Cenote Zemway & Cenote Zacil with Lagoon from Playa del Carmen

If you’re looking for a day immersed in the natural beauty of Mexico’s Riviera Maya, this tour of cenotes and a lagoon offers a fantastic mix of adventure, culture, and picture-perfect scenery. Designed for nature lovers and curious travelers alike, it promises an authentic glimpse into the sacred sites beloved by the ancient Maya while giving you plenty of opportunities to cool off and take memorable photos.

What we really like about this experience is how it combines multiple cenote visits with a stunning lagoon, all in one day—making it a more comprehensive excursion than just visiting one or two sites. Plus, the inclusion of a regional lunch and a photo stop at the Tulum blue letters adds a touch of local flavor and fun. On the flip side, travelers should be aware that a mandatory lifejacket rental and extra drinks in the restaurant might slightly raise the overall cost, but these are small considerations for the overall value.

This tour is perfect for adventurous souls, nature fans, or anyone wanting an active, yet manageable, day outside of Playa del Carmen. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate learning about the cultural significance of these sites while enjoying some quality outdoor time.

Key Points

• All-inclusive day with visits to four unique cenotes and a lagoon.
• Guided experience that explains the cultural and historical importance of each site.
• Snorkeling and swimming in shallow, clear waters ideal for photos and relaxing.
• Regional lunch included, with ample opportunity to sample local flavors.
• Transport is provided from Playa del Carmen, making logistics simple.
• Photo stop at Tulum’s blue letters adds a fun, iconic touch to your memories.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

What’s Included and Why It Matters

For around $122 per person, this tour offers pretty solid value—especially considering the total of entrance fees, transportation, and lunch are covered. We appreciate that pickup from Playa del Carmen makes the day stress-free—no need to worry about taxis or organizing transport. The round-trip service means you can relax and enjoy the scenery from the comfort of a bus or van.

The tour’s itinerary is thoughtfully structured to balance active time with relaxation. It starts early at 7:30 am, which might be a long day, but it maximizes your time in the cool waters and scenic spots before the afternoon heat sets in. The total duration is approximately 12 hours, so be prepared for a full day of adventure.

Exploring Laguna Kaan Luum

Your first stop is the Laguna Kaan Luum, south of Tulum. This emerald-green lagoon is famous for its striking color—different shades of blue and green depending on the sun and water depths. What makes it especially intriguing is the central sinkhole or deep part, creating a mesmerizing focal point. As one reviewer pointed out, this spot is a “hidden treasure” and offers excellent opportunities for photos and relaxing in nature.

You’ll enjoy roughly an hour here, which is enough to soak in the views, take photos, or even dip into the water if you’re eager. Thanks to the clear waters, you might spot some small marine life, adding to the lagoon’s charm.

Sacred Cenote Zemway

Next, it’s time to visit Cenote Zemway, an open cenote that connects you to the ancient Mayan tradition of water as a sacred, ceremonial element. We loved the idea of stepping back in time as you swim in waters that have been flowing for millions of years. The guide will share insights into why these cenotes were so important to the Maya—think rituals, offerings, and spiritual significance.

The open nature of Zemway means plenty of sunlight and space for swimming. Expect a shallow but refreshing environment, perfect for cooling off and snapping some photos of the striking rock formations and lush surroundings.

Cenote Zacil-Ha: The Picture-Perfect Open Cenote

Following Zemway, you’ll head to Cenote Zacil-Ha, another open cenote but with a slightly different vibe. The clarity of the water invites you to swim and relax, and the scenic setting makes it ideal for photos. The guide will highlight Mayan traditions related to this site, enriching your understanding of why these sacred places are so revered.

Many travelers find Zacil-Ha mesmerizing; one reviewer even described it as “gorgeous,” emphasizing how memorable the swimming experience is here. You’ll spend about an hour enjoying the cool waters and natural beauty.

Multum Ha: The Underground Cenote

The last cenote on the itinerary is Multum Ha, an underground cenote with a more mysterious, intimate atmosphere. Its smaller marine life population and shaded environment provide a different experience from the open cenotes. This underground spot is perfect for a quick refreshing swim before heading back on the bus.

The underground setting offers a unique perspective—a different kind of beauty that involves less sunlight and more of an enclosed, cave-like feeling. It’s a wonderful way to round out your day of exploring.

Bonus Stop: Tulum Blue Letters & Lunch

On the way back, the group makes a stop at the Giant Blue Letters of Tulum for photos—an iconic and fun way to capture your trip. Then, your day concludes with a regional lunch, included in the price. The meal typically features a single dish of your choice, giving you a taste of local flavors in a relaxed restaurant setting.

According to reviews, the lunch buffet was a pleasant surprise, with one traveler noting it “wasn’t originally listed,” but appreciated the generous offering. Keep in mind that drinks and extra snacks are additional costs.

Practical Details and Tips

• Timing: The tour begins at 7:30 am, so plan to arrive early and wear comfortable clothes.
• What to bring: Towels, swimsuits, change of clothes, and a waterproof camera or phone case are essential.
• Safety: Life jackets are mandatory, and you should expect to rent one—an important consideration for those who prefer to swim without one.
• Group size: The tour is limited to a maximum of 45 travelers, ensuring it’s not too crowded but still lively.
• Weather: The activity depends on good weather; in case of rain or storms, the tour might be canceled or rescheduled.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

One traveler, Teresa, summed up her experience with a simple but glowing review: “Awesome excursion that I would do again!” She also pointed out that the lunch buffet was a notable feature, and although drinks cost extra, the overall experience was worth it.

Another important note from reviews is the need to rent life jackets, which might be an extra expense but is necessary for safety and enjoyment in the cenotes.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This excursion is ideal for adventurous travelers who want to see some of the most beautiful natural and sacred sites in the Riviera Maya without the hassle of organizing multiple visits. Nature lovers will appreciate the variety of cenotes—both open and underground—and the lagoon’s serenity. Culture buffs will enjoy learning about the significance of these sites to the Mayans.

It’s also a good fit for those who like a full-day activity, including a delicious regional lunch and plenty of photo opportunities. Keep in mind that it’s a physically active day, so comfortable shoes, swimwear, and a sense of adventure will serve you well.

The Sum Up

This tour of cenotes and the lagoon from Playa del Carmen packs a lot into one day—natural beauty, cultural significance, and relaxed fun. The combination of guided explanations, scenic stops, and free time swimming makes it a well-rounded experience for curious travelers seeking a genuine connection with the landscape.

While a few extras like drinks and life jackets are additional costs, the overall value and memorable scenery make it worth considering. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a culture lover, or simply craving a cool escape from the heat, this trip offers a compelling way to spend a day exploring some of Mexico’s most treasured sites.

For those who enjoy a mix of adventure and learning, and who want to photograph stunning landscapes, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially suitable for travelers who value comfort, safety, and authentic experiences combined with excellent scenery and good food.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but children should be able to swim and be comfortable in water. Remember that life jackets are mandatory.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring towels, swim suits, change of clothes, and perhaps a waterproof phone case. Sunscreen and a hat are also helpful for sun protection.

Are meals included?
Yes, a box lunch is included, with one dish of your choice. Drinks in the restaurant are not included but are available for purchase.

How long does each stop last?
Each cenote and lagoon stop is approximately one hour, providing enough time to swim, relax, and take photos.

Can I snorkel in these cenotes?
While snorkeling is possible in the shallow waters, life jackets are mandatory. Snorkeling gear is not specifically mentioned as included, so you might want to bring your own.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour caps at 45 travelers, which helps keep the experience manageable and enjoyable.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, round-trip transportation from Playa del Carmen is included, making the planning straightforward.

This carefully curated trip offers a balanced mix of natural wonder, cultural insight, and convenient logistics. It’s a memorable way to explore the Mayan jungle’s hidden treasures, all with the comfort of guided support and included meals.