Private Cenote & Cave – Playa del Carmen, Mayan Culture & Fossils

Playa del Carmen , Mexico

Private Cenote & Cave – Playa del Carmen, Mayan Culture & Fossils

Active

(36 reviews)

2h - 3h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Highlight:

- Private 2–3 hr cenote & cave tour from Playa del Carmen. Explore secluded Sac Pool, swim & snorkel in clear waters, see fossils & Mayan artifacts with expert guide, away from crowds.

Unlike most cenote tours that rush you in and out in under an hour, we give you a full 2–3 hours to swim, snorkel, and truly explore at your own pace. Your adventure takes place at Sac Pool — a remote, privately owned cenote hidden far from the crowds. This means no other groups, no interruptions — just your private party and the breathtaking beauty of crystal-clear waters, ancient fossils, and dramatic cave formations. Led by a passionate local guide who shares fascinating insights into Mayan history and geology, this is the authentic, crowd-free cenote experience travelers dream about.
Cenote Sac Pool (privately owned and exclusive tour)

- Recommended for all levels
- Low to moderate endurance required
- Tour length: 2 - 3 hours (all other tours only go for 45 minutes)

Available options

Private Cenote & Cave – Playa del Carmen, Mayan Culture & Fossils

Pickup included

What's included

Bottled water

Helmet with lamp

Snacks

Bi-lingual guide

All Fees and Taxes

Life jacket (not obligatory)

Fruit

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Meet your expert bilingual guide, Bohish — one of the region’s most respected cenote explorers and wildlife conservationists. With years of experience, he will lead you safely through a breathtaking labyrinth of crystal-clear rivers, dramatic caves, and hidden chambers, sharing his deep knowledge of the geological events that shaped this unique landscape millions of years ago.
Inside the cenotes, you’ll encounter a living museum of the Earth’s history: fossilized corals and marine animals, from prehistoric sharks and whales to elephants and other mammals that roamed over 10,000 years ago. Many of these fossils are perfectly preserved in calcareous rock.

As you hike and swim through these ancient spaces, you may also spot authentic Mayan artifacts. Your guide will bring them to life with stories of their origins, purpose, and the rituals of the people who once inhabited this land — turning each discovery into a vivid connection to the past.

What's not included

Wetsuit (can be rented at location for $10)

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.5

8 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

28 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

IMPORTANT: If your reservation is less than 24 hours before, communicate with us immediately in order to confirm your tour and align with you the meeting point and time. IF YOU HAVE NOT RECEIVED A VERBAL CONFIRMATION FROM OUR TEAM, YOUR TOUR IS NOT CONFIRMED!

For very last minute reservations (less than 12 hours before tour): If you have not received a verbal confirmation from our reservation team, your tour will automatically be re-scheduled for the following day.

The meeting point is at 8:00am at the Sangha-Rito restaurant, next to Starbucks in the center of Playa del Carmen. If your hotel is within Playa del Carmen we may be able to pick you up. Please contact us as soon as possible and provide us with the hotel name and room number.

Please provide WhatsApp number, your hotel name and room number.

Transportation is in a shared van. Please be at the pick up point on time.

Meeting point

IMPORTANT:
If your reservation is less than 24 hours before, communicate with us immediately in order to confirm your tour and align with you the meeting point (If your hotel is within Playa del Carmen we may be able to pick you up).
Please provide WhatsApp number, your hotel name and room number.

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