Tour to Tulum and cenote with swimming with turtles from Riviera Maya

Imagine spending a day exploring ancient Mayan ruins, swimming in crystal-clear cenotes, and sharing the waters with friendly sea turtles—all in one well-organized trip. This popular tour from Playa del Carmen offers just that, combining cultural history, natural beauty, and wildlife encounters into a single, memorable day.

What we love about this experience is how smoothly everything is arranged—from the comfortable transportation to the knowledgeable guides—and how it manages to balance sightseeing with relaxation. Plus, the lunch in a lush forest setting is a real highlight, offering a taste of authentic Mexican flavors in a peaceful environment.

One possible consideration is the long day—at nearly 12 hours, you’ll want to be prepared for a lot of activity and some early starts. But if you’re eager to see a lot in one day, this trip delivers great value and plenty of wow moments. It’s especially ideal for travelers who love a mix of history, nature, and wildlife—and don’t mind a bit of a packed schedule.

If you’re someone who appreciates detailed information and authentic experiences, this tour is a strong choice. It’s perfect for those visiting Riviera Maya who want to make the most of their day and enjoy a variety of sights without the hassle of planning multiple excursions themselves.

Key Points

• Comprehensive experience blending history, nature, and wildlife.
• Expert bilingual guides enhance understanding and enjoyment.
• All-inclusive with lockers, vests, and a delicious buffet lunch.
• Convenient pickup and transportation from Playa del Carmen.
• Long but rewarding day, ideal for active travelers.
• Excellent reviews with a 5.0/5 rating based on 151 traveler feedback.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting bright and early at 7:00 am from Playa del Carmen, this tour by Ekinox Tours promises a full day of adventure, comfortably transported in an air-conditioned vehicle. The schedule is tight but thoughtfully planned, with each stop offering a meaningful glimpse into the region’s history and natural wonders.

Riviera Maya Pickup and Transportation

From the moment you’re picked up, you’ll notice how streamlined the process is. The tour caters to multiple travelers—up to 555—so expect a friendly, lively group atmosphere without feeling crowded. Having transportation included means you can relax and focus on the sights ahead rather than navigating unfamiliar roads.

Canamayte Cenote & Ecopark

Your journey begins with a scenic drive to Canamayte Cenote, a semi-open water body with striking turquoise waters that invite you to swim, relax, and snap photos. The water’s clarity makes for some spectacular shots, and the peaceful setting offers a perfect way to cool off after the drive. The included admission ticket ensures no additional costs here, so you can just enjoy the moment.

Reviews highlight how loved the cenote was, with one traveler mentioning their family’s enjoyment and the “nice location to have food in the forest.” The 25-minute travel time to the cenote is ideal, giving enough time to settle in without feeling rushed.

Akumal: Swimming with Sea Turtles

Next up is Akumal, a tranquil bay famous for its sea turtle population. Here, you’ll store your belongings in lockers (also included), then don your snorkel gear and head into the warm Caribbean waters. Staying in this natural habitat, you’ll have the chance to swim alongside these gentle creatures and observe their graceful movements amid lively fish.

A review from a traveler describes this moment as “stunning,” emphasizing the up-close experience with wildlife that’s both enchanting and educational. The free admission to this part of the trip is a big plus, offering a natural encounter without additional costs.

Tulum Archaeological Site

After some aquatic fun, the tour takes you to the Tulum ruins, a highlight for history buffs and photo enthusiasts alike. The site’s clifftop location offers breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea, with well-preserved structures that tell stories of Mayan civilization.

Spending about 4 hours and 40 minutes here, you’ll have ample time to explore, soak in the scenery, and learn from your bilingual guide. The included admission ticket covers the entrance, and guides often share fascinating insights, making the visit more meaningful. One reviewer appreciated the “unparalleled view of the buildings on the edge of the beautiful Caribbean Sea,” which truly captures the site’s appeal.

Authentic Mexican Lunch

No tour is complete without good food, and the buffet at Canamayte offers a welcome pause. You’ll enjoy a variety of local dishes that provide a genuine taste of regional cuisine, perfect to recharge your energy for the rest of the day. While drinks aren’t included, the opportunity to indulge in authentic flavors amid a lush setting is a treat.

Return and Drop-off

After a full day, the bus returns you to Playa del Carmen around 6:50 pm. The final two hours of transportation are a nice wind-down, allowing you to reflect on the day’s highlights without the stress of navigating back.

What We Learned from the Reviews

The tour’s high praise largely stems from the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views at each stop. One traveler mentioned, “Nice lunch and location to have food in the forest,” emphasizing how the food and scenery combined for a memorable experience. Others appreciated the smooth logistics and good value for the price, especially considering the included tickets, lockers, and transportation.

A common thread among reviews is the balance of activity and relaxation. Swimming with turtles is a peaceful, awe-inspiring moment, while wandering the ancient ruins offers a sense of history and culture. The classically beautiful cenote adds a touch of tranquility, rounding out a day packed with variety.

Of course, some travelers note that the day is long, but if you’re prepared for a full schedule and early start, this shouldn’t be a problem. It’s a great option for those eager to see multiple sights efficiently and comfortably.

Practical Details and Tips

• Duration: Nearly 12 hours, so wear comfortable clothes and plan for a full day.
• Price: At $99 per person, the tour offers good value—considering the included tickets, lunch, and transport.
• Booking: On average, travelers book about 28 days ahead, so plan early if you want a spot.
• Weather: As with all outdoor activities, good weather is essential; if canceled due to rain, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
• What to bring: Swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, and waterproof camera or phone for photos.
• Inclusions: Vests, lockers, bilingual guide, air-conditioned transport, and lunch.
• Additional costs: EcoTaxes and conservation fees are MX$700, payable on-site.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for active travelers who want a full experience without planning. It’s suitable for families, couples, and solo adventurers eager to see top sights in one day. Nature lovers will appreciate swimming with turtles and enjoying the cenote, while history buffs will find the Tulum ruins captivating. If you’re short on time but want a taste of the region’s richness, this tour delivers on many fronts.

The Sum Up

This Tulum, cenote, and turtle tour offers an impressive combination of history, natural beauty, and wildlife in a single package. The well-organized logistics, combined with authentic experiences and a helpful guide, make it a standout choice for visitors wanting to maximize their Riviera Maya visit.

While the long day might not suit everyone, the variety and quality of what’s included make it a great value. Whether you’re interested in learning about Mayan culture, enjoying the scenic cenote, or swimming alongside sea turtles, this tour covers all bases. It promises memories of vibrant scenery, fascinating history, and close encounters with wildlife—all in one seamless adventure.

FAQs

What time does the tour start?
It begins at 7:00 am, so be prepared for an early start to make the most of the day.

Is transportation included?
Yes, you will be picked up from Playa del Carmen and transported in an air-conditioned vehicle throughout the day.

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately 11 hours and 50 minutes, ending back at your hotel around 6:50 pm.

Are food and drinks included?
Lunch is provided in a buffet style, but drinks are not included. You might want to bring water, especially in hot weather.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
Snorkel vests are provided, and lockers are available for your belongings, making it convenient to enjoy the water safely.

Is it suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour’s family-friendly nature makes it good for children who are comfortable with outdoor activities.

Are the stops flexible or customizable?
The itinerary is fixed, but guides are generally knowledgeable and engaging, making the experience flexible in terms of information sharing.

What costs extra?
EcoTaxes and conservation fees are MX$700 per person, payable on-site, which covers entrance to protected areas.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour good value for the price?
Absolutely—considering the transportation, entrance fees, lunch, and guided experience, $99 is a reasonable price for a full-day adventure packed with highlights.

This tour offers an excellent way for travelers to experience a wide swath of Riviera Maya’s natural and cultural treasures without the hassle of organizing multiple activities. It’s a day well spent for those eager to see and do a lot, all with the comfort and guidance of local experts.