Tulum Ruins & 2 Cenotes Tour from Riviera with Swim & Guide

Summary

Swim in cenote caves after exploring ancient Tulum walls

You’ll walk ancient paths at Tulum ruins with a local guide who brings Mayan history alive, then swim in two very different cenotes—one open-air and one deep inside a cave. There’s time to explore on your own too. Expect moments of quiet wonder (and maybe cold water shivers) along the way.

What’s the experience like?

Hands brushing against the rough stone, I tried to picture what life was like behind these walls centuries ago. Our guide—Miguel, with a sun-faded hat and this way of pausing before every story—pointed out faded carvings on the Tulum ruins, explaining how the Mayans watched the sea for traders and storms. There was a salty breeze that morning, and I kept squinting at the turquoise water below, half-listening, half-drifting off. Someone’s phone went off and Miguel just grinned—“Even here, modern world finds us.”

I didn’t expect to feel nervous about swimming in a cenote but there I was, toes curled over the edge at Cenote Mariposa. The water looked almost too clear—like you could fall right through it. The first splash was cold enough to make me gasp (I’m not brave about that stuff), but once I got used to it, floating there under open sky felt strangely peaceful. Later at Cenote Chen Ha, which is more like a cave than a pool, everything echoed: our laughter bounced around the rocks while sunlight slipped through cracks above. One of the guides showed us how to spot tiny bats tucked into crevices—I’d never have noticed them on my own.

We had some free time back at Tulum to wander or take photos. I ended up just sitting on a warm stone ledge watching iguanas dart between shadows. Didn’t think much about my phone or anything else for a while—which is rare for me. If you’re thinking about doing this day trip from Riviera Maya or Playa del Carmen, just know you’ll get both history and that weird hush you only find underground in cenotes. Still think about that cool cave air sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Tulum and swim in cenotes

• Visit ancient walled city of Tulum
• Learn about Mayan culture with guide
• Free time to explore and take photos
• Swim in semi-open cenote
• Swim in cavern cenote

Top questions

How long does the Tulum & 2 Cenotes tour last?

The tour is a half-day experience starting from Riviera Maya or Playa del Carmen.

Are both cenotes included for swimming?

Yes, you’ll visit one semi-open cenote (Mariposa) and one cavern cenote (Chen Ha).

Is hotel pickup included in this day trip?

The tour includes pickup from select locations along Riviera Maya.

Can infants join this tour?

Yes, infants can join and may ride in a pram or stroller if foldable.

Is bottled water provided during the tour?

Bottled water is included for all guests throughout the day.

Do we get free time at Tulum ruins?

Yes, after your guided walk you’ll have free time to explore or take photos.

What should I bring for swimming in cenotes?

A swimsuit and towel are recommended for swimming in both cenotes.

What’s included

Your day includes bottled water throughout, an air-conditioned vehicle for comfort between stops, entry to both Tulum ruins and two distinct cenotes—with plenty of time to swim—and guidance from local experts before returning back to your starting point.