Cenote Zemway & Cenote Zacil with Lagoon from Playa del Carmen

If you’re planning a trip to Playa del Carmen and are craving an adventure that combines nature, culture, and a touch of the extraordinary, this tour offers a compelling option. It promises visits to three separate cenotes and a stunning lagoon — all set amid the lush Mayan jungle — along with a hearty regional lunch and a photo stop at the iconic Tulum blue letters.

What we particularly like about this experience is how it balances adventure with education. The guide’s insights about each cenote’s significance to the Mayan people add depth beyond just swimming and snapping photos. Plus, the opportunity to snorkel, swim, and relax in such pristine surroundings makes it a true escape from the busy tourist spots.

A potential consideration is the necessity to rent life jackets for swimming in the cenotes — a mandatory safety rule. Some travelers might prefer to bring their own or be comfortable with this small extra step. Also, this is a full-day outing, so it’s best suited for those ready for a packed schedule.

This tour is perfect for adventure-loving travelers, families eager for a day in nature, or anyone interested in experiencing the unique beauty of the Riviera Maya’s underground water systems while learning about their cultural importance.

Key Points

• Authentic experience with Mayan history: The guide explains the significance of each cenote and lagoon, adding cultural value.
• Variety of swimming environments: From shallow, crystal-clear cenotes to an underground marine cenote, each stop offers a different aquatic atmosphere.
• All-inclusive value: Entrance fees, lunch, and round transport from Playa del Carmen are covered, making it simple and straightforward.
• Beautiful photo opportunities: The stop at the Tulum blue letters is a highlight for social media enthusiasts.
• Safety and comfort: Life jackets are required, and travelers should bring swimwear, towels, and change clothes.
• Limited group size: The tour caters to a maximum of 45 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Early – Round-Trip Convenience from Playa del Carmen

The tour kicks off bright and early at 7:30 am, which means you’ll beat some of the crowds — especially at popular sites like Tulum and the cenotes. Round transportation is included, so there’s no need to worry about finding your own way there or dealing with local taxis. For visitors staying in Playa del Carmen, this is a massive plus, as it simplifies logistics and maximizes your time exploring rather than navigating.

First Stop: Laguna Kaan Luum

Your adventure begins at Laguna Kaan Luum, a pristine body of water famous for its striking blue hue. Located south of Tulum, this lagoon’s vivid water color is the result of mineral deposits, and the deep center contrasts beautifully with shallow edges perfect for relaxing or taking photos.

You’ll have about an hour here — enough time to wade, swim, or simply admire the scenery. The admission is included, and the experience of floating in such a serene environment makes for a peaceful start to your day. As one traveler noted, “Discover the hidden treasure of Tulum,” and it truly feels like a well-kept secret.

Second Stop: Cenote Zemway

Next, you’ll visit Cenote Zemway, an open cenote that offers the chance to swim in fresh, clear waters. The guide shares insights about its importance as a sacred site for the Mayans, adding cultural context to what you see and feel.

Swimming in Zemway is like stepping back in time — millions of years of natural formation have created a spectacular geological feature. With a duration of about an hour, you’ll have time to snorkel, take photos, or just float and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Third Stop: Cenote Zacil-Ha

The adventure continues at Cenote Zacil-Ha, a gorgeous open cenote perfect for a refreshing dip. The clear waters and natural beauty make it an ideal spot for swimming and snapping photos. It’s now your turn to follow Mayan traditions — maybe imagine ancient rituals as you float in the cool water.

Fourth Stop: Multum Ha Cenote

The last cenote is Multum Ha, an underground cenote teeming with small marine life. The underground setting offers a different vibe — cool, shaded, and slightly mysterious. The small ecosystem makes it a fun spot for snorkeling and exploring the underwater world with your mask.

A Delicious Regional Lunch & Photo Breaks

After the cenotes, you’ll enjoy a regional food restaurant where a lunch box is included. Travelers can choose one dish, allowing for some customization. The review highlighted a surprise buffet, which many found to be a satisfying bonus. Drinks aren’t included, so carry some cash or your favorite beverage.

The tour also makes a quick stop at the iconic Tulum blue letters — perfect for capturing memorable photos and sharing your adventure with friends and family.

Practical Details & What to Expect

The tour spans roughly 12 hours, making it a full-day affair but well worth the effort. It’s designed for most travelers, with a minimum age and physical ability requirement, though those uncomfortable with water safety should note that life jackets are mandatory. Travelers are advised to bring towels, swimwear, and changes of clothes.

The tour is priced at $122 per person, which covers all entrance fees, transportation, and the included lunch. For couples or families, this offers good value considering the multiple stops and curated experience.

Authenticity & Visitor Feedback

Authentic experiences matter, and this tour’s reviews reflect that. Teresa_H shared, “Awesome excursion that I would do again,” noting the unexpected inclusion of a buffet meal and the fun of swimming in a cenote, despite the additional cost for drinks and the requirement to rent a life jacket.

The group size, capped at 45, ensures a manageable and more personalized experience — valuable for those who dislike overly crowded tours.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This excursion is best suited for travelers who love outdoor adventures, natural beauty, and cultural insights. If you’re eager to see some of the Riviera Maya’s best-kept secrets, and don’t mind a busy schedule, this trip delivers a well-rounded day of exploration and relaxation.

It’s especially ideal for those who want all logistics taken care of — transportation, entrance fees, and lunch — so you can focus on soaking up the sights. Families, couples, or solo travelers wanting an active but manageable day will find this tour balances fun, cultural depth, and value.

However, if you’re uncomfortable in water or prefer more leisure time at a single location, you might want to consider a different experience. But overall, the combination of stunning scenery, educational snippets, and delicious regional food makes this a trip worth considering.

FAQs

Is transportation included? Yes, round-trip transportation from Playa del Carmen is part of the package, making it easy to relax and enjoy the scenery.

What should I bring? Bring towels, swimwear, change of clothes, and possibly cash for drinks or souvenirs. Towels and swim gear are essential for the cenotes.

Are the cenotes safe to swim in? Yes, but life jackets are mandatory and provided. Travelers should be comfortable swimming or floating in water.

How long is the tour? The entire experience lasts about 12 hours, from morning pickup to late afternoon return.

Can I snorkel at the cenotes? Yes, snorkeling is possible, especially in the underwater cenote; just remember to bring your gear or rent it on-site.

Is food included? A box lunch is provided, with one dish to choose from. Drinks are extra.

What is the best time of year for this tour? The tour requires good weather; it may be canceled or rescheduled in case of poor weather.

How big are the groups? The tour can accommodate up to 45 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Is this tour suitable for children? Most travelers can participate, but check with the operator if you have very young children or special needs.

What makes this tour special? The combination of multiple cenotes, a beautiful lagoon, cultural explanations, and regional lunch makes it a well-rounded day for nature lovers.

To sum it up, this tour from Playa del Carmen offers an immersive look into the natural splendors of the Riviera Maya, layered with cultural insights and topped with great food. It’s a solid choice for those eager to walk away with memorable photos, new knowledge, and a fresh appreciation for the region’s underground water systems. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned traveler, this experience balances adventure and comfort, making it a valuable addition to your itinerary.