How to Plan Your Tour to Tulum and Akumal for Swimming with Turtles from Playa Del Carmen

Are you looking for the ultimate adventure on your tropical vacation to Playa Del Carmen? Look no further than this full-day guided tour to Tulum and Akumal for swimming with turtles. This tour allows you to experience Mayan culture, explore the Tulum ruins, and snorkel in the crystal clear bay of Akumal, where you might just spot some sea turtles. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your perfect tour.

Overview

The Tulum and Akumal tour from Playa Del Carmen is a full-day adventure that combines culture, history, and natural beauty. You’ll start the day off exploring the Tulum ruins, where you can capture breathtaking views of the ocean from the ancient Mayan civilization. You’ll then head to Akumal Bay for a guided snorkeling tour, where you can swim alongside tropical fish and perhaps even spot some sea turtles. This tour includes equipment, entry fees, and round-trip transfers, making it a worry-free way to experience the best of this tropical destination.

What’s Included

The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, admission to the Mayan ruins of Tulum, a guide, and snorkeling gear. However, be aware that there is a Tulum local tax and reef tax ($16 USD) that must be paid at check-in. Photos and gratuities are not included.

Meeting and Pickup

The tour offers easy meet-up in Playa Del Carmen, where you can head directly to the meeting point or arrange for pickup at your hotel for an additional fee. The tour departs early in the morning, so make sure to arrive on time to ensure a full day of adventure.

Details

The tour lasts approximately 8 hours and requires comfortable clothing, walking shoes, swimwear, and a towel. You’ll want to bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun. The Tulum ruins require a fair amount of walking, so it is important to be prepared. The tour guides are knowledgeable and will provide you with fascinating insights into Mayan culture, history, and wildlife. They will guide you through the ruins at Tulum and point out the various creatures in Akumal Bay while you snorkel.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a fun and informative way to experience Playa Del Carmen, book the Tulum and Akumal tour for swimming with turtles. It’s the perfect way to capture the beauty and history of Mayan civilization while exploring the natural wonders of the Yucatán Peninsula. Book the tour here and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!

Frequently Asked Questions about Playa Del Carmen

Playa Del Carmen is a beautiful coastal city in the state of Quintana Roo, Mexico. Known for its turquoise waters, white sand beaches, and vibrant nightlife, Playa Del Carmen attracts over 2 million tourists every year. If you’re planning a trip to Playa Del Carmen, here are some frequently asked questions and answers that can help you plan your trip better.

1. What is the currency used in Playa Del Carmen?

The currency used in Playa Del Carmen is the Mexican Peso. Although many places accept US Dollars, it’s always better to carry Mexican Pesos to make transactions easier. You can exchange your currency at banks, exchange houses, and most hotels.

2. What’s the best way to get around Playa Del Carmen?

One of the best ways to get around Playa Del Carmen is by walking. The city is pedestrian-friendly with most attractions and amenities located within walking distance. You can also hire bikes, take taxis or colectivos (shared minivans) to travel around the city.

3. When is the best time to visit Playa Del Carmen?

The best time to visit Playa Del Carmen is between November and March when the weather is pleasant and dry. However, the city is crowded during this period, and hotel prices are usually higher than usual. It’s advisable to plan your trip during the shoulder season (April – June or September – November) when the prices are lower, and the crowds are thinner.

4. Is Playa Del Carmen safe for tourists?

Playa Del Carmen is generally safe for tourists. However, it’s crucial to follow basic safety rules to avoid any unpleasantries. Avoid carrying large sums of cash, don’t leave your valuables unattended, and always be aware of your surroundings. Also, it’s not advisable to walk around alone late at night. Stick to well-lit, busy areas in the city.

5. Which are the must-visit places in Playa Del Carmen?

Playa Del Carmen has numerous attractions to visit. Some of the must-visit places in the city include:

• Fifth Avenue (Quinta Avenida)

A pedestrian-only street lined with shops, cafes, restaurants, and bars.

• Xcaret

A natural eco-park with over 50 attractions, including a butterfly pavilion, snorkeling pools, and a Maya jungle trail.

• Cozumel Island

A beautiful island off the coast of Playa Del Carmen, known for its pristine beaches and diving spots.

• Tulum Archaeological Site

An ancient Mayan walled city with breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea.

6. What are the best beaches in Playa Del Carmen?

Playa Del Carmen is home to some of the best beaches in the world. Some of the popular beaches in the city include:

• Playacar Beach

Located in the south of the city, this beach is quieter and more secluded than the others.

• Mamitas Beach

Located in the center of the city, it’s one of the most popular beaches in Playa Del Carmen. It has white sand, warm blue waters, and plenty of beach clubs and restaurants nearby.

• Xpu-Ha Beach

A serene beach located south of Playa Del Carmen with crystal clear waters, white sand, and palm trees.

7. What are the popular culinary cuisines in Playa Del Carmen?

Playa Del Carmen is a foodie’s paradise, with numerous culinary options to indulge in. Some of the popular cuisines in the city include:

• Mexican Cuisine

The city offers an array of authentic Mexican dishes, from street tacos to chiles rellenos, to tamales.

• Seafood Cuisine

The city’s coastal location makes it a hub for fresh seafood dishes. Some popular seafood dishes to try include shrimp ceviche, grilled octopus, and fish tacos.

• International Cuisine

You can find international cuisines from all over the world, including Italian, Japanese, Mediterranean, and Thai.

8. What are the nightlife options in Playa Del Carmen?

The city is known for its vibrant nightlife and offers numerous options for party-goers. Some of the popular nightlife options in the city include:

• Coco Bongo

A famous nightclub with live performances, DJs, and acrobatic shows.

• Mandala

A nightclub with a spacious dance floor, private VIP areas, and an outdoor terrace.

• La Vaquita

A wild nightclub with a clubbing experience featuring cow-themed decor, rodeo bull, and party music.

9. What are the best shopping spots in Playa Del Carmen?

Playa Del Carmen is a shopper’s paradise with numerous shopping options. Some of the best shopping spots in the city include:

• Quinta Avenida

A pedestrian-only street with shops that offer everything from souvenirs to luxury items.

• Paseo del Carmen

A shopping mall with international boutiques and stores.

• Tulum Avenue

A street with local artisanal stores that offer unique Mexican goods.

10. Which are the popular day trips from Playa Del Carmen?

Playa Del Carmen is an excellent base for exploring the surrounding areas. Some of the popular day trips from Playa Del Carmen include:

• Chichen Itza

An ancient Mayan city with the famous Kukulcan pyramid, located 2.5 hours from Playa Del Carmen.

• Isla Mujeres

A beautiful island located off the coast of Cancun, known for its snorkeling spots and beautiful beaches.

• Cenote Ik Kil

A natural sinkhole located in the Yucatan Peninsula with crystal-clear waters and beautiful surroundings. With these frequently asked questions and their answers, we hope we’ve given you a better idea of what to expect when you visit Playa Del Carmen. However, these are just some of the many attractions and activities the city has to offer. There’s plenty more to explore in this beautiful city, so pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Playa Del Carmen

Playa Del Carmen is a beautiful coastal city located in the heart of the Riviera Maya. With its crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches, and top-notch restaurants, it is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. If you’re planning to visit this paradise, here’s a comprehensive guide on how to spend your time in Playa Del Carmen.

Explore the Beaches

It should be no surprise that the beaches are the top attraction in Playa Del Carmen. There are several beaches to choose from, including the popular Playa Mamitas and Playa Paraíso. If you’re looking for something more secluded, you may want to check out Playa Xpu-Ha or Playa Akumal.

Swim in Cenotes

A cenote is a naturally occurring pit, or sinkhole, that is created when limestone bedrock collapses to reveal the groundwater underneath. In Playa Del Carmen, there are several cenotes worth visiting. These include Cenote Azul, Cenote Dos Ojos, and Cenote Chaak Tun. They offer a unique swimming experience, and some even offer guided tours exploring the local flora and fauna.

Experience the Local Culture

Playa Del Carmen has a rich history and culture that is worth experiencing. You can start by visiting the local markets such as the Playa Del Carmen flea market where you can find handmade crafts, souvenirs, and local delicacies.

Visit Cozumel Island

Cozumel Island is just off the coast of Playa Del Carmen and is famous for its crystal clear waters, diving, and snorkeling. You can get there by taking a ferry ride from the Playa Del Carmen ferry terminal. Once you get to the island, be sure to check out the Punta Sur Eco Beach Park, which features a lighthouse, a Mayan ruin, and a beautiful beach.

Indulge in the Cuisine

Mexican food is world-famous, and Playa Del Carmen offers quintessential Mexican dishes. Some of the must-try dishes include tacos al pastor, sopes, a Mexican specialty known as esquites that is made with corn, lime, chili, and mayonnaise. Be sure to try local drinks such as margaritas, tequila, and mezcal.

Attend Food Festivals

Playa Del Carmen hosts several food festivals throughout the year. The most popular is the Taste of Playa, where you can sample some of the best food and drinks made by the area’s top chefs and beverage providers. Another popular event is the Riviera Maya Wine and Food Festival, which is a four-day event celebrating food and wine.

Enjoy the Nightlife

Playa Del Carmen is famous for the nightlife. There are several bars and clubs that offer live music, DJs, and themed events. Some of the popular ones are Coco Bongo, Mandala Beach Club, Blue Parrot, and La Vaquita.

Watch Live Shows

Cirque Du Soleil’s Joya is a Las Vegas style show that combines music, dance, and acrobatics. It takes place in a custom-designed theater in Playa Del Carmen and is definitely worth watching.

Relax in Spas

Playa Del Carmen has several spas and wellness centers that offer relaxing treatments. Some of the most popular ones are the Banyan Tree Mayakoba’s Spa, The Viceroy Spa, and the Belmond Casa de Sierra Nevada’s Sazón Spa.

Indulge in Hydrotherapy

Hydrotherapy is a popular treatment that involves water-based healing therapies. Some of the Playa Del Carmen spas offer hydrotherapy sessions that include underwater massage jets, hot and cold plunge pools, and waterfalls.

Final Words

When visiting Playa Del Carmen, there is no limit to the exciting attractions and activities you can enjoy. From beaches to ruins to cuisine and nightlife, the city offers something for everyone. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture every memory!