If you’re planning a day in Cancun and craving a mix of history, natural beauty, and refreshing swims, the Full-Day Tulum Cenotes Dos Ojos and Gran Cenote Tour might just be your perfect match. This tour offers an inviting blend of cultural exploration and spectacular aquatic scenery — all in one day.
From the moment we read about it, two things caught our attention: the chance to explore Tulum’s ancient ruins with its panoramic views of the Caribbean, and the opportunity to swim in some of the region’s most famous cenotes — Dos Ojos and Gran Cenote. Plus, it includes delicious Mexican food and a guided experience, making the day both memorable and convenient.
On the flip side, a key consideration is the long duration—11 to 12 hours—so it’s best for those who don’t mind a full day’s commitment. Also, the Tulum archaeological site has an entrance fee that’s not included, so budget accordingly. This tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy a mix of cultural history, stunning landscapes, and water-based adventures, especially if you want a well-organized, guided day out.
Key Points

- Comprehensive experience: Combines archaeology, natural wonders, and authentic cuisine.
- All-inclusive: Transport, guides, entry fees, and lunch are covered, offering good value.
- Ideal for active travelers: Moderate physical fitness needed, especially for walking and swimming.
- Timing and duration: Long day — perfect for those eager to see a lot but may be tiring for some.
- Authentic scenic spots: Dos Ojos and Gran Cenote are among the most beautiful and popular cenotes in the region.
- Personalized touches: Pickup from your hotel and a guided commentary make it more engaging.
Exploring Tulum and Its Archaeological Marvels

The tour kicks off with a pick-up at your hotel in Cancun, easing transportation logistics. Within a few hours, you’ll arrive at the Tulum archaeological site, a place renowned not just for its ruins but for its incredible setting atop a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea. As we wandered through the ruins, we loved the way the ancient stone structures contrasted with the vibrant blue sea beyond — a perfect photo opportunity.
While the admission ticket to Tulum costs $24 per person and isn’t included in the tour price, the guided explanation helps bring the site’s history to life. Expect an approximately 4-hour visit, giving enough time to explore the walled city and appreciate its strategic location.
A highlight is the scenic view from the cliff, which makes this archaeological site a favorite among visitors. It’s a chance to walk in the footsteps of the Mayans while soaking in some of the most breathtaking seaside vistas in the Yucatán.
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The Come to the Light Sculpture: A Photo Must-See

After touring Tulum, you’ll stop briefly at the Come to the Light sculpture. This striking piece is impossible to miss and makes for a memorable photo. The stop lasts about an hour, giving everyone a chance to capture the moment and stretch their legs before heading to the cenote adventures.
Swimming and Exploring Dos Ojos

Next up is Parque Dos Ojos, one of the most praised cenotes in the region. Known as one of the best due to its large size and stunning landscape, Dos Ojos features two massive 70-meter sinkholes connected by a more than 396-meter-long corridor. This impressive geological formation creates a surreal swimming experience.
What makes Dos Ojos special is not just its size but its crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and taking photos of the beautiful underwater landscape. For those interested in snorkeling or diving, the clear waters and intriguing formations present excellent opportunities.
The tour includes a meal with a variety of dishes and non-alcoholic drinks, which is a real perk. After a few hours, you’ll have time to relax, enjoy the scenery, and recharge before the next stop.
Gran Cenote: Swimming with Turtles and Sand

From Dos Ojos, the journey continues to the famous Gran Cenote. This cenote is renowned for its beautiful blue waters, crystal clarity, and the chance to see turtles swimming peacefully. It’s also notable for its white sand at the bottom, offering a different kind of aquatic landscape compared to Dos Ojos.
Here, you’ll enjoy about three hours, giving ample time for swimming, taking pictures, and soaking in the tranquil atmosphere. The cenote’s natural beauty draws many visitors, and for good reason — it’s one of the most photogenic spots in the Riviera Maya.
Practical Details and Value

The tour is priced at $169 per person, which includes private transportation, lunch, guidance, and all entry fees (except Tulum archaeological site). Considering how much is covered — from history to natural splendor to food — it offers great value for a full-packed day.
The transportation is private, ensuring a comfortable and personalized experience. The group size is limited to 40 travelers, which helps keep the atmosphere friendly and manageable, especially when moving between sites.
The lunch features a buffet of traditional Mexican food, with non-alcoholic drinks included, making it a satisfying break during the busy day.
One of the standout points from reviews is how the scenic views and delicious food enhance the experience, making it more than just a sightseeing tour.
What’s Not Included

Keep in mind that the Tulum archaeological site requires an additional $24 fee per person. Also, tips are not included, so if you enjoy your guide’s efforts, gratuities are appreciated.
Final thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded day that balances cultural history with the stunning natural beauty of cenotes. It’s a great choice if you’re eager to see Tulum’s ruins without the hassle of planning multiple trips and want a guided, all-inclusive experience. The swimming stops at Dos Ojos and Gran Cenote** are highlights for nature lovers and water enthusiasts, providing chances to cool off and take incredible photos.
While it’s a long day, the variety of activities keeps it engaging. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate a structured itinerary but still want time for relaxation and photography. The added bonus of tasty food and scenic stops makes it a worthwhile splurge for those wanting a comprehensive day out in the Riviera Maya.
The Sum Up

In summary, the Full-Day Tulum Cenotes Dos Ojos and Gran Cenote Tour is a strong choice for those looking to combine history, natural beauty, and good value. The convenience of private transport, guided explanations, and included meals make it a hassle-free way to see some of the region’s most iconic sights.
Travelers eager to stay active and capture stunning images will find this tour meets those desires perfectly. It’s especially appealing for visitors who want to avoid the stress of self-organizing multiple trips and prefer a balanced mix of adventure and culture.
While the day is quite full, the variety of experiences — from ancient ruins to crystal waters — ensures you’ll leave with a new appreciation for the beauty and history of the Yucatán Peninsula.
FAQ
Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes private transportation from your hotel in Cancun, making logistics simple and comfortable.
How much time is spent at each site?
You’ll spend about 4 hours exploring Tulum, 1 hour at the Come to the Light sculpture, 3 hours at Dos Ojos, and 3 hours at Gran Cenote, totaling around 11-12 hours.
Are meals included?
Yes, a buffet lunch featuring traditional Mexican dishes and non-alcoholic drinks is part of the tour.
Does the tour include all entrance fees?
Most entrance fees are covered, but note that the Tulum archaeological site costs $24 per person, which you pay separately.
What should I bring?
Bring swimsuits, towels, sunscreen, waterproof camera if you like capturing underwater moments, and some cash for optional tips and the Tulum site fee.
Is this tour suitable for everyone?
It’s designed for travelers with moderate physical fitness, as there’s walking around ruins and swimming in cenotes. If you’re comfortable with these activities, you’ll enjoy the day.
This detailed review aims to give you a clear picture of what to expect from this memorable day in the Yucatán, helping you decide if it fits your travel style. Happy exploring!
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