Tulum: Private Tour 2 Cenotes Sac Actun, the longest underground river in the world

If you’re contemplating a visit to the Riviera Maya and want to explore some of its most spectacular natural wonders, a private cenote tour like this one offers a captivating glimpse into the area’s hidden side. We haven’t personally been on this exact trip, but based on detailed reviews and the itinerary, it seems like a well-rounded, authentic experience that balances adventure, culture, and relaxation.

What makes this tour particularly appealing? First, it visits two of the most renowned cenotes—one a breathtaking cavern with stalactites and stalagmites, and the other an open, lush-filled sinkhole. Second, the personalized, private format ensures you can enjoy the sites at your pace, with flexibility and exclusive attention from your guide. Third, the tour includes delicious regional food and drinks, giving you a taste of genuine Mayan and Mexican cuisine.

One possible consideration? The duration, about five hours, might feel tight if you’re planning a full day of lounging or multiple excursions. But if you’re after a focused, immersive experience, this setup works beautifully.

This tour suits travelers who crave intimate encounters with nature, enjoy learning about local culture, and value flexibility over crowded group tours. It’s ideal for couples, small groups, or anyone who prefers a curated, high-quality experience without rushing.

Good To Know

• Fully private and customizable tour tailored to your schedule
• Visit two vastly different cenotes, one cavernous and one open-air
• Expert guides with local knowledge and cultural insights
• Includes all necessary equipment, snacks, drinks, and regional cuisine
• Limited group size ensures privacy and personalized attention
• Flexible pickup and drop-off from key locations like Tulum, Playa del Carmen, and Puerto Morelos

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring the Cenotes: A Natural Wonder

The main attraction of this tour is undoubtedly the chance to swim and snorkel in two of the Riviera Maya’s most stunning cenotes. The first stop, Cenote Xunaan Ha, is a cavern-style cenote offering a mystical experience. Its impressive formations and the play of natural light filtering through the water create a surreal scene. Reviewers mention that they had ample time to take photos and enjoy the tranquility of the space, with one saying, “We had the interior cenote all to ourselves; it was like stepping into another world.”

The second cenote, Sac Actún, is a different story—a vast open-air cenote filled with lush greenery and inviting waters. It’s described as perfect for relaxing, swimming, or just soaking in the natural beauty around you. The guide offers a guided tour of the underground river, which is the world’s longest subterranean river, connecting visitors with the intricate, mysterious underground water systems that make this site so special.

What You’ll Experience at Each Cenote

At Cenote Xunaan Ha, you’ll likely enjoy snorkeling or swimming amidst impressive stalactites and stalagmites. The reviews highlight how the formations are captivating and how the guide, Ruben, was very informative, sharing insights about the geology and cultural significance of the area.

In Sac Actún, you’ll get the chance to explore the underground river—a true highlight for many visitors. The guided tour here is designed to help you appreciate the formations and understand the significance of this natural marvel. All equipment is provided, so you don’t need to worry about bringing your own gear.

The Journey: From Pickup to Drop-Off

The tour begins with convenient pickup options from four key locations: Puerto Aventuras, Playa del Carmen, Puerto Morelos, and Tulum. This flexibility makes it easier for travelers to fit the tour into their day without extra hassle. The vehicle is well-equipped with insurance and GPS, emphasizing comfort and reliability.

Once on the road, the group stops at Cenote Xunaan Ha for about an hour—plenty of time for photos, swimming, or just soaking in the peaceful environment. Next, the journey continues to Sac Actún, where you’ll spend around 1.5 hours. Both stops are designed to give you a balanced experience of exploration and downtime, with guided insights from your certified guide, Lalo or Ruben, who are praised for their professionalism and knowledge.

Lunch and Rest: A Taste of Local Flavors

After the cenote visits, the tour shifts to regional cuisine, usually around a Riviera Maya setting. You have options for brunch, lunch, or regional food tasting, with drinks like beer, cocktails, or aperitifs included. Reviewers loved the authenticity of the food, describing it as delicious and well-presented—adding a flavorful end to a day of adventure. Some mention that the tour offers several options to accommodate dietary preferences.

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Authentic, Private, and Flexible

One of the things reviewers appreciated most is the private nature of the tour. Ruben, Lalo, and the team are known for their friendliness, adaptability, and cultural insights. You can tailor the pace—whether you want more snorkeling time or to spend longer relaxing by the water.

The tour’s five-hour duration strikes a good balance for most travelers—allowing enough time to enjoy the cenotes, take photos, and have a hearty regional meal without feeling rushed. The small group size and private setup make the experience feel exclusive, avoiding the crowds and commercial feel of larger tours.

What’s Included and What’s Not

All entrance fees, equipment, and drinks are included, which means you won’t face surprise expenses. Meals are part of the package, but drinks in the restaurant are paid for separately by guests. This setup gives a clear understanding of costs upfront, making budgeting straightforward.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

If you’re looking for a personalized, authentic tour that combines natural wonder with cultural flavor, this itinerary offers great value. The combination of stunning cenotes, professional guides, and tasty regional food creates a memorable experience that goes beyond a standard tourist outing.

The reviews consistently highlight the quality of the guides and the quiet, exclusive atmosphere of the stops. Visitors mention feeling like they had the cenotes all to themselves and appreciated the stories and insights shared about Mayan culture and geology.

While five hours might seem brief for some, the carefully curated itinerary ensures you get a full, immersive experience without feeling overwhelmed. It’s especially suitable for travelers who prefer flexibility and high-quality service over large group excursions.

This private cenote tour is perfect for couples seeking intimacy, small groups wanting a curated experience, or anyone craving a deeper connection with Mexico’s natural beauty. If you love snorkeling, exploring underground rivers, and sampling delicious local cuisine, this tour ticks all the boxes. It offers a balanced blend of adventure and relaxation with the comfort of private transportation and expert guides.

Is this a full-day tour?
No, it lasts about five hours, making it ideal for those who want a focused experience without a full-day commitment.

Can I choose my pickup location?
Yes, pickups are available from Puerto Aventuras, Playa del Carmen, Puerto Morelos, and Tulum.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes regional food and snacks, plus drinks on board. Drinks at the restaurant are paid separately.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a hat, and swimwear are recommended for the cenote visits.

Will I be able to snorkel or swim?
Absolutely, all necessary equipment is provided, and both cenote stops are suitable for swimming and snorkeling.

Is this tour private?
Yes, it’s designed for private groups, allowing a more personalized experience.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Yes, the tour can be canceled up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and you can reserve now and pay later.

Are guides bilingual?
Guides speak Spanish, French, and English, ensuring clear communication.

Are the cenotes safe for swimming?
Yes, the cenotes are safe for swimming and snorkeling, with equipment provided and guides present.

What if I don’t want to snorkel?
You can opt for just swimming or relaxing at each stop; the tour is flexible and tailored to your preferences.

To sum it up, this private tour of two diverse cenotes offers a well-rounded and intimate adventure into the natural wonders of Quintana Roo. It combines stunning geological formations, authentic regional flavors, and personalized service that sets it apart from more commercial offerings. Whether you’re a nature lover, culture enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, this experience promises a memorable day in the Riviera Maya.

You can check if your dates are available here: