If you’re seeking a half-day escape into the natural beauty and traditional charm of the Mayan jungle, the Private Tour Tankah 3 Zip Lines, 3 Cenotes, Canoe & Snorkel Community offers an authentic and personalized experience. With a focus on eco-sustainability and community, this tour stands out for travelers who want more than just touristy sights — they want genuine encounters, delicious local food, and the freedom to shape their adventure.
We’re particularly drawn to two aspects: the exclusive nature of a private tour that allows you to set your pace, and the variety packed into just five hours — zip lining, swimming in cenotes, paddling a canoe, and enjoying authentic Mayan dishes all in one trip. However, a potential consideration is that this tour is somewhat condensed — if you’re looking for a more leisurely or extensive exploration, you might find the timing tight.
This experience is ideal for travelers who value customized, private experiences away from large groups and who love a mix of adrenaline, nature, and local flavor. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or a partner, this tour offers a well-rounded day of adventures tailored just for you.
Key Points

- Personalized Experience: The private nature means no rushing and no crowds — just your group and your pace.
- Diverse Activities: Zip lines, cenote swimming, canoeing, and authentic Mayan cuisine make for a full, varied day.
- Eco-Friendly Focus: The community emphasizes sustainability, giving you a deeper connection to the environment.
- Convenient Location: Just 30 minutes from Tulum or Playa del Carmen, making it easy to fit into your itinerary.
- Flexible Timing & Pickup: Early morning pickup options and a flexible schedule allow for a stress-free day.
- Great Value: At $194.99, you get multiple activities, a private experience, and homemade meals — a solid value for a half-day adventure.
Setting the Scene: What to Expect from the Experience

This tour is designed for those who want to combine adventure with authenticity. Starting from your pickup, you’ll head to Tankah, a small, eco-conscious Mayan community located just 30 minutes from popular spots like Tulum or Playa del Carmen. The journey itself is part of the fun, with the scenic drive offering glimpses of lush jungle and traditional villages.
You can also read our reviews of more private tours in Playa del Carmen
The Itinerary in Detail
Stop 1: Tankah — The Heart of Your Adventure
Once you arrive, the real fun begins. This community prides itself on sustainable practices, ensuring that your visit contributes positively to the local environment and economy. You’ll be welcomed into an area where nature and tradition are preserved.
Zip Lines
Prepare for three carefully designed zip lines that provide both thrill and stunning views of the jungle canopy. Safety is emphasized, so you can enjoy the adrenaline rush without worry. These are suitable for most travelers, and the reviews highlight the ease and help provided by staff.
Cenotes
Next, you’ll explore three cenotes — natural sinkholes filled with bright, clear water. These are perfect spots for a refreshing swim, a snorkeling adventure, or just relaxing with the stunning hues of blue and green around you. The bright colors make for picture-perfect moments, and the calm waters mean you can enjoy a peaceful float or a playful splash.
Canoe Ride
The tour continues with a canoe paddle through the serene waters of the community. Here, you’ll discover the flora and fauna that thrive in this environment, with opportunities for close-up wildlife sightings and tranquil moments afloat. The review from Lus_A notes that everything is “helpful,” indicating a smooth, well-organized paddling experience.
The Meal
No trip to this region is complete without tasting authentic Mayan cuisine. The tour includes a homemade lunch featuring traditional dishes. Travelers often find these meals to be a highlight — hearty, flavorful, and made with local ingredients. It’s a chance to connect with the culture through your taste buds, and from reviews, we know that the delicious food and tapas are genuinely enjoyed.
Why This Tour Excels

The personalized pace is a standout feature. As one reviewer mentioned, “We can choose the pick-up time and how long we spend on the activity. There is no rush, no group to follow.” This flexibility allows you to focus on what excites you most, whether that’s zipping through the treetops or floating lazily in a cenote.
Another big plus is the small-group or private format, which typically results in more attentive service. You won’t be following a large crowd, and your guide can tailor explanations or recommendations based on your interests.
On top of that, the eco-conscious community setting enhances the feeling of contributing to sustainable tourism, which is increasingly important for travelers. You’ll appreciate the effort to preserve this natural environment while enjoying your adventure.
The Practical Side: Transportation, Duration, and Cost Analysis

This tour runs about 5 to 6 hours, making it a manageable half-day experience. The pickup service simplifies logistics, saving you time and hassle. The price of $194.99 per person might seem steep at first glance, but considering the inclusion of multiple activities, lunch, and private/group service, it offers good value.
The tour is available daily from 7:00 AM to 1:00 PM, giving flexibility to fit into your plans. Since it’s a private tour, your group determines the pace, which can make the experience more relaxed and tailored.
The tour provider, Local Travel Mexico, has a solid reputation, and the free cancellation policy adds peace of mind, allowing you to reschedule or cancel up to 24 hours in advance without penalty.
Authenticity and Local Flavor

What sets this experience apart is the focus on community and sustainability. It’s not just about ticking off adventure activities but engaging with a local Mayan community that values its traditions and environment. The homemade meals are a clear highlight, offering a taste of local cuisine that’s often praised in reviews.
This tour is ideal for travelers who want an off-the-beaten-path experience that’s both fun and meaningful. It’s great for families, couples, or groups who prefer a private, customizable day rather than a crowded excursion.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Playa del Carmen
Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re in the Tulum or Playa del Carmen area and crave a balanced mix of adventure, culture, and nature, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for those who appreciate authentic experiences over commercialized attractions. The inclusion of delicious local food and community interaction adds a layer of depth that many similar tours lack.
However, if your time is extremely tight or you prefer longer excursions, you might find this half-day schedule a little brisk. Still, for a compact, action-packed experience in a stunning setting, it offers excellent value.
The Sum Up

This private tour offers a well-rounded, authentic glimpse into the natural and cultural richness of the Mayan community near Tulum. From thrilling zip lines and beautiful cenotes to a peaceful canoe trip and home-cooked meals, it balances adventure and culture beautifully. The private setup ensures you can customize your day, avoiding crowds and rushing, which makes it a compelling choice for travelers seeking quality and authenticity.
The focus on sustainability and local community adds a meaningful dimension, helping you feel connected rather than just a tourist. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, family, or friends, this tour provides a fun, memorable, and genuine experience that’s worth the price.
In essence, if you want a flexible, eco-friendly adventure with plenty of opportunities to relax, explore, and taste local flavors, this tour deserves a spot on your Tulum itinerary.
FAQ

Is the tour private or do I join a group?
This is a private tour, so only your group will participate, allowing you to set your own pace and enjoy a more personalized experience.
What activities are included?
You’ll enjoy 3 zip lines, visiting 3 cenotes for swimming or snorkeling, a canoe ride to observe local flora and fauna, and a homemade Mayan lunch.
How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 5 to 6 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity.
Is pickup included?
Yes, pickup is offered, and you can choose your preferred time, adding flexibility to your day.
What is the cost per person?
The price is $194.99 per person, which includes all activities, lunch, and transportation.
Are children or most travelers suitable?
Most travelers can participate, and there’s an emphasis on safety, making it suitable for a variety of ages and adventure levels.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour, and get a full refund.
What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, towel, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a camera — but most importantly, an appetite for adventure and authentic local food.
Is this tour eco-friendly?
Absolutely, the community emphasizes sustainable practices, helping preserve the environment and local traditions.
This tour combines adventure, culture, and sustainability in a way that’s both fun and meaningful, perfect for travelers wanting a genuine taste of the Mayan region without the crowd. It’s a chance to enjoy nature, adrenaline, and delicious food, all in a private, relaxed setting.
More Private Tours in Playa del Carmen
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