Snorkeling in Akumal with sea turtles and sanctuary visit

★★★★★★★★★★ 4.50 (2 reviews)

Free cancellation

1/16

Duration3h 30m

GroupUp to 12

LanguagesEN · ES

PickupAt your hotel

Sea turtles feed on seagrass a few feet from where you stand in the water.

Snorkeling in Akumal combines a guided visit to a wildlife sanctuary with a snorkel in Akumal Bay, where you swim alongside wild sea turtles, manta rays and tropical fish in their natural habitat. The experience runs 3.5 hours and includes a certified guide in English or Spanish, snorkel equipment, hotel pickup, and close interaction with rescued monkeys and other animals at the sanctuary. Children from age 5 are welcome; the snorkeling eco fee is optional at checkout.

3h 30m

Step-by-step itinerary

Wildlife sanctuary and snorkeling adventure

Visit Akumal Monkey Sanctuary
Explore jungle pathways with guide
Meet rescued monkeys and animals
Learn about wildlife conservation
Snorkel in Akumal Bay
Swim with sea turtles and fish

The Experience

The day starts at the Akumal Monkey Sanctuary, a refuge for animals that can no longer return to the wild. A certified wildlife specialist leads you along natural jungle pathways, introducing rescued monkeys, exotic birds, reptiles and other species while explaining their rescue stories and the sanctuary's conservation work. You'll observe the animals' personalities up close and take photos during controlled interactions, all under strict safety protocols that prioritize their well-being. The guide shares facts about behavior, diet, and why protecting wildlife in the Riviera Maya matters—and how your visit directly supports ongoing rescue initiatives.

After the sanctuary, you head to Akumal Bay for the snorkeling portion. The water is calm, shallow and turquoise, and a certified guide leads you through the protected bay. Wild sea turtles graze on seagrass on the seabed, unbothered by your presence, and you'll watch them glide past. Along the way you'll see vibrant coral formations and schools of colorful tropical fish moving through the underwater landscape. The equipment, safety instructions and environmental guidelines are provided; the experience suits beginners, families and experienced snorkelers alike.

What’s included

Snorkel equipment.
certified guide in English or Spanish.
hotel pickup and return.
educational interaction with rescued animals at the sanctuary.
access to Akumal Bay for snorkeling with sea turtles and tropical fish.

Good to know

Moderate physical levelPublic transport nearbyNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditionsNot for back problemsInfants must sit on laps

Operated by TulumAdventure Mexico

Is this one for you?You're snorkeling alongside the guide rather than watching from a boat, and the sanctuary visit beforehand means you're learning about conservation while you're in the water—a combination that suits travelers who want hands-on wildlife connection over passive observation. The small-group format with a certified guide keeps the pace manageable for families with children from age 5 and for first-time snorkelers.