How to Plan Your Cancun/Riviera Maya Tour: Tulum Ruins, Sea Turtle Swim & Cenotes

If you’re heading to Cancun or Riviera Maya, don’t miss the chance to visit Tulum Ruins, swim with sea turtles, and discover caverns and caves in cenotes. This full-day tour is undoubtedly an experience of a lifetime. In this guide, we’ll show you how to plan your tour efficiently, so you can sit back and relax while immersing yourself in the fantastic culture of the region.

Experience

Join this full-day tour and experience history, culture, and nature in Akumal. You will visit the deserted but historically rich Tulum Ruins, where you’ll learn about the architecture and mystical history of the ancient Mayan civilization with an experienced archeologist guide. Afterward, you’ll be taken to Akumal Bay to swim with the beloved sea turtles while admiring the colorful coral reefs, tropical fish, and other marine life. Finally, you will get the chance to explore two different types of cenotes, caves of the Yucatan Peninsula filled with crystal clear water.

Highlights

During the tour, you will encounter some incredible highlights that you will undoubtedly cherish for the rest of your life. Here are some of them: – Explore the Tulum Ruins and learn about everything from Mayan history to evolution. – Swim with sea turtles in their natural habitat in Akumal Bay, accompanied by an expert guide. – Discover two different types of cenotes, caves of the Yucatan Peninsula, and be amazed by its natural beauty. – Enjoy a delicious buffet lunch in the jungle, including traditional Mexican food, such as Cochinita Pibil, chicken, rice, beans, tortillas, and tortilla chips.

Itinerary

Here’s the itinerary for the full-day tour:

8:00 – 9:00 AM: Pick-up from Your Hotel

The tour shuttle will pick you up from your hotel in Cancun or Riviera Maya. Please be ready at the hotel lobby since the pick-up time depends on your location.

10:00 – 11:30 AM: Visit Tulum Ruins

After pick-up, you will head directly to Tulum Ruins, an incredible Mayan archaeological site repopulated after a period of desolation. The tour includes a guided visit of 45 minutes, giving you an opportunity to learn in-depth about the history and culture of the Mayan civilization.

12:00 – 1:30 PM: Swim with Sea Turtles in Akumal Bay

Leaving Tulum, your next stop on this tour is Akumal Bay, where you will use your snorkeling gear to swim with sea turtles in their natural habitat. An expert guide will accompany you and assist you in understanding the unique behaviors and characteristics of these gentle creatures.

2:00 – 3:30 PM: Visit Two Different Types of Cenotes

After a traditional Mexican buffet-style lunch in the jungle, including Cochinita Pibil, chicken, rice, beans, tortillas, and tortilla chips, it’s time to discover cenotes. You’ll visit two types of cenotes, both full of crystal clear water and fascinating rock formations. The cenote of XTUN is only accessible after off-roading since it’s surrounded by the jungle.

4:00 – 5:00 PM: Return to Your Hotel

After enjoying an entire day exploring the history, culture, and nature of the region, you’ll be dropped off safely at the lobby of your hotel.

How to Book the Cancun/Riviera Maya Tour

To book this tour, head over to the GetYourGuide website and follow the instructions. You can pay in advance with a credit or debit card and receive a confirmation email. Keep the email handy since you would need to show it to the tour guide at the start of your tour.

What’s Included in the Tour

When you book this tour, you get to enjoy the following:

• Round-trip transportation with air-conditioning
• Professional bilingual guide
• Snorkeling equipment (if desired)
• Buffet lunch in the jungle
• Water bottle

Final Thoughts

When it comes to Cancun/Riviera Maya Tours, experiencing the Tulum Ruins, the sea turtles, and cenotes are experiences that you shouldn’t miss. This tour will not only take you on an adventure but will also introduce you to the history and culture of the Mayan civilization. With a professional guide accompanying you throughout the tour, you can relax and enjoy the experience stress-free. Book the tour now to ensure a spot and create unforgettable memories.

Akumal: Your Ultimate FAQ Guide

If you’re planning your next vacation to Mexico’s Caribbean coast, you might have come across the quaint town of Akumal. Nestled between Playa del Carmen and Tulum, Akumal is a charming seaside village that has a lot to offer. In this FAQ guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know before you plan your trip to Akumal.

1. What does Akumal mean?

Akumal comes from the Mayan language and means “Place of Turtles.” You can find several different species of sea turtles nesting on the beaches of Akumal from May through October.

2. What are the best things to do in Akumal?

Akumal has a wide range of activities to offer, from relaxing on the beach to exploring the Cenotes. Here are some of the best things to do in Akumal:

• Snorkeling with Turtles
• Swim in the Cenote Santa Cruz
• Visit Yal Ku Lagoon
• Enjoy the Akumal Beaches
• Take a peek at Aktun Chen Natural Park

3. Which airport is the closest to Akumal?

The closest airport to Akumal is Cancun International Airport, which is located approximately 60 miles away. You can take a bus, private shuttle or rent a car to reach Akumal from the airport.

4. What is the weather like in Akumal?

Akumal has a tropical climate, which means that temperatures are consistently warm throughout the year. The hottest months are from May to September with average temperatures of 85°F (29°C). The rainy season runs from June to October, with August being the wettest month.

5. What is the best time to visit Akumal?

The best time to visit Akumal is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. During these months, you’ll enjoy plenty of sunshine and clear skies. However, this is also peak tourist season, so expect to pay higher rates for accommodation and activities. If you want to take advantage of lower rates, consider visiting during the shoulder season in May or November.

6. What’s the currency used in Akumal?

The official currency in Akumal, and the rest of Mexico, is the Mexican Peso (MXN). However, US dollars are widely accepted in most tourist areas, and many businesses in Akumal will accept payments with major credit cards.

7. Are there any cultural events in Akumal?

Akumal is a small town, but it still has several cultural events throughout the year. One of the most popular is the Day of the Dead Festival, which is held in early November. During this festival, you’ll get the chance to see traditional altars, enjoy live music, and taste delicious Mexican food.

8. Is it safe to travel to Akumal?

Akumal is generally considered a safe destination for tourists. However, as with any foreign destination, it’s essential to take precautions to ensure your safety. Avoid walking alone at night, keep an eye on your belongings, and avoid carrying large sums of money with you.

9. What language is spoken in Akumal?

The official language in Akumal and the rest of Mexico is Spanish. However, many locals speak English, especially those who work in the tourism industry.

10. What should I pack for my trip to Akumal?

When packing for your trip to Akumal, be sure to bring lightweight clothing, comfortable shoes, and plenty of sun protection. You’ll need swimsuits and beachwear, especially if you plan to spend a lot of time in the water. Don’t forget to bring mosquito repellent, a hat or cap, and a reusable water bottle.

Book Your Tour Now

Akumal is a small town that’s big on charm. Whether you’re looking for relaxation or adventure, Akumal has something for everyone. From turtle watching to snorkeling, swimming in Cenotes, and exploring hidden lagoons, Akumal is a perfect destination for those who want to experience the best of Mexico’s Caribbean coast.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Akumal

Akumal is a small coastal town located in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo. It is a popular tourist destination on the Yucatán Peninsula, known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and abundant wildlife. If you’re planning a trip to Akumal, this guide will help you make the most of your time there.

1. Snorkeling and Scuba Diving

The waters around Akumal are home to a diverse range of marine life, including sea turtles, stingrays, nurse sharks, and colorful tropical fish. Snorkeling and scuba diving are two of the most popular activities in Akumal, and there are several excellent spots to explore. If you’re new to snorkeling or scuba diving, there are many local companies that offer guided tours and lessons. For experienced divers, you can explore the Yal-ku Lagoon, Half Moon Bay or even the Cenote Dos Ojos, which is a freshwater cenote that connects to the ocean via underground rivers.

2. Visiting the Akumal Monkey Sanctuary

If you’re an animal lover, a visit to the Akumal Monkey Sanctuary and Rescued Animals should be on your list. The sanctuary is home to rescued animals such as spider monkeys, deer, iguanas, macaws, and more. The sanctuary is operated by volunteers who are devoted to caring for these animals and educating the public. You will learn about the animal’s natural habitats, behavior, and conservation efforts. The tour also includes a visit to the botanical garden and Mayan village, where you can learn about the local culture and history.

3. Exploring the Mayan Ruins

The Yucatán Peninsula is famous for its many ancient Mayan ruins, and Akumal is no exception. One of the most popular sites to visit is the Tulum Ruins, which is about an hour’s drive away from Akumal. The ruins are perched on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea, and you can explore the temples, palaces, and other structures that date back to the 13th century. If you are interested in seeing more Mayan ruins, you can also visit the Coba Ruins, which is a little further but well worth the trip. Here you will find the tallest pyramid in the Yucatán Peninsula, which you can climb to enjoy the stunning view from the top.

4. Swimming with Turtles

Akumal is known for its resident population of sea turtles, and swimming with these gentle giants is a one-of-a-kind experience. The best place to swim with turtles in Akumal is at Akumal Bay, where you can rent snorkeling gear and swim out to the reef. It is essential to remember to respect the turtles’ personal space and not touch them for any reason. Always keep a safe distance from the turtles and enjoy observing them in their natural habitat. This experience is not only fun but a great way to learn about the local sea turtle conservation efforts.

5. Enjoying the Local Cuisine

One of the best ways to experience a new place is through its food. Akumal offers a wide range of delicious food options, from street tacos to high-end restaurants. Try the local seafood, including ceviche, shrimp, and octopus. Mexican food is not just tacos and burritos there are other traditional dishes like “pollo pibil,” cochinita pibil, and “sopa de lima.” These dishes are made with locally sourced ingredients and fresh herbs and spices, so don’t be afraid to try something new.

Closing Thoughts

Akumal is a fantastic destination that has something to offer everyone. Whether you enjoy outdoor activities, history or simply want to relax on the beach, you will find it here. Make sure to plan your trip well in advance to get the most out of limited time in town. Try some of the activities on this list, and don’t forget to bring your camera to capture all the memories of your trip to Akumal.