Riviera Maya: Snorkel With Turtles in Akumal and Visit to Natural Cenote

Imagine swimming alongside majestic sea turtles as they gracefully glide through the crystal-clear waters of Akumal Bay. This idyllic stretch of the Riviera Maya offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness these gentle creatures in their natural habitat. After this enchanting encounter, you’ll venture deep into the lush Yucatan jungle to explore a stunning cenote, where you can cool off in the refreshing, underground pool surrounded by towering limestone walls. From the vibrant marine life to the captivating natural wonders, this 8-hour adventure promises to leave you awestruck and eager to uncover more of the Riviera Maya’s hidden gems.

Good To Know

• Embark on an 8-hour adventure to snorkel with sea turtles in Akumal’s barrier reef and explore the natural beauty of Cenote Caracol.
• Enjoy a guided tour with included snorkeling equipment, transportation, light snack, and lunch, with an additional $20 USD fee for protected area access.
• Witness the graceful movements and unique shell patterns of endangered sea turtles as they graze on seagrass, and observe the vibrant coral formations and marine life.
• Discover the hidden gem of Cenote Caracol, swim in its cool, crystal-clear waters, and learn about the indigenous culture and geological features of the Yucatan Peninsula.
• Explore the lowland jungle of the Yucatan, spotting diverse flora and fauna, including toucans and quetzals, while learning about the ancient Maya’s relationship with the land.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This Riviera Maya snorkeling tour offers visitors the chance to swim with majestic sea turtles and explore the stunning cenotes of the Yucatan Peninsula. Priced from £68.94 per person, the 8-hour adventure includes pickup from Tulum, Playa del Carmen, or Cancun, and transportation by air-conditioned van.

Guests can enjoy guaranteed snorkeling with sea turtles, discover a spectacular barrier reef, and swim in the region’s famous cenotes and underground rivers. The tour also includes snorkeling equipment, entrance to the cenotes park, a light snack, and lunch.

While an additional $20 USD fee is required for dock, reef, and protected area entrance, the experience promises an unforgettable glimpse into the Yucatan’s lush lowland jungle.

Itinerary and Transportation

The tour begins with a van ride lasting approximately 1.5 hours, whisking guests from their pickup locations in Tulum, Playa del Carmen, or Cancun to the picturesque town of Akumal.

Once there, visitors will enjoy 1.5 hours of snorkeling, spotting the majestic sea turtles that call the area’s barrier reef home.

After the snorkel adventure, the group boards the van again, this time for a 30-minute journey to the breathtaking Cenote Caracol.

Here, they’ll have 1.5 hours to swim and explore the natural wonder, surrounded by the Yucatan Peninsula‘s lush lowland jungle.

Guaranteed Snorkeling With Sea Turtles

Snorkelers can look forward to an unforgettable encounter with the sea turtles that call Akumal’s vibrant barrier reef home.

Gliding effortlessly through the warm Caribbean waters, these gentle giants gracefully feed on the sea grass, occasionally surfacing to breathe. The snorkeling experience promises an up-close view of these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

Guests will marvel at the turtles’ intricate shell patterns and the mesmerizing rhythm of their movements. This is a truly unique opportunity to observe these endangered species in their protected environment, leaving snorkelers with a deep appreciation for the wonders of marine life.

Exploring Spectacular Barrier Reef

Guests glide through the vibrant turquoise waters, captivated by the breathtaking barrier reef that stretches before them.

Swaying coral formations in hues of red, yellow, and purple teem with a dazzling array of marine life. Parrotfish, angelfish, and clownfish dart between the nooks and crannies, while schools of silvery jacks and barracuda patrol the deeper channels.

The reef’s diversity is truly awe-inspiring:

1. Explore intricate sponge gardens, home to a myriad of invertebrates.
2. Spot majestic sea turtles grazing on seagrass meadows.
3. Witness the mesmerizing dance of reef sharks as they hunt their prey.
4. Marvel at the kaleidoscope of colors and patterns that define this underwater oasis.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Swimming in Cenotes and Subway Rivers

After exploring the vibrant barrier reef, the tour transports guests to the hidden gems of the Yucatan Peninsula’s lowland jungle – the captivating cenotes and subway rivers.

These natural swimming holes, formed by the collapse of limestone bedrock, offer a truly unique experience. Visitors plunge into the cool, crystal-clear waters, surrounded by stunning rock formations and lush vegetation.

The swim through the underground river systems, carved by centuries of erosion, evokes a sense of wonder and discovery. This immersive adventure allows travelers to connect with the region’s geological wonders and indigenous culture, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Discovering Yucatan Peninsula’s Lowland Jungle

Beyond the vibrant barrier reef, travelers discover the Yucatan Peninsula’s captivating lowland jungle. This lush, verdant landscape teems with diverse flora and fauna, from towering palms to vibrant orchids and chattering monkeys.

Visitors can:

1. Spot colorful birds like the vibrant Toucans and the elusive Quetzal flitting through the canopy.
2. Explore meandering trails that wind through the dense undergrowth, home to curious coatis and skittering iguanas.
3. Learn about the ancient Maya’s deep connection to the land and their sustainable farming practices.
4. Immerse themselves in the sights, sounds, and scents of this magical, primeval world, a stark contrast to the nearby beaches.

Inclusions and Additional Costs

The tour includes a range of amenities to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience. Snorkeling equipment, entrance tickets to the cenotes park, a light snack, and a hearty lunch are all provided.

An experienced guide accompanies the group, offering insights and ensuring the day runs smoothly. However, there’s an additional fee of $20 USD per person, payable in cash upon boarding, to cover the dock, reef, and protected area entrance fees.

Participants should come prepared with sturdy sandals, biodegradable sunscreen, and comfortable beachwear. Alcohol and drugs are strictly prohibited during the tour for safety reasons.

Participant Restrictions and Recommendations

The tour has some important restrictions and recommendations for participants.

Children under 5 years and people over 70 years aren’t suitable for this adventure. Participants should bring along sandals, biodegradable sunscreen, and beachwear. Alcohol and drugs are strictly prohibited on the tour.

To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, the tour operator suggests the following:

1. Pack appropriate footwear and sun protection.
2. Refrain from consuming any intoxicating substances.
3. Inform the guide of any medical conditions or concerns.
4. Follow the instructions of the tour leader and snorkeling guide.

This snorkeling and cenote exploration offers a unique opportunity to connect with the natural wonders of the Riviera Maya, but participants must adhere to the outlined guidelines for their own safety and the preservation of the delicate ecosystem.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Average Group Size for the Tour?

This snorkeling tour has a shared van for transportation, so the group size is typically small and intimate, allowing for a personalized experience as travelers explore the stunning Riviera Maya landscape together.

Do I Need to Know How to Swim to Participate?

Guests don’t need to be expert swimmers to join this tour. The snorkeling activity is suitable for all skill levels, and guides provide instruction and support as needed to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Is the Tour Suitable for People With Mobility Issues?

While the tour may not be fully accessible for those with severe mobility issues, it can accommodate participants with some mobility challenges. The itinerary includes short walks and entering/exiting the water, so some assistance may be required.

Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Equipment?

Guests can bring their own snorkeling equipment, but the tour provides high-quality gear included in the price. This allows everyone to enjoy the underwater adventures without worrying about equipment.

Are There Any Age Requirements for the Cenote Activities?

The tour has participant restrictions – it’s not suitable for children under 5 years old or people over 70. Guests must be able to swim and snorkel in the cenotes without assistance.

The Sum Up

Prepare to be captivated by the Riviera Maya’s natural wonders. Snorkel alongside majestic sea turtles in Akumal, then dive into the crystal-clear waters of a vibrant cenote, surrounded by lush jungle. This unforgettable adventure promises a perfect blend of marine magic and natural splendor, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime.

You can check if your dates are available here: