Mexico’s coastal town of Akumal delivers practical, enriching tour experiences for travelers of all types. The main draw here is swimming with sea turtles in their natural habitat – it’s intimate and memorable. Two standout options are the “Swim With Turtles Tour” and “Swimming With Turtles Tour,” both offering well-organized, respectful wildlife encounters.
We especially like the half-day combination tour from Playa del Carmen, which smartly pairs a refreshing cenote swim with turtle viewing – great value for your time and money. For active travelers, the Jungle Adventure Tour is our favorite, mixing turtle encounters with ziplines and ATV rides through the jungle.
Get started with these tested and recommended tours:
Key Points
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The Sea Turtle and Snorkeling Tours in Akumal Bay offer opportunities to observe sea turtles in their natural habitat, with options ranging from 1.5-hour tours to more comprehensive packages.
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Cenote experiences, including guided swims in Cenote Yax-Muul, Cenote Caracol, and open cenote exploration, provide unique insights into the region’s geological formations and underground river systems.
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Adventure activities such as ziplining, ATV jungle tours, and rappelling are integrated into some tour packages, offering a combination of wildlife and adrenaline-fueled experiences.
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Tours are priced between $19.40 and Kč 3,374, catering to various budgets, with many offering free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure and accommodating different group sizes and language preferences.
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Tour ratings ranging from 2.8/5 to 5/5 highlight the memorable experiences with marine life and knowledgeable guides, with some tours noted for their organized access and suitability for families.
Sea Turtle Tour
The Sea Turtle Tour in Akumal Bay offers visitors a unique opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. The 1.5-hour tour allows participants to swim and explore the protected area, where they can spot colorful fish and coral reefs in addition to the sea turtles.
The maximum swimming depth is 2 meters, and the total distance covered is around 2 kilometers over the course of an hour. The tour is led by knowledgeable guides who are fluent in both English and Spanish, ensuring a comprehensive and engaging experience.
Participants will receive all necessary equipment, including life jackets, masks, snorkels, and fins. Facilities such as bathrooms, showers, and lockers are also available on-site. The tour is operated by locals who prioritize environmental care, and a strict no sunscreen policy is enforced to protect the marine life.
The Sea Turtle Tour is priced at $48.44 per person, and customers can take advantage of the reserve now and pay later option, as well as the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Sea Turtle Tour Review
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Akumal: Swim With Turtles Tour
Akumal: Swim With Turtles Tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to observe sea turtles in their natural habitat. This 1.5-hour guided tour takes guests to a protected area where they can witness loggerhead, green, and white turtles swimming freely.
Along with the turtles, participants may also spot tropical fish, manta rays, squid, and various corals and reefs.
The tour is priced at $31.52 per person and is limited to a group size of 6 participants, ensuring a more intimate and personalized experience.
Snorkeling equipment, photography, and videography are all included in the tour. Reservations can be made online, with the option to pay later and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Despite some mixed reviews regarding the photo/video services and overall experience, the tour has an overall rating of 4.5/5 based on 12 reviews.
Visitors are advised to check availability and book early, as this tour is likely to sell out.
Read our full review: Akumal: Swim With Turtles Tour Review
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Akumal: Swimming With Turtles Tour
Visitors looking to swim with turtles in Akumal can embark on the Akumal: Swimming With Turtles Tour. Priced from €37.20 per person, this 1-hour tour offers an immersive experience in the natural park. A local guide provides snorkeling information and highlights the area’s environmental importance.
The tour includes two circuits: turtle watching and observation of reefs and corals. Participants can do the circuits separately or as a combo.
The tour includes beach access bracelets, a federal tax bracelet, snorkeling gear, and a private tour option. Facilities like lockers, bathrooms, and changing tables are available. Certain activities, like fishing, feeding animals, and touching wildlife, aren’t allowed.
The tour operates based on favorable sea conditions, and cancellation is only permitted if activities can’t be safely carried out.
With an overall 5/5 rating from past participants, the Akumal: Swimming With Turtles Tour is recommended for families and those seeking a memorable encounter with sea turtles, fish, and coral reefs.
Read our full review: Akumal: Swimming With Turtles Tour Review
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Akumal: Guided Turtle Snorkeling Tour
What does the Akumal: Guided Turtle Snorkeling Tour entail?
The tour offers a 1-hour guided snorkeling session where visitors can observe green sea turtles and tropical fish in Akumal Bay. Priced at $19.40 per person, the tour is suitable for all experience levels and includes a short tutorial for beginners.
Participants will receive snorkeling gear and have access to a private beach with bathrooms, showers, and lockers. An optional underwater GoPro is available for capturing photos.
The meeting point is the Seven Eleven of Akumal, and participants can park nearby for 100 pesos. Advance reservations can be made, with a free cancellation option up to 24 hours prior.
The tour has received excellent reviews, with travelers reporting sightings of sea turtles, stingrays, and vibrant coral reefs.
While certain items are prohibited, the tour focuses on safety and respecting the ecosystem, ensuring a memorable experience for all.
Read our full review: Akumal: Guided Turtle Snorkeling Tour Review
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Akumal: Guided Turtle Snorkeling Tour and Pictures
The Akumal: Guided Turtle Snorkeling Tour and Pictures is a must-do activity for visitors seeking an up-close encounter with the region’s majestic green sea turtles.
This wheelchair-accessible tour offers a 1-hour snorkeling experience where participants can observe the turtles and other marine life in Akumal Bay. Priced at $32.01 per person, the tour includes a safety briefing, snorkeling equipment, and access to the private beach with facilities.
Participants will start at the 7 Eleven Akumal, where they’ll receive their gear and instructions. The snorkeling portion lasts for 1 hour, during which guests can expect to see up to 10 turtles, as well as tropical fish and coral reefs.
Digital photos are included and will be sent via email after the tour. With an impressive 4.9/5 rating based on over 300 reviews, the Akumal: Guided Turtle Snorkeling Tour is praised for its knowledgeable guides, ease of experience, and the incredible opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
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Akumal: Bay Snorkeling Tour
Akumal’s Bay Snorkeling Tour offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to enjoy the vibrant marine ecosystem of the region. Priced at €34.87 per person, this 45-minute guided tour allows participants to encounter a diverse array of marine life, including turtles, rays, colorful fish, nurse sharks, barracudas, and lobsters.
Led by certified guides, the tour is suitable for all snorkeling levels, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. Snorkelers will explore the area’s rich biodiversity and vibrant coral reefs, guided by knowledgeable professionals who provide assistance and support throughout the tour.
The tour includes the use of snorkeling equipment, as well as access to lockers and showers. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, the Akumal Bay Snorkeling Tour is a convenient and flexible way for visitors to discover the wonders of the region’s underwater world.
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Riviera Maya: Turtles Encounter Akumal Bay Half a Day Tour
Exploring the breathtaking Akumal Bay, the Riviera Maya: Turtles Encounter Akumal Bay Half a Day Tour offers visitors a chance to snorkel alongside the majestic sea turtles in their natural habitat.
Priced at £58.28 per person after a 10% discount, this half-day tour includes transportation, snorkeling with an expert local guide, and snacks and drinks on the beach.
The tour provides 2 hours of free time to relax or explore Akumal Beach’s stunning views. Participants will also need to pay a $20 Marine Tax per person for the turtle protection program.
While not suitable for pregnant women, the tour welcomes families, couples, solo travelers, and groups of friends, with a live guide available in English and Spanish.
Reviewers praise the guides’ engagement and the incredible turtle encounters, though some express disappointment about the limited swimming area during the free beach time.
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Playa Del Carmen: Cenote and Turtle Snorkeling Tour
For those seeking a more comprehensive Riviera Maya experience beyond just Akumal Bay, the Playa del Carmen: Cenote and Turtle Snorkeling Tour offers an exhilarating opportunity to explore both the iconic sea turtles and the region’s remarkable natural wonders.
Priced at $87.29 per person, this 6-7 hour tour includes round-trip transportation, snorkeling with turtles in Akumal Bay, and a swim in the largest cenote in Mexico, Nohoch Nah Chich.
With a 5/5 customer rating, the tour’s expert guides provide a meaningful cultural experience, highlighting Mayan traditions.
While an additional $20 fee per person is required for the Akumal Bay turtle care program, the tour’s inclusions, such as snacks, drinks, and snorkeling gear, provide excellent value.
With convenient pickup options and a flexible cancellation policy, this tour is an ideal choice for those wanting to enjoy the Riviera Maya’s natural beauty and wildlife.
Read our full review: Playa Del Carmen: Cenote and Turtle Snorkeling Tour Review
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Tulum: Snorkeling Tour With Sea Turtle Akumal & Cenote Swim
This Tulum: Snorkeling Tour with Sea Turtle Akumal & Cenote Swim offers a captivating opportunity to take in the natural wonders of the Riviera Maya.
The 6-hour tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, and provides a guided adventure through a cenote and the Akumal Bay, where participants can swim alongside majestic sea turtles.
Guests begin the experience with a 1-hour van ride to the Cenote Yax-Muul, where they’ll explore ancient stalactite and stalagmite formations and enjoy a 1.5-hour guided swim.
After a 30-minute break for snacks, the tour continues with a 30-minute drive to Akumal, where participants can snorkel and observe sea turtles in their natural habitat for 1.5 hours.
Priced from Kč 1,940 per person, the tour is available in multiple languages and features complimentary snorkel equipment, snacks, and hotel transfers.
With an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 6 reviews, this Tulum snorkeling experience provides an unforgettable opportunity to discover the region’s captivating marine life and natural beauty.
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Swim With Turtles Tour in Akumal & Cenote, From Cancun, Riviera Maya
Although the Tulum: Snorkeling Tour with Sea Turtle Akumal & Cenote Swim offers a captivating opportunity to explore the natural wonders of the Riviera Maya, the Swim With Turtles Tour in Akumal & Cenote, From Cancun, Riviera Maya, provides an even more immersive experience.
Priced at $96.94 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this 10-hour tour promises guaranteed snorkeling with sea turtles and exploration of cenotes. Guests are picked up from various locations, including Cancún, Tulum, Akumal, and Playa del Carmen, and transported to Akumal for 1.5 hours of snorkeling.
They then visit Cenote Caracol for 1.5 hours of swimming in the unique limestone formations. The tour includes snorkeling equipment, transportation, light snack, lunch, and entrance to the cenotes park.
While not suitable for children under 5 and people over 70, this tour offers an unforgettable opportunity to take in the natural wonders of the Riviera Maya.
Read our full review: Swim With Turtles Tour in Akumal & Cenote, From Cancun, Riviera Maya Review
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Turtles & Jungle Adventure Tour
The Turtles & Jungle Adventure Tour offers an exhilarating opportunity to take in the natural wonders of the Riviera Maya. Priced from Kč 2,781 per person, this 6-hour tour provides ample time to explore the region’s diverse ecosystems.
Participants can look forward to snorkeling with sea turtles in Akumal Bay, ziplining through the rainforest, and rappelling into a hidden cenote. The tour includes round-trip transportation, snorkel gear, a Mexican taco lunch, and the services of a certified bilingual guide.
While not suitable for children under 6 or those with specific medical conditions, the tour promises a memorable experience. Guests can choose from 13 pickup locations, including popular destinations like Akumal, Playa del Carmen, and Cancún.
With a 5/5 rating based on customer reviews, this adventure showcases the best of the Riviera Maya’s natural attractions.
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Akumal: Turtle Swim & Jungle Adventure Tour
Akumal: Turtle Swim & Jungle Adventure Tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the natural wonders of the Riviera Maya. This 8-hour tour packs in an array of thrilling activities, including swimming with turtles, an ATV jungle tour, ziplining, rappelling, and a cenote dive. Priced from Kč 3,374 per person, the tour is limited to a maximum of 10 participants, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.
The tour includes round transportation, a bilingual local guide, lunch and drinks, and all necessary equipment. Participants will have the chance to explore the vibrant underwater world and observe the majestic sea turtles in their natural habitat.
The jungle adventure component offers an adrenaline-fueled experience, with opportunities to navigate the lush terrain on an ATV, soar through the trees on a zipline, and rappel into a cenote.
This tour isn’t suitable for children under 7 years old, and participants are advised to arrive 15 minutes before the activity starts. With free cancellation and the option to reserve now and pay later, this tour is a must-do for adventure-seekers visiting Akumal.
Read our full review: Akumal: Turtle Swim & Jungle Adventure Tour Review
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Turtles & Cenotes Private Tour
Offering a unique blend of natural wonders, the Turtles & Cenotes Private Tour immerses visitors in the captivating marine and underground ecosystems of the Riviera Maya. Priced from $198.10 per person, this 5-hour excursion lets guests swim with loggerhead, green, and hawksbill turtles in their protected Akumal habitat for 60 minutes.
Exploring an open cenote, they can jump or use stairs to access the natural pool surrounded by lush jungle. The tour also takes participants snorkeling in a cave, where they’ll discover unique rock formations and glide through underground tunnels.
Committed to environmental conservation, the tour operates under a protection program that limits time in the water to safeguard the area’s turtles. Equipped with premium, disinfected gear, guests enjoy included amenities like entrance fees, cold bottled water, and lunch.
Designed by a snorkeling expert, the tour avoids crowded locations, ensuring a unique and immersive experience amidst Akumal’s natural wonders.
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Akumal: Cozumel Dive Excursion
Although located just a short distance from the renowned Akumal beach, the Cozumel Dive Excursion offers a unique opportunity for adventure-seekers to explore the vibrant underwater world surrounding the nearby island of Cozumel.
Rated 4.0 out of 5 stars from 6 reviews, this 5-hour activity allows participants to dive or snorkel around Cozumel’s colorful coral reefs and spot a diverse array of marine life, including schools of tropical fish, stingrays, and possibly even sea turtles.
The tour departs from Akumal and includes round-trip transportation, gear rental, and a guided diving or snorkeling experience.
Priced at $19.40 per person, it’s an affordable way to enjoy the beauty of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second-largest coral reef system in the world.
Whether you’re an experienced diver or a first-time snorkeler, the Cozumel Dive Excursion promises an unforgettable underwater adventure just a short distance from Akumal’s pristine shores.
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Sian Kaan Biosphere and Underground River – Private Tour
Beyond the renowned Akumal beach lies an extraordinary opportunity for nature enthusiasts – the Sian Kaan Biosphere and Underground River Private Tour.
This 8-hour private excursion allows visitors to discover the UNESCO-protected Sian Kaan Biosphere and explore the world’s largest underground river system, all for £204.06 per person.
The tour includes transportation from 7 locations in the Riviera Maya region, as well as guided tours in Sian Kaan and Akumal.
Highlights include floating through serene channels, discovering the Mayan underworld, and swimming in a pristine cenote. Participants will also enjoy a local Mexican lunch.
The tour is equipped with life jackets, waterproof flashlights, and bottled water.
However, it’s not suitable for those with claustrophobia, wheelchair users, non-swimmers, or individuals over 95 years old.
Visitors should bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, and biodegradable sunscreen.
Smoking and littering are prohibited.
Read our full review: Sian Kaan Biosphere and Underground River – Private Tour Review
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Coba and Swimming With Turtles PRIVATE TOUR
The Coba and Swimming With Turtles PRIVATE TOUR provides adventurous travelers a chance to explore the ancient Mayan ruins of Coba and swim alongside gentle sea turtles in the crystal-clear waters of Akumal Bay.
This 8-hour excursion begins with a guided tour of the impressive Coba ruins, where you’ll discover the towering Nohoch Mul pyramid and learn about the region’s rich Mayan heritage.
After exploring the ruins, you’ll head to Akumal Bay to snorkel with sea turtles in their natural habitat. This immersive experience allows you to observe these majestic creatures up close and captures memorable photos of your encounter.
The tour also includes a stop at a local cenote, offering a refreshing swim in the cool, clear waters.
With an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 and a price of $67.21, this private tour offers an excellent value for the ultimate Riviera Maya adventure.
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From Akumal: Whale Shark Tour
For travelers seeking a thrilling marine adventure during their time in Akumal, the From Akumal: Whale Shark Tour offers a chance to snorkel alongside the world’s largest fish – the magnificent whale shark.
This 8-hour tour, priced from $285 per person, takes guests to the Mexican Caribbean to encounter these gentle giants. During the approximately 2-hour snorkeling experience, participants may see whale sharks measuring up to 18 meters in length.
The tour operates from May to September and accommodates a maximum of 10 guests, ensuring an intimate and personalized outing. Included in the price are hotel pickup and drop-off, snorkeling gear, wetsuits, and food and beverages.
Visitors should note that certain restrictions apply, such as no sunscreen allowed to protect the marine life. With an impressive 5/5 rating from verified reviews, this tour promises an unforgettable encounter with one of nature’s most awe-inspiring creatures.
Read our full review: From Akumal: Whale Shark Tour Review
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Akumal Beach: Swimming With Turtles Tour With Beach Time
One of the top-rated activities in Akumal is the Akumal Beach: Swimming with Turtles Tour with Beach Time. This 5-hour tour offers the chance to snorkel with turtles in their natural habitat.
Participants can enjoy 2 hours of free time on the beach, with snacks and bottled water included. The tour provides transportation in air-conditioned vans, an aquatic guide for the turtle encounters, snorkeling equipment, and insurance. However, there’s a $20 marine tax per person for the turtle protection program.
The tour’s pickup service is available for hotels from Vidanta Resort to Tulum, with designated meeting points. While the overall rating is 2.8/5 based on 6 reviews, customers praise the activity itself and the guide’s friendliness, though some report delays in pickup times.
The tour isn’t available for the Cancun area, and drop-off for Tulum is via public transportation. Guests can take advantage of the “Reserve now & pay later” option to book the tour without immediate payment.
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From Riviera Maya: Chichen Itza and Ek Balam Tour With Lunch
Exploring the rich Mayan heritage, the Chichen Itza and Ek Balam Tour with Lunch offers a captivating journey through two of the region’s most significant archaeological sites. Priced from $115.66 to $128.51 per person, this full-day tour provides early access to Chichen Itza, allowing visitors to beat the crowds and enjoy a guided tour of the iconic pyramid.
Afterward, guests can cool off with a swim in the Cenote Hubiku before indulging in a traditional Mexican buffet lunch.
The tour then moves on to Ek Balam, where a guided exploration reveals the site’s impressive Acropolis Pyramid and intricate carvings. With English and Spanish-speaking guides, the tour caters to a diverse audience, sharing insights into Mayan culture.
Complemented by air-conditioned transportation and included entry fees, this comprehensive experience is highly rated by past participants, who praise the organized early access, knowledgeable guides, and enjoyable lunch.
Read our full review: From Riviera Maya: Chichen Itza and Ek Balam Tour With Lunch Review
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Playa Del Carmen: Cenote and Swim With Turtles Half Day Tour
The Playa del Carmen: Cenote and Swim with Turtles Half Day Tour offers a captivating opportunity to explore the natural wonders of the Riviera Maya. Priced from $82.92 per person, the 5-7 hour tour includes round-trip transportation, snorkeling gear, and a delicious lunch.
Guests can snorkel with wild turtles at Akumal Beach and swim in a cenote cave, while learning about the unique environment sacred to the Mayan people. The tour features an overall rating of 4.5/5 based on positive feedback highlighting the timely hotel pick-up, engaging guides, and memorable experiences.
However, some challenges have been noted with crowded snorkeling conditions affecting visibility. For those staying in Tulum, the meeting point is Hotel Andreas, with drop-off via public transportation. Guests should be aware of the $20 USD Akumal Local Taxes payable after boarding.
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The Sum Up
Akumal offers a variety of tours that allow visitors to swim with sea turtles, explore cenotes, and visit famous Mayan ruins. Whether you’re interested in wildlife encounters, cultural experiences, or a combination of both, Akumal has something to suit your interests. With so many options, you’re sure to find the perfect tour to make your Riviera Maya vacation unforgettable.