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!
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!
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.
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: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: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.
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:
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. Discover the benefits of early departure to visit Tulum.
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.
FROM PLAYA DEL CARMEN AREA
07:00am - Private transportation from your hotel to Tulum
08:00–10:00am - Visit of Tulum ruins
10:00–10:30am - Transportation
10:30–11:30am - Snorkeling in cenote
11:30–12:30pm - Lunch
12:30–01:00pm - Transportation
01:00–02:00pm - Snorkeling with turtles*
02:00–02:45pm - Return to hotel
FROM TULUM AREA
07:45am - Private transportation from your hotel to Tulum
08:00–10:00am - Visit of Tulum ruins
10:00–10:30am - Transportation
10:30–11:30am - Snorkeling in cenote
11:30–12:30pm - Lunch
12:30–01:00pm - Transportation
01:00–02:00pm - Snorkeling with turtles*
02:00–02:30pm - Return to hotel
FROM CANCUN AREA
06:00am - Private transportation from your hotel to Tulum
08:00–10:00am - Visit of Tulum ruins
10:00–10:30am - Transportation
10:30–11:30am - Snorkeling in cenote
11:30–12:30pm - Lunch
12:30–01:00pm - Transportation
01:00–02:00pm - Snorkeling with turtles*
02:00–03:45pm - Return to hotel
*Swimming with turtles is limited to max 1 hour as per Akumal regulations.
* It is forbidden to apply sunblock and repellent before swimming or snorkeling activities to prevent water pollution 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.
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.
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: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: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.
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:
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. Discover the benefits of early departure to visit Tulum.
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.
FROM PLAYA DEL CARMEN AREA
07:00am - Private transportation from your hotel to Tulum
08:00–10:00am - Visit of Tulum ruins
10:00–10:30am - Transportation
10:30–11:30am - Snorkeling in cenote
11:30–12:30pm - Lunch
12:30–01:00pm - Transportation
01:00–02:00pm - Snorkeling with turtles*
02:00–02:45pm - Return to hotel
FROM TULUM AREA
07:45am - Private transportation from your hotel to Tulum
08:00–10:00am - Visit of Tulum ruins
10:00–10:30am - Transportation
10:30–11:30am - Snorkeling in cenote
11:30–12:30pm - Lunch
12:30–01:00pm - Transportation
01:00–02:00pm - Snorkeling with turtles*
02:00–02:30pm - Return to hotel
FROM CANCUN AREA
06:00am - Private transportation from your hotel to Tulum
08:00–10:00am - Visit of Tulum ruins
10:00–10:30am - Transportation
10:30–11:30am - Snorkeling in cenote
11:30–12:30pm - Lunch
12:30–01:00pm - Transportation
01:00–02:00pm - Snorkeling with turtles*
02:00–03:45pm - Return to hotel
*Swimming with turtles is limited to max 1 hour as per Akumal regulations.
* It is forbidden to apply sunblock and repellent before swimming or snorkeling activities to prevent water pollution 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!
We booked the Tulum, Cenote and Turtle swim tour with this company based on Tripadvisor recommendations, so thanks to those who took time to write up their experiences. Claire was patient with us as snorkelling novices, and thanks to her knowledge, we were able to see 5 or 6 lovely turtles. Then followed what for me was the highlight of the trip- swimming in the Cenote. For most of the time, we were the only people there, and I can say that this was a very special privilege, to appreciate the tranquility and beauty of this place which is sacred to the Mayans. It was something we would never have experienced otherwise and Claire was experienced in leading us through the silent, clear water in a way which allowed us to enjoy the beauty of the place while respecting its fragility and without worrying about getting lost! In fact you cannot visit this Cenote without a guide. As other reviewers have said, the meal in the jungle and Tulum were also great. I enjoyed learning a bit about Mexico and the history of the Mayans over lunch from Claire, who is a great source of knowedge and takes her tour guiding very seriously. All in all, highly recommended to anyone who appreciates something special and thanks to Claire for making it a memorable day for myself and two grown up children.
We went to Tulum, Akumal and a cenotes. Visiting Tulum in the morning a must do! We arrived at the opening and it was awesome as we got the ruins for ourselves. No one was on site, we have great pictures! Then both cenote and turtle snorkeling were amazing. Our group had a very pleasant day, it was so worth it!
We went to Tulum, cenotes and Akumal with Absolute Adventure Mexico. Visiting Tulum in the morning is a must do, we were there before large groups and had a amazing lightning to take pictures! Swimming in the cave was spectacular and our guide Claire explained us everything about the cenote. Finally we went to Akumal to snorkel with sea turtles. We saw 6 of them from very close, it was fantastic! Thanks Claire for this day.
My wife Sharon and I book an adventure with Absolute Adventures Mexico. We opted for the Telum, cenotes and turtles.I can say enough about Chris’s professionalism and dedication to o making sure our day was perfect . From the start to then end it was a fantastic day!!!
We had a wonderful private tour including Tulum, snorkelling with turtles and in a quiet cenote. Our guide Arturo was fantastic. We would highly recommend Absolute Adventure Mexico. Top notch service, and great value.
The tour was absolutely wonderful! It couldn’t have been better. I really appreciated arriving at the ruins at the opening of the site. We had the place for oursleves and our guide was so knowledgeble ! The snorkeling experience went super well too, with the guide giving lots of information and advices. I felt safe with the driver, he took care of our belonging in the van while we were away. I would highly recommend this small but incredible travel agency!
We had such a great time touring the Tulum ruins and snorkelling in a cenote and also with turtles. We all loved it. Marcel and Ervin were wonderful. They took us to the best meal we had while we were in Cancun at a Mayan restaurant in the jungle. It was a very full day but so worth it. I would recommend this to anyone travelling to Mexico. It’s so nice not to be on a bus full of people just your group and we saw the ruins before the crowds got there. Absolutely amazing time!!
We did the Tulum, cenote and turtle tour with Arturo. Both our guide and driver were patient and fun. Arturo took care of everything and gave us confidence to snorkel as it was our first time. Our driver Miseal stayed with our bags in the van when we were snorkeling. The overall experience felt very nice and safe!
Today we completed our amazing private tour. We had snorkeling stops at sea turtles and cenote followed by an amazing lunch and then a private tour of the Maya ruins at Tulum. Our guide Claire was very knowledgeable and knew when and what time was the best to avoid the crowds at each stop. Juan Manuel was always there to pick us up so we never had to stand in the hot sun like other tours. We always had fresh cold drinks when we got into the van.
Chris was a wonderful guide yesterday on our trip to Tulum, cenote and snorkeling with the turtles. He made sure we were comfortable with the equipment and had lots of patience with me since I was a bit tentative. The scenery was beautiful, this was one of the highlights of our trip and Chris handled all the details very well
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You’ll have a dedicated guide and vehicle all to yourselves—no crowds, no waiting, just a smooth and personalized experience.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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, 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.
Lindsay –
We booked the Tulum, Cenote and Turtle swim tour with this company based on Tripadvisor recommendations, so thanks to those who took time to write up their experiences. Claire was patient with us as snorkelling novices, and thanks to her knowledge, we were able to see 5 or 6 lovely turtles. Then followed what for me was the highlight of the trip- swimming in the Cenote. For most of the time, we were the only people there, and I can say that this was a very special privilege, to appreciate the tranquility and beauty of this place which is sacred to the Mayans. It was something we would never have experienced otherwise and Claire was experienced in leading us through the silent, clear water in a way which allowed us to enjoy the beauty of the place while respecting its fragility and without worrying about getting lost! In fact you cannot visit this Cenote without a guide. As other reviewers have said, the meal in the jungle and Tulum were also great. I enjoyed learning a bit about Mexico and the history of the Mayans over lunch from Claire, who is a great source of knowedge and takes her tour guiding very seriously. All in all, highly recommended to anyone who appreciates something special and thanks to Claire for making it a memorable day for myself and two grown up children.
Sam –
We went to Tulum, Akumal and a cenotes. Visiting Tulum in the morning a must do! We arrived at the opening and it was awesome as we got the ruins for ourselves. No one was on site, we have great pictures! Then both cenote and turtle snorkeling were amazing. Our group had a very pleasant day, it was so worth it!
Rufus –
We went to Tulum, cenotes and Akumal with Absolute Adventure Mexico. Visiting Tulum in the morning is a must do, we were there before large groups and had a amazing lightning to take pictures! Swimming in the cave was spectacular and our guide Claire explained us everything about the cenote. Finally we went to Akumal to snorkel with sea turtles. We saw 6 of them from very close, it was fantastic! Thanks Claire for this day.
Fred –
My wife Sharon and I book an adventure with Absolute Adventures Mexico. We opted for the Telum, cenotes and turtles.I can say enough about Chris’s professionalism and dedication to o making sure our day was perfect . From the start to then end it was a fantastic day!!!
Guy –
We had a wonderful private tour including Tulum, snorkelling with turtles and in a quiet cenote. Our guide Arturo was fantastic. We would highly recommend Absolute Adventure Mexico. Top notch service, and great value.
Kelly –
The tour was absolutely wonderful! It couldn’t have been better. I really appreciated arriving at the ruins at the opening of the site. We had the place for oursleves and our guide was so knowledgeble ! The snorkeling experience went super well too, with the guide giving lots of information and advices. I felt safe with the driver, he took care of our belonging in the van while we were away. I would highly recommend this small but incredible travel agency!
Amanda –
We had such a great time touring the Tulum ruins and snorkelling in a cenote and also with turtles. We all loved it. Marcel and Ervin were wonderful. They took us to the best meal we had while we were in Cancun at a Mayan restaurant in the jungle. It was a very full day but so worth it. I would recommend this to anyone travelling to Mexico. It’s so nice not to be on a bus full of people just your group and we saw the ruins before the crowds got there. Absolutely amazing time!!
Linda –
We did the Tulum, cenote and turtle tour with Arturo. Both our guide and driver were patient and fun. Arturo took care of everything and gave us confidence to snorkel as it was our first time. Our driver Miseal stayed with our bags in the van when we were snorkeling. The overall experience felt very nice and safe!
Betty –
Today we completed our amazing private tour. We had snorkeling stops at sea turtles and cenote followed by an amazing lunch and then a private tour of the Maya ruins at Tulum. Our guide Claire was very knowledgeable and knew when and what time was the best to avoid the crowds at each stop. Juan Manuel was always there to pick us up so we never had to stand in the hot sun like other tours. We always had fresh cold drinks when we got into the van.
Peggy –
Chris was a wonderful guide yesterday on our trip to Tulum, cenote and snorkeling with the turtles. He made sure we were comfortable with the equipment and had lots of patience with me since I was a bit tentative. The scenery was beautiful, this was one of the highlights of our trip and Chris handled all the details very well