about his abuela’s favorite beach snack—coconut with chili powder—and now I can’t stop craving it.

I didn’t expect to get so into the Mayan history at El Pueblo del Maiz (you can pick Punta Sur Eco Park instead if you want more nature). There was this smell—like toasted corn and honey—while we watched a woman grind cacao by hand. She let me try saying “chocolate” in Maya; I definitely butchered it and she laughed with me, not at me. Later at El Mirador lookout, the rocks felt warm under my palms and the sea below was loud enough to drown out my thoughts for a minute. If you’re doing a day trip in Cozumel and want something real but easygoing, this is it.

Punta Sur Eco Park is another world—mangroves thick as soup and bright birds everywhere. We climbed up the lighthouse (my legs still remind me) for that view: blue on blue forever. Then back to Tortugas Beach Club where someone was playing old cumbia on a speaker and there was this smell of grilled fish drifting over everything. Snorkeling off the shore was calmer than I expected—I saw these tiny darting fish that looked like confetti. Lunch after tasted better because we were tired and happy, you know?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Cozumel Jeep Tour and Beach Club

• Drive around Cozumel island
• Visit El Pueblo del Maiz Mayan site
• Stop at Playa San Martin beach
• Visit El Mirador lookout point
• Explore Punta Sur Eco Beach Park
• Relax at Tortugas Beach Club
• Guided snorkeling at Chankanaab area
• Enjoy Mexican lunch at Beach Club

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included in this Cozumel Jeep tour?

No, pickup is not included; tours start from a central meeting point in Cozumel.

Can I choose between Punta Sur Eco Park or El Pueblo del Maiz?

Yes, you can select either Punta Sur Eco Park or El Pueblo del Maiz as part of your itinerary.

Is lunch provided during the tour?

Yes, lunch with options like fajitas, quesadillas or tacos (beef, chicken or fish) is included.

Are drinks included on this private Jeep tour?

Purified bottled water and sodas are provided during the tour; one non-alcoholic drink is included with lunch.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes, use of snorkeling equipment at Tortugas Beach Club is included in your tour.

How long does it take to drive around Cozumel island?

The full circuit including stops takes several hours; actual driving time varies based on chosen activities.

Is this tour suitable for children or infants?

The tour is suitable for all ages; infant seats are available upon request.

Do I need to know how to drive manual transmission?

No; vehicles are automatic transmission Jeeps (A/C Sahara Jeep Wrangler).

What’s included

Your day includes self-driving an A/C Sahara Jeep Wrangler guided by local staff, entrance fees for either El Pueblo del Maiz or Punta Sur Eco Park (your choice), snorkeling gear at Tortugas Beach Club in Chankanaab area, purified water and sodas during the ride, tequila tasting if you’re curious, plus a Mexican lunch (with one non-alcoholic drink). Free Wi-Fi at the beach club helps you share photos before heading back.