Cenote and Swimming with Turtles Private Tour in Akumal
About Cenote and Swimming with Turtles Private Tour in Akumal
A relaxed, private half-day built around two of the Riviera Maya’s best swims: the cave cenote of Taak Bi Ha, with crystal-clear water beneath a ceiling of stalactites, and Akumal Beach, where green sea turtles graze on the seagrass just offshore. A licensed guide accompanies you throughout, snorkel gear and water are provided, and you travel in your own air-conditioned vehicle.
It’s a great choice for families or anyone who wants the cenote-and-turtles experience without a long day of sightseeing.
Itinerary
- Hotel pickup
- Cenote Taak Bi Ha (about 1 hour)
- Snorkeling with sea turtles at Akumal Beach (about 1 hour)
- Optional lunch stop at a local taco restaurant
- Return to your hotel
What’s included
- Private air-conditioned transportation
- Licensed or certified guide
- Snorkel equipment
- Bottled water
- All fees and taxes
Meeting point
Hotel pickup; your exact pickup time is confirmed after booking.
What to expect on the day
After hotel pickup you drive to Cenote Taak Bi Ha near Tulum, a cavern cenote where shafts of light fall onto clear, cool water. You’ll have about an hour to swim and float among the rock formations. Then it’s on to Akumal, whose name means “place of the turtles” in Mayan, for about an hour of snorkeling in the bay with your guide.
On the way back you can stop for tacos at a local restaurant if you’re hungry. The whole tour takes about three to five hours, depending on where you’re staying.
Prices and extra costs
- Included: private transport, licensed guide, entrance fees and taxes, snorkel gear and bottled water.
- Not included: lunch (optional taco stop, roughly $2 to $20 per dish) and tips.
- Price: check the booking page for today’s price for your group size.
What to bring
- Swimsuit, towel and a change of clothes
- Biodegradable sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses
- Water shoes or sandals
- A waterproof phone case for underwater photos
- Cash in pesos for lunch and tips
Tips for a better day
- Respect the turtles: no touching, chasing or feeding, and keep a few metres away.
- Morning is best: the water is usually calmer and clearer, and there are fewer swimmers.
- Seaweed season: from roughly May to October, sargassum can affect Akumal Beach on some days.
Who it’s best for
- Best for: families with children, couples and anyone who wants a short, easygoing day in the water.
- Consider another option if: you also want to see Mayan ruins; the Tulum, cenote and turtles tour adds the Tulum archaeological site.
Accessibility and children
Suitable for all fitness levels. Infant seats are available and small children can ride in a stroller. It isn’t recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health.
Cancellation policy
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start for a full refund. Later cancellations aren’t refunded.
FAQ about Cenote and Swimming with Turtles Private Tour in Akumal
How long is the Akumal turtle and cenote tour?
About 3 to 5 hours, depending on your pickup location.
What's included?
Private air-conditioned transport, a licensed guide, entrance fees, snorkel gear and bottled water.
Will we see sea turtles?
Green sea turtles feed in Akumal Bay year-round and sightings are very common, but they're wild, so it's never guaranteed.
What is Cenote Taak Bi Ha?
A cave cenote near Tulum with clear water under a stalactite-covered ceiling, lit from above.
Do I need to know how to swim?
Basic comfort in the water helps. Life jackets are used in Akumal Bay, and the guide stays with you.
Is this a good tour for kids?
Yes. It's short, suits all fitness levels, and infant seats are available. Children should be comfortable in the water for the snorkel.
Is lunch included?
No, but you can add a stop at a local taco restaurant, with dishes from roughly $2 to $20.
Can I touch or feed the turtles?
No. It's prohibited and harms the turtles. Keep your distance and enjoy watching them.
What should I bring?
Swimsuit, towel, biodegradable sunscreen, a hat, water shoes or sandals, and cash for lunch and tips.
How is this different from the Tulum, cenote and turtles tour?
It skips the Tulum ruins, so it's shorter and more relaxed, focused on swimming and snorkeling.
What is the cancellation policy?
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund.
