Cozumel: Private Jeep Tour Punta Sur, Mayan Ruins & Snorkeling

Summary

Drive your own Jeep in Cozumel with a local guide, snorkel Caribbean reefs, explore ancient ruins and relax at Punta Sur with lunch included

You’ll drive your own Jeep across Cozumel with a local guide riding along—stopping for Mayan ruins at San Gervasio, snorkeling off Chankanaab Beach Park, relaxing at Punta Sur’s wild coastlines, and sharing lunch where locals eat. Expect salty air, laughter over lunch, real stories from your guide—and moments that feel more personal than polished.

What’s the experience like?

“If you see a coati cross the road, make a wish,” Luis said as we bounced out of San Miguel in our Jeep. I didn’t even know what a coati was until he pointed one out — kind of like a raccoon but with more attitude. The air smelled like salt and sunscreen already, and my hands were sticky from the steering wheel (manual shift, so I had to concentrate). Luis rode shotgun, telling us stories about his childhood here and which beach shacks made the best ceviche. We passed painted houses and kids waving from bikes; it felt less like a tour and more like tagging along with someone who knew every pothole.

Punta Sur was wilder than I expected. There was wind everywhere — you could taste it on your lips — and pelicans just hanging out by the lagoon. At the lighthouse, we climbed up for that view (my legs are still mad at me), and Luis pointed toward Cuba over the water. Later, at San Gervasio, he showed us how to spot iguana tails in the rocks near the old Mayan stones. He told us about Ixchel, the goddess people used to come here for. It was quiet except for birds arguing in the trees; I liked that part more than I thought I would.

Lunch was at this open-air spot where everyone seemed to know Luis — he ordered for us in Spanish before we could even look at menus. The tortillas were warm enough to burn your fingers if you got greedy (I did). Afterward we tried snorkeling off Chankanaab Beach Park. The water was clear but colder than it looked; saw some blue tangs darting around coral and got salt up my nose because I laughed when my partner tried to say “pargo” (snapper) and totally butchered it. So yeah — not exactly graceful but definitely fun.

We ended up in El Cedral where old men played dominoes under faded banners. It’s not fancy but felt real — like people actually lived there, not just tourists passing through. On the drive back I kept thinking about that wind at Punta Sur and how different Cozumel feels when you’re driving yourself instead of being herded around in a bus. If you’re looking for something easy or polished…well, this isn’t that. But it sticks with you.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Cozumel's nature and culture

• Visit Punta Sur Eco Beach Park
• Take photos at scenic stop
• Explore Chankanaab Adventure Beach Park
• Tour San Gervasio Mayan Ruins
• Have lunch at Local Market
• Discover the town of El Cedral

Top questions

Can I drive my own Jeep on this Cozumel tour?

Yes—guests drive their own manual-transmission Jeep outside of town (about 10 minutes), with an automatic available by request.

Is hotel or cruise port pickup included?

Yes—pickup and drop-off from your hotel or port is included in the tour price.

What attractions are visited during this day trip?

You’ll visit Punta Sur Eco Beach Park, Chankanaab Adventure Beach Park for snorkeling, San Gervasio Mayan Ruins, El Cedral village, plus a local market for lunch.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes—use of snorkeling equipment is included during your stop at Chankanaab Beach Park.

How long does it take to get outside town before driving?

The guide drives guests outside of town (about 10 minutes) before guests begin driving themselves.

Are vegetarian lunch options available?

Yes—vegetarian meals can be arranged if requested when booking.

What’s the minimum age to drive or drink alcohol?

You must be 18 or older to drive or drink alcohol on this tour.

Is this private Jeep excursion suitable for families?

The tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels; children must be accompanied by an adult.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel or port pickup and drop-off in Cozumel, private transport by Jeep with your local guide riding along for stories and directions, bottled water to keep you cool, entry fees to parks and ruins like Punta Sur Eco Beach Park and San Gervasio Mayan Ruins, use of snorkeling gear at Chankanaab Beach Park—and a traditional lunch at a local market before heading back home.