YOUR OWN PRIVATE ADVENTURE

Tulum ruins, Snorkeling in Cenote and with Turtles

390 tour reviews
PRIVATE TOUR: Our top-selling adventure includes a private guided tour of the Tulum ruins, a swim in a stunning cenote, and snorkeling with sea turtles. Plus, savor a delicious lunch at a charming jungle Mexican restaurant!
  • Exclusive Experience: Just you, your personal local guide, and driver!
  • Private Transportation: Convenient pick-up from your hotel or rental.
  • Escape the Crowds & Beat the Heat: Skip the lines & enjoy a relaxed, stress-free guided tour.
  • Breathtaking Cenotes! Pick from open-air or cave options - You’ll love the adventure!
  • Encounter Sea Turtles: Snorkel from shore in Akumal for an unforgettable aquatic journey!
  • Lunch in a One-of-a-Kind Jungle Spot: Mexican flavors await you!
  • Set Your Own Pace: Stay longer or move on, the choice is entirely yours.
  • All-Inclusive at the Best Price: Transport, guide, entrance fees, gear, lunch & more!

Early bird discountBook 60+ days ahead and save 10%.

Multi-tour discountBook 2+ tours and save 10%.

Offers cannot be combined. Holiday exclusions apply. See terms and conditions.

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW

The details of your private day.

Tulum ruins, Snorkeling in Cenote and with Turtles Private Tour

 

Experience the magic of the Riviera Maya in one expertly crafted private tour. Our Tulum Ruins, Snorkeling, Cenote & Turtles private tour is a perfect blend of cultural discovery, ocean exploration, and refreshing nature escape. Whether you’re passionate about Mayan history, fascinated by marine life, or simply craving a serene swim in a cenote, this full-day tour offers a personalized adventure away from the crowds.

Led by a certified private guide, this experience is designed to move at your pace. You’ll visit the famous Tulum Ruins, snorkel with wild sea turtles in Akumal Bay, and cool off in a breathtaking cenote. With private transportation, flexible scheduling, and a tailored itinerary, you’ll enjoy comfort, intimacy, and expert insights throughout the day.

A Day of Discovery of Mayan Heritage and Marine Wonders

  1. 1. Explore the Tulum Archaeological Site

    Start your day with a visit to the majestic Tulum Ruins, perched on cliffs overlooking the Caribbean Sea. As one of the most iconic Mayan cities, Tulum Mayan ruins offer rich history, stunning ocean views, and well-preserved structures like El Castillo and the Temple of the Frescoes. Your private guide will bring the past to life with fascinating stories of ancient rituals, trade, and daily life in this walled city.

    With early access and private transport, you’ll beat the crowds and the heat—perfect for photos and peaceful exploration.

    Highlights:

    • Personalized guided tour of the ruins
    • Stunning sea views from cliffside temples
    • Insight into Mayan culture and architecture

  2. 2. Refresh in a Stunning Cenote

    After your journey through Mayan history, it’s time to cool off with a swim in one of the Riviera Maya’s magical cenotes. These natural freshwater sinkholes are formed by collapsed limestone, revealing hidden pools of crystal-clear water.

    You’ll visit a hand-selected cenote, and on the day of your tour, you can choose between Cenote Nicte-Ha, Taak Bi Ha, or Jaguar. If you prefer to visit the more advanced cenotes like Dos Ojos or Pet Cemetery, we can arrange that for an additional $10 USD per person. Your guide will be happy to help you select the cenote that best matches your expectations and snorkeling skills.

    Why you’ll love it:

    • Cenotes for everyone: peaceful swims, snorkeling, cliff jumping, or cave exploration
    • Whether you’re adventurous or looking to relax, we’ve got you covered
    • Great for young kids, teens, adults, and older guests alike
    • Unique geological formations and refreshing natural beauty
    • A tranquil, sacred setting to unwind and reconnect with nature

  3. 3. Enjoy a Local Mexican Lunch

    Recharged from your cenote dip, you’ll enjoy a relaxing lunch at a local restaurant in the jungle under a traditional palapa, offering shade and a laid-back jungle vibe.

    We serve a variety of freshly prepared Mexican dishes, and vegetarian or special dietary needs can be accommodated with advance notice.

    It’s the perfect moment to fuel up, rest, and reflect on the incredible experiences so far—before heading to the sea for one final highlight of the day.

  4. 4. Snorkel with Sea Turtles in Akumal Bay

    To end your day, you’ll visit Akumal Bay, a calm, protected marine area known for its resident population of green sea turtles. After a briefing and receiving your gear, your snorkeling guide will lead you into the shallow, clear water where you can spot turtles grazing on seagrass, colorful tropical fish, and perhaps stingrays or coral gardens.

    This guided snorkel is suitable for all levels. You don’t need prior experience—just basic swimming ability—and your guide will be with you the whole time for safety and support.

    What to expect:

    • Snorkeling with sea turtles in their natural habitat
    • Calm waters and great visibility most of the year
    • Full equipment and guidance included

     

Price includes

  • Pick up and drop off at your hotel with private air-conditioned transportation (Booster car seat and baby car seat available on request)
  • Experienced certified private guide
  • Tulum ruins entrance fees (INAH + CONANP + JAGUAR) with pre-purchased tickets for direct entry
  • Optional electric shuttle from the parking area to the ruins entrance (750 m / 0.5 mile), for guests who prefer not to walk
  • Cenote entrance fee
  • Akumal bay cooperative and CONANP fee
  • Snorkeling gear: mask, snorkel, wetsuits, life jackets
  • Cool drinks in the van (waters, soda)
  • Lunch in a restaurant with one main course a la carte and one bottle of water

Price excludes

  • Extra drinks at the restaurant
  • Ruins: If you bring a GoPro, video camera, or phone with a selfie stick, a fee of 60 pesos (about USD 3) per device is charged at the entrance to each archaeological site and must be paid in pesos (INAH fee). Drones and camera/video tripods are prohibited.
  • Tips
Exclusive Private Tour:
Only you, the guide and the driver, nobody else!
Duration:
7/9 hours (check the itinerary tab, as it depends on your pick-up location)
Physicality:
Easy
Age:
All ages
Snorkeling:
Basic swimming skills required. This excursion suits everyone from novices to experts.
Which cenote will you visit? 
The day of your tour, you can choose one cenote between Nicte Ha, Taak bi Ha, or Jaguar. 
If you prefer to go to Dos Ojos or Pet Cemetery, we will add 10 USD per person on your balance. Your guide will be happy to help you to select the best cenote for you and your party according to your expectations and snorkeling skills.
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 Tulum Cenote tour and the price adjusted according to the option chosen.
What's on the menu?
Quesadillas, tacos, empanadas, salbutes, fajitas, fish, shrimp, chicken, soups, vegetarian and special diet options available.

Itinerary options

Times at each stop are estimates. Driving and your exact pickup location affect the schedule.

Tulum ruins, cenote and turtles

  1. Tulum ruins — 90 min
  2. Cenote snorkel — 60 min
  3. Lunch at Juanita restaurant — 40 min
  4. Akumal turtles — 75 min

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 Tulum, the cenote, and Akumal, moving at your own pace.
Want a faster tour? Free time can be reduced or skipped; your guide can adjust the pace on the day of the tour.

Discover the 3 benefits of an early departure to visit Tulum.
This tour doesn't include Tulum centro/Tulum beach-hotel areas. Only Tulum Mayan ruins.

  • Resusable water bottle: at Tulum Ruins, it is forbidden to enter the ruins with plastic water bottles. If you wish to bring water for the visit, please bring your own reusable water bottle. We’ll have water in the van for you to fill or refill.
  • Beach Towels
  • Swimsuit (We recommend wearing it in the morning and feel free to change after snorkeling activities)
  • Comfortable shoes for the ruins (We recommend tennis shoes)
  • 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*
  • Cash (for tour payment, tips, souvenirs…)
  • Camera/Underwater camera/Waterproof case for your phone

FROM OUR GUESTS

A day worth remembering.

5.00/5 · 390 tour reviews

Showing reviews 352–360 of 390

Best Day of of Vacation! We started out the tour at the Tulum Ruins with our guide Manuel. He was so knowledgeable and really did a great job explaining the history. I’m glad we got there early before the crowds. After the ruins, we went to an underground cenote and Manuel took my boyfriend snorkeling. He absolutely loved it. I stayed behind and took pictures…

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Best Day of of Vacation!
We started out the tour at the Tulum Ruins with our guide Manuel. He was so knowledgeable and really did a great job explaining the history. I’m glad we got there early before the crowds.
After the ruins, we went to an underground cenote and Manuel took my boyfriend snorkeling. He absolutely loved it. I stayed behind and took pictures and dipped my toes in the water (not my thing). When we were done there, Manuel took us to the best little lunch spot. What a hidden gem!! So peaceful and clean and the food was AMAZING!! The staff there was super friendly.
Our last stop was snorkeling with the turtles. I was a little nervous, but Manuel made me feel more at ease. The turtles we incredible to watch and we loved every second. My boyfriend even saw stingrays and a barracuda.
It was such a neat experience and we would definitely recommend a private tour over going alone, or with a big group. Our driver Omar was also really cool. If we come back to Playa, we will definitely use this company again. Thanks, Manuel for an awesome day!

Sarah T · Jan 2020

My boyfriend and I did a tour to the Tulum ruins, snorkeling and cave cenote in January 2020 with Hector as our guide. Hector and our driver arrived on time, 7:00 a.m,. at our hotel in Playa. Hector kept us informed as the day unfolded, everything was well organized and occurred as expected. It was great to have such a well informed guide in Tulum…

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My boyfriend and I did a tour to the Tulum ruins, snorkeling and cave cenote in January 2020 with Hector as our guide. Hector and our driver arrived on time, 7:00 a.m,. at our hotel in Playa. Hector kept us informed as the day unfolded, everything was well organized and occurred as expected. It was great to have such a well informed guide in Tulum to explain the history and meaning behind what we were seeing. There was so much to see and learn there. Really enjoyed that part and being there before the crowds. Was wonderful to see the rays and large turtle while snorkeling and the cave cenote was a great surprise, so different than anything I had ever experienced. Hector was kind, patient, funny, professional, and just a very nice and interesting person, very grateful to have met him. We do not normally enjoy tours very much due to the crowds and very scripted itinerary. If you feel the same, this is the tour for you. Would highly recommend and will do a different one in the future if we are lucky enough to visit the area again.

GlobeTrotting · Jan 2020

Juan was an awesome guide for our family. Engaging and full of valuable experiences and information. Rodrigo was great as the driver. We felt safe and in perfect hands from the moment they picked us up until they dropped us off at the end of the day. We look forward to sharing their names and going on another adventure with them in the future.

Ira · Jan 2020

Manuel and Ervin were the best had a great time so helpful and knowledgeable about everything always felt safe definitely would highly recommend them for everything

Ash · Dec 2019

One of the best days of my life I just returned from my bachelorette party in Tulum and I cannot stop raving about one of the most incredible days of my life. We did the "Tulum ruins, Snorkeling in Cenote and with Turtles" tour with Absolute Adventure Tulum. Our tour guide was friendly, funny, and made sure we had an excellent time. We got a…

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One of the best days of my life
I just returned from my bachelorette party in Tulum and I cannot stop raving about one of the most incredible days of my life. We did the "Tulum ruins, Snorkeling in Cenote and with Turtles" tour with Absolute Adventure Tulum. Our tour guide was friendly, funny, and made sure we had an excellent time. We got a detailed tour of the ruins, explored a magical cenote, and were lucky enough to find 3 turtles and a sting ray while snorkeling in the ocean. It was a beautiful day from beginning to end. Don't miss this tour!

PMiddy · Dec 2019

Juan was an amazing guide, knowledgeable, kind, and great with the kids. Well worth the time and money. If you have younger children I recommend the cenotes over the turtle swimming, our 6yro struggled a little bit. Ziplining and jumping at the Cenotes was the highlight of everyone's trip. Thank You Juan and Ervin.

erutherford · Dec 2019

Communication prior to the trip was fast, friendly and efficient. On the day our guide Juan and our driver (sorry, I didn't catch his name) arrived promptly in a clean and well air conditioned van. Within seconds we knew we'd made a great choice in trip, as Juan was so easy to talk to - a really interesting and funny guy. The day was really…

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Communication prior to the trip was fast, friendly and efficient. On the day our guide Juan and our driver (sorry, I didn't catch his name) arrived promptly in a clean and well air conditioned van. Within seconds we knew we'd made a great choice in trip, as Juan was so easy to talk to - a really interesting and funny guy.

The day was really well planned, we were one of the first to arrive at Tulum before it got too hot and before the crowds descended. Juan was always one step ahead of the other tours which meant we got uninterrupted views and photos. We didn't feel rushed and got to linger at the spots we found most interesting. As we were leaving the crowds were pouring in - listen to your guide when they offer an early pickup, they know their stuff and recommend it for good reason.

Next stop was a nearby cenote. We were offered a choice of cenotes, but as we had another trip booked for Chaak Tun, we opted for an open cenote. It really was beautiful and again, Juan timed it perfectly so we had the cenote to ourselves. I was a really nervous of snorkelling after a previous bad experience but desperate to try & Juan was super patient and encouraging. I went from thinking I was never going to be able to do it, to snorkelling happily on my own. I was so, so pleased.

We also visited Akamul beach and the trip included a snorkel guide. Juan explained to the guide Miguel that I was nervous and new to snorkelling, The guide really looked after me and made sure I had the best experience. It's an absolutely beautiful beach and we saw several turtles plus lots of colourful fishes over the reef .

Lunch was included on the day and totally delicious, one of the best meals we had all week. Drinks were also on hand all day from a chiller in the van. We wouldn't hesitate to book again. We thought the tour was excellent value - it included all costs, equipment and being completely private meant we could ask as many questions as we wanted and weren't waiting around for others.

Ask for Juan when you book, he is a great guide - very professional but really personable and interesting too.

Violet1982 · Dec 2019

Hector was our tour guide and Rodrigo was our driver. First, you pay a little extra for a private tour but it is no worries the entire day. You avoid crowds, you are not waiting on anyone else and your schedule is your own. It is worth paying the extra to go with this company. We were never rushed in any part of our excursion.…

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Hector was our tour guide and Rodrigo was our driver. First, you pay a little extra for a private tour but it is no worries the entire day. You avoid crowds, you are not waiting on anyone else and your schedule is your own. It is worth paying the extra to go with this company. We were never rushed in any part of our excursion. I am sure there was a schedule to follow but it did not feel like it. If you are familiar with travel to Playa del Carmen, you can do each of these activities on your own but if this is your first time and you want no hassles, I would highly recommend. We got good history on the Mayans and their culture, we saw turtles and stingrays, and the cenote was impressive. The lunch was delicious as well and included in your package. This was a no hassle, no worry adventure. Communication with the company over email was easy. I think couples probably don't need but if you have a family, this was definitely the way to go. It worked perfectly for us. We would use them again for excursions.

Hickoryview · Dec 2019

They are the best Manuel and Ervin were the best so friendly and knowledgeable made us feel safe and welcomed would highly recommend them for your tour.

Ashcolarusso · Dec 2019

A FEW THINGS TO KNOW

Your tour questions, answered.

Tour basics

Is the Tulum Ruins tour private or shared?

This is a private tour, just for you and your group.

You’ll have a dedicated guide and vehicle all to yourselves—no crowds, no waiting, just a smooth and personalized experience.

Is the driver also the guide?

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.

How long does a private Tulum tour take?

Please check the full itinerary in the “Itinerary” tab for more details.

It typically lasts between 6 to 8 hours, depending on your hotel location and how much time you’d like to spend at each site. 

Pickup & transport

Is transportation included from my hotel or Airbnb?

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.

What vehicles do you use for your tours?

We offer a range of modern, air-conditioned vans to suit the size of your group and ensure a safe and comfortable journey.

Visit our fleet page for more details.

Can I change the pick up time?

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!

Activities & facilities

How much walking is there at the Tulum ruins?

We take a shuttle from the parking lot to the main ruins entrance, so you won’t need to walk far to get to the site.

The guided visit lasts about 45 minutes and we go at a comfortable pace, with breaks if needed.

Just a heads-up—there aren’t many spots to sit. If you have any limitations with walking or taking steps, keep in mind that a few are required to get in and out of the site and to reach the cliff area.

Can we spend some time at Tulum beach during the tour?

No, unfortunately, we cannot. The beach located within the Tulum ruins has been closed since 2020 and remains inaccessible to visitors.

Additionally, this tour does not include any stops at the Tulum beach area, the hotel zone, or Tulum town center.

Is snorkeling experience required for this tour?

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.

Which cenote do we visit on this tour?

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.

Are turtle sightings guaranteed in Akumal?

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.

What type of boat is used to swim with the turtles?

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.

Are there showers or changing rooms at the cenote or at Akumal beach?

Yes. Facilities include clean showers, restrooms, and changing areas at both locations.

Planning & booking

What should I bring for the tour? Where can I leave my belongings?

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.

Are vegetarian or special dietary meals available?

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.

What is the cancellation policy?

Go ahead and plan with confidence—your booking is fully flexible!

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.

More questions?

Visit our main FAQ page or contact us by email, WhatsApp or via chat, we're happy to help!

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Private adventures, thoughtfully planned by our local team.

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Coupon terms & conditions

EARLY2MONTHS — 10% off
Book at least 60 days before your tour date.

MULTITOUR — 10% off
Book at least 2 tours in one transaction.

If part of a multi-tour booking is canceled and only one tour remains, the discount becomes void and the remaining balance will be adjusted.

Enter your coupon code at checkout.

Tour photos

MAKE IT YOUR DAY

Book with Confidence

Tulum ruins, Snorkeling in Cenote and with Turtles

Choose your date, number of guests and pickup location to see your exact price.

Enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours before your tour.