Snorkeling in Akumal with sea turtles and sanctuary visit

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.

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.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDeparts at 09:00

Book up to4h before

AgesAdult (12 to 75 years) · Child (5 to 11 years) · Under 5: can't be included in the booking

GroupUp to 12

Live guideEnglish and Spanish

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup included.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Paid on siteUS$ 34

Prices and times updated today

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.

Traveler reviews

4.50★★★★★★★★★★

2 verified traveler reviews

Read all the reviews ›

Top questions

What languages is the guide in?

Live guide in English and Spanish.

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (5 to 11 years). Under 5: they can't be included in the booking.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What animals will I actually see when I snorkel in Akumal Bay?

Wild sea turtles are the main draw. They feed on seagrass on the seabed and you'll watch them move through the water. You'll also encounter manta rays, schools of tropical fish, and vibrant coral formations in the protected bay.

How does the sanctuary part of the day work?

A certified wildlife specialist guides you along jungle pathways at the Akumal Monkey Sanctuary, where you meet rescued monkeys, birds, reptiles and other animals. You'll have close, controlled interactions with some of the monkeys, learn their rescue stories, and take photos while the guide explains their behavior and the sanctuary's conservation work.

Is snorkeling equipment included, or do I need to bring my own?

Snorkel equipment is included in the experience. The guide also provides safety instructions and environmental guidelines before you enter the water.

How long does the whole experience take?

The snorkeling and sanctuary visit together run 3.5 hours, including the time at both locations and the transition between them.

Does the price include hotel pickup?

Yes, hotel pickup is included. A guide in English or Spanish will meet you at your accommodation and return you after the experience ends.