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!
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.
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.
jacquelineb –
Amazing private tour
We had the best day today with Alex and Omar. We first went to Tulum and Alex shared some amazing Mayan knowledge with us.
After Tulum we went to the cenote which was amazing. 😍 It was our first time snorkeling and honestly, incredible doesn’t describe it well enough.
We then went and had a delicious lunch before coming back to the resort.
The private tour was absolutely the right choice for us. We could go at our pace, ask questions, and it was so nice to have Alex with us throughout.
Highly recommend this company and hopefully you get Alex as your guide. 🩷
Alejandro –
We took a private day tour and our guide Arturo was awesome, he was very informative and patient with us. Made the tour memorable with how he was showing us the ruins and exploring the underground cenote.
Shobhit –
We took 2 private tours with Arturo, and both were phenomenal! We had two young kids, and it was not a problem for them to go slow and customize the tour for us. Highly recommended!
Hink44 –
Breathtaking cenotes, Tulum and the best guide in the business
We couldn’t have had a better day and experience. With several companies to choose from, we chose Absolute Adventures because of how friendly and helpful Claire was in addition to all of the great reviews, which were 100% accurate.
We consider ourselves incredibly lucky that our guide was Juan Jose and driver Omar. Juan was deeply knowledgeable and kind, and simply a cool dude. It was like we had been friends for years. His tour of Tulum was informative and fun, and he chose the perfect breathtaking cenotes for us to visit.
Wonderful and beautiful natural attractions in Tulum and the cenotes + the best guide and driver there could be = a once-in-a-lifetime experience that we will never forget and can’t recommend highly enough!
Angelica –
This was the perfect tour for our family! Our tour guide, Joshua, was knowledgeable and taught us so much about the Mayan/Tulum culture with explanations of each house, building, and temple, as well as swimming with us and showing us the ins and outs of Cenote Taak Bi Ha. Our driver Rodrigo got us safely from location to location, while keeping the air on in the van, which was a much needed respite from the humidity and the heat.
From the ruins to the cenote to our delicious lunch, we had a beautiful experience, and we were so happy that we went with this company! Thank you again to Joshua and Rodrigo for accommodating our party of 11 in the best way possible. What a great memory for all of us to share together!
Yeni –
Amazing Tulum Cenote Experience
We’ve done several tours in MX over the years. This is the only way we will do tours on future visits. Arturo was amazing and the whole experience was spectacular. Lunch was so good and even had vegan options. What a great experience! We will be using absolute tours for future trips!
Brandy –
Our guide Jacob was amazing. He hung around and had lunch with us, held on to those who couldn’t swim and we’re still scared in the cenote.
Katie –
Great Trip Great time! The guides were amazing and made the excursion suit our preferences. Very knowledgeable about the Mayan ruins
Jscheffer4 –
Wonderful time in Tulum
Our tour to Tulum ruins and a cenote was spectacular! Joshua and Arturo did an amazing job. They were extremely accommodating, kind, and helpful.
Would 100% recommend using this company again for future tours.
Raegan –
Such a great experience! Our guides were knowledgeable, attentive, and made sure everything was taken care of. They offered to take pictures when needed and made sure we had plenty of time to look around shop. They made the day super easy and I’d highly recommend!
Chantel –
We loved our tour! Joshua and Rodrigo were amazing. It was very rainy other day of our tour and we were worried it would be a ruined day. They adjusted our tour so we were still be able to experience Tulum and a Cenote (we had originally booked swimming with turtles but the beach was closed). They provided drinks for our kids, umbrellas, and amazing information throughout the day. Joshua was amazing and took great family photos for us at key points of our tour. We loved our tour and would highly recommend it!
Anonymous –
Alex was an incredible guide. From pick up to returning. He was incredibly knowledgeable and patient with the kids who were struggling with the humidity. The cenote was an amazing experience. Jumping and swimming into the cenote was thrilling and relaxing. The tour took us too an excellent restaurant after the cenote.
Kimberly –
Top notch company! Very professional and friendly service! They tailored the experience to exactly what we wanted and it was nice that it was just us. They showed up on time with cold drinks. Joshua was amazing and thorough at explaining the history and helped us feel safe while traveling through the caves. A+++ highly recommend!
Dixxie –
Do yourself a favor and book with Absolute Adventure Mexico!
My family had two major adventure goals for our vacation – seeing the Tulum Mayan ruins and snorkeling. With this tour, we got to do both and so much more!
Arturo was fantastic – knowledgeable, kind, and attentive! He picked us up early in the day for our private tour of the ruins, where he taught us about the history and culture of the Mayan people of Tulum. He helped us take photos and pointed out incredible details and sights.
Then he took us to our choice of cenote. He taught us how to snorkel and led us through an underground wonderland of cool, clear water and incredible rock formations.
Afterwards, we enjoyed a delightful authentic Mexican lunch and more conversation with Arturo. He was a delightful guide, never hurrying us, cheerfully assisting with photos, and engaging us in every phase of our adventure.
If you’re in the area and have the opportunity, book your tour with Absolute Adventure Mexico. I only wish there were more stars to give them.
Yehdahm –
Joseph was a wonderful and knowledgeable guide showing us the history and beauty of dos ojos in tulum! Highly recommend
Jonathan –
Juan was a great guide ! Very personable, funny, and knowledgeable. He made the experience very memorable and I would gladly recommend this tour. The car was very clean and there was cold water / soda available. The Tulum Ruins were amazing and it was clear Juan had a passion for the history as he explained different things to us and answered our various questions. We struggled to make a decision on which Cenote to go to, but Juan made a great recommendation. If you book, you’ll have a great time.
Bonny –
Shared Magic
Our recent tour with Absolute Adventure Mexico exceeded our expectations (2 adults, & kids 15, 12). I HIGHLY RECOMMEND a private tour as it saves time and provides a more intimate experience. Don’t go with the crowded tours advertised at the resorts!!!
Our pickup and drop-off were timely and comfortable; we had just the right amount of time at each location without feeling rushed. The Tulum ruins and history are fascinating and Cenote Nicte-Ha was pure magic. The fabulous, fresh lunch and margaritas at Restaurante Juanita was the perfect way to end our tour.
Alex (guide) and Omar (driver) were courteous and professional, and Alex’s knowledge of the area and Mayan history is vast. He is a credentialed, experienced tour guide and fluent English speaker. Alex made our trip to Tulum truly magical! He believes in the importance of shared experiences to connect us and we wholeheartedly agree. His love for the local history, and culture, and joy for sharing it with others is a special experience not to be missed on your visit to the area. However, if you don’t end up getting Alex as your guide, it’s apparent that Absolute Adventure values quality tours and guides, so you are in good hands.
We will book another tour with Absolute Adventure when we return to Mexico and specifically request Alex. Thank you, Alex and Omar!
Bonny E. –
Our recent tour with Absolute Adventure Mexico exceeded our expectations (2 adults, & kids 15, 12). I HIGHLY RECOMMEND a private tour as it saves time and provides a more intimate experience. Don’t go with the crowded tours advertised at the resorts!!!
Our pickup and drop-off were timely and comfortable; we had just the right amount of time at each location without feeling rushed. The Tulum ruins and history are fascinating and Cenote Nicte-Ha was pure magic. The fabulous, fresh lunch and margaritas at Restaurante Juanita was the perfect way to end our tour.
Alex (guide) and Omar (driver) were courteous and professional, and Alex’s knowledge of the area and Mayan history is vast. He is a credentialed, experienced tour guide and fluent English speaker. Alex made our trip to Tulum truly magical! He believes in the importance of shared experiences to connect us and we wholeheartedly agree. His love for the local history, and culture, and joy for sharing it with others is a special experience not to be missed on your visit to the area. However, if you don’t end up getting Alex as your guide, it’s apparent that Absolute Adventure values quality tours and guides, so you are in good hands.
We will book another tour with Absolute Adventure when we return to Mexico and specifically request Alex.
Mark –
Juan was amazing! On time,, knowledgeable, and took his time in every place. He made sure we got all the photos we wanted, he was warm and engaging. The stops were amazing, the food delish, highly recommend!
Garret –
JJ was an entertaining and informative guide. Had a great time on their tour.