The perfect day trip with a little something for everyone.

When staying at Casa Xixim on Soliman Bay in Tulum, a visit to the ancient Coba ruins is a fantastic day trip that blends history, culture, and nature. This once-powerful Mayan city is nestled within the jungle and offers an unforgettable experience. Here’s a guide to help you make the most of your trip to Coba.

Directions & Small Towns Along the Way

The Casa Xixim concierge can support you in hiring a private driver for the day or coordinate a rental car to be delivered to the house for you. We recommend getting an early start to avoid the heat and afternoon crowds. Once you’re ready to go, start your journey by heading west from Soliman Bay. Take Carretera 307 south and follow it for about 20 minutes to Tulum. There will not be any gas stations past Tulum, so be sure to fill up before you continue on. At Tulum, turn right onto Route 109—a two-lane rural highway that will take you through a series of quaint towns—for approximately 40 minutes. If you’re trying to get to the Coba ruins on the early side, a wise plan might be to visit these towns on your way back:

1. Macario Gómez – a charming village known for its traditional Mayan culture and vibrant local community. Visitors can explore its artisan markets, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage. This is where we get our handmade hammocks at Casa Xixim.
2. Francisco Uh May – Continuing on Route 295, you’ll pass through Francisco Uh May, the second of the small villages. The markets here offer their version of woven baskets, ceramics, and more handmade items.
3. Manuel Antonio Ay – The third village is Manuel Antonio Ay. The local shops here sell more hand-carved figurines, macrame, embroidered items, and other crafts.

Exploring the Coba Ruins

The Coba ruins are a fascinating archaeological site, set within the jungle. Dating back to the 5th century, Coba was once a powerful city with over 50,000 inhabitants. The highlight of the ruins is the Nohoch Mul Pyramid, the tallest pyramid in the region at 42 meters (138 feet).

How long to spend here: Plan for about 2 hours to explore the site unless you opt for the full length tour. This allows plenty of time for a short tour or to just wander through the various temples, stelae, and the ball court.

Coba Ruins Fees & Amenities

• Entrance Fee: The general entrance fee to the Coba ruins is around $5 USD (100 pesos) per person.
• Bike Rentals: Since the site spans a large area, bicycles are available for rent for around $4-5 USD (80-100 pesos) for a half-day rental. It’s an ideal option for those who prefer a quicker way to explore the ruins.
• Pedicabs: If you prefer a more leisurely experience, pedicabs are available for hire, typically costing $15-20 USD (300-400 pesos), with the option of a guide.
• Amenities: The site has restrooms, a small gift shop, and shaded areas to relax. There are also some small snack stands for refreshments.

Bicycles and Pedicabs with Guides

The Coba ruins are spread out across a large area, so renting a bicycle or pedicab is a great way to explore. Bicycles are available for rent, allowing you to pedal at your own pace, while a pedicab ride with a local guide is a more relaxed way to see the sights. Guides offer fascinating insights into the history of the site and its significance to the ancient Mayan world.

Nearby Cenotes to Visit

After exploring the ruins, cool off by visiting one of the nearby cenotes. There are three options close by and tickets can be purchased for a few dollars at the Coba ruins parking lot kiosk:

1. Cenote Multum-Ha – A serene cenote known for its clear waters and peaceful ambiance. It’s a wonderful spot for a refreshing swim or simply relaxing in the tranquil setting.
2. Cenote Tamcach-Ha – Famous for its dramatic limestone formations, this cenote is ideal for diving or snorkeling.
3. Cenote Choo-Ha – A smaller, cave-like cenote that offers a peaceful swimming experience in a unique, enclosed setting.

Lunch Options

After a day of exploring, you have two excellent lunch options:

• Picnic at Cenote Multum-Ha – Let the Casa Xixim chefs prepare a delightful picnic lunch for you to enjoy at the shade structure at Cenote Multum-Ha. You can indulge in fresh, locally sourced ingredients while relaxing by the serene cenote.
• Coqui Coqui Restaurant – For an elevated experience, allow our concierge to book you a reservation at the stunning Coqui Coqui restaurant. Located in the town of Coba, this luxurious dining option offers refined cuisine with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients. It’s an ideal choice for a more indulgent lunch after your exploration of Coba.

A Scenic Stop on the Return Journey

On your way back to Casa Xixim, make a detour to Atik Tulum Park, a beautiful nature park located just off Route 109. This ecological reserve offers an opportunity to experience the region’s lush jungle and native wildlife. With well-maintained walking paths through the forest and bird-watching opportunities, it’s a perfect place for a peaceful stroll. You may spot colorful local birds, butterflies, and a variety of flora during your visit.

Atik Entrance Fee & Amenities

• Entrance Fee: The entrance fee is around $5 USD (100 pesos).
• Amenities: The park features well-marked trails, shaded seating areas, and restrooms for visitors. It’s an ideal stop for relaxation or a light hike, offering a serene environment to connect with nature before heading back to Soliman Bay.

This day trip from Casa Xixim to the Coba ruins combines history, culture, and natural beauty for an unforgettable experience. From exploring ancient ruins and browsing local artisan markets to cooling off in refreshing cenotes and enjoying a delicious lunch, it’s a perfect adventure for anyone visiting the region.

Coba Day Trip FAQ

How long does it take to drive from Tulum to the Coba ruins?
The drive from Tulum to the Coba ruins takes approximately 40 minutes, depending on traffic and the number of stops along the way. The route follows Route 109, passing through several charming towns.

What is the entrance fee to the Coba ruins?
The general entrance fee for the Coba ruins is around $5 USD (100 pesos) per person. This includes access to the main archaeological site.

Can I rent a bike or pedicab at the Coba ruins?Yes! You can rent a bike for about $4-5 USD (80-100 pesos) or hire a pedicab for $15-20 USD (300-400 pesos). Pedicabs can be a great option if you want to relax and have a guide.

What amenities are at the Coba ruins?
The site has restrooms, a small gift shop, and shaded areas to relax. There are also some small snack stands for refreshments.