Turtle Encounter Private Tour – Swim with Sea Turtles & Cenote

Playa del Carmen , Mexico

Turtle Encounter Private Tour – Swim with Sea Turtles & Cenote

Active

(71 reviews)

5h - 6h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Experience a one-of-a-kind and exclusive private snorkeling tour that offers the opportunity to swim with turtles in Akumal.
Afterward, you can enjoy a refreshing swim in a cenote of your choice, accompanied by a certified guide. You can choose between three stunning cenotes: Jaguar, Nicte Ha, or Taak bi ha.
Additionally, you will enjoy a delightful snack at a local Mexican restaurant located in the heart of the jungle.
This tour is perfect for families and groups of friends, and it offers easy snorkeling for all skill levels.

Available options

Private Van 3

Just you, your guide & driver: Pick up from Playa del Carmen to Tulum. We advise 7:30am pick up to avoid crowds.<br/>Pickup included

Private Van 2

Just you, your guide & driver: Pick up from Playa del Carmen to Tulum. We advise 7:30am pick up to avoid crowds.<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Lunch at a local Mexican restaurant with one meal a la carte

Water and sodas provided in the cooler of the van

All taxes and commissions

Snorkeling gear of the highest quality with life vests

Pick-up and drop-off from your hotel or Airbnb by private air-conditioned minivan

Certified, experienced and dedicated private guide

Cenote and Turtles cooperative fees, Beach entrance bracelet

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

We will pick you up with a private vehicle from your hotel-rental (approx 45 minutes driving).
Enjoy swimming alongside majestic turtles with your own private snorkeling guide! No need for a boat as the snorkeling is conveniently done from the shore, and the ocean in this protected bay is blissfully calm. Get ready to witness the wonder of sea turtles up close, and if luck is on your side, you may even encounter graceful stingrays and a multitude of vibrant, colorful fish. Get ready for an unforgettable snorkeling adventure!

Swim & Snorkel in Cenote: You have the option to swim and snorkel in any of these cenotes: Cenote Jaguar, which is an open-air cenote with cliff jumping and ziplining; Cenote Nicte Ha, an open-air cenote perfect for relaxation; or Cenote Taak bi Ha, a cave cenote where you can explore the underground river.

To end your tour, you'll get to enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant located in the jungle near the cenotes. Indulge in mouthwatering tacos, empanadas, and more. Get ready for an unforgettable and truly authentic experience!

After lunch, we'll take you back to your hotel or rental.

What's not included

Drinks at the restaurant

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

7 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

64 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Swimming skill mandatory

Children of less than 3 years old can not participate.

Important notes

• Swimming skills mandatory

• IMPORTANT: You must provide the tour operator:

1/ At the latest 3 days before the tour: T-shirt size (from XS to 3 XL) for each participant + kid's weights for the snorkeling equipment.

2/ No later than 4pm the day before the tour, your ROOM NUMBER. Otherwise the tour will be cancelled. Without your room number, they will not be authorized to enter in the hotel to pick you up. In case on condo/bnb sharing your location via whatsapp is mandatory.

• What to bring with you:
- Beach Towels
- Swimsuit (please wear it from the morning and you can change after the snorkeling activities)
- Flip flops or water shoes
- Hat/sunglasses
- Rash guard or UV shirt
- Cash (tips/souvenirs)

It is not allowed to put sunblock/mosquito repellent before snorkeling activities.

The tour can not be customized.

No show will apply 15 minutes after the confirmed pick up time.

About Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen is a vibrant coastal city in Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, known for its stunning beaches, turquoise waters, and rich Mayan heritage. It's a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, offering everything from world-class resorts to ancient ruins and vibrant nightlife.

Top Attractions

Quinta Avenida (Fifth Avenue)

A vibrant pedestrian street stretching over 20 blocks, lined with shops, restaurants, bars, and street performers. It's the heart of Playa del Carmen's nightlife and shopping scene.

Cultural/Shopping/Entertainment Half day to full day Free to explore, shopping and dining vary

Xcaret Park

An eco-archaeological park offering a mix of natural beauty, cultural performances, and adventure activities. It's one of the most famous attractions in the Riviera Maya.

Nature/Adventure/Cultural Full day Moderate to Expensive (around $100-$150 USD)

Cenote Azul

A stunning natural sinkhole with crystal-clear turquoise waters, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. It's a popular spot for a refreshing dip in the jungle.

Nature/Adventure Half day Budget (around $5-$10 USD for entrance and gear rental)

Tulum Ruins

Ancient Mayan ruins perched on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a breathtaking blend of history and natural beauty.

Historical/Archaeological Half day to full day Budget (around $10-$15 USD for entrance)

Musa (Museo Subacuático de Arte)

An underwater museum featuring over 500 life-sized sculptures submerged in the waters off Playa del Carmen. It's a unique snorkeling and diving experience.

Art/Nature/Adventure Half day Moderate (around $50-$80 USD for snorkeling tours)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Cochinita Pibil

A traditional Yucatecan dish made with marinated pork, slow-cooked in banana leaves. It's tender, flavorful, and often served with pickled onions and habanero salsa.

Main Course Contains pork, gluten-free if no marinade contamination

Ceviche

A fresh seafood dish made with raw fish or shrimp marinated in lime juice, mixed with tomatoes, onions, and cilantro. It's a refreshing and light dish perfect for the tropical climate.

Appetizer Gluten-free, dairy-free, can be made vegetarian with vegetables

Tacos al Pastor

Marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit and served on corn tortillas with pineapple, onions, and cilantro. It's a popular street food dish with a unique blend of sweet and savory flavors.

Street Food Contains pork, gluten-free if no marinade contamination

Panuchos

A Yucatecan specialty made with fried tortillas stuffed with refried beans and topped with shredded chicken, pickled onions, and habanero salsa. It's a flavorful and satisfying snack.

Appetizer Contains chicken, gluten-free if no cross-contamination

Popular Activities

Snorkeling Scuba diving Cenote exploration Zip-lining ATV tours Beach relaxation Spa treatments Yoga

Best Time to Visit

December to April

This is the most popular time to visit with perfect weather, low humidity, and minimal rain. It's ideal for beach activities, exploring ruins, and enjoying outdoor adventures.

24-30°C 75-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: English
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in other parts

Currency

Mexican Peso (MXN)

Time Zone

Eastern Standard Time (EST) (GMT-5), Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) (GMT-4) during daylight saving time

Electricity

127VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe for tourists, but exercise caution

Playa del Carmen is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Use official taxis or pre-arranged transportation
• Be cautious of strangers approaching you with offers or requests
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight

Getting there

By air

Cancun International Airport • 70 km (43 miles)

By bus

ADO Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common and affordable way to get around. They are frequent and cover most areas.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Didi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown (Centro) Playacar Zona Hotelera Colosio

Day trips

Cozumel

80 km (50 miles) off the coast • Full day

A beautiful island known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and world-class diving and snorkeling. It's a popular day trip from Playa del Carmen.

Tulum

60 km (37 miles) south • Half day to full day

A charming town with ancient Mayan ruins, beautiful beaches, and a bohemian vibe. It's a popular destination for history lovers, beachgoers, and nature enthusiasts.

Akumal

30 km (19 miles) south • Half day

A small coastal village known for its beautiful beaches and clear waters, as well as its population of wild sea turtles. It's a great spot for snorkeling and relaxation.

Festivals

Festival of the Mayan Culture • November Playa del Carmen International Film Festival • November Carnaval de Playa del Carmen • February or March (dates vary)

Pro tips

Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and heat at popular attractions
Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals
Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun with sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses
Use official taxis or pre-arranged transportation to avoid scams and ensure safety
Explore beyond the tourist hotspots to discover the authentic culture and beauty of Playa del Carmen