Tulum, a jewel on Mexico’s Riviera Maya, beckons with its ancient ruins and vibrant marine life. Explore the storied past of this UNESCO-listed site, tracing the footsteps of the Mayans. Then, dive into the azure waters of Akumal Bay, snorkeling alongside captivating sea turtles. Capture the magic with GoPro photos, immortalizing your underwater adventure. This guided tour promises an immersive experience, blending history, nature, and unforgettable moments. Discover why Tulum has become a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a truly unique encounter.
Key Points
- Guided tour exploring ancient Tulum Ruins and snorkeling at Akumal Bay, providing insights into Mayan history and marine life.
- 1.5-hour guided tour of Tulum Ruins highlighting architectural marvels and cultural significance of the ancient Mayan city.
- 55-minute snorkeling session at Akumal Bay, where participants can observe colorful marine life and sea turtles.
- Complimentary snorkeling equipment and underwater photography service to capture memorable moments during the snorkeling adventure.
- Convenient pickup from 42 locations across the Riviera Maya and air-conditioned transportation to the tour sites.
Tour Overview
This guided tour offers visitors a chance to explore the ancient Mayan ruins of Tulum and embark on a snorkeling adventure in the serene waters of Akumal Bay.
Priced from $75.02 per person, the tour lasts 4.5 hours and is limited to 14 participants. It’s available in English and Spanish, with pickup included from 42 locations in the Riviera Maya.
The itinerary includes a 1.5-hour guided tour of the Tulum Ruins, followed by a 20-minute van transfer to Akumal Bay for a 55-minute snorkeling session with turtles and marine life.
The tour includes transportation, site access, snorkeling equipment, and an underwater photography session.
Ready to dive back in? More underwater adventures we cover in Akumal
Guided Tour of Tulum Ruins
The tour begins with a guided exploration of the Tulum Ruins, where visitors will learn about the remarkable Mayan history and witness the stunning Caribbean vistas.
Over the course of 1.5 hours, the knowledgeable guide shares insights into the architectural marvels and cultural significance of this ancient city.
Guests will wander through the well-preserved structures, including the iconic El Castillo, and gain a deeper appreciation for the Mayan civilization.
With the stunning backdrop of the turquoise waters, the tour offers a captivating glimpse into the past and the opportunity to take in the rich heritage of Tulum.
Snorkeling at Akumal Bay
After the guided tour of the Tulum Ruins, the tour group transfers by van to the picturesque Akumal Bay, located just 20 minutes away.
Once there, they’re provided with snorkeling gear – mask, snorkel, and life jacket – and embark on a 55-minute session to explore the bay’s underwater world.
Swimmers can spot colorful marine life and the highlight – sea turtles gracefully gliding through the clear waters.
A certified local guide accompanies the group, ensuring a safe and informative experience.
At the end, participants receive their underwater photos captured during the snorkeling adventure, a memento of this incredible encounter with Akumal’s natural wonders.
Pickup and Transportation
Participants gather in their hotel lobby 10 minutes before the scheduled departure time. They’ll be transported to the Tulum Ruins site in an air-conditioned vehicle. The tour includes pickup from 42 locations across the Riviera Maya.
Pickup Locations | Duration | Transportation |
---|---|---|
42 locations in Riviera Maya | 20 minutes to Akumal Bay | Air-conditioned vehicle |
Hotel lobbies | – | – |
Centralized meeting points | – | – |
– | – | – |
– | – | – |
The guided tour ensures a seamless experience, with the certified local guide handling all logistics and transportation.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyTulum Archaeological Site
Visitors explore the ancient Mayan city of Tulum, a UNESCO World Heritage site perched atop rugged seaside cliffs. During the 1.5-hour guided tour, they’ll learn about the rich Mayan history and admire the iconic Caribbean views.
The remains of temples, palaces, and homes provide a glimpse into the lives of the once-thriving civilization. Travelers marvel at the well-preserved structures, including the impressive El Castillo, the tallest building in the ancient city.
The tour guide shares fascinating insights, bringing the Tulum Ruins to life and igniting visitors’ imaginations about the Mayan people who once inhabited this spectacular coastal location.
- Riviera Maya: Turtles Encounter at Akumal Beach
- Akumal: PADI Open Water Course
- Akumal: Private Van Transfer to Chiquilá (Holbox)
- From Cancun/Riviera Maya Snorkel With Sea Turtles & Cenotes
- From Tulum: ATV Ride With Monkey Sanctuary and Cenote Trip
- Private Tour: Great Snorkeling Adventure at the Riviera Maya
Protected Area Access
The tour then moves on to Akumal Bay, a protected marine area renowned for its vibrant coral reefs and abundant sea turtle population.
To access this protected area, travelers receive special admission bracelets. This ensures the preservation and responsible enjoyment of the delicate ecosystem.
The tour includes:
- Complimentary snorkeling equipment, including masks, snorkels, and life jackets.
- A guided snorkeling session lasting 55 minutes, allowing guests to observe turtles and other marine life up close.
- An underwater photography service, with the captured images shared via email as a memento of the experience.
Adhering to local conservation guidelines, the tour prohibits the use of sunscreen, which can harm the sensitive coral reefs.
Snorkeling Equipment and Photos
The tour provides all necessary snorkeling equipment, including masks, snorkels, and life jackets.
Participants can explore the vibrant underwater ecosystem of Akumal Bay with ease. An added bonus is the underwater photography session – photos captured during the snorkeling experience are shared via email after the tour, allowing travelers to relive their underwater adventure.
This thoughtful inclusion ensures guests can cherish their memories of swimming alongside the gentle sea turtles and admiring the colorful marine life.
With all the necessary gear and photographic evidence provided, the snorkeling segment of the tour is a seamless and enjoyable experience for participants.
Important Considerations
Several important considerations for this tour should be noted.
First, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.
Second, certain items aren’t allowed, such as alcohol, drugs, and sunscreen at Akumal Bay.
Lastly, comfortable shoes, swimwear, and a change of clothes are recommended, as well as water shoes and a reusable water bottle.
Plus, a 100-peso deposit is required for access to the restrooms, changing rooms, showers, and lockers at Akumal Bay.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Equipment?
Yes, you can bring your own snorkeling equipment. However, the tour includes snorkeling gear, so it’s not necessary. Using the provided equipment may be more convenient and ensures it meets safety standards.
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Participants?
There is no minimum age requirement for participants in the guided tour. Children of all ages can join the tour, but parents are responsible for supervising their kids throughout the activities.
Can I Purchase Souvenirs at the Tulum Ruins?
Yes, visitors can purchase souvenirs at the Tulum Ruins. The site features several shops and vendors selling a variety of local handicrafts, artwork, jewelry, and Mayan-inspired items. Visitors should expect to bargain for the best prices.
Are There Any Medical Conditions That May Prevent Snorkeling?
Certain medical conditions like heart or lung problems, asthma, or respiratory issues may prevent individuals from safely snorkeling. Participants should consult a doctor before the tour to ensure they can participate without risk.
Can I Leave the Tour Group at Any Time During the Excursion?
Participants can leave the tour group at any time, however, they must notify the guide. Leaving the group is not recommended as it may impact the schedule and safety of the overall excursion.
Recap
Discover the captivating history and natural wonders of Tulum on this guided tour. Explore the ancient Tulum Ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and snorkel with turtles in the vibrant waters of Akumal Bay. Capture unforgettable moments with GoPro photos, creating lasting memories of this unique experience. This 4.5-hour adventure offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration and marine life encounters.
You can check if your dates are available here:More Snorkeling Tours in Akumal
More Tour Reviews in Akumal
Not for you? Here's more things to do in Akumal we have recnetly reviewed
- 2 Best Guided Tours In Akumal
- 11 Best Private Car With Driver Services In Akumal
- Transfers From Cancun Airport to Akumal – Private Van (Round Trip)
- Akumal: Snorkel With Local Guides
- 20 Best Tours In Akumal
- Sea Turtle Tour
- Akumal: Swim With Turtles Tour
- 2 Best Photography Experiences In Akumal
- 5 Best Scuba Diving Experiences In Akumal
- Akumal: Swimming With Turtles Tour
- Akumal: Guided Turtle Snorkeling Tour
- Akumal: Snorkeling With Sea Turtles in Private