Tulum
Cenote
Chichen Itza
Turtles
Coba
Reef Snorkeling
Ek Balam
Tequila Tasting
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.
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!
Tude W –
Excellent! Arturo was a wonderful, friendly and knowledgeable guide. Definitely recommend and loved the entire experience.
Lisa –
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 –
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 –
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 –
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 –
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 –
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 –
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 –
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 –
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 –
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 –
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 –
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 –
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 –
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 –
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 –
Perfect organization, easy communication, competent and super pleasant driver and guide.
Thomas –
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 –
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 –
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!
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.
Tude W –
Excellent! Arturo was a wonderful, friendly and knowledgeable guide. Definitely recommend and loved the entire experience.
Lisa –
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 –
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 –
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 –
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 –
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 –
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 –
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 –
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 –
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 –
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 –
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 –
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 –
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 –
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 –
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 –
Perfect organization, easy communication, competent and super pleasant driver and guide.
Thomas –
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 –
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 –
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!