PRIVATE TOUR: Enjoy a private guided tour of the Tulum ruins, followed by a refreshing swim in a cenote of your choice and lunch at a restaurant in the jungle. Opt for a custom experience with 1 or 2 cenotes on this tour.
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!
When visiting the Riviera Maya, two unforgettable experiences should be at the top of your list: discovering the region’s rich Mayan heritage and immersing yourself in the area's spectacular natural beauty.
With our private Tulum Ruins & Cenote Tour, you’ll enjoy the perfect balance of culture and adventure in just one day—without the stress of large groups or rigid schedules. This private experience is fully customized to your pace and preferences, offering exclusive access, expert guidance, and the flexibility to make the day your own.
Led by a certified guide, you’ll explore the Tulum Mayan ruins perched above the sea, then cool off in one or two handpicked cenotes. With private transportation, a flexible start time, and personal service, this journey offers a seamless and enriching escape.
Your experience begins with a guided visit to the ancient city of Tulum, one of the most iconic and scenic Mayan sites in Mexico. Once a thriving port and ceremonial center, Tulum was vital for trade along the Yucatán coast—where goods like jade, obsidian, and cacao once changed hands.
Set on a cliff overlooking the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea, the site offers postcard-perfect views and a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the ancient Maya. Your guide will share the stories behind structures like the Temple of the Frescoes and El Castillo, along with cultural insights and fun facts tailored to your interests.
Thanks to early access and private transport, you’ll avoid the crowds and midday sun—perfect for uninterrupted photos and peaceful exploration.
Highlights:
After exploring the ruins, it’s time to unwind and refresh in a stunning cenote—a naturally formed freshwater pool hidden within the jungle. Whether you choose one or opt for two, each cenote offers a different experience, from sunlit open-air lagoons to mystical underground caverns filled with stalactites.
You’ll be provided with all the gear needed to swim or snorkel in crystal-clear waters, with a professional guide by your side to ensure safety and help you discover hidden details within the rock formations.
You can select from guest favorites like Cenote Nicte-Ha, Taak Bi Ha, or Jaguar, depending on your comfort level and interests. Want something more adventurous? For an additional $10 USD per person, you can upgrade to world-renowned cenotes like Dos Ojos or Pet Cemetery.
Why you’ll love it:
After your refreshing cenote swim, we’ll head to a peaceful jungle setting where a local restaurant awaits. You’ll relax under a thatched palapa and enjoy a homemade Mexican meal, with options available for vegetarians and guests with dietary restrictions.
This serene setting offers a chance to recharge and reflect on your day’s discoveries while enjoying traditional flavors and warm hospitality.
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.
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
07:00am Private transportation from your hotel to Tulum
08:00am – 10:00am: Visit of Tulum ruins
10:00am – 10:30am: Transportation
10:30am – 11:30am: Snorkeling in cenote
11:30am – 12:15pm: Lunch in a restaurant
12:15pm – 01:00pm: Transportation to your hotel
FROM TULUM AREA
07:45am Private transportation from your hotel to Tulum
08:00am – 10:00am: Visit of Tulum ruins
10:00am – 10:30am: Transportation
10:30am – 11:30am: Snorkeling in cenote
11:30am – 12:15pm: Lunch in a restaurant
12:15pm – 01:00pm: Transportation to your hotel
FROM CANCUN AREA
06:00am Private transportation from your hotel to Tulum
08:00am – 10:00am: Visit of Tulum ruins
10:00am – 10:30am: Transportation
10:30am – 11:30am: Snorkeling in cenote
11:30am – 12:15pm: Lunch in a restaurant
12:15pm – 02:00pm: Transportation to your hotel
This tour doesn’t include Tulum centro/Tulum beach-hotel areas. Only Tulum Mayan ruins.
* It is forbidden to apply sunblock and repellent before swimming or
snorkeling activities to prevent water pollution in the cenotes, 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.
When visiting the Riviera Maya, two unforgettable experiences should be at the top of your list: discovering the region’s rich Mayan heritage and immersing yourself in the area's spectacular natural beauty.
With our private Tulum Ruins & Cenote Tour, you’ll enjoy the perfect balance of culture and adventure in just one day—without the stress of large groups or rigid schedules. This private experience is fully customized to your pace and preferences, offering exclusive access, expert guidance, and the flexibility to make the day your own.
Led by a certified guide, you’ll explore the Tulum Mayan ruins perched above the sea, then cool off in one or two handpicked cenotes. With private transportation, a flexible start time, and personal service, this journey offers a seamless and enriching escape.
Your experience begins with a guided visit to the ancient city of Tulum, one of the most iconic and scenic Mayan sites in Mexico. Once a thriving port and ceremonial center, Tulum was vital for trade along the Yucatán coast—where goods like jade, obsidian, and cacao once changed hands.
Set on a cliff overlooking the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea, the site offers postcard-perfect views and a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the ancient Maya. Your guide will share the stories behind structures like the Temple of the Frescoes and El Castillo, along with cultural insights and fun facts tailored to your interests.
Thanks to early access and private transport, you’ll avoid the crowds and midday sun—perfect for uninterrupted photos and peaceful exploration.
Highlights:
After exploring the ruins, it’s time to unwind and refresh in a stunning cenote—a naturally formed freshwater pool hidden within the jungle. Whether you choose one or opt for two, each cenote offers a different experience, from sunlit open-air lagoons to mystical underground caverns filled with stalactites.
You’ll be provided with all the gear needed to swim or snorkel in crystal-clear waters, with a professional guide by your side to ensure safety and help you discover hidden details within the rock formations.
You can select from guest favorites like Cenote Nicte-Ha, Taak Bi Ha, or Jaguar, depending on your comfort level and interests. Want something more adventurous? For an additional $10 USD per person, you can upgrade to world-renowned cenotes like Dos Ojos or Pet Cemetery.
Why you’ll love it:
After your refreshing cenote swim, we’ll head to a peaceful jungle setting where a local restaurant awaits. You’ll relax under a thatched palapa and enjoy a homemade Mexican meal, with options available for vegetarians and guests with dietary restrictions.
This serene setting offers a chance to recharge and reflect on your day’s discoveries while enjoying traditional flavors and warm hospitality.
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.
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
07:00am Private transportation from your hotel to Tulum
08:00am – 10:00am: Visit of Tulum ruins
10:00am – 10:30am: Transportation
10:30am – 11:30am: Snorkeling in cenote
11:30am – 12:15pm: Lunch in a restaurant
12:15pm – 01:00pm: Transportation to your hotel
FROM TULUM AREA
07:45am Private transportation from your hotel to Tulum
08:00am – 10:00am: Visit of Tulum ruins
10:00am – 10:30am: Transportation
10:30am – 11:30am: Snorkeling in cenote
11:30am – 12:15pm: Lunch in a restaurant
12:15pm – 01:00pm: Transportation to your hotel
FROM CANCUN AREA
06:00am Private transportation from your hotel to Tulum
08:00am – 10:00am: Visit of Tulum ruins
10:00am – 10:30am: Transportation
10:30am – 11:30am: Snorkeling in cenote
11:30am – 12:15pm: Lunch in a restaurant
12:15pm – 02:00pm: Transportation to your hotel
This tour doesn’t include Tulum centro/Tulum beach-hotel areas. Only Tulum Mayan ruins.
* It is forbidden to apply sunblock and repellent before swimming or
snorkeling activities to prevent water pollution in the cenotes, 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!
The Tulum and cenote tour was definitely one of the best moment of our holidays in Mexico. We chose a private to avoid waiting for other guests and move at our own pace. Claire explained us everything about the Mayan ruins and history, and made sure we were having a good time snorkeling. I can’t recommend Absolute Adventure enough!
Our guide was timely, knowledgable and passionate about his work. Although this tour starts quite early it is WELL worth it. They are treating guests to a unique experience to be away from the crowds. I highly recommend this tour.
So happy we booked with Absolute Adventure and not some other of the hotel. This is a small business where they give great service and attention to detail to their guests. Excellent service and safety shown throughout the day. Lovely lunch in the jungle. Private tour makes it even more special.
This tour was absolutely amazing and my favorite while visiting Playa del carmen Our guide Juan was very informative. We were alone at the Cenyote. Loved this tour and would do it again! Water was beautiful and amazing. Tour van was air conditioned with drinks in the cooler! We got pics by email after the tour.
I recently traveled to Riviera Maya with my family of 4 as well as my brother’s family of 4. One of the highlights of our trip was our day spent touring Tulum and snorkeling in a cenote. We had children ranging from 6-13 and all had a wonderful day. Chris, our guide, was fun, knowledgeable, and always working to ensure everyone was enjoying themselves. Our lunch in the jungle was wonderful too!
They made sure we had the best time! the guide that rowed us was amazing and super funny. He took care of us and also made sure we were safe in the cave. I can’t describe enough what an amazing time we had.
The tour starts early and there is a very legitimate reason! which is that we were able to visit the ruins before the crowds. The cenote was a unique experience, we were the only ones snorkeling! Well done
Athuro did an amazing job guiding us in Tulum and Tak Be Ha cenote! He was knowledgable and passionate about sharing his culture with us. Waking up early was 100% worth it. We got ruins and cenote for ourselves. We had such a great family moment, away from the crowds. Would definitly recommend this tour to families !
The outstanding professionalism started with the booking process. Clair and Chris were wonderful to work with and were willing to answer any question we had during the booking process. Our trip to Tulum was amazing, we were the first group to enter, which in itself was priceless. We were able to truly take the experience Tulum without being crowded by other tourist. The authentic Mexican meal that we had was outstanding. We were also very impressed how willing they both were to work with us the week of our vacation and accommodating our trip around the weather so that we got the most out of our trip.
The Absolute Adventure team did a great job on the day. Our guide was very personable, the trip was well organized, everything went exactly as described and as we had planned. I am really happy that I selected Absolute to help us experience the Tulum area.
Claire was an amazing guide for my wife and I on our vacation away from kids. Private tour of Tulum ruins was exquisite and a must experience to avoid the crowds and heat! Swimming in caves is an experience not to be missed, followed by an authentic local Mayan lunch. Would highly recommend Absolute Adventure to any friends, family or fellow travelers. We will book again with Absolute Adventure for the personalized experience and authentic tour.
Visiting Tulum and a cenote with Absolute Adventure felt like being a special guest. Not only we had a guide, a driver, a van for ourselves but we also enjoyed Mayan ruins and cenote before everyone else. Excellent organization and service, safety was on point. We didn’t have to pay anything during our tour, the snorkeling gear, drinks and lunch were included. We had an amazing moment, glad we booked this tour with Absolute Adventure!
We recently took this tour and I have to say it was worth every penny. It is an early start (pick up 6:30am from our hotel in Puerto Morelos) but that was one of the reasons I booked this tour so that we could avoid the masses arriving at the beauty spots later in the day. They provide you with lunch and drinks all day. The guide and the driver were friendly and welcoming, our guide constantly offered to take photos of us which was nice.
I was traveling with a 15 people group. We were picked up in 2 comfortable vans and drove to Tulum early which was amazing because there were literally about 20 people there total. I have been to Tulum before on an afternoon tour and it was so crowded that we could barely take pictures. Tulum was incredible and Chris gave our group so much knowledge and took tons of group pictures for us. Finally we headed to the cenote (all snorkel gear was included). Most of our group was having a great time but my son was panicking so Chris helped him. We went back to the hotel, we were all very exhausted and I cannot imagine renting a car. I would highly recommend this company to anyone looking for a tour in the riviera maya area!
Great for all ages and good value. From the efficiency of the transfer and pleasant informative points offered by the guide even the drive to this activity is enjoyable.
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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.
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.
We offer a range of modern, air-conditioned vans to suit the size of your group and ensure a safe and comfortable journey.
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.
No, cenotes aren’t too cold—they stay at a refreshing 75–79°F (24–26°C) year-round, which is perfect for a swim.
Most cenotes have easy access with platforms and just a few steps to get in and out comfortably.
Yes. Facilities include clean showers, restrooms, and changing areas.
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, 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.
LIZZ –
Juan and Pascual were nothing short of amazing. Juan was entertaining and adjusted to the family like he was a member of our unique family group. When my granddaughter was a little apprehensive about the underwater cave he led her through it while we explored on our own. She is 7 and was not bored one bit with this tour. I would highly recommend this tour to everyone!
Maria –
The Tulum and cenote tour was definitely one of the best moment of our holidays in Mexico. We chose a private to avoid waiting for other guests and move at our own pace. Claire explained us everything about the Mayan ruins and history, and made sure we were having a good time snorkeling. I can’t recommend Absolute Adventure enough!
Justin –
Our guide was timely, knowledgable and passionate about his work. Although this tour starts quite early it is WELL worth it. They are treating guests to a unique experience to be away from the crowds. I highly recommend this tour.
Mark –
So happy we booked with Absolute Adventure and not some other of the hotel. This is a small business where they give great service and attention to detail to their guests. Excellent service and safety shown throughout the day. Lovely lunch in the jungle. Private tour makes it even more special.
Curtis –
This tour was absolutely amazing and my favorite while visiting Playa del carmen Our guide Juan was very informative. We were alone at the Cenyote. Loved this tour and would do it again! Water was beautiful and amazing. Tour van was air conditioned with drinks in the cooler! We got pics by email after the tour.
Alex –
I recently traveled to Riviera Maya with my family of 4 as well as my brother’s family of 4. One of the highlights of our trip was our day spent touring Tulum and snorkeling in a cenote. We had children ranging from 6-13 and all had a wonderful day. Chris, our guide, was fun, knowledgeable, and always working to ensure everyone was enjoying themselves. Our lunch in the jungle was wonderful too!
Vic –
They made sure we had the best time! the guide that rowed us was amazing and super funny. He took care of us and also made sure we were safe in the cave. I can’t describe enough what an amazing time we had.
The tour starts early and there is a very legitimate reason! which is that we were able to visit the ruins before the crowds. The cenote was a unique experience, we were the only ones snorkeling! Well done
Andrea –
Athuro did an amazing job guiding us in Tulum and Tak Be Ha cenote! He was knowledgable and passionate about sharing his culture with us. Waking up early was 100% worth it. We got ruins and cenote for ourselves. We had such a great family moment, away from the crowds. Would definitly recommend this tour to families !
Morgan –
The outstanding professionalism started with the booking process. Clair and Chris were wonderful to work with and were willing to answer any question we had during the booking process. Our trip to Tulum was amazing, we were the first group to enter, which in itself was priceless. We were able to truly take the experience Tulum without being crowded by other tourist. The authentic Mexican meal that we had was outstanding. We were also very impressed how willing they both were to work with us the week of our vacation and accommodating our trip around the weather so that we got the most out of our trip.
Justin –
The Absolute Adventure team did a great job on the day. Our guide was very personable, the trip was well organized, everything went exactly as described and as we had planned. I am really happy that I selected Absolute to help us experience the Tulum area.
Brad –
Claire was an amazing guide for my wife and I on our vacation away from kids. Private tour of Tulum ruins was exquisite and a must experience to avoid the crowds and heat! Swimming in caves is an experience not to be missed, followed by an authentic local Mayan lunch. Would highly recommend Absolute Adventure to any friends, family or fellow travelers. We will book again with Absolute Adventure for the personalized experience and authentic tour.
David –
Visiting Tulum and a cenote with Absolute Adventure felt like being a special guest. Not only we had a guide, a driver, a van for ourselves but we also enjoyed Mayan ruins and cenote before everyone else. Excellent organization and service, safety was on point. We didn’t have to pay anything during our tour, the snorkeling gear, drinks and lunch were included. We had an amazing moment, glad we booked this tour with Absolute Adventure!
Trevis –
We recently took this tour and I have to say it was worth every penny. It is an early start (pick up 6:30am from our hotel in Puerto Morelos) but that was one of the reasons I booked this tour so that we could avoid the masses arriving at the beauty spots later in the day. They provide you with lunch and drinks all day. The guide and the driver were friendly and welcoming, our guide constantly offered to take photos of us which was nice.
Susie –
I was traveling with a 15 people group. We were picked up in 2 comfortable vans and drove to Tulum early which was amazing because there were literally about 20 people there total. I have been to Tulum before on an afternoon tour and it was so crowded that we could barely take pictures. Tulum was incredible and Chris gave our group so much knowledge and took tons of group pictures for us. Finally we headed to the cenote (all snorkel gear was included). Most of our group was having a great time but my son was panicking so Chris helped him. We went back to the hotel, we were all very exhausted and I cannot imagine renting a car. I would highly recommend this company to anyone looking for a tour in the riviera maya area!
Vicky –
Great for all ages and good value. From the efficiency of the transfer and pleasant informative points offered by the guide even the drive to this activity is enjoyable.