Swim in 4 different Cenotes in Casa Tortuga Park

Planning a visit to Playa del Carmen and considering a cenote adventure? We haven’t personally done this tour, but based on the info available, it’s an experience that might appeal to those wanting a straightforward, budget-friendly way to see some beautiful underground swimming spots.

What we like about this tour is its focus on visiting four distinct cenotes all within one park, which means you get a variety of scenery and geological features. The inclusion of life jackets and round-trip transportation makes it convenient and safe for most travelers. On the flip side, a potential downside is the crowded nature of the experience, as some reviews suggest it’s more of a group van ride than an intimate exploration of nature.

This tour would suit travelers looking for a listed, affordable way to see multiple cenotes in a half-day or full-day format, especially if you’re okay with some crowds and less-guided interaction. If you’re after a deep, exclusive experience or detailed guided insights, you might want to look elsewhere. But if simplicity and convenience are your priorities, this could fit the bill.

Key Points

• Multiple cenotes at one site means varied scenery and geological features.
• Round-trip transfers included for hassle-free logistics.
• Group size capped at 14 to keep things relatively intimate.
• A good option for budget-conscious travelers wanting variety without fuss.
• Some reviews point out crowds and lack of guided insight, so manage expectations accordingly.
• Snorkeling gear is up to you, but life jackets are provided for safety.

What’s the Experience Like?

This tour centers around visiting Casa Tortuga’s four cenotes—each with its own personality and features. It’s a decent choice if you’re after a relaxing swim or snorkel in clear waters, surrounded by natural rock formations and stalactites. The park offers semi-open caverns, fossil-studded walls, and lush roots, making each stop visually interesting.

The first cenote, Campana, is described as a semi-open cavern where you can spot stalagmites and stalactites. It’s a good starting point if you want to see some impressive geological formations up close. Moving on to Wisho, you get a chance to explore a cavern that’s home to fossils and bats—an interesting mix of natural history and wildlife.

Next, the Jaguar cenote is a semi-open cavern where visitors are encouraged to be a little daring—some might find it more adventurous than others. The passage leading to a dry cavern with roots and fossils offers a glimpse into Mayan culture and natural history, which adds a layer of interest. Lastly, 3 Zapotes is described as a fully open cenote, perfect for swimming and sunbathing if the weather’s nice.

Transportation and Group Size

Transport is straightforward: you’ll be picked up at your hotel in an air-conditioned vehicle, which is a plus in the heat. They cap group sizes at 14 participants, so it’s not a huge bus, but it’s not a private tour either. From the reviews, it seems the transportation is reliable but may sometimes feel rushed or crowded, especially during peak times or busy seasons.

The duration is listed as 4 to 8 hours, giving some flexibility depending on how long you want to spend at each cenote and whether you opt for lunch. The tour’s price of $62 per person is quite reasonable for a day trip, considering it includes pickup, transfers, and life jackets. You should note, however, that visitors need to consider additional expenses like park entrance fees and optional tips.

The Pros and Cons

Pros:
– Visiting four different cenotes in one park is a good way to see diverse formations and natural features.
– The included transfers and safety gear make logistics easier, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area.
– The small group size can offer a more relaxed experience compared to larger tours.
– The natural setting of the park offers plenty of photo opportunities and the chance to cool off in refreshing waters.

Cons:
– Based on reviews, the crowds can be significant, turning what should be a peaceful swim into a busy, sometimes chaotic experience.
– The description does not mention guided commentary or deep educational insights, so if you’re after storytelling or cultural context, you might find it lacking.
– Some visitors felt the experience was more of a van ride and entrance fee than a guided exploration, which can be disappointing if you expected more.

The Real Deal: What You Should Know

One review explicitly pointed out a disconnect: “Don’t be fooled. This ‘tour’ is a crowded van ride to a local water park. This tour drops you off outside of a little-known resort space with a couple of small cenotes. It does not include lunch, locker storage, or any knowledgeable guides.”

That’s a reminder that, while the price is attractive, the experience might be more about convenience than exclusivity or depth. The tour does include a lunch option if you select that, but it’s important to clarify what that entails, as some travelers might expect a full-service experience.

The adventure level varies; some cenotes are more open and accessible, while others involve navigating tight caverns or passages. The fossil and roots features add a bit of natural history, which is nice for those into geology or Mayan symbolism.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is well-suited for budget travelers or those wanting a quick, straightforward way to see multiple cenotes without too much fuss. It’s perfect if you’re okay with some crowds and aren’t necessarily looking for a guide-led educational experience.

If you’re traveling with friends or family who enjoy swimming and exploring natural pools, you’ll likely find this enjoyable. However, if you’re expecting an off-the-beaten-path adventure or a highly curated guide, this might fall short.

It’s also a good option for those who value convenience—especially since transportation and life jackets are included. Just keep in mind that the experience might feel rushed or busy, especially during peak season.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While the tour involves swimming in natural cenotes, it’s not explicitly labeled as family-friendly. However, children who are comfortable swimming and are supervised should be fine, especially since life jackets are provided.

What should I bring for the tour?
You may want to bring your own snorkeling mask if preferred, plus waterproof sunscreen, a towel, and a change of clothes. The tour includes safety gear, but personal gear can enhance your experience.

How long do we spend at each cenote?
The itinerary allows for flexible timing—some visitors may spend an hour or more at each cenote, but actual time depends on group size and how busy the park is.

Are there additional costs?
Yes, you’ll need to pay for entrance fees to the park, which cost roughly $20-30 USD if paid in pesos. Tips are also not included.

Can I book this tour with flexible times?
You should contact the provider to specify your preferred schedule. The meeting point is in Playa del Carmen, and the pickup is arranged from your hotel or nearby.

Is the tour guided?
There are no detailed guides mentioned, so you might find information and commentary to be limited. Expect some general guidance, but don’t count on in-depth historical or cultural insights.

Final thoughts

If your goal is to visit several cenotes with minimal fuss and are okay with some crowds and a more social, group-oriented experience, this tour offers a decent, budget-friendly option. It’s not the most exclusive or guided experience, but it delivers on the basics: transportation, access, and variety.

You’ll love the chance to cool off in crystal-clear waters, see impressive rock formations, and enjoy the natural beauty of these underground pools. Just keep expectations realistic—this tour emphasizes convenience over exclusivity.

For travelers eager to see multiple cenotes in one go without breaking the bank, it’s worth considering. But if you’re after a more secluded, guided, or educational experience, exploring other options might be better.

Hope this helps you decide whether this cenote tour fits your travel style. Whatever you choose, enjoy your time in Playa del Carmen and make sure to stay safe and hydrated!