Tulum Ruins, Cenote & Akumal Turtles: Day Trip from Riviera Maya

Summary

Swim with turtles in Akumal after exploring Tulum ruins and Mariposa cenote

You’ll walk ancient paths at Tulum Ruins with a local guide, swim in Mariposa cenote’s clear waters, eat a relaxed buffet lunch at Canamayte, then glide alongside turtles in Akumal Bay—all with hotel pickup included. Expect moments of laughter, sunlight on your skin, and memories that linger long after you dry off.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t realize how much I’d needed to see the Caribbean light at Tulum until we were standing by those old stone walls, wind in my hair and salt on my lips. Our guide—Miguel—had this way of telling stories that made the Mayan ruins feel less like a postcard and more like something still alive. He pointed out faded carvings while a little iguana scuttled past my feet. I kept thinking about how the sea must’ve looked to people here centuries ago, same turquoise horizon but probably quieter.

We’d started earlier at Cenote Mariposa. The water was cool enough to wake me up but not so cold it scared me off (though I did hesitate for a second). Sunlight came through the opening above and made everything shimmer blue-green. Someone nearby laughed when I slipped on the rocks—honestly, fair enough. There was this earthy smell, kind of mineral and sweet at the same time. After swimming we dried off fast in the heat before heading to lunch at Canamayte. The buffet had these slow-cooked things I couldn’t pronounce; Miguel tried teaching me but I butchered it and he just grinned.

The part I keep replaying is Akumal Bay. You get your locker (included), stash your stuff, then head down to where the sand crunches underfoot. The water felt warmer here—maybe nerves? Swimming with sea turtles wasn’t as serene as I expected; there’s this weird rush when you spot one gliding by, all calm while you’re flapping around trying not to look ridiculous in your vest. Fish darted everywhere, flashes of yellow and silver. My mask fogged up but honestly I didn’t care—I was grinning too hard anyway.

By the end of it all my hair was salty and tangled and I was sunburnt in weird places (bring extra sunscreen). But there’s something about seeing those ruins above the sea, then floating next to creatures who don’t know or care about any of that history—just living their own slow lives—that sticks with you longer than you’d think.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Tulum, cenote, and swim with turtles

• Pick up travelers in Riviera Maya
• Visit Tulum archaeological zone
• Swim and relax at Mariposa cenote
• Swim with turtles in Akumal cove
• Return to Riviera Maya hotels

Top questions

How long is the day trip from Riviera Maya to Tulum?

The tour lasts most of the day including travel time between Riviera Maya, Tulum Ruins, Mariposa cenote, Akumal Bay, and back to your hotel.

Is swimming with turtles in Akumal included?

Yes, swimming with turtles in Akumal Bay is included as part of this tour experience.

Does this tour include lunch?

Yes, there’s a buffet lunch at Canamayte included during the tour.

Are lockers provided for swimming at Akumal?

Lockers are included so you can safely store your belongings while swimming with turtles.

Is hotel pickup available from Riviera Maya?

Hotel pickup and drop-off within Riviera Maya are included for all travelers on this tour.

Are entry fees or eco-fees covered?

Certain eco-fees may need to be paid separately; details are provided on your entry voucher.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?

The tour is suitable for most fitness levels but not recommended for those with poor cardiovascular health.

What should I bring for swimming in cenotes or with turtles?

A swimsuit, towel, sunscreen (reef-safe), and possibly water shoes are recommended for comfort during water activities.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from your Riviera Maya hotel by air-conditioned vehicle, entrance to Tulum Ruins with a bilingual certified guide sharing stories along the way, time to swim in Mariposa cenote (life vests provided), lockers for your things before turtle snorkeling in Akumal Bay, plus a relaxed buffet lunch at Canamayte before heading back home sun-kissed and full.