Tulum & Cenote Jungle Tour: Zipline, Snorkel, Lunch, Pickup

Summary

Swim in cenotes zipline the jungle and explore Tulum’s ruins

You’ll walk ancient paths at Tulum’s seaside ruins, then zipline through jungle trees before plunging into cool cenote waters for snorkeling—all with a local guide who keeps things real. Includes hotel pickup and drop-off plus a buffet lunch with regional flavors. Expect laughter, unexpected moments, and memories that stick long after you’ve rinsed off the cenote water.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to feel nervous about the zipline. I mean, I’ve seen them online a hundred times, but standing at the edge with sweat sticking my shirt to my back (the Playa del Carmen heat is no joke), it felt different. Our guide—Miguel, who grew up around here—grinned at me and said something like “Don’t look down, just fly.” So I did. For a few seconds it was just wind and trees and that weird mix of fear and laughter you only get when you’re far from home.

The day started earlier than I’d like (hotel pickup at 7:30am—I’m not a morning person), but seeing Tulum’s ruins in that soft light made it worth it. The stones felt warm under my hand. Miguel pointed out where the old city met the sea, told stories about Mayan traders landing below. There were iguanas everywhere—one stared me down while I tried to get a photo. The Caribbean was this impossible blue behind everything. I still think about that view sometimes when I’m stuck on the subway back home.

After that we drove into the jungle for cenote snorkeling. The water was colder than I thought—like stepping into glass—and smelled faintly of earth and limestone. Sunlight came through little cracks above us; fish darted around my feet. At one point Miguel handed me a snorkel mask with a big smile—he said “This is better than any pool.” He was right. Lunch after was loud: everyone talking over each other, plates clattering, tortillas steaming on the buffet table. Someone tried to teach me how to say ‘chaya’ properly but honestly I probably butchered it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Tulum ruins, zipline, cenote snorkeling

• Visit Tulum Mayan ruins
• Zipline through jungle treetops
• Rappel into cenote
• Swim and snorkel in cenote
• Enjoy traditional buffet lunch

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included in this Playa del Carmen jungle tour?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in your booking.

Do I need to bring my own snorkel gear for the cenote?

No, all necessary equipment for snorkeling is provided on site.

How long does it take to get from Playa del Carmen to Tulum?

It usually takes about an hour by car from Playa del Carmen to Tulum’s ruins.

Is lunch included during the tour?

Yes, a buffet lunch with traditional regional dishes is included.

Are there age or weight restrictions for ziplining?

The minimum age is 6 years; maximum weight for ziplining is 135 kg (300 lbs) and waist line up to 42 inches.

Can pregnant travelers join this tour?

No, this tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers due to physical activities involved.

Should I bring anything special for swimming in cenotes?

A swimsuit and sunscreen are recommended; towels are provided as part of the tour.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Playa del Carmen or nearby areas, guided entry to Tulum’s archaeological site with stories from a local guide, all equipment needed for ziplining and snorkeling in cenotes (plus towels and showers), beverages throughout the day, and a buffet lunch with regional dishes before heading back in the afternoon.