The coastal resort town of Akumal is a hidden gem of the Yucatan Peninsula with white sandy beaches, coral reefs and tropical waters. Meaning “Place of the Turtle” in the Mayan language, Akumal is an ideal day trip destination for visitors wanting to view marine life and other natural wonders.

On a day trip to Akumal from Cancún, you can snorkel among the reefs, and visit the Aktun Chen Parque Natural to see the area’s caves, cenotes and underground river.

Here's all you need to know about Akumal, one of the most exciting day trips from Cancún.

How to get to Akumal from Cancún?

Akumal is located south of Cancún on Mexico’s Riviera Maya. Roughly 105 kilometers from the city, the route travels directly along the coast.

From Cancún to Akumal by car

The drive along coastal Route 307 takes about 1.5 hours. Although it can be challenging to drive in a foreign country, the route to Akumal is reasonably direct.

Guided tour to Akumal from Cancún

Many tour operators offer transfers and tours for visitors wanting to experience Akumal. Most tours collect you directly from your hotel in Cancún, removing the need to navigate the roads or worry about parking. Day trips from Cancún usually last between five and 10 hours, while transfers take just over an hour each way.

What is the typical itinerary?

A typical tour to Akumal starts with a hotel pickup in Cancún. You will be driven to Akumal, to explore the town and its attractions. Most tours include snorkeling with turtles and other marine life in Akumal Bay. Some tours include an option to visit a cenote or nearby ruins. At the end of the tour, your group will return to Cancún.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Akumal?

Round-trip transfers between Cancún and Akumal

If you’re a laidback traveler who prefers the flexibility of exploring at your own pace, but don’t want the hassles associated with driving, you can choose between a range of shared and private return transfers between Cancun and Akumal.

Akumal turtle experience from Cancún

Join a small group on a half-day turtle experience in Akumal. Your tour begins with an early morning hotel pickup and you’ll arrive in time to take advantage of the morning’s calmer waters.

Snorkel with sea turtles and learn about these amazing creatures from your local biologist-guide. After a short snack break, cool off at the famous Cenote Azul before returning to Cancún shortly.

Tour to Akumal from Cancún including snorkeling and Tulum

For a more immersive tour, choose a full-day guided tour that combines two of the region’s top attractions. Typically lasting between 7 and 9 hours, you’ll take advantage of the morning’s cooler temperatures to visit the ancient ruins at Tulum.

Once in Akumal, explore the underwater reef paradise alongside relaxed turtles, rays and tropical fish.

Longer tours may also include a stop for a swim in the clear waters of a nearby cenote before returning to Cancún.

Small group Cobá and Akumal day tour

A full-day guided tour to Akumal and Cobá perfectly balances nature and culture. Cobá is the nexus of the Mayan empire’s road network and provides you with an opportunity to appreciate the magnificent Mayan cultural legacy.

In the coastal town of Akumal, your experienced guide will escort you as you snorkel and view turtles in their natural habitat.

How much does a day trip to Akumal from Cancún cost?

Round-trip transfers between Cancún and Akumal start from $50 per person one-way in shared transport or around US$300 per private transfer.

Half-day Akumal turtle experiences in Akumal from Cancún cost from around US$100 and US$125 including return transfers.

A small group full-day guided tour to Akumal from Cancún including Tulum costs between US$120 and US$150. On a private basis, expect to pay between US$150 and US$400 per person depending on group size.

Small group Cobá and Akumal day tours that include lunch and entrance fees cost from US$270 per person.

What will you see and do?

Akumal is known for its beautiful beaches and Akumal Bay is home to a variety of marine life including turtles, stingrays and colorful reef fish. Snorkeling tours provides an ideal way to view this underwater world.

Natural swimming holes, called cenotes, appear throughout the Yucatan Peninsula. Dos Ojos, Gran Cenote and Cenote Azul are all close to Akumal and perfect for a refreshing swim.

When is the best time to visit Akumal?

Akumal is best experienced in the dry season from December to April. Sunny weather and calm seas are ideal for water-based activities. This is, however, peak season, so expect crowds and higher prices. The period from May to November is quieter but can be rainy. Early mornings offer the best chance of viewing turtles in calm waters.

What other day trips can you do from Cancún?

Travel tips

Wear comfortable swimwear for snorkeling.
Do not touch the turtles and avoid touching or stepping on any coral.
Bring a waterproof camera or phone housing if you want to take underwater photos.

Akumal: Day Trips and Tours from Cancún