Akumal & Cenote Private Tour: Turtles Snorkeling, Pickup

Summary

Swim with turtles in Akumal then cool off in Yucatan’s crystal cenotes

You’ll snorkel beside wild sea turtles in Akumal Bay with a private guide, then cool off swimming inside a massive cenote surrounded by ancient rock formations. Your day includes hotel pickup, snacks, all equipment, and plenty of time to soak up both ocean and jungle silence. It’s peaceful, sometimes funny, always memorable.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t actually think we’d spot turtles right away — but there they were, just sort of gliding under us like it was no big deal. Our guide, Sofia, grinned and pointed out a fat one munching on seagrass. The water at Akumal Bay was so clear I could see every little twitch of its flippers. I kept having to remind myself to breathe through the snorkel and not just stare. There were other folks around, but it never felt crowded since we had our own private guide. Sofia knew exactly where to swim (and where not to kick up sand — apparently that annoys the turtles).

Afterwards, we dried off and piled into the van for the drive into the jungle. I half expected the cenote to be chilly — turns out it’s more like a shock at first, but then you can’t get enough of it. The air smelled green (if that makes sense) and there were birds somewhere overhead. Inside the cenote cave it was quiet except for us splashing and Sofia’s flashlight beam bouncing off all those wild stalactites. She told us some local stories about cenotes being sacred — I tried to repeat one word in Spanish and she laughed, which honestly made me feel more welcome than if I’d gotten it right.

I still think about how calm everything felt floating there, far from any beach crowds or honking taxis. My son kept poking at tiny fish darting around his toes while my partner just floated on her back looking up at the rock ceiling. We snacked on fruit after (pineapple never tasted so good). It’s weird how fast a half-day goes when you’re somewhere totally new — I guess that’s why people keep coming back to Akumal for these turtle tours.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Snorkel with turtles and visit cenote

• Snorkel at Turtle Bay
• Spot sea turtles and tropical fish
• Explore coral and rock formations
• Travel to Yucatan rainforest cenote
• Swim and snorkel in cenote
• Admire stalagmites and stalactites

Top questions

Are turtle sightings guaranteed on this Akumal tour?

Yes, turtle sightings are guaranteed during your guided snorkeling tour in Akumal Bay.

Is transportation included from my hotel?

Yes, private round trip transportation is included with pickup from your hotel.

How long does the tour last?

This is a half-day tour; exact timing may vary depending on group pace and conditions.

Can small children join this turtles & cenotes adventure?

Yes, infants and small children can participate; prams or strollers are allowed and infant seats are available.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes, all snorkeling equipment is included for both Akumal Bay and the cenote swim.

What should I bring for the tour?

Wear your swimsuit under your clothes; apply sunscreen beforehand at your hotel as sunscreen isn’t allowed before water activities.

Are snacks or drinks provided?

Bottled water and snacks are included during your day trip to Akumal and the cenote.

Is this private or will we join other groups?

This is a private tour for your group only with a bilingual guide throughout.

What’s included

Your day includes private round-trip transportation from your hotel, all snorkeling gear for both Akumal Bay and the cenote swim, bottled water and snacks along the way, plus a friendly bilingual guide who stays with you throughout — making sure you don’t miss any turtles or stories before heading back relaxed (and probably still damp) to your hotel.