Tulum Ruins & Akumal Turtle Snorkel
Overview
This day puts two of the Riviera Maya's classic sights together. Start at Tulum, the walled Maya city that stands on 12-metre cliffs above the Caribbean. It was one of the last cities the Maya built and lived in, and it was an important trading port for Cobá. With a guide, walk in through the old wall to El Castillo, the Temple of the Frescoes and the small Temple of the God of the Wind, perched on its rocky point. There's time for photos of the turquoise sea below.
Then head up the coast to Akumal. Green sea turtles come into the bay to graze on the seagrass. Akumal Bay has been a protected marine refuge since 2016, so you snorkel in a small group with a certified guide, wear a life jacket, and keep your distance from the turtles. Many trips also add a swim in a cenote.
It's a good choice if you'd like one day that mixes history with time in the water, without the long drive to Chichén Itzá.
Highlights
- Maya city on cliffs above the Caribbean
- El Castillo and the Temple of the God of the Wind
- Snorkel with green turtles in Akumal Bay
- Certified guide in a protected marine refuge
- Often combined with a cenote swim
What's included
- Return transport from Riviera Maya and Cancún hotels
- Guided visit to Tulum
- Tulum entrance
- Guided turtle snorkel in Akumal
- Snorkel gear and life jacket
- Lunch (depending on the supplier)
- Tulum national park fee, if charged separately
- Tips
Request this tour
Send us your dates and a SkyRay advisor will confirm availability and price.
Itinerary
Frequently asked questions
Turtles feed in Akumal Bay all year and sightings are very common, but they're wild animals, so it can't be guaranteed.
No. The bay is shallow and calm, and you'll wear a life jacket with a guide close by. You should be comfortable in the water.
Use a reef-safe (mineral) sunscreen, or cover up with a rash vest. Ordinary sunscreens harm the seagrass and coral.
