If you’re planning a trip to the Yucatan Peninsula, chances are you’ll come across several tours promising access to the region’s stunning cenotes. One option that catches the eye is a private tour that takes you to three of the most popular cenotes: Suytun, Oxman, and Saamal—with the added bonus of a tasty lunch.

While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, I’ve looked into what makes it appealing—and what might give you pause. What I love about this experience is how it combines natural beauty with the comfort of private transportation and a flexible itinerary. Plus, the photo opportunities at Suytun are said to be incredible, which anyone into capturing memorable travel shots will appreciate.

On the flip side, a potential consideration is the duration and pacing—an eight-hour day can sometimes feel rushed, especially if you’re a slow mover or want more time at each cenote. Still, this tour seems well-suited for travelers who want a guided, all-in-one experience without the hassle of organizing transport or entry fees.

This tour is a good fit for those who value convenience and quality—especially if you’re visiting Tulum and eager to see a few of the most photogenic cenotes without the fuss. It’s particularly appealing if you prefer a more personalized experience over large group excursions.

Key Points

Private tour, offering a more personalized experience
Visits to three of the top cenotes with varied scenery
Includes a delicious lunch with options to suit different tastes
Duration of 8 hours makes for a full, but manageable day
All entrance fees, snorkeling equipment, and transportation included
Rated 4.6 for quality and customer service

You can check availability for your dates here:

What makes this tour worth considering?

Travelers who enjoy visiting natural sites will find that this tour offers a diverse glimpse into the cenotes—those magical underground pools that make the Yucatan so famous. The fact that it’s a private experience means you can go at your own pace, stop for photos when you want, and ask your guide questions about the different cenotes and their surroundings.

The price of $229 per person might seem hefty, but when you factor in all included—transport, entrance fees, snorkeling gear, drinks, and lunch—it becomes a more reasonable proposition, especially since you aren’t worrying about extra costs popping up along the way.

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Itinerary Breakdown: What’s in store?

The day begins with a pickup in Tulum, where you’ll meet your guide and hop into a private van. The drive of about 45 minutes gets you out of town and into the heart of the Yucatan’s natural beauty.

Cenote Suytun

Your first stop, Suytun, is renowned for its stunning photo opportunities. It’s a shallow cenote with a platform or stone path that appears to float in the middle of the water, perfect for snapping those Instagram-worthy shots. The reviews mention that this cenote offers a combination of natural beauty and peace, making it an ideal first stop to settle into the experience.

Cenote Oxman

Next, you’ll visit Oxman, known for its intense blue waters and surrounding branches that create a unique, almost surreal setting. This cenote’s vibrant color and the way the sunlight hits the water make it a favorite for visitors who want a bit more adventure—perhaps even some snorkeling.

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Cenote Saamal

The third stop, Saamal, sounds more tranquil but equally breathtaking. It features a peaceful environment and a beautiful cave ecosystem that makes it stand out. With two hours allotted here, you’ll have plenty of time to soak in the scenery, explore the cave, or just relax by the water.

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Return Journey & Lunch

The return trip also takes about 45 minutes, giving you time to unwind and perhaps chat about the highlights. The tour wraps up with a lunch, which is included and offers options to cater to different preferences—something many travelers really appreciate after a busy morning.

What to expect during the experience

Throughout the day, your guide will provide insights about each cenote’s history, geology, and ecosystem. The inclusion of snorkeling equipment suggests you might want to dip in the water at some points, though the tour doesn’t specify if snorkeling is a primary activity or just available if you choose.

The private transportation ensures comfort and flexibility, and the group size keeps things intimate. The tour is also noted to be wheelchair accessible, which can be a big plus for travelers with mobility needs.

Authentic traveler impressions

Many reviews highlight the stellar views and natural beauty at each cenote. One review mentions, “The cenotes are even more beautiful than I expected, especially Oxman with its vivid blue water.” Others appreciate the peaceful atmosphere, saying, “Saamal was the perfect way to end the day—calm and serene.”

Some travelers note that the guide’s service was attentive and informative, adding value to the experience. The inclusion of drinks and all fees in the price is also seen as a bonus, removing a lot of hassle.

Price & value analysis

At $229 per person, you’re paying for a full-day private experience that covers transportation, entry, gear, and lunch. Considering that individual entry fees alone aren’t cheap, and private guides often cost more, it seems like a fair deal. Plus, the all-in-one nature of this tour minimizes stress and planning for travelers.

However, some might find the eight-hour duration a bit long if they prefer more relaxed, unstructured exploration or wish to spend longer at each cenote. If you’re someone who likes to linger or is traveling with a lot of gear or kids, you might want to consider timing or additional needs.

Who is this tour best for?

This tour suits travelers who want a convenient, guided experience with minimal hassle. It’s perfect if you’re in Tulum, eager to see some of the most photogenic cenotes, and like the idea of private transport and a small group. It’s also a good choice for those who value comfort and quality service.

If you’re traveling with children or have specific accessibility needs, the fact that it’s wheelchair accessible is helpful. But keep in mind the entire day is quite packed, so families or travelers seeking a more relaxed pace might want to plan accordingly.

Ready to Book?

Tulum: Private Tour 3 Cenotes Suytun, Oxman, Saamal. With Lunch

Final thoughts

This cenote tour from Tulum offers a well-rounded experience for those looking to explore some of Yucatan’s most iconic underground pools without the stress of planning every detail. The combination of natural beauty, private service, and included lunch makes it a compelling option.

While it’s not the most inexpensive tour out there, the value lies in the convenience and quality—especially if you’re keen to avoid overcrowded spots and enjoy a peaceful, scenic day. The stunning views at each cenote are what many travelers rave about, and the flexibility of a private guide makes this a memorable outing.

If you’re after a beautiful, hassle-free day in nature and want to maximize your time exploring instead of organizing logistics, this tour could be a really good fit—just prepare for a full day of adventure.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the info doesn’t specify restrictions for children, the tour’s pace and length suggest it’s best suited for older kids or teenagers who can enjoy the water and walk around comfortably.

What should I bring?
Just a towel is recommended—other essentials like sunscreen or waterproof camera are wise to bring along.

Is snorkeling included?
Snorkeling equipment is included, but the tour doesn’t specify if snorkeling is a primary activity. You may have the option to try it at the cenotes if you like.

How long is the total tour?
The full experience lasts about 8 hours, including pickups, visits, and return.

Is the tour private or shared?
It’s a private tour, meaning you won’t be part of a large group—ideal for a more personalized experience.

What’s the capacity?
The experience is arranged as a private group, so the number of people depends on your booking.

Is lunch included, and what are the options?
Yes, a lunch is included with options to cater to various tastes, making it convenient after a busy morning.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing some flexibility if plans change.

What languages does the guide speak?
Guides speak English, Spanish, and French, accommodating a range of travelers.

Is the transportation comfortable?
Yes, private transportation is provided, and the journey is about 45 minutes each way, making for a smooth ride between Tulum and the cenotes.

Overall, if you’re looking for a well-organized, scenic, and personalized way to experience the cenotes of Yucatan, this tour hits most marks. Just be ready for a full day and keep your camera handy—those views are hard to beat.