Turtle Swim, Lunch and Underground Cenote Private Tour

Playa del Carmen , Mexico

Turtle Swim, Lunch and Underground Cenote Private Tour

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About this experience

This is a private tour, exclusively for your group, promising a truly intimate and personalized adventure.

Expert Guidance: Your journey is led by a certified bilingual guide, sharing insights into local culture and Maya history. For the in-water turtle experience, a dedicated local Akumal guide provides invaluable expertise and ensures respectful interaction.

Conservation Focused: We emphasize eco-friendly practices and strictly follow local site rules, including those regarding sunscreen and bug spray in water, to protect these pristine environments.

Comfort & Convenience: Enjoy seamless private hotel transport in an air-conditioned van. We keep you refreshed with complimentary snacks and iced drinks throughout your tour.

This tour delivers a unique, responsible, and deeply personal exploration of the Riviera Maya's natural and cultural treasures.

Available options

Turtle Swim, Lunch and Underground Cenote Private Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Private A/C Transportation Enjoy private, round-trip air-conditioned van transportation directly from your location, exclusively for your group.

Snacks & Refreshments in the Van Stay energized with snacks and iced drinks available in your private van throughout the tour.

Admission Fees All necessary admission fees are included.

Restaurant Lunch Enjoy a delicious authentic Mexican lunch at a charming local restaurant. It's the perfect time to relax and savor fresh, regional flavors after your morning adventures

Snorkeling equipment: High-quality snorkel mask, snorkel tube, and life jacket (fins are not provided to ensure minimal impact on the delicate marine ecosystem).

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Upon arrival in Akumal, your private group will first prepare for an extraordinary encounter at Akumal Bay, famously known as the "Place of Turtles." Here, under the respectful guidance of your certified bilingual expert and a local Akumal specialist, you will:

Snorkel in crystal-clear, calm Caribbean waters: Discover the vibrant underwater world of the bay.

Observe wild sea turtles in their natural feeding grounds: Witness these magnificent creatures gracefully gliding through seagrass beds. Your guides will ensure a respectful distance is maintained, focusing on observation rather than disturbance, aligning with strong conservation principles. You may see Green Sea Turtles, and potentially Loggerhead or Hawksbill turtles.

Encounter diverse marine life: Beyond turtles, keep an eye out for colorful tropical fish, various coral formations, and perhaps even a stingray resting on the sandy bottom

Explore a mystical underground world: Descend into the refreshing waters of a natural freshwater sinkhole, a unique geological formation.

Swim and snorkel amidst ancient formations: Witness stunning stalactites and stalagmites that have formed over millennia, illuminated by natural light or specialized lighting, creating an ethereal atmosphere.

Learn about the geological and cultural significance: Your guide will share insights into the formation of these natural wonders and their sacred importance to the ancient Maya

What's not included

Gratuities for your tour guide and driver are not included. While optional, tips are customary in Mexico for excellent service and are much appreciated.

Personal expenses, such as souvenirs or any food and drinks beyond those provided, are not included.

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

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

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