Akumal Turtles, Snorkel Tour from Cancun or Riviera Maya

Swim alongside sea turtles and explore the natural wonders of the Yucatán Peninsula with the Akumal Turtles, Snorkel Tour from Cancun or Riviera Maya. Priced at $99.00 per person and lasting approximately 5 hours, this tour offers a chance to snorkel in turquoise waters populated with marine life and visit a stunning cenote. It includes hotel pickup and drop-off, snacks, bottled water, and all necessary snorkeling equipment. While the tour provides a memorable encounter with sea turtles, some reviews suggest the overall experience could benefit from more activity variety and better organization.

This tour suits travelers interested in marine wildlife encounters and natural swimming spots, especially those based in Cancun or Riviera Maya. Keep in mind, the tour is best for those with moderate physical fitness, as it involves some walking and swimming. The tour groups are small, with a maximum of 15 travelers, which helps maintain a personalized experience. However, potential visitors should be aware that additional fees like the $20 federal marine park preservation tax are not included in the base price.

Key Points

• Snorkeling with sea turtles in their natural environment along the Caribbean coast.
• Swim in a cenote carved into limestone, offering crystal-clear waters and a unique underground experience.
• Hotel pickup and drop-off from Cancun are included, simplifying logistics.
• Snacks and bottled water are provided for refreshment during the tour.
• The tour is approximately 5 hours long, with a 3-hour snorkeling activity.
• Limited group size enhances the chance for a more personal experience, but some reviews mention pacing issues.

Pickup from Cancun and Transfer to Tulum

The tour begins with hotel pickup in Cancun, streamlining transportation to Tulum. From there, a professional guide takes you to the snorkeling site, where you can expect to spend about an hour in the water. The transfer is part of the experience, eliminating the need for self-driving or additional arrangements. The vehicle ride offers a comfortable and relaxed start to the day, with scenic views en route to the coast.

Snorkeling in Coral Reefs with Sea Turtles

The core activity of this tour is snorkeling on a coral reef teeming with sea turtles, along with other marine creatures like sting rays and various fish. The guide explains the environment and behavior of the turtles, enhancing the experience with educational insights. The waters are described as turquoise and clear, providing good visibility for watching marine life. The presence of snorkeling equipment is included, making it convenient for travelers.

Visiting a Cenote for a Natural Swim

After the underwater adventure, the tour continues with a visit to a cenote, a natural limestone sinkhole carved into the landscape. The cenote features turquoise waters and a cavern that the guide helps explore. This stop offers a refreshing swim in a unique underground pool, with the natural beauty of the Yucatán’s geological formations on display. It’s a highlight for those wanting a scenic, peaceful water experience.

Food and Refreshments on the Tour

Snacks and bottled water are included, providing energy for the activities. However, reviews mention that food options are limited, with some noting that the only food provided was a small empanada, which may not satisfy those with bigger appetites. It’s advisable to bring additional snacks if desired, especially since lunch and drinks are not included or available for purchase during the tour.

Pacing and Tour Length Feedback

The tour lasts about 5 hours, with approximately 3 hours dedicated to snorkeling. While this structure offers ample time for marine viewing and the cenote swim, some reviews criticize the pacing, noting the shorter driving time and expedited schedule. The activities may feel rushed for guests expecting more time at each stop, especially at the cenote, which offers more activities than are included in this brief visit.

Additional Fees and Restrictions

Participants are required to pay a $20 federal marine park preservation tax, payable in cash, which is not included in the tour price. The tour is suitable for children when accompanied by an adult, but moderate physical fitness is recommended due to the nature of swimming and walking involved. Tour groups are limited to 15 travelers, ensuring a more intimate setting.

Tour Logistics and Group Size

The small group size helps foster a more personalized experience, with professional guides leading the adventure. The pickup and drop-off service from Cancun hotels simplifies planning, so visitors do not need to arrange transportation themselves. The tour operates weather permitting, and in case of poor weather, alternative dates or full refunds are available.

Limitations Noted in Reviews

Some guests point out that the tour feels rushed and suggest that more time could be allocated for activities, particularly at the cenote. The shorter duration of travel and the limited activity options during the stop are common criticisms. The food offering also receives some criticism, with only a small empanada provided as sustenance.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This experience is ideal for marine life enthusiasts and those seeking a short, focused adventure with the chance to see sea turtles in their natural habitat. Visitors interested in swimming in cenotes will appreciate the scenic underground waters. It’s best suited for travelers comfortable with moderate physical activity and looking for a convenient, guided day trip without extensive planning.

Final Thoughts on the Akumal Turtles Snorkel Tour

While this tour offers the main highlight of swimming with sea turtles and the chance to explore a cenote, it has some room for improvement in pacing and food options. The inclusion of hotel transfer, snorkeling gear, and refreshments makes it a practical choice for those staying in Cancun. However, more activity variety and better scheduling could elevate the overall experience.

If you value close encounters with marine wildlife and a beautiful cenote environment, this tour delivers those core experiences. Just prepare for a shorter visit at each stop and bring extra snacks if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off from Cancun are included, making it easy to access the activity without additional arrangements.

How long does the snorkeling activity last?
The snorkeling portion is approximately 1 hour, during which you can observe sea turtles, sting rays, and other marine life.

What should I bring on this tour?
Participants should bring swimwear, towels, and additional snacks if desired, as only snacks and bottled water are provided.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Yes, children can participate when accompanied by an adult; moderate physical fitness is recommended.

What is the cost of the marine park preservation tax?
The $20 cash fee per person is payable at the site and is not included in the ticket price.

How do I know if the tour will operate in bad weather?
The tour is subject to weather conditions. If canceled due to weather, a full refund or alternative date is offered.

Is snorkel equipment provided?
Yes, the tour includes use of snorkeling equipment for all participants.

Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
Apart from the preservation tax and optional souvenir photos, no extra charges are mentioned in the data.

What do reviews say about this tour?
Reviews are mixed; some appreciate the turtle sightings and guide explanations, while others feel the schedule is too rushed and food options limited.

Would you recommend this tour?
It offers a solid experience for those mainly interested in seeing sea turtles and enjoying a cenote swim, but be prepared for a shorter, more streamlined day with some pacing limitations.