PRIVATE TOUR: For snorkeling lovers: Swim alongside sea turtles in Akumal Bay, then explore the crystal-clear waters of 1 or 2 cenotes. End the day with a delicious meal at a local Mexican restaurant.
Scroll down for detailed info, inclusions and itinerary.
Book your tour now and if your plans happen to change, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours prior to the tour!
Looking for the ultimate snorkeling experience in the Riviera Maya? Our Akumal Turtles Tour combines two unforgettable aquatic adventures: snorkeling with sea turtles in Akumal Bay and exploring the magical waters of a jungle cenote. This tour is a favorite among families, kids, and groups of friends who want to enjoy nature and marine life in a fun, safe, and private setting.
The first part of your private tour takes you to the calm, clear waters of Akumal, one of the best places in Mexico to observe sea turtles in the wild. With the help of your certified private guide, you’ll snorkel alongside green sea turtles, peaceful and majestic as they glide effortlessly through the water. These gentle creatures often come close, offering a magical, up-close experience you’ll never forget.
If you're lucky, you might also spot stingrays and colorful tropical fish swimming gracefully along the ocean floor. Don't worry—stingrays are harmless and only add to the beauty of this incredible underwater setting.
After swimming with turtles in Akumal, the adventure continues inland. You can choose to visit one cenote or enhance your experience with two cenotes. Your guide will take you to a stunning cave cenote with dramatic rock formations or an open-air cenote surrounded by lush jungle, or both! Choosing two cenotes allows you to explore two very different environments and enjoy a more complete snorkeling adventure.
You can find the full list of cenotes available to choose from in the “General Info” tab.
No matter which cenote you choose, you’ll enjoy crystal-clear freshwater, impressive limestone formations, and a peaceful atmosphere. Snorkeling here gives you the chance to discover a hidden world that few travelers get to see.
After your snorkeling activities, you’ll enjoy a well-deserved lunch in a local Mexican restaurant, nestled in the jungle or nearby town, depending on your chosen cenote. It’s the perfect moment to relax, share stories, and reflect on your day of discovery.
This tour is 100% private and flexible, making it ideal for snorkelers of all levels, from first-timers to experienced swimmers. Our expert guides will adapt to your pace, provide all necessary gear, and offer tips to help you feel comfortable in the water.
Whether you're an adventurous adult or a cautious child, you’re in good hands. Swimming is easy and accessible directly from the shore—no boat needed. Children as young as 4 or 5 years old can participate as long as they know how to swim and are comfortable wearing a mask and snorkel.
Join us on this exclusive Akumal Turtles tour paired with a cenote snorkeling experience. Whether you're drawn by the chance to meet marine life or explore the mysterious underground world of cenotes, this private tour promises memories that will last a lifetime.
Combine Mayan ruins and cenote experiences with these popular tours:
Book 2 or more tours and enjoy a 10% discount! Perfect for travelers looking to make the most of their stay in the Riviera Maya.
The recommended early pick-up time helps you avoid traffic,
crowds, and heat at the sites, but you can opt for a later pick-up when
booking.
Timing may vary based on traffic and your exact location.
We can spend more or less time at each location, moving at your own pace.
If you choose the 2 cenotes option, add an extra hour to the itinerary.
You can shorten the tour by booking the option that excludes lunch.
FROM PLAYA DEL CARMEN AREA
07:45am: Transportation from your hotel to Akumal
08:30am – 09:30am: Snorkeling with turtles*
09:30am – 10:00am: Transportation
10:00am – 11:00am: Snorkeling in cenote
11:00am – 11:45am: Lunch at a restaurant
11:45pm – 12:30pm: Transportation to your hotel
FROM TULUM AREA
08:00am: Transportation from your hotel to Akumal
08:30am – 09:30am: Snorkeling with turtles*
09:30am – 10:00am: Transportation
10:00am – 11:00am: Snorkeling in cenote
11:00am – 11:45am: Lunch at a restaurant
11:45pm – 12:15pm: Transportation to your hotel
FROM CANCUN AREA
07:00am: Transportation from your hotel to Akumal
08:45am – 09:45am: Snorkeling with turtles*
09:45am – 10:15am: Transportation
10:15am – 11:15am: Snorkeling in cenote
11:15am – 12:00pm: Lunch at a restaurant
12:00pm – 13:45pm: Transportation to your hotel
*Swimming with turtles is limited to a maximum of 1 hour, as per Akumal regulations.
* 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!
You must be logged in to post a review.
Looking for the ultimate snorkeling experience in the Riviera Maya? Our Akumal Turtles Tour combines two unforgettable aquatic adventures: snorkeling with sea turtles in Akumal Bay and exploring the magical waters of a jungle cenote. This tour is a favorite among families, kids, and groups of friends who want to enjoy nature and marine life in a fun, safe, and private setting.
The first part of your private tour takes you to the calm, clear waters of Akumal, one of the best places in Mexico to observe sea turtles in the wild. With the help of your certified private guide, you’ll snorkel alongside green sea turtles, peaceful and majestic as they glide effortlessly through the water. These gentle creatures often come close, offering a magical, up-close experience you’ll never forget.
If you're lucky, you might also spot stingrays and colorful tropical fish swimming gracefully along the ocean floor. Don't worry—stingrays are harmless and only add to the beauty of this incredible underwater setting.
After swimming with turtles in Akumal, the adventure continues inland. You can choose to visit one cenote or enhance your experience with two cenotes. Your guide will take you to a stunning cave cenote with dramatic rock formations or an open-air cenote surrounded by lush jungle, or both! Choosing two cenotes allows you to explore two very different environments and enjoy a more complete snorkeling adventure.
You can find the full list of cenotes available to choose from in the “General Information” tab.
No matter which cenote you choose, you’ll enjoy crystal-clear freshwater, impressive limestone formations, and a peaceful atmosphere. Snorkeling here gives you the chance to discover a hidden world that few travelers get to see.
After your snorkeling activities, you’ll enjoy a well-deserved lunch in a local Mexican restaurant, nestled in the jungle or nearby town, depending on your chosen cenote. It’s the perfect moment to relax, share stories, and reflect on your day of discovery.
This tour is 100% private and flexible, making it ideal for snorkelers of all levels, from first-timers to experienced swimmers. Our expert guides will adapt to your pace, provide all necessary gear, and offer tips to help you feel comfortable in the water.
Whether you're an adventurous adult or a cautious child, you’re in good hands. Swimming is easy and accessible directly from the shore—no boat needed. Children as young as 4 or 5 years old can participate as long as they know how to swim and are comfortable wearing a mask and snorkel.
Join us on this exclusive Akumal Turtles tour paired with a cenote snorkeling experience. Whether you're drawn by the chance to meet marine life or explore the mysterious underground world of cenotes, this private tour promises memories that will last a lifetime.
Combine Mayan ruins and cenote experiences with these popular tours:
Book 2 or more tours and enjoy a 10% discount! Perfect for travelers looking to make the most of their stay in the Riviera Maya.
The recommended early pick-up time helps you avoid traffic,
crowds, and heat at the sites, but you can opt for a later pick-up when
booking.
Timing may vary based on traffic and your exact location.
We can spend more or less time at each location, moving at your own pace.
If you choose the 2 cenotes option, add an extra hour to the itinerary.
You can shorten the tour by booking the option that excludes lunch.
FROM PLAYA DEL CARMEN AREA
07:45am: Transportation from your hotel to Akumal
08:30am – 09:30am: Snorkeling with turtles*
09:30am – 10:00am: Transportation
10:00am – 11:00am: Snorkeling in cenote
11:00am – 11:45am: Lunch at a restaurant
11:45pm – 12:30pm: Transportation to your hotel
FROM TULUM AREA
08:00am: Transportation from your hotel to Akumal
08:30am – 09:30am: Snorkeling with turtles*
09:30am – 10:00am: Transportation
10:00am – 11:00am: Snorkeling in cenote
11:00am – 11:45am: Lunch at a restaurant
11:45pm – 12:15pm: Transportation to your hotel
FROM CANCUN AREA
07:00am: Transportation from your hotel to Akumal
08:45am – 09:45am: Snorkeling with turtles*
09:45am – 10:15am: Transportation
10:15am – 11:15am: Snorkeling in cenote
11:15am – 12:00pm: Lunch at a restaurant
12:00pm – 13:45pm: Transportation to your hotel
*Swimming with turtles is limited to a maximum of 1 hour, as per Akumal regulations.
* 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!
You must be logged in to post a review.
You’ll have a dedicated guide and vehicle all to yourselves—no crowds, no waiting, just a smooth and personalized experience.
No. The driver and guide are two different professionals.
All our tours include a dedicated driver and a separate certified guide.
While some companies offer a guide-driver, we believe this is not safe. Having a driver focused solely on the road and a guide fully dedicated to our guests ensures a safer and higher-quality experience.
It typically lasts between 5 to 6 hours, depending on your hotel location and how much time you’d like to spend at each site. Please check the full itinerary in the “Itinerary” tab for more details.
Yes, round-trip transportation is included from Cancun, Puerto Morelos, Playa del Carmen, Puerto Aventuras, Akumal and Tulum. We’ll pick you up right from your hotel, resort, or Airbnb for a stress-free start to your day.
Please note: we don’t offer pick up from Cancun Playa Mujeres hotels unless your group has 6 or more adults.
Yes, you’re welcome to choose your preferred pick-up time when booking.
That said, we recommend an early morning start to help you beat the crowds, skip the traffic, and enjoy cooler temperatures—it really makes a difference!
No previous snorkeling experience is required, but basic swimming skills are necessary.
We provide mandatory life vests, and our guide ensures a safe and comfortable experience for everyone.
You can view the list of cenotes available for this tour under the ‘Tour Description and General Info’ tab, where you'll also find links to full descriptions of each cenote.
We offer a variety of cenote types, including open-air, semi-open, and cave cenotes.
Unless you've already made your choice, you can decide which cenote to visit together with your tour guide on the day of your tour.
Turtle sightings are very likely but not guaranteed, as they are wild animals.
Akumal is one of the best places in the region to see them.
There is no boat involved. The swim starts directly from the shore, and you’ll enter the water with your guide to reach the turtle area.
Yes. Facilities include clean showers, restrooms, and changing areas at both locations.
Check the "What to bring" tab on the tour page for the full packing list. Essentials include swimwear, a towel and comfortable shoes.
You can safely leave your belongings in the van—our driver stays with it the entire time while you're out enjoying the activities.
Yes, you can bring your own mask and snorkel.
However, fins are not allowed when swimming with turtles or in the cenote, so please do not bring them.
We will still provide our own gear as a backup if needed. We will also provide mandatory life vests and optional wetsuits at the cenote if you want to wear one.
Yes, we’re happy to accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary needs or allergies.
After booking, you can let us know your needs by filling out the check-in form—just follow the link in your booking confirmation email.
You can cancel free of charge or reschedule (subject to availability) up to 24 hours before your tour.
We’re a small team and often fully booked 1–2 weeks in advance, so we recommend booking early to secure your spot.
Bonus: if you book at least 2 months in advance (60 days), you’ll qualify for our early bird discount*!
For full details, check out our booking policy page.
Elora –
Amazing food, snorkeling, and cenote!!
We went to the Taak Bi Ha cenote and swam with the turtles. We saw at least 10 sea turtles, many fish, and about 5 stingray. The cenote was warm and had amazing features to look at. Highly recommend this experience for any age. The authentic Mexican meal was also a 10/10. Our guides: Alex and Rodrigo were very informational and welcoming!!
Jessie –
We did the Turtles + Cenote tour with Juan and a driver – – totally top notch. The day was very windy with rain on and off, but we trusted Juan with the plan and it was absolutely worth it. The turtles and sea life were abundant during our swim. We took his recommendation on which Cenote to explore and we had the entire area completely to ourselves to explore! Juan provided wetsuits for our Cenote portion which made it much more comfortable since the day was not as warm as planned. I am NOT a swimmer but felt completely at home with the equipment and structure of the tour. Communication from booking to pickup was flawless. Our driver (wish I remembered his name) was safe and courteous and stayed with the van so we could leave personal items without worry. Highly recommend the entire experience!
Kathryn –
We had a really wonderful experience in Mexico this December with Absolute Adventure Mexico.
Our first tour was to Chichen Itza and a cenote with a lunch in Valladolid.
Our second tour was to swim with the sea turtles at Azumal and another cenote and lunch with our tour guide Juan. Again, we had a wonderful experience with lots of excellent conversation. We were able to ask lots of questions and get information about local flora and fauna. We never felt rushed and all in all it was a very pleasant few hours.
Our driver on both days was Enrique and he did a great job. We felt very confident with his excellent driving and it was lovely that he stayed in the vehicle to guard all of our things so that we could have unencumbered time swimming and doing activities without worrying about our personal items. He was always very helpful with getting us drinks and getting our equipment for each activity.
We thought it was very nice to be with a local family-owned Mexican business and we found the service to be top notch both emailing with the co-owner Claire and spending our days with the driver and tour guides. We were recommended this company by a friend and we will be recommending it to others anytime we have the opportunity.
I would also note that the prices were quite comparable if not cheaper than some of the big companies that have you in a group with a whole bunch of other people – whereas this was a private tour where we got personalized service, never felt rushed and got to guide our own way to some extent. We would not hesitate to come back again and again anytime we come to this area of Mexico.
Linsey –
Amazing Cenote and Snorkeling Experience
We had an unforgettable experience with Arturo and Rodrigo’s team! Even though the weather wasn’t ideal for the reef, they expertly adjusted our plans and suggested visiting the turtle sanctuary area with our amazing Mayan guide, Luis.
Our kids, aged 11 and 14, were thrilled to see sea turtles and even spotted a stingray! The highlight was when our son got to choose which cenote to explore. We ended up at an incredible cave cenote where we swam in an underground river—absolutely magical and a MUST-see.
The tour team was professional, accommodating, and fun throughout the day. Whether you’re looking for adventure or just a unique family outing, you won’t be disappointed! Highly recommend. 🌟
Justin –
Turtles and Sac Actun
We arrived at the Akumal and swam with turtles before all the crowds arrived, you get a private guide for the turtle swim as well so it feels like a very personal experience. I noticed large groups as we were leaving having to form a large circle around a turtle which I feel would take away from the experience. It was just my friend and I so we were able to get reasonably close and the guide offered to take my gopro and take all the videos for us without anyone in the back ground. It was a great experience. For the cenote swim we chose to do Sac Actun which is a cenote but with a cave attached, Alex the guide took us into the cave, they supplied wetsuits and snorkles. Another great experience, swimming though a cave with stalactites and stalagmites, sometimes with only enough room from you head to be above the water! Alex was awesome and the driver as well, they also supplied water and sodas. On the way to each destination Alex would explain the history of each place and the meanings of the names. The included lunch also had the best fish tacos we have had in Mexico!
Allison –
Lots of fun!
An excellent tour. Our guides were great and extremely knowledgeable. Lots of turtles on the turtle swim but the cenote was the highlight. Lunch was also great. Would definitely recommend.
Nikki –
We had a perfect day today! Our family swam with sea turtles, explored a beautiful cenote & ended the afternoon with a delicious lunch! Our guide was wonderful.
Francis –
Highly recommend these guys. On holiday from Ireland. Got Joshua and Omar to bring us snorkelling for turtles and then cenotes. We were picked up on time. Clean vehicle. Water . The guys are very friendly and knowledgable. Nothing was rushed and I recommend this group highly
Kerry –
Great tour with very helpful guides. Would definitely recommend
Emilee –
Simply incredible.
Words cannot express how truly wonderful this tour was. Arturo was such a nice person and a great guide! Starting early was absolutely the best decision. We saw many turtles on our snorkel, and beat the crowds, who were just arriving when we were leaving. It was a breathtaking experience. We went the relaxing cenote – the one with all the fauna – and it was so beautiful it felt otherworldly. Absolutely stunning. We did many tours in PDC, and have travelled all over the world, and this experience will forever standout for how gorgeous it was and for amazing Arturo was. If I could give this 100 stars I would.
Debon –
We did the private tour of snorkeling with sea turtles in Akumal Bay, cenote Taak Bi Ha, and lunch with our guide Arturo. The transportation was clean, safe, and on time to pick us up from our hotel. Communication with the business was easy and efficient. Most of all Arturo was kind and knowledgeable about Tulúm the cenotes and safely guided us through all facets of the day. This day was a memory for the books.
OnAir677651 –
Amazing!!
We did a half-day private tour snorkeling with the sea turtles and visiting a cenote with Arturo as our guide. He was outstanding, and our experiences were fantastic! The cenote we visited had only one other family there and we enjoyed the jumping platforms and the zip line! I highly recommend the experience and Arturo in particular as a guide!
Bob –
Great time, booked two different days
Chelsey –
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 –
Excellent service. Highly recommend !!
Julie –
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 –
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 –
It was an all around wonderful experience. Juan and Gregorio were excellent and I would highly recommend them. It was a perfect day.
Emer –
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 –
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!