Adventure Collective Journal

Adventure Collective Journal

Ziplining Guide delivers thrilling travel magazine stories and guides about the best zipline parks and canopy tours worldwide.

← Back to Journal
Riviera Maya Full-Day Snorkel Xtreme: Yal Ku Lagoon, Ziplines & Cenote Adventure

Riviera Maya Full-Day Snorkel Xtreme: Yal Ku Lagoon, Ziplines & Cenote Adventure

Combine calm lagoon snorkeling, canopy ziplines and a crystalline cenote swim in one action-packed day on the Riviera Maya. This six-hour tour from Playa del Carmen pairs marine life at Yal Ku with jungle thrills and an underground swim through limestone formations.

Akumal, Quintana Roo
6 hours
By Adventure CollectiveOctober 2025

The Experience

Before You Go

Pack biodegradable sunscreen

The park requires reef-safe, biodegradable sunscreen — bring a small bottle to protect coral and comply with rules.

Wear water shoes

Expect slippery limestone and cenote entries; closed-toe water shoes improve traction and protect feet.

Bring a waterproof phone pouch

You’ll want photos at Yal Ku and the cenote; a sealed pouch keeps devices dry during boat transfers and swims.

Hydrate and time your pickup

Six hours of activity in tropical heat is dehydrating — drink before pickup and confirm hotel transfer details 24+ hours ahead.

Local Knowledge

Hidden Gems

  • Half Moon Bay (Bahía de la Media Luna) in Akumal for quieter shore snorkeling
  • Local seaside stalls in Akumal for fresh ceviche and artisan crafts after your tour

Wildlife

  • Green sea turtles
  • Tropical reef fish (parrotfish, angelfish)

Conservation Note

The tour emphasizes reef-safe practices — use only biodegradable sunscreen and avoid touching coral; stay on marked paths to protect fragile cenote rims and jungle understory.

Cenotes are karst sinkholes formed by collapsed limestone and were vital freshwater sources for the Maya; many served ritual purposes as well as daily water supply.

What to Bring

Biodegradable sunscreenEssential

Protects coral and meets park rules while preventing sunburn during prolonged outdoor activity.

Water shoesEssential

Provide traction on wet limestone and protection during cenote entries.

Quick-dry swimwear & towelEssential

Dries fast between activities and keeps you comfortable during transfers and lunch.

Reusable water bottleEssential

Staying hydrated through snorkeling and ziplines reduces fatigue and heat risk.

Common Questions

Is prior snorkeling experience required?

No — basic swimming skills are recommended and guides provide masks, fins and flotation; beginners are typically supported in shallow parts of Yal Ku.

Are hotel pickups guaranteed?

Hotel pickup and drop-off are included but reservations made less than 24 hours before the tour must provide hotel details or pickup may not be guaranteed.

What are the weight or size limits?

The tour lists a weight limit of 300 lbs (135 kg) and a maximum clothing size requirement (under size 44) for some equipment and platforms.

Can children join the tour?

Yes, but children must be accompanied by an adult and basic swimming ability is recommended for safety in open water segments.

Book This Experience

Check Availability

Duration

6 hours

Location

Akumal, Quintana Roo

Difficulty

moderate

Fitness Level

Moderately fit — comfortable with short swims, stairs, and brief climbs; not suited to those with serious mobility limits.

Free cancellation available

Ready to Explore Akumal?

Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.

Check Availability & Book Now