turtles and cenotes tour

• Cenote & Nature

Swim with Sea Turtles & Cenote Tour

$ 169 USD -30%

Google: 4.5 - 17,870 reviews

4 and a Half Hours

Min 8 years old

Don’t miss the chance to discover some of the stunning natural wonders of the Yucatan peninsula. With small groups and personalized attention, this Cancun cenotes tour takes you to some of the area’s most spectacular locations where you’ll have the opportunity to explore a Mayan cenote, swim with Cancun sea turtles, and enjoy a relaxing lunch at an exclusive beach club.

What to expect on this Cancun excursion

Experience the beauty of the Yucatan Peninsula on this 4 and a half hour tour! Starting with a hotel pickup in one of our temperature-controlled courtesy vehicles, you’ll enjoy a bus trip with your small group to the historic Mayan cenotes.

Upon arrival, we’ll enter the cenote where you’ll get to see their natural wonder, complete with stalagmite and stalactite that has been forming for hundreds of years. After exploring, we’ll journey to our second location, Akumal, where you’ll be fitted for your snorkeling gear before hopping in the water to swim with sea turtles.

After you’ve had your fill of Cancun’s aquatic life in Akumal, we’ll end the day with lunch at Punta Venado Beach Club, a secluded hideaway where you can enjoy delicious Cancun dishes. Your tour concludes with a relaxing ride back to your hotel where you can enjoy the picturesque sights of Cancun.

Explore a magnificent underground Cenote

First, we start off in one of the region’s magnificent Mayan cenote, natural sinkholes that expose groundwater underneath, for a refreshing and exhilarating swim. Explore the underground natural pools with crystal-clear waters and awe-inspiring rock formations.

Swim with sea turtles in Cancun

Our second stop is the picturesque beach community of Akumal, a beautiful natural reserve and one of the only spots you can swim with turtles in Cancun. Its laidback atmosphere, natural beauty and abundant marine life provide the perfect environment for some of the best snorkeling available in the Mayan Riviera.

Joined by your informative guide you’ll have the opportunity to discover all the wonders that lay below the surface such as a huge variety of tropical fish, colorful coral and, of course, the Cancun sea turtles that call Akumal their home.

Enjoy lunch at the most secluded Beach Club in Cancun

Finish your day at our exclusive beach hideaway, Punta Venado Beach Club. Enjoy a savory lunch and some well-deserved rest and relaxation. A fantastic day in paradise!

What's included in this experience

• A/C land transportation
• Professional guide
• Entrance to the cenote, Akumal and activities
• Snack on board our vans (bottled water, fruit and crackers)
• Snorkel gear (mask, snorkel, fins) and life jacket (mandatory)
• Lunch at Punta Venado Beach Club

What do you need to know before you book

• Minimum Age: 8 years. Child pricing applies to ages 8 to 11 years.
• Not recommended for guests with limited mobility        
• Guests must be relatively fit and must be able to swim  
• For safety reasons, we do not recommend participation in any snorkel activity if you have respiratory problems, injuries, back/neck issues, heart conditions, or conditions that can cause loss of consciousness
• Round-trip transportation is included from select hotels exclusively for our guests who book their tours at least 24 hours in advance
• Please consider 2 to 5 hours of transportation for this tour. The actual time depends on your hotel's location.

What to bring

• Bathing suit under clothing
• Sun protective clothing
• Comfortable clothing and footwear or water shoes
• A change of clothes, sunglasses and beach towel
• Underwater camera
• Extra money for photos and souvenirs

      TURTLES AND CENOTES  

Turtles and cenotes.

$98 USD US$ 95

Discover the beautiful Mayan reef and swim with sea turtles. You will pass in front of Tulum Mayan temples and we will provide you with all the snorkel gear so you will be ready to meet the marine fauna. After snorkeling, meet the Mayan sinkholes where you can swim in crystal clear waters; you will see stalactites and stalagmites and then eat a nice Mexican snack. Half day activity.

  Duration: Half Day

Departure Days & Time Mondays, Wednesday, Friday and Sundays morning from Playa del Carmen, Riviera Maya and Tulum. Depending on the location of your hotel the schedule can change.

– Roundtrip transportation – Snorkel equipment (mask and tube) – Lifejacket – Entrance fee to the sinkhole – Water on board

Not Included

– Photos – Marine tax (8usd)

– Biodegradable sunblock – Extra money for souvenirs – Towel – Camera – Swimwear – Change of clothes – For groups, programs can be modified

– Children rate from 4 to 11 years old – Adults rate from 12 years old

▶︎ Activity Preview

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Private Turtles and Cenotes Adventure

From: $ 650

SEASON: ALL YEAR

Half day all inclusive tour sea turtle and three cenotes  from Riviera Maya.

Ideal for the whole family to spend some quality time together.

A memory for the lifetime.

Looking for:   Experience that will change your perception of  nature and introduces you to the magical Mayan world.

Difficulty level:   Easy

What to expect:   Beauty, harmony, great outdoor time, crystal clear water, true spirit of the untouched nature

Languages tour guide available:   Italian, English, Spanish, French, German, Dutch, Portuguese, Russian.

Adventurers: 1-4 PAX 5-9 PAX

• Description
• Reviews (0)

Product Description

Tour overview.

Safety and professionalism:

Our professional guides will make sure you enjoy every bit of your day. Information, facts & fun facts, all you need to know about this amaizng trip. Even if you are not so comfortable in the water / boat they’ll find a perfect way, just for you. We’ll make sure you feel safe, secure and happy.

Full snorkeling gear: High quality snorkeling equipment and a life jacket and a private professional certified guide always beside you .

Pick up – drop off: Transportation from and to any hotel is included. Depending on your location the tour will start 6:30 AM (Tulum) – 07:30 AM (Playa del Carmen) – 08:30 AM (Cancun).

What to bring: Hat or cap, sunglasses, shirt, swimsuit, towel, sandals, biodegradable ecologic sunblock, money for souvenirs, extras and tips. Smile and good spirit are a must. Included in the tour:

• Professional Guide.
• Round trip transportation with A / C.
• Comfortable boat equipped, with shade area.
• Full-quality snorkel equipment and life jacket.
• Snorkeling with turtles in the Mesoamerican reef in front of Tulum Castle.
• Visit of three cenotes, we snorkeling in two of them, and then we walk in the other one
• Water or soft drink.
• Snacks: water, soft drinks, sweet cookies and salty cookies
• ALL TAXES INCLUDED

PRIVATE VIP TURTLES AND CENOTES ADVENTURE IN MORE DETAILS

We pick you up at your hotel at the scheduled time and head to Tulum, during the transportation our guides will give an informative session about the day’s plan, the Cenotes and the marine biology of turtles.

Once we arrive to Tulum, we will receive snorkeling equipment and we will go to the reef where we will swim with sea turtles and admire the wonderful Mesoamerican reef, full of fish and wonderful colors. All in front of the impressive castle of Tulum.

After the snorkel activity you can enjoy a snack, either in the van, or when we reach the cenotes. Next, it’s time to go and discover the fantastic Mayan underground world on the way to  Chikin Ha , where we will visit three cenotes in the first two, we will swim in theirs crystal clear waters, surrounded by nature and in the other one, we will have a guided tour to discover stalactites, stalagmites, sacred plants and rituals of the ancient Mayans.

Throughout the day our guides will give information about the fauna and flora of this precious ecosystem, as well as their safety and complete fun.

We will return at approximately 2:00 p.m. – 2:30 pm.

More Questions? Check out our  FAQ

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Swim with Turtles, Visit Tulum Ruins and Cenotes

Tulum ruins, akumal turtles & cenotes tour.

From $125.10

"Great experience"

A full day activity well worth the money and time. Pick up at the hotel was on time and the van was clean and dependable.

General Info

What to Bring

Why With Us

Cenote Exploring

Family friendly, jungle hiking, ruin exploring, sea turtles spotting, about this tour:.

Tulum Ruins Tour Discover the Mayan archaeological site of Tulum, world-famous for its unique location alongside the Caribbean coastline. Built on a natural outcrop facing the rising sun, the stunning turquoise blue ocean backdrop makes this beautiful site one of the most picturesque in the world.

Snorkeling with Akumal Sea Turtles Afterward, we take a short 5-minute boat ride to the fascinating underwater world of Turtle Bay on a leisurely snorkel tour in search of 3 of the world’s 7 sea turtle species. Brightly colored tropical fish, spectacular coral, amazing rock formations, rays, and unbelievable visibility make this an unforgettable experience.

Explore the Mayan Cenotes Then journey deep into the subtropical rainforest of the Yucatan to relax, wander, jump and swim in the crystal-clear fresh waters of a massive “cenote”, and marvel at the thousands of spectacular stalagmites and stalactites that surround you at every turn.

Experience the flavors of Mexico!                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            Enjoy a variety of fillings, from savory carne asada to zesty vegetarian options, all wrapped in warm tortillas and topped with fresh ingredients and salsas. Experience the flavors of Mexico in every bite!

Tour Time Table

* Times can vary depending the conditions.

06:00 - 07:00 AM

07:00 - 08:00 am, 08:30 - 09:00 am, 06:00 - 8:30 am, cancel up to 24 hs before your tour for a full refund..

100% refund will apply in the following cases:

• If the service is canceled by the supplier. For example in case of bad weather and rescheduling is not possible. Due to illness, presenting a doctor's report.
• If the cancellation is made at least 24 hours prior to the day of the tour.
• If a date change is requested at least 24 hours prior to the date of the tour and a new date cannot be agreed upon.

50% refund will apply:

• If the cancellation is made after 5pm (local time) the day before the tour.
• If a date change is requested after 5pm (local time) on the day before the tour, and a new date cannot be agreed upon.

No refunds will apply:

• If the client does not show on the date and time of the tour.

Photo Gallery

About Cenotes

About the akumal turtles, about tulum, general tour questions, what exactly are cenotes, and why are they so special in the riviera maya.

Cenotes are natural wonders found in the Yucatan Peninsula, essentially limestone caves filled with crystal-clear water. What makes them truly remarkable is their unique geological formation and the lush environment that surrounds them. In the Riviera Maya, snorkeling inside cenotes is a highly sought-after aquatic activity due to the unparalleled experience they offer.

Are there any safety precautions to take when visiting a cenote?

When visiting a cenote, it is important to follow the safety instructions provided by your tour guide or the cenote's staff. This include wearing a life jacket if you are not a strong swimmer, using provided safety equipment such as flashlights and watershoes, and not touching or disturbing any of the natural features or wildlife in the cenote.

Which cenotes will we have the opportunity to explore on this tour?

Our exclusive cenotes, nestled in the heart of the Riviera Maya, are known as Ix Balam and Yum Balam. When we first discovered these cenotes, we were captivated by the presence of both large and small jaguar footprints in the area. This remarkable sighting inspired us to name this pristine cenote region after this magnificent jaguar family.

What is the average water temperature in the cenotes?

The average water temperature of cenotes varies depending on the location and time of year. Most of the time, the water in cenotes is typically cool and refreshing, with temperatures ranging from around 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit (21 to 27 degrees Celsius). In some cases, the water may be warmer or colder, depending on factors such as the depth of the cenote and the surrounding air temperature.

Is it necessary to wear a life vest during the snorkeling?

The use of a life vest, provided by us free of charge, is mandatory during any snorkel activity.

How is snorkeling in Akumal?

Akumal is famous for the sea turtles. Sea turtles have in common that they all enjoy warm and calm beaches, with plentiful seagrass and protected by a reef: this is just what Akumal Bay offers!  On our tour, we take you in a small boat just 0.2 mile/300 meters (5 minutes) offshore. Snorkeling above the seagrass beds gives you the best chance to see the sea turtles and stingrays. If currents and visibility allow us, we will take you also to the reef to observe sea fans and several species of hard and leafy coral. Snorkeling along the reef, you will come across shoals of grunts, blue tang, parrotfish, or butterflyfish.

What determines the sex of a sea turtle?

The sex of a sea turtle is determined by the temperature at which the turtle's eggs are incubated. In general, warmer temperatures tend to produce females, while cooler temperatures tend to produce males. This phenomenon is known as temperature-dependent sex determination (TSD). The exact temperature thresholds that determine the sex of a sea turtle can vary depending on the species, but in general, temperatures within the range of 29 to 31 degrees Celsius (84 to 88 degrees Fahrenheit) are most likely to produce females, while temperatures below 27 degrees Celsius (81 degrees Fahrenheit) are most likely to produce males.

How many miles do sea turtles travel?

Whether it is for migration reasons, for mating, or feeding, Sea Turtles can travel hundreds or thousands of kilometers before reaching their destination.

How many species of sea turtles are there in the world?

There are seven species of sea turtles, which are marine reptiles that need to breathe air to survive. Six of the seven species are found in the Atlantic and Pacific Sea. The flatback turtle is only found in the Western Indo-Pacific. Out of the 7 species of sea turtles that remain, 6 of them nest in Mexico.

Four of these species can be found in Quintana Roo – the leatherback turtle, the loggerhead turtle, the hawksbill turtle and the white turtle.

Unfortunately, all 7 species of Sea Turtles are endangered. This is due to illegal poaching and pollution. 

In Mexico, turtles are protected since 1990. Fishing, hunting, or poaching turtles is now a federal offense.

Where does the name Akumal come from?

The name "Akumal" comes from the Mayan, meaning "place of turtles." Each year hundreds of turtles arrive to lay their eggs in the sand and feed on the seagrasses. Adding to the allure is that it's home to three species of sea turtles: Green, Loggerhead & Hawksbill.

What to wear to Tulum ruins?

There is not any protection from sun or rain while walking around. It is usually hot walking around, so comfortable clothes, shoes, sunscreen, hat, glasses, and water are all good things to keep in mind. We offer, free of charge, umbrellas to protect you from the sun and rain in case of. 

How long does it take to see Tulum ruins?

The Tulum ruins are not that big. We take you on a 45-minute guided excursion to go through the Tulum ruins. After that you can use 15-20 minutes to go your own and take your pictures.

What happened to the Mayans in Tulum?

Tulum was one of the last cities built and inhabited by the Maya; it was at its height between the 13th and 15th centuries and managed to survive about 70 years after the Spanish began occupying Mexico.  By the end of the 16th century, the site was abandoned . Tulum was abandoned as European diseases and epidemics decimated the population . Archaeologists have evidence that the population was killed off by the Spaniards when they introduced Old World diseases into the area as a way to destroy the native population.

How did Tulum get its name?

The original name of Tulum was Zamá, which in the ancient Mayan language means "dawn”. Tulum was an important walled city that in ancient times was used as a port for an extensive commercial network since the terrestrial and maritime routes of the ancient Mayan people converged here.

Do you pick me up from my Airbnb or Private residence?

Yes, we will happily schedule your pickup from your Airbnb or Private Excursion. As soon as you arrive at your destination let us know your exact location. For some locations, we have special nearby meeting points.

Can I be dropped off at another hotel or location?

Please ask our Ocean Tours Team before booking if you want to be dropped off at another location. We will try our best to accommodate your request. We cannot take luggage like suitcases and backpacks on our coach excursion. We can accommodate you on our Private Excursion.

How safe are my belongings whilst on the trip?

We take all the precautions we can to make sure your belongings are safe; our guides will recommend the places where you can leave your belongings safely. Please take in mind that we can only take small bags with personal items you need on the excursion. In our coach, we cannot take suitcases or backpacks.  If you need to move from one hotel to the other on the day of your excursion a Private Trip will be perfect for you.

I have special dietary requirements – will they be catered for?

Please let us know at the time of booking of any food requirements or allergies and we’ll pass the information to our provider. We offer vegetarian and gluten-free options without any cost, but please let us know, as we need to know this at least 24 hours before the excursion starts.

Which language does my guide speak?

All our guides speak English and Spanish. 

We also have international staff, and we can offer our excursions on specific days with other languages like German, French, Italian Dutch, Polish, and Russian. If you want another language guide, please contact our customer service.  Spanish and English language is always available.

Can I skip the transportation and take my own car?

Although we recommend our hassle-free transportation from your hotel or Airbnb you can take your car and leave the car at a meeting point. In between the activities, we will take you with our transportation and after the excursion, we bring you back to the car. Please take note that parking fees are not included. Please contact our customer service if you want to bring your own car.

How many people can sign up for an excursion?

In our excursions, we create small groups so that you can enjoy the freedom of movement and be able to interact closely with your surroundings, as well as so that you can receive more personalized attention from our guides. This small size ensures that your group will not encroach on your personal experience. Most of our transportations fits 12 persons but some of our excursions involve boat trips, which may have specific capacity limitations.

May I tip the driver and guide? Is it obligatory?

Although not obligatory, it's standard practice in Mexico, and for many of our visitors is a form of thanks on finishing the excursion, always when the service and attention of these professionals have been as expected or has surpassed your expectations.

But we repeat, this is NOT OBLIGATORY.

Can people with disabilities participate in the excursion?

Our existing itineraries are not specifically designed for travelers with disabilities, but that doesn’t mean you will not be able to enjoy one of our small group excursions – it’s largely dependent on your specific needs and the location you wish to visit.

Some destinations are better suited for travelers with disabilities than others. Many destinations we visit lack accessible public infrastructure or facilities designed to accommodate travelers with disabilities, but we will do our best to arrange suitable alternatives where possible.  

You may also prefer to speak to our Customer Service and arrange a customized itinerary to suit your needs.

Do you offer photos from the snorkeling excursion?

Of course! On most of our tours, professional photographer will do their best to make your day with Ocean Excursions as memorable as possible. They carry top-quality (underwater) cameras and take high-resolution photos of both participants and their surroundings. You can view the pictures after your excursion and decide if you want to purchase them. The images are sold as a package, where you receive access to all the photos taken by your guide and our "Best Ocean Tours Excursions" collection folder, all of which will be made available to you via a link . The price for the photo package depends on the group size of your booking. For 2 persons the package is $66 USD and for 6 persons the package is $106 USD. Private Tours have different pricing depending on your group size  and tour. 

Can I take my (underwater) camera to the excursion?

You are free to take your own photos or video on tour with us, but we ask, while snorkeling, that your equipment is attached to your body in one way or another, for example with a wrist band. We do however not advise that you take your phone in a waterproof case, because it is generally not possible to operate it whilst doing the activities. At all archeological sites non-professional cameras are permitted at no cost. Video cameras GoPro tablets and selfie sticks have a charge which is paid directly at the box office upon entry. The use of professional photography equipment is strictly prohibited - including tripods. 

We do not take any responsibility of lost or damage photography gear that may happen on tour with us.

What to Bring:

20 usd per person.

Collected by your guide at the start of the tour. Due in cash with USD, MXN or EUR

Non-disposable bottle or thermo

Bring your own non-disposable bottle or thermos to comply with environmental regulations and enjoy an eco-friendly visit.

If your pickup is early, it is a good idea to bring some bars and snacks especially when traveling with kids.

Biogradable Sunscreen

Sunscreen, even biodegradable, harms the coral reefs and other sealife, please apply only on exposed skin, beforehand (in your hotel) and after water activities.

Change of clothes

We recommend to bring an extra t-shirt

Extra Money for souvenirs and tips

Credit card and cash payments

Official identification with photograph of the holder of the credit card with which the payment was made

or a readable copy of both sides

Wear lightweight, light-colored, comfortable clothing

Comfortable, lightweight clothes, and long-sleeved-cotton shirt

What’s Included:

Certified bilingual guide, potable water, round-trip transportation.

Round-Trip Transportation with AC

Snorkel Gear

Mexican taco lunch.

A flavorful spread of tacos, including vegetarian options, served with beans, rice, and zesty salsas, capturing the essence of Mexican cuisine in every bite.

Why With Us:

Important : Tulum National Park & Conservation of the Marine Fauna Fee ($20 USD per person) is not included in the price.

Our first concern is the total satisfaction of our clients!

Professional photographers team.

Our professional photographers' team will come with you on the tour and get the best shots at these fantastic locations.

We are Dedicated

We are dedicated to make your tour a memorable one. Our customer-centric approach aims to exceed your expectations.

We are Experienced

We have over 15 years of experience in operating tours as Ocean Tours started in year 2005.

We are Professional

Our guides are enthusiastic, experienced, and knowledgeable. The whole team will make your tour unforgettable.

We are Safe

Our professional guides are certified in First-Aid. Our transportation is very safe and comfortable, and our drivers are very experienced.

We are the Tour Operator

Every service and every part of the tour is directly operated by Ocean Tours. This is why we’re able to guarantee excellent and high-quality service. Most of the web pages you see are simply selling tours as a middle-man, providing little to no guarantee of quality, safety, or assurance. Here, you buy directly from the tour operator.

We strive to be the Best

We are rated excellent on Tripadvisor, Google, and other rating platforms thanks to our commitment to excellence.

We want you to remember your tour forever!

One professional photographer per group!

Our Guides:

Cesar (salad), make it a trip.

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Please be as specific as possible.

• Pay Deposit
• Pay in Full

There's a private version of this tour starting at $558.

Snorkeling in Cenote and Swim with Turtles

PRIVATE TOUR: For snorkeling lovers: Swim in a cenote and with sea turtles at Akumal bay. This private tour includes a delicious meal a la carte at a local Mexican restaurant.

• Pick up and drop off at your hotel with private air-conditioned transportation
• Experienced certified private guide
• Cenote entrance fee
• Marine park fee at Akumal
• High quality snorkeling gear
• Cool drinks in the van (waters, soda)
• Lunch with one main course a la carte and one bottle of water

Scroll down for all information & itinerary.

Seamless Booking & Free Cancellation

Book your tour now and if your plans happen to change, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours prior to the tour!

* Select your private tour option

• Snorkeling tour with Mexican lunch Snorkeling tour only (no lunch)
• Number of adults 2 adults (174 USD per person) 3 adults (164 USD per person) 4 adults (149 USD per person) 5 adults (145 USD per person) 6 adults (139 USD per person) 7 adults (135 USD per person) 8 adults (135 USD per person) 9 adults (135 USD per person) 10 adults (129 USD per person) 11 adults (129 USD per person) 12 adults (129 USD per person) 13 adults (129 USD per person) 14 adults (129 USD per person) 15 adults (129 USD per person) 16 adults (129 USD per person) 17 adults (129 USD per person) 18 adults (129 USD per person) 19 adults (129 USD per person) 20 adults (129 USD per person) 21 adults (129 USD per person) 22 adults (129 USD per person) 23 adults (129 USD per person) 24 adults (129 USD per person) 25 adults (129 USD per person) 26 adults (129 USD per person) 27 adults (129 USD per person) 28 adults (129 USD per person) 29 adults (129 USD per person) 30 adults (129 USD per person) Total for adults USD

For larger groups, contact us.

• Number of adults 2 adults (162 USD per person) 3 adults (152 USD per person) 4 adults (137 USD per person) 5 adults (133 USD per person) 6 adults (127 USD per person) 7 adults (123 USD per person) 8 adults (123 USD per person) 9 adults (123 USD per person) 10 adults (117 USD per person) 11 adults (117 USD per person) 12 adults (117 USD per person) 13 adults (117 USD per person) 14 adults (117 USD per person) 15 adults (117 USD per person) 16 adults (117 USD per person) 17 adults (117 USD per person) 18 adults (117 USD per person) 19 adults (117 USD per person) 20 adults (117 USD per person) 21 adults (117 USD per person) 22 adults (117 USD per person) 23 adults (117 USD per person) 24 adults (117 USD per person) 25 adults (117 USD per person) 26 adults (117 USD per person) 27 adults (117 USD per person) 28 adults (117 USD per person) 29 adults (117 USD per person) 30 adults (117 USD per person) Total for adults USD
• 0 1 kid (129 USD per kid) 2 kids (129 USD per kid) 3 kids (129 USD per kid) 4 kids (129 USD per kid) 5 kids (129 USD per kid) 6 kids (129 USD per kid) 7 kids (129 USD per kid) 8 kids (129 USD per kid) 9 kids (129 USD per kid) 10 kids (129 USD per kid) Total for kids USD
• 0 1 kid (117 USD per kid) 2 kids (117 USD per kid) 3 kids (117 USD per kid) 4 kids (117 USD per kid) 5 kids (117 USD per kid) 6 kids (117 USD per kid) 7 kids (117 USD per kid) 8 kids (117 USD per kid) 9 kids (117 USD per kid) 10 kids (117 USD per kid) Total for kids USD
• 0 1 kid (50 USD per kid) 2 kids (50 USD per kid) 3 kids (50 USD per kid) 4 kids (50 USD per kid) 5 kids (50 USD per kid) 6 kids (50 USD per kid) Total for kids USD
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• Select your hotel Not on the list Condo / Rental ACANTO HOTEL & SUITES AHAU TULUM AKUMAL BAY – BEACH &WELLNESS RESORT AKUMAL CARIBE ALDEA THAI LUXURY HOTEL ALL RITMO ALLEGRO PLAYACAR ALOFT CANCUN ALOFT PLAYA DEL CARMEN ALOFT TULUM AMANSALA ANA Y JOSE ANDAZ MAYAKOBA AQUAMARINA BEACH ARTISAN THE HANDMADE AZUL BEACH RIVIERA CANCUN AZUL SENSATORI AZULIK BANYAN TREE MAYAKOBA BARCELO COSTA CANCUN BARCELO MAYA BEACH BARCELO MAYA CARIBE BARCELO MAYA COLONIAL BARCELO MAYA PALACE BARCELO MAYA TROPICAL BARCELO RIVIERA MAYA BARCELO TUCANCUN BEACH BARDO TULUM BAY VIEW PUERTO FINO BE PLAYA BE TULUM BEACH PALACE BEACH SCAPE KIN HA BELMONT MAROMA BLUE BAY GRAND ESMERALDA BLUE DIAMOND BREATHLESS RIVIERA CANCUN BSEA CANCUN PLAZA HOTEL CABANAS COPAL CABANAS LA LUNA CABANAS PLAYA CONDESA CABANAS TULUM CALALUNA CALETA TANKAH HOTEL CANCUN BAY RESORT CARMEN HOTEL CASA MAGNA MARRIOTT CASA MIRAMAR CASA VIOLETA CATALONIA PLAYA MAROMA CATALONIA RIVIERA MAYA CATALONIA ROYAL TULUM CATALONIA YUCATAN BEACH CHABLE 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Recommended pick up time from your hotel to avoid heat & crowds.

• 07:00 07:30 08:00 08:30 09:00 09:30 10:00
• 07:30 08:00 08:30 09:00 09:30 10:00
• 07:30 07:45 08:00 08:30 09:00 09:30 10:00
• 07:45 08:00 08:15 08:30 08:45 09:00 09:30 10:00
• 08:00 08:15 08:30 08:45 09:00 09:30 10:00

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• Description

General info

Price includes, what to bring.

• Reviews (81)

Snorkeling in Cenote and Swim with Turtles Private Tour

The ideal snorkeling tour gathering swimming in the ocean and in a cenote! This private snorkeling tour offers an amazing experience that is perfect for families, kids and group of friends. With this private tour, you will receive the opportunity to snorkel right alongside the gentle giant of the ocean, the green sea turtle. After a dip in the ocean, our guides will transport you to the cenote you have chosen for a different snorkeling experience. You have the luxury of picking any cenote on our list. We have a variety of spots that embody a cave experience or that of a natural, open cenote.

While snorkeling alongside a sea turtle may seem extreme, they are some of the gentlest creatures in the ocean. They are truly majestic creatures that guide through the water with ease. Also, if you get lucky, you will be able to see a few stingrays swimming just above the ocean floor. Again, don’t worry, these animals are harmless.

Moving from the ocean to a smaller body of water in the jungle, the cenote. No matter what cenote you choose, you are sure to experience a fun-filled day. Every cenote is unique. As you snorkel through the water, you will see beautiful formations and landscapes you have likely never before seen.

This tour is completely adaptable for snorkelers of all ages and skill level. Our guides will play to your strengths and are happy to provide snorkeling tips. Any and all equipment you need will be provided by your guides. We will end the tour with a great lunch at a local Mexican restaurant before bringing you back to your hotel.

We hope that you will join us on our swim with turtle tour partnered with snorkeling in a cenote. We know you will have a memorable experience!

• Private Tour: Only you, the guide and the driver, nobody else!
• Duration:  6 hours
• Physicality:  Easy
• Age:  All ages
• Snorkeling:  Basic swimming skills required. This excursion suits everyone from novices to experts.
• Swim with turtles: Absolute Adventure is working with a local cooperative according to the Mexican law. (Consult  Akumal Swim with Turtles regulation .) In the event of the port being closed by the authorities making swimming with the turtles unauthorized, the tour will be amended to the 2 Cenotes tour and the price adjusted accordingly.
• What’s on the menu? Selection of quesadillas, tacos, empanadas, salbutes, fajitas, grilled chicken, grilled fish, tortas (sandwiches), soup of day, … with vegetarian, fish, shrimp, chicken & meat options. With corn or flour tortillas. We can accommodate special diets and allergies, just let us know!
• Mobility:  We can adapt this tour for people with disability.
• Pick up and drop off at your hotel with private air-conditioned transportation (Booster car seat and baby car seat available on request)
• All entrance fees
• Akumal bay cooperative fee and CONAP fee (mandatory)
• High quality snorkeling gear (mask, snorkel, wetsuits, life jackets)
• Lunch in a restaurant with one main course a la carte and one bottle of water

Price excludes

• Extra drinks at the restaurant

Our tours are scheduled at the best hours to avoid high traffic and heat on the sites.

07:45am: Transportation from your hotel to Akumal 08:30am – 09:30am: Snorkeling with turtles 09:30am – 10:00am: Transportation 10:00am – 11:00pm: Snorkeling in cenote 11:00am – 12:00pm: Lunch in a restaurant 12:00pm – 01:00pm: Transportation to your hotel

Itinerary is based on a departure from Playa del Carmen. Pick up time is recommended time to avoid the crowds. We can leave later if you want to.

• Beach Towels
• Swimsuit (We recommend wearing it in the morning and feel free to change after snorkeling activities)
• Flip flops or sandals for water activities (Water shoes are optional but can be worn for added comfort)
• Hat and sunglasses
• Sunscreen and we recommend wearing a rash-guard/UV-Shirt for water activities*
• Mosquito repellent*
• Camera/Underwater camera/Waterproof case for your phone
• Cash (for tour payment, tips, souvenirs…)

  * It is forbidden to apply sunblock and repellent before swimming or snorkeling activities to prevent water pollution in the cenotes and preserve the reefs, even if they are biodegradable products. Compliance with this rule is essential for the protection of the environment.   You can bring personal belongings you require during the tour (phone, camera, extra set of clothes…). While you are visiting or snorkeling you can leave the things you don’t need in the van. Our driver will always be in the van, so keeping your things safe!

81 reviews for Snorkeling in Cenote and Swim with Turtles

Chelsey – April 3, 2024

Amazing experience! Fantastic tour. Our guide Joshua was amazing, the cenote (stalagmites and stalagmites was the highlight of our entire trip. Highly recommend Absolute adventure private tours, we passed by large tour groups that looked miserable, but these guys handled everything so we had absolutely nothing to worry about but hearing the history and stories of the area. 10/10!

Krishnan – March 19, 2024

Excellent service. Highly recommend !!

Julie – March 11, 2024

Family of 6 adults and we had a great time, saw lots of turtles, rays and even squid. Arrived just before it started getting busy. After the snorkelling we went to a cave cenote which was simply stunning. We loved swimming g about in the fresh water cave. Great day out and would highly recommend m. Booking super simple, communication great, nice air cones van and super friendly tour guide Juan who took care of everything..

Kmnicholetti48 – February 13, 2024

We had the best time on our private tour! Juan was the absolute best tour guide! Very friendly and knowledgeable. We had the best day with him. So warm and welcoming to the point where it was almost like we had been friends for a long time! We saw lots of sea turtles and wildlife. The cenote was stunning and the lunch was absolutely delicious! Juan made sure we were safe and comfortable the whole time and never at any point did anything feel rushed, it was quite relaxing. Omar the driver kept got us to our destination safely and was very friendly. I would 1000% recommend Juan and Omar as your tour team. Everyone should book with this amazing tour company. I am going to tell everyone I know about this. We had a blast that was unforgettable. Whenever we come back to Mexico, we will be doing another tour for sure!

Jill – February 8, 2024

It was an all around wonderful experience. Juan and Gregorio were excellent and I would highly recommend them. It was a perfect day.

Emer – February 2, 2024

Absolutely amazing – Arturo and Gregorio were fantastic! They were right on time, moved us from activity to activity promptly while giving us plenty of time to enjoy the day, and are clearly well liked and respected by everyone we encountered. Arturo was so wonderful, funny, and kind. Highly knowledgeable about the cenotes and encouraged us to explore the beautiful sites fully. Would recommend to anyone looking for a group tour service!

Morgan – February 2, 2024

Very organized and enjoyable experience! We went snorkeling and swimming with turtles, swam in a cenote, and had an authentic Mexican lunch. We had Arturo as our guide and we received a private ride from our Airbnb directly to each activity. He educated us on history, safety, and the wildlife in the area; I highly recommend this company and our group of 8 had an amazing time!

David – January 13, 2024

Absolut fabulous day out!

Bill – December 18, 2023

Excellent tour of turtle snorkling tour. Saw sea turtles, sting rays. Then on to the cenotes. Beautiful caves. Our tour guide Joshua was five star. He was so knowledgeable about the history of the area and nature. Gojo was our driver and was an excellent guide. They were both patient and we never felt rushed.

Renee – October 31, 2023

Best day ever! This excursion was undoubtedly one of the highlights of our trip, providing my sisters and me with a fantastic private experience. The tour operators exhibited excellent organization, offering all the necessary information well in advance so we were well-prepared before departure. At 7:30 am sharp, they picked us up at our hotel in a private van, and a 35-minute ride took us to our first destination. Our tour guide, Joshua, equipped us with life vests and snorkel masks, and we soon found ourselves in the ocean, swimming out to observe sea turtles. We had the pleasure of spotting four sea turtles, along with starfish, barracuda, and a stingray. While it was amazing to see the sea turtles, it’s important to note that this part of the tour requires strong swimming skills. For our next stop, we had the option to choose from one of four cenotes. Following Joshua’s recommendation, we visited Cenote Nicte-Ha, which was truly breathtaking. Joshua’s expertise proved invaluable as the cenote was a marvel to behold. The cold yet refreshing water, combined with the stunning surroundings, left us in awe. Joshua even kindly took photos of my sisters and me, capturing the moment perfectly. We could have easily spent the entire day at the cenote; it was that remarkable. After our cenote adventure, we indulged in a delicious Mexican lunch, with a selection of six different entrees and soft drinks. This day was nothing short of perfection, and by 12:30 pm, we were back at our Tulum hotel. This tour was exceptional, and I can’t wait to experience it again when I return to Tulum.

Jane – October 15, 2023

Stunning turtles and bright blue cenote Juan was the perfect tour guide – so knowledgeable about Mexican history and also really helpful answering extra questions we had about our trip. We loved getting to know him. The experience might seem expensive, but you get a lot for your money – barely anyone at the beautiful cenote, and would recommend the early turtle swim as that was also uncrowded and very special. You can see turtles, sting rays and starfish close up as well as coral. Lunch was also delicious in a great local spot. If you want to get a lot out of your morning, would highly recommend this tour. Thanks so much to our driver too, and all the lovely people we met!

Rachel – October 9, 2023

Rodrigo (driver) and Alex (guide) were both amazing and we had such a great time with them. It was truly the highlight of our trip. They taught us so much about the area and made us feel well cared for. Could not recommend the tour or the employees enough!

Hayley – October 2, 2023

Amazing Experience My son and I went on this trip as he had always wanted to swim with turtles. We were very lucky to have Juan (JJ) again for this trip. We were greeted with a smile and it was lovely to have the same guide. Again we arrived at Akumel early before all the crowds and we were handed over to our turtle expert Israel. He took us out just the two of us to where the turtles were. He looked after us especially me as I was a little nervous about snorkelling. Also I had my iPhone in a plastic underwater case. He put me at ease that the phone case would be up to the job and took all our lovely videos and photos, which we will treasure forever. We were lucky to see Turtles including an albino one which are very rare, also saw a puffer fish and baby squid and also a reef with lots of beautiful coral and fish! It was lovely to have the sea and turtles to ourselves and when we got out of the sea the crowds of people arrived! JJ then took care of tipping Israel for us for an excellent job. We then headed to a cenote JJ gave us a choice and we headed for an underground cenote. The steps were very narrow to enter but he looked after us both. He then took us snorkelling in the cenote and took some lovely video and photos for us including the bats!!! Would definitely recommended this private tour and JJ who was lovely and patient too.

Chris – August 28, 2023

Perfect day out! We have just spent a fantastic morning with Juan our guide and Carlos our driver, an early pick up to avoid the crowds, we spent over 40 minutes in the water at akumal and saw lots of turtles then swam in an open Cenote which was amazing, followed by a lovely lunch at a friendly local restaurant, the tacos were awesome, let Juan order your food, our son has autism and adhd so tours can be difficult sometimes, Juan took it all in his stride adapting the timings to suit our needs, he even kept josh entertained whilst myself and my wife enjoyed the Cenote swim, we will definitely use them again

Melissa – August 9, 2023

We had an amazing experience today on our tour with Arturo and Carlos! It was so nice having Carlos driving and Arturo as the tour guide to talk with in the van! Arturo was very welcoming, warm and inviting and took very good care of us! He was very patient with our kids and was a wealth of local knowledge! The experience of Akumal and the Cenote was perfect, we loved every minute of our time on this tour! Book now, don’t wait!! We will be returning customers!

Tracey – July 30, 2023

Excellent! Grear trip that was so much better than a group trip… private was indeed private. Joshua was a great guide & even had lunch with us which allowed us to hear more about Mexican culture… Apologies but I’ve forgotten the drivers name – but he was exceptional also – with drinks on hand after each stop!!! A brilliant day … much recommended.

Beth – May 25, 2023

We had the loveliest day snorkeling with the turtles and enjoying swimming in a cenote. Alex was wonderful! He was so informative explaining much about the area, history, culture etc. He was so pleasant and accommodating as well, answering any questions we had. He truly made the day extra special. We saw turtles in Akumel and many fish in the reef. We were fortunate enough to have the cenote to ourselves and immensely enjoyed the beauty and relaxing time snorkeling there as well. After, was a delicious lunch at a local family run restaurant. All in all, an exceptional day!

Christina – May 18, 2023

Highly recommend this private tour! Our tour guide was fantastic! What a wonderful experience! Perfect private tour for a nervous swimmer like me. First stop was snorkelling in Akumel where we saw several sea turtles, including babies. Two of which came up for air within arms length. So close you could actually hear the turtle inhale! We also saw a couple of stingrays. Was nice to see these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat. Next was a stop at the Nicte Ha Cenote where we able to relax, snorkel and enjoy this refreshing water in a gorgeous setting. Lastly, we stopped for an authentic Mexican lunch. Enjoyed the food, ambience and company of our guide Alex. Alex was a wealth of information. His love of the Mayan history and people was evident. He appears to love his job and does it well! A special shout out to our driver Omar. While Alex was sharing information Omar navigated the busy highway allowing us to arrive at our destination safely and stress free. Highly recommend!

Adventure3062 – April 30, 2023

We had fun snorkeling and seeing sea turtles and lots of fishes! They actually set you up with a local guide to find them and provide you with everything you need (snork equipment and life vest). Arturo, our guide watched over our stuff in the meantime. Then Arturo, took us to the Taak bi Ha cenote and gave us wetsuits so we wouldn’t be cold. It was such a wonderful place. He explained how the cave formed and showed us some nice spots. This was an amazing cenote, would absolutely recommend! This is a great company, felt safe, the mini van was clean and all the guides are very friendly.

KATE – April 22, 2023

We had a lovely time with our guide Dulce and our driver Carlos. We saw green sea turtles, stingrays and various smaller fish (including a young Dory fish) when snorkelling in Tsuuk Akumal. Going early helps to avoid the crowds and it was only getting busier when we were leaving. We then had a choice of cenotes to go to and opted for Nicte-Ha, a smallish open cenote with a bit of side caves, as we’d been to various enclosed cenotes already. Nicte-Ha had great visibility, enabling us to snorkel among waterlilies and tiny fish. As it was still early, for most of our time there we were the only people in the cenote. The local lunch was great and Dulce helped us order a nice variety platter to try various types of tacos. As sunscreen is not allowed in Tsuuk Akumal or in the cenote, I’d recommend asking for a wetsuit, especially if you’re prone to burning. They have them in the car and they will shield your back and upper limbs from the sun while snorkelling as well as keep you warm in the cooler waters of the cenote for longer.

Jason – February 9, 2023

Alex ( guide) and Rodriguez ( driver) were great. We had a excellent time on our private tour with my family. It was very good! we did the turtle snorkeling adventure with the cenote!

Bobby – January 13, 2023

Excellent private tour. Amazing driver and guide that picked us up right from resort. On time! Extremely friendly and knowledgeable ! Felt very safe the entire time! Can’t give a high enough recommendation for 1 or 2 couples or a family !

Alexis + Chris – January 9, 2023

ABSOLUTELY AMAZING THE MOST AMAZING experience. BOOK YOUR TOUR NOW . Booked a tour to snorkel with turtles and swim in a cenote . We woke up 15 minutes after pick up time and scrambled to get outside JUAN was our driver , who waited for us and welcomed us with open arms . He put our minds at easy and assured us not to worry . HE WENT OUT OF HIS WAY to make our experience amazing, took photos , shared stories and made us feel EXTREMELY COMFORTABLE. I simply cannot say enough good things about him . HE IS TRULY so kind hearted& full of life . Please make sure to show gratitude and respect for your your guides and TIP THEM . Our driver and guide made our day AMAZING and we appreciate them so much . Juan You are the BEST of the BEST .

Rob – December 20, 2022

Knowledgeable and friendly guide, everything was right on time and we had a Great tour of the cenote

Libby – December 5, 2022

This was an excellent tour! I felt very safe and the tour guides Alex and Omar were absolutely excellent. Very safe, very freindly and it could not have been a better experience. Will definitely go again!

Stephen – December 5, 2022

Alex and Omar were amazing!!! We saw two amazing wild turtles and went to a beautiful underground centre. The lunch was great. Alex was a wonderful guide, we had so much fun!!!

Sara – November 11, 2022

This was one of the best experiences I’ve ever had! I went with a group of 7 to Akumal Bay where we saw 4 turtles, 3 stingrays and a bunch of fish. After that, we went to Taak Bi Ha cenote which was so beautiful and probably one of the coolest things I’ll ever see! We finished with lunch which was provided by the tour. The tour guide, Dulce, was so nice and informative about everything. Our van driver, Rodrigo, was also super nice and did a great job getting us there and back. I would recommend this tour to anyone! What a great experience!

Layne – October 16, 2022

So much fun! Worth the money, Arturo was an amazing guide! He has a lot of experience and knowledge with the area!! Makes you feel comfortable and accommodated!

Russel – October 10, 2022

Carlos was our driver and Alex our guide for our private tour. We thoroughly enjoyed both experiences, as well as learning more about the Mayan culture. We’d highly recommend Absolute Adventure and the Alex/Carlos combo.

Samantha – October 2, 2022

Our tour guide was great and very knowledgeable. I love that it was a private tour and we didn’t have to be with random people. We swam with turtles and saw many turtles and other fish. Then we went to our cenote and he took a lot of pictures for us, as well as let us stay as long as we wanted, we were not rushed. We added a 2nd cenote to our tour and he knew the answer to all of our questions. Definitely recommend this company, definitely worth the money! Oh and we went to lunch after the tour and is was delicious. 10/10 experience.

Amy – October 2, 2022

My friends and I had the best day with Arturo as our guide and Omar as a our driver. Everything was organized, clean and safe. We snorkeled in Akumal Bay and swam in a beautiful Cenote that we had all to ourselves. Awesome Mexican lunch to end the day! Private tour was totally worth it! Outstanding!

lol1127 – August 29, 2022

We had a wonderful day! Our tour guide, Arturo was very knowledgeable and personable. Swimming in the cenote was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Lunch was delicious, ambience was beautiful. Highly recommend!

Samantha – August 28, 2022

Wonderful experience – can’t recommend this highly enough! My partner and I had a private trip to Akumal beach and Dos Ojos cenotes. Alex (guide) and Omar (driver) were super knowledgeable about the location and Mayan history. They were right on time picking us up from our hotel. We got to the snorkeling spot early so there were only a few other groups in the water when we started. It was very nice having a guide just to ourselves since most of the groups we saw has 10+ people. We saw a few sea turtles and had fun snorkeling at the beautiful beach. Next, we went to the cenotes and chose Nikte Ha (you can choose from three). It was an absolutely gorgeous place with crystal clear water & water lilies. I would recommend bringing bug spray since the mosquitoes were out in full force in the jungle. Lunch on the way back was great (and they had vegetarian options) and we were back at our hotel by early afternoon. Overall, a wonderful experience thanks to Alex & Omar. I highly recommend this private tour for a personalized, once in a lifetime experience!!

Bryana L. – August 27, 2022

We had an amazing day with Arturo snorkeling with the turtles in Akumal Bay and visiting a cenote. Everything was seamless from start to finish with booking. Excellent communication. Day of they were on time, with a big, clean, well air conditioned van for our family and Arturo, our guide, couldn’t have been better. He was super friendly and knowledgeable. We went to an incredible cenote and were the only ones there in the morning. So magical. Could not have been a better day!

Lisa – July 28, 2022

Great day ! They handled our group of 20 without any problems . Cenotes underground were amazing . Lunch was best we have had this trip . Sea turtles babies and large turtles in natural habitat. Great day for our family and friends

Jennifer – July 28, 2022

We were a party of 3. We loved snorkeling with the sea turtles and the cenote was amazing. Alex our guide was the best! He had so much knowledge and taught us a lot about the history of the area. Lunch was wonderful too. We had an amazing time. We started off early in the morning and we beat all the crowds. It was perfect. Alex was an excellent guide for our trip. I highly recommend Alex and Absolute Adventures.

Brittney – July 28, 2022

Great time! Very knowledgeable and patient staff!

Kimberly – July 22, 2022

This was a definitely a very fun experience!!! It was my first time trying all these new activities & Arturo which was our guider was supper nice & awesome. He made made everything supper fun & I liked that he went above & beyond for us to feel comfortable & made us feel safe. I would definitely come back again.

Christina – July 12, 2022

Excellent guide and driver. Fun experience. They took great care of us. We saw turtles while snorkeling at Akumal. We experienced two gorgeous cenotes. We ate a yummy, authentic, Mexican lunch.

Chelsea – June 3, 2022

Amazing from start to finish. Arturo picked us up right on schedule and we were off to an incredibly fun day! He had a cooler with water, soda, and beer for us. We went to snorkel with turtles (which was amazing), then had lots of cenote options, an amazing lunch, and easy drive home. Arturo was so kind, knowledgeable, and fun! We could not recommend this enough!

Mya – May 20, 2022

Amazing experience! We had a great guide (Arturo) and just had a wonderful day overall. Great lunch at the end too! The cenote visit was even more of a highlight than the turtles, which is hard to beat!

Clair – May 19, 2022

I cannot recommend this business enough. We had clear, regular contact from them prior to our excursion. They arrived on time at our hotel in an air con vehicle, with drinks on ice included in the price. Our Guide, Claire and Julian were friendly, professional and provided us with fascinating information about the area, turtles & Cenote throughout our excursion. It was only myself and my partner in our excursion and that made it feel even more special. Akumul beach, where the turtles are, is beautiful. However the Cenote was amazing. Beyond our expectations and fascinating. The Company went at our pace and every where we went was not crowded at all. We then had lunch at a beautiful location in the Jungle. Where my partner proposed to me. A perfect ending to a perfect day. I cannot recommend this business enough. They made the whole day magical. Thank you

Nicole – April 8, 2022

I can not say enough good about Absolute Adventure. We had one free morning on our vacation where we wanted to book an excursion to swim with turtles and see a cenote. Everything from initially booking online to day of excursion was top notch, professional and convenient. They even confirmed via text day before to confirm hotel, pick up time, etc. Day of our guide was Arturo and he was right on time waiting for us, very professional, polite and accommodating. Between him and our driver we felt safe at all times which is very important. Both the turtles and cenote Arturo recommended were incredible. Exactly what we were hoping to see. We even got to do this crazy zip line which was totally unexpected and so fun. We unfortunately had to skip the lunch to head back to our hotel for another engagement but definitely next time! Thank you Arturo and Absolute Adventure for an incredible morning we will never forget! -Nicole and Chuck from Boston

Erica – March 19, 2022

What an incredible experience with our wonderful guide Arturo!!! Every detail was perfect, professional and informative. Lunch was delicious as well!

609mya – March 18, 2022

Chiara – March 6, 2022

We booked the Turtles and Cenote tour with “absolute adventure” and we had such a great time! Arturo was very kind and a perfect guide! He gave us very good recommendations and make our time the most enjoyable. We will recommend this experience with everyone.

Water_ – February 26, 2022

This day trip was AMAZING. Arturo was a kind and informative guide, herding our unfocused group of 8 with apparent ease. We loved swimming with the sea turtles, which was peaceful and magical despite many other tourists there at the same time. Somehow Arturo arranged for us to spend a little extra time at the reef so that we saw sting rays and colorful fish in addition to the turtles. In all, it was a really memorable, lovely outing. We then went to the Pet Cemetery cenote. I wasn’t thrilled about swimming in a cave and I was wrong: it was incredible. The water was crystal clear and fresh, the cave, the rock formations fascinating. I can understand why these were considered sacred spaces – they were special places we felt lucky to see. In all, this outing was something we will remember as a highlight of our trip. Thank you, Arturo!

Tude W – February 25, 2022

Excellent! Arturo was a wonderful, friendly and knowledgeable guide. Definitely recommend and loved the entire experience.

Lisa – February 25, 2022

Highlight of our trip! Amazing! Arturo, our guide was fantastic. We swam with turtles, visited a lush and quiet Cenote (basically has it all to ourselves) and finished off the day with a cold drink and a hearty meal. It is a must do while visiting Mexico!

Donnie C – February 23, 2022

Swam with the turtles at Akumal beach and the Pet Cemetary Cenote. Best experience ever. Have been on many tours and by far the best. Guides were very personable and knowledgeable and did all they could to ensure the best experience. Saw turtles, stingray and the most amazing underground cave. Included lunch was amazing. Would highly recommend.

Diana – February 10, 2022

We absolutely loved our experience! Swimming with the sea turtles was incredible, I didn’t want to leave! We chose to visit Nicte-ha Cenote and it was all to ourselves. The most beautiful, quiet and calming spot! Arturo was the best guide! We are very grateful to have him on our wonderful adventure! 🙂 Highly recommend Absolute Adventure!

Jenni – February 9, 2022

Our group of 9 people booked a day with sea turtles and a cenote. Manuel, our tour guide spoke excellent English and had a great sense of humor. We were able to be the first group in the water when we were at Akumel to see the sea turtles and there was hardly anyone in the Dos Ojos Cenote. We felt very well taken care of and learned quite a bit from Manuel during our time with him. Would highly recommend!

Juliet – February 4, 2022

Thank you Dulce for the best adventure ever! We’re so glad we got to experience the cenote and colorful sea life with the most awesome guide. You really took our experience to the next level with your passion and knowledge. Definitely the highlight of our trip!

Maria – February 2, 2022

We really enjoyed the trip and doing this tour with 2 kids one being only 5, I got all the help I could wish for to make it a Nice trip for both the little one, the bigger teenager and myself ❤️🙏🏼 was really Word the Money ❤️ Thanks a lot! MARIA

P3005SMjasonc – January 16, 2022

We had a fantastic time! Saw 3 turtles, a stingray, and many fish as we snorkeled and swam. Arturo was a great guide. Took us to a great senote where my kids jumped off a ledge dozens of times and we finished with an excellent lunch. Perfect day and very professional and fun tour!

Jay – December 16, 2021

It was excellent. We had a blast. In fact, the cenote was a favorite by two of us and a close second with the others.

Josh – December 13, 2021

The day we spent with this company exceeded all expectations despite our expectations been very high. From the moment we were greeted by artur to getting back to our hotel we were looked after with the highest level of professionalism. We can’t speak highly enough of either of the experiences we took part in (turtle tour and cenote swim) as they both blew our mind. The turtle swim was an incredible experience that is a memory that will stay with us for life and when it came to the cenote, the knowledge artur had of the cenotes was incredible and he really educated whilst leaving it to be private also. We then headed for a traditional Mexican meal which artur again advised us on the most local delicacies which we absolutely loved. From start to finish, fantastic trip. 5* Really great trip and thank you again Josh

Crystal – December 3, 2021

AMAZING DAY…. having a private tour is worth every penny! Started early to beat the crowds (& heat) at ruins- learned a ton of history, then swam with sea turtles (huge ones + babies) in the ocean & even saw a Eagle ray; we then swam in a beautiful cenote- we chose the least crowded option & there was hardly anyone around, which was wonderful, & to finish the tour we had a delicious lunch in the jungle! I would absolutely choose this company again!

Renee – November 25, 2021

We had a wonderful experience snorkeling with turtles, swimming in a cenote plus a Mayan lunch in the jungle. Arturo and Claire are excellent hosts. Great idea to go as a private party. Snorkeling equipment and life jackets, new and sanitised. No rush, felt relaxed and safe the entire time even though you’re driving into the jungle in Mexico. A worthwhile experience.

Lisa – November 22, 2021

Absolutely perfect day!! First stop was Akumal for Turtle swim.. just beautiful. We were there early and beat the crowds! Next stop Dos Ojos cenote. This was such an amazing experience! Then an authentic Mexican lunch! Delicious. Arturo is the best guide, thank you for a great day.

Lawanda – October 17, 2021

Juan “JJ” was an excellent tour guide. Informative, organized, and kind. We went to three places. The ruins, sea turtle excursion, and cenote swim. The cenote was the most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen. After we went for a delicious lunch. This tour is a must do and with JJ! My friend and I had a wonderful time!

Any – July 29, 2021

My family and I had an amazing time on the swimming with turtles and cenote tour! Our guide Chris and our driver Juan Manuel were the best! They were both so nice and accommodating. Chris was very knowledgable and fun. My niece left her hat in the van and Juan Manual drove all the way back to our hotel to return it for us. They arranged for us to visit the cenote when it was less crowded, which was great. We visited Taak Bi Ha cenote and it was so stunning. We loved the fact that this was a private tour and we would totally recommend Absolute Adventure Mexico!

Diane – July 8, 2021

We loved the whole experience! Snorkeling with the sea turtles was awesome and definitely a highlight. The cenote was absolutely beautiful! I’m so glad we did the tour. Our tour guide Dulce and driver Pascual were very professional and accomodating. With so many tour companies to choose from, it was important for us to find the right one. We chose Absolute Adventure based on their positive reviews and were not disappointed. The experience was exactly what we hoped it would be and we felt safe and secure. We would definitely use them again!

Ben – May 10, 2021

Perfect organization, easy communication, competent and super pleasant driver and guide.

Thomas – January 16, 2019

We first started with swimming with the turtles which truly was a remarkable experience for my family. We came within 5 feet of this amazing creature and followed it as it rose its head out of the water for air and descended back to the sea grass. We were lucky enough as well to see some rays but to witness the giant sea turtles that close was a must do by anyone. We then grabbed our stuff and headed to a magnificent Cenote that will leave you speechless. Our guide Claire was an absolute book of knowledge and the best company and guide we could ask for on our day adventure. I would recommend this to one and all you will not be disappointed. Thank you Claire you truly were the best!! Hope to see you again.

Brent – September 2, 2017

Top notch service – the tour took us to Akumal to swim with Sea Turtles and our choice of cenotes for a swimming experience. Claire was a very a warm, friendly and informative guide and provided only quality gear and wetsuits. Highly recommend Absolute Adventure and the entire Tulum area.

Tammy – September 2, 2017

My family and I did the turtle and cenote snorkeling tour over the holidays and it was one of the highlights of our trip. Arturo was our guide and he was friendly, upbeat and knowledgeable. We would definitely take another tour with Absolute Adventure!

Murphy – April 29, 2017

Went swimming with the turtles at Akumal Beach followed by a swim in a Cenote. What a great day. Came within 5 feet of several turtles. Cenote and lunch was great also. I highly recommend Absolute Adventures.

Dave – April 29, 2017

My family and I did the turtle and cenote snorkeling tour over the holidays and it was one of the highlights of our trip. Arturo was our guide and he was friendly, upbeat and knowledgeable. Misael was our driver and we felt safe with him behind the wheel. We would definitely take another tour with Absolute Adventure!

Susan – April 14, 2017

We snorkled in a bay with green turtles and Chris was wonderful, patient with our group of all levels of experience. Then on to the cenotes, which was definitely a highlight!! Crystal clear water, formations overhead and bats hunkered down or ting around!! It was awesome!! So fun and Chris added his humor, knowledge and even with some more tentative in our group he made everyone feel comfortable and safe.

Noah – December 17, 2016

Well organized, safe, and fun! We did the snorkeling with sea turtles and a cenote adventure. I’d recommend this to anyone. This was the best day of our vacation.

Lydia – August 29, 2016

My brother and I had the most amazing time with Juan He was a perfect host that provided us with geological and historical facts. The cenote was beautiful and the lunch was absolutely delicious. Snorkeling with the turtles will forever be one of our favorite memories of our trip to Mexico. Thanks for the awesome experience!

Linda – August 29, 2016

Arturo made this day unforgettable. He was knowledgable and answereed each and every question of ours! I am very happy about this private tour experience, it’s a real plus.

Jaqueline – August 7, 2016

The tour was absolutely wonderful! We had such a great time. I really appreciated that they encouraged going earlier since we were staying in Tulum. It was like we had the ruins all to ourselves! The cenote was also a great experience and I felt safe to leave my stuff in the car during the swim. Arturo took great photos of us and the sites that were emailed to us within one day! I would highly recommend it to others!

Steeve – July 16, 2016

Excellent guide; good English and very friendly. It was nice to avoid the very large group excursions that are sold out of the resorts and get a personalized one of a kind Experience.

Danny – June 30, 2016

We went snorkeling in a cenote and then snorkeling in the ocean with turtles. It was a great combination and a very satisfying day. The whole time, Chris and Marianna were wonderful guides, explaining everything along the way and making sure all our needs were met. They were also great with the kids.

Kristen – June 27, 2016

Both Akumal and Nic Te Ha cenote are fabulous snorkeling places. They provided Everything was included from transportation to and from Cancun, private guide, snorkeling equipment, drinks and lunch. Was had a blast, it was a perfect day!

Jackie – June 27, 2016

We had a four person private tour and it was just what we were looking for. We went early in the morning to Akumal to snorkel with the sea turtles. Then we had an amazing time in a cenote snorkeling around. It was quiet and informative. Thank you very much for the wonderful time and I would definitely recommend this company!

Paola – June 4, 2016

My boyfriend and I did the turtle and cenote swim trip. The private tour was on point as went early morning so we could enjoy both locations for ourselves. It was very peaceful and private! Thanks AAM

Amy – September 11, 2015

My friend and I booked this tour on a girls weekend in Tulum and we had the best time! We were the only ones on the bus and Arturo spent so much time sharing the history of the area and answering all of our questions about Tulum and the surrounding areas. I would highly recommend booking a tour with Absolute Adventure.

Jeanna – July 1, 2015

We used Absolute Adventure for a private snorkeling trip. Our family had never snorkeled, but Absolute Adventure took great care of us. The best part is that it was private. It was just us, not a big tourist group. We were picked up at our resort. Not only were they on time, but early. The turtles and fish were amazing. We highly recommend Absolute Adventure.

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2012-2023 © Copyrights Absolute Adventure Mexico

Hidden Cenote Swim: Snorkeling, Sea Turtles and Beachside Lunch

• Air-conditioned vehicle
• Bottled water
• Use of Snorkelling equipment
• Entry/Admission - Akumal Beach
• Round-trip transportation is included from select hotels exclusively for our guests who book their tours at least 48 hours in advance. Please consider 2 to 3 hours of transportation for this tour. The actual time depends on your hotel's location.
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
• Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
• This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 12 travelers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

Similar experiences

• You'll get picked up See departure details
• 1 Tulum Stop: 60 minutes See details
• 2 Akumal Beach Stop: 60 minutes - Admission included See details
• 3 Punta Venado Beach Club by Cancun Adventures Stop: 60 minutes See details
• You'll return to the starting point

• victoriakF7346SG 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great experience That was amazing Nayeli Lara was a great host we appreciate you so much! We will be back again next time for more fun with Lara! Read more Written May 19, 2024
• r0zlynns 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Restaurant Review Nayeli was a fantastic hostess!! She kept us all informed of the locations of everything, bathroom gift shop, tequila tasting and what options we had at the restaurant. Thank you! Read more Written May 19, 2024
• janellej127 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Cancun Adventures Moises, Jesus, and Jona were excellent guides. Fun day! It was a great experience and highly recommended it for anyone! Read more Written May 19, 2024
• jasoneP9646QS 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Tulum/Cenote/Snorkeling tour The Tulum/cenote/lagoon/beach lunch tour was an excellent choice. Lucas’ energy and enthusiasm is contagious, and he worked well together with Isidro, who got us everywhere we needed to be safely and efficiently. Lucas’ knowledge and passion for the area is clear, and he has a knack for including everyone in the group, and making everyone feel at ease. Highly recommend both the tour itself, and these two gentlemen as your guides. Read more Written May 18, 2024
• kyled505 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles Do not buy from this Company on TripAdvisor Never received a message for pickup time so we assumed 9am like the date that we chose online. We received a phone call at 7:55 saying the bus cannot wait and left. They are not willing to issue a refund. Do yourself a HUGE favor and buy from the resort not TripAdvisor. No refund is offered or any credit even. Read more Written May 18, 2024
• G8056ZBdavidr 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great tour and guides Lucas was a great guide, very informative and a sense of humor to boot. Isidro did a great job getting us to each of our destinations in a timely manner. I would do a tour with them again and would highly recommend them. Read more Written May 18, 2024
• D3286RWandrewz 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Honeymoon excursion Amazing tour, the Tulum temple was interesting and the cenote cave swimming was my favorite, very exciting and unique experience! Read more Written May 18, 2024
• maripR9423MU 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Diana is the best! Diana was an amazing guide! We had a great time with her, and thought she was so fun and sweet! You can tell that she loves what she does, and we will be back for another tour! Read more Written May 18, 2024
• Simon F 0 contributions 3.0 of 5 bubbles OK, but clear opportunities to improve We were staying at Grand Palladium Costa Majures, Cancun. Tour was billed as 4 hours/ half day but took 8 hours door-to-door. Minibus was cramped. While everyone had a seat 3 big guys had to cram into back seat and was uncomfortable. Cancun Adventures should leave at least one seat unoccupied to avoid discomfort. Seatbelts in the back didn’t work. Tour was OK, but the guide talked too much and kept stopping too much inside the ruins. We took this tour because we wanted to get there early and miss the crowds, but we lost this advantage as the guide kept stopping and talking too much. Beach parts of Tulum are not accessible due to improvement works. There is no mention this by Cancun adventures. Tulum is worth seeing, but is quite small. This is a long journey for a small attraction that is very busy with tourists. Make sure you really want to do it. Read more Written May 18, 2024
• Trek55412359658 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Amazing cave cenote! The underground cenote was amazing! A highlight of our trip to Mexico. The snorkeling felt more crowded. However, you will see many many beautiful fish. Very knowledgeable tour guide. Note that they do not let you take pictures in the cenote and you will be posed for professional photography. Be aware that if your travel agent tells you the distance is only a half hour from your Riviera Maya hotel, it actually takes at least 2 hours each way, including bus changes. Budget for 7 am to 2 pm in your day. Read more Written May 18, 2024
• Climber09264994754 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A must do when in Cancun! Best Taco Tour in Existence! Angel and Jared with Cancun Adventures floored us! We weren’t just eating tacos, but we made margaritas and salsa from scratch. The guides were so funny and the experience was interactive, never dull. Went into local areas. Always felt safe. Learned some good history. A must do when you’re in Cancun area Read more Written May 17, 2024
• lucya123456 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Best tacos in the city Banging taco tour. Ate 5 different kinds of tacos (so 9 in total), learned about how taco mas tortillas are made, made margaritas, made salsa, drank pulque and went for a walk around the city. Drinks are included and the guides are amazing. Big shoutout to Angel and Jared for being fantastic taco teachers. Read more Written May 17, 2024
• Road53461404704 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Best taco experience Our resort recommanded the taco tour and it was brilliant. We visited different places and had some tacos. Everything tasted really good. Read more Written May 17, 2024
• Culture00835496224 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Fun trip, great food Such a fun trip. Lovely to walk around playa del Carmen, visiting different local restaurants and shops. Delicious food and drink. Very knowledgeable tour guides Angel and Gerry. Made the whole trip so much fun! Read more Written May 17, 2024
• Road61453570915 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great experience Genuinely brilliant tour, something different and beats sitting around a hotel bar. You get out and see the sites. Both Angel and Jared were brilliant; incredibly knowledgeable, entertaining and enjoyable to watch and listen to. Read more Written May 17, 2024

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Hidden Cenote Swim: Snorkeling, Sea Turtles and Beachside Lunch provided by Cancun Adventures

15 Beautiful Cenotes to Explore in Tulum, Mexico

These natural swimming holes are a great way to cool down in the state of Yucatan.

Throughout Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula , tens of thousands of natural swimming holes, called cenotes, beckon travelers and locals, especially on warmer days. These natural limestone sinkholes are filled with cool waters that make them ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and even scuba diving.

If you're visiting the popular Yucatan city of Tulum , exploring nearby cenotes is a must. Some are more crowded than others, some more challenging to get to, and some require tour guides. To help you narrow down your options, we've curated a list of our 15 favorite cenotes near Tulum.

Related: What Every Traveler Should Know About the Maya in Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula

About 20 minutes northeast of Tulum is a pair of spectacular cenotes called Dos Ojos, or two eyes, which are highly regarded for their crystal-clear water. As such, they're a very popular scuba and snorkel spot — divers can even explore 1,300 feet of underwater passageways that connect the two cenotes. One is known as the "blue eye," as sunlight illuminates its blue waters, while the other is a cave known as the "black eye," and it requires flashlights or headlamps to explore. 

Jardin del Eden

Located in Xpu Ha, 30 minutes outside of Tulum, this gigantic open-air cenote surrounded by jungle is popular with swimmers, sunbathers, and snorkelers. It can get busy, but its size prevents visitors from feeling too constrained. There are also convenient amenities here, including snorkel and life vest rentals, bathrooms, and food vendors.

Casa Cenote

This unique cenote just 20 minutes from Tulum is unique in that it feels a lot like a river — it's not just an open pit, but more of a snaking path through mangroves. It has a gentle current, a mix of freshwater and saltwater (as it's connected to the sea), and a fair amount of wildlife, including birds, fish, and crabs. It's also the home of a local legend: Panchito the crocodile. He's small and relatively harmless, as long as you don't bother him. 

Yal-Ku 

Half cenote, half lagoon, Yal-Ku is a paradise for snorkelers and scuba divers looking to spot sea life — you can see sea turtles, rays, parrotfish, and barracudas here, just to name a few of the local residents. These creatures are drawn by the cenote's reef, which provides shelter from larger predators. As such, Yal-Ku is something of a natural aquarium, so arrive ready for wildlife encounters.

If swimming in a cave sounds good to you, head to cenote Chaak Tun in Playa del Carmen , about one hour from Tulum. You must book a guided tour to come here, and getting to the cenote requires a combination of walking and snorkeling. With the price of your tour, you'll also receive all the gear you need, including a wetsuit and snorkel equipment. 

El Gran Cenote

There's a good reason this cenote is called "grand" — it has immaculately clear waters, several chambers for exploration, and even some resident turtles. Located just outside of Tulum, this very popular cenote is great for the whole family. Be sure to bring goggles or snorkels to peer at underwater stalagmites, and don't forget to look up, where bats often dangle from stalactites.

This swimming hole is 10 to 15 minutes from the center of Tulum, yet it's still one of the less-crowded cenotes in the area. The small, open-air pool is highly regarded for its amenities — there's a restaurant here, as well as bathrooms and changing rooms. For a little more action, ride the short zip line over the cenote, which has you land in the water with a splash.

Yax-Muul isn't a single cenote, but rather a nature park with four cenotes. As it's rather tucked away down a dirt road, it's often pretty quiet here, allowing you to float or snorkel through the cenotes peacefully. Its calmness makes it great for families. Note that weekends are of course busier, so if you must go on a Saturday or Sunday, arrive early. Yax-Muul is about 15 minutes outside of Tulum.

This is another option for cave lovers. Sac Actun is the world's longest underwater cave system, measuring about 228 miles in length, though new passages are still being discovered. It's filled with hundreds of cenotes, so you could spend a whole day cenote hopping here. This is an ancient system of caves was found only recently — Mayan artifacts and fossilized animals are among treasures spotted in the waters.

As you might've guessed from the name, this cenote is a giant pit, measuring 130 feet deep and ideal of scuba divers. For those diving far below the surface, beams of sunlight penetrate the water in a mesmerizing display. El Pit is technically part of the Sac Actun network, but its significance as a dive site makes it worthy of an individual mention.

If you visit enough cenotes, they can start to feel a bit repetitive. This one stands out from the crowd with a unique activity: kayaking. You can rent a kayak onsite or bring your own to cruise through Manati's clear waters. And as you navigate the cenote, whether by kayak or snorkel, you'll be treated to Riviera Maya's "hidden forests" of mangroves, which grow both above and below the water's shimmering surface. You can also dive here, as Manati reaches a depth of about 164 feet. Find this pool just 20 minutes outside of Tulum.

Azul Bacala

Although it's a 40-minute drive from Tulum, this large cenote is a cliff jumper's paradise — and that makes it worth the trek. Many guests leap into the cool waters from a small cliff at the cenote's edge, but there's also a dock for easier access. We recommend bringing snorkel gear to see all the fish that live here.

Not far from the center of Tulum is this picturesque cenote. Surrounded by the jungle, Atik is only accessible by a large ladder that descends into its blue waters, where you'll likely spot turtles. Surrounding the cenote are art installations, including a wall of skulls that nods to the Mayan belief that cenotes are entrances to the underworld.

This cenote is certainly not misnamed — it has crystal-clear waters popular with swimmers of all ages. One of the best things about this cenote is that its entrance fee is rather affordable at around $10 (though this is always subject to change). Because of that, it can get crowded, so visit on a weekday morning for a more serene experience. 

Tortuga 

Tortuga is a nature park with a lovely cluster of four cenotes, all located about 15 minutes from Tulum. Three of the cenotes are cavernous, so you'll see rock formations like stalagmites and stalactites, plus fossils. The fourth cenote is a large, open-air pool good for cliff jumping. There's an onsite restaurant, and even a hotel if you'd like to stay for more than a day.

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