Cancun: Cenotes El Retoño entrance with transportation, lunch, and guided tour.

Imagine a day spent swimming in crystal-clear cenotes, relaxing in hammocks, and savoring authentic Mexican dishes—all without the stress of planning logistics. For just $54 per person, this 6.5-hour guided experience takes you from Cancun to the lush Mayan jungle, where you’ll explore two stunning cenotes, enjoy local cuisine, and have plenty of free time to soak in the scenery.

What makes this tour particularly appealing? First, the door-to-door transportation included from key locations around Cancun ensures a hassle-free start, meaning you can relax from the moment you leave your hotel. Second, the combination of nature, comfort, and culture—highlighted by guided stories and cycling—offers a well-rounded day that balances adventure with relaxation.

A possible consideration? The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those over 70, which might limit some travelers. Also, if you’re not comfortable with biking or prefer more independent exploration, you’d want to plan accordingly.

This experience is best suited for adventurous travelers who appreciate natural beauty, enjoy a good story, and want an authentic taste of local life—perfect for those who value well-organized tours that combine activity with relaxation.

All-Inclusive Convenience: Transportation, guided tour, swimming, biking, and regional food are all included.
Stunning Cenotes: Swim in two crystal-clear, peaceful cenotes, often with plenty of privacy.
Authentic Local Flavors: Enjoy a delicious, freshly prepared meal with regional ingredients.
Flexible Free Time: Ample opportunity to relax, sunbathe, or explore at your own pace.
Guided Insights: Knowledgeable guides provide interesting history and cultural context.
Suitable for Most: While not for everyone (e.g., wheelchair users), the tour offers a comfortable mix of adventure and leisure.

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins with a pickup from three convenient locations: Starbucks Marina Puerto Cancún, Hooters Malecón, or Puerto Morelos. The use of an air-conditioned Nissan Urvan makes the roughly 70-minute drive into the Mayan jungle comfortable and smooth. This transfer alone is a big plus—no need to worry about coordinating your own transport or navigating unfamiliar roads.

From reviews, we see travelers appreciate the punctuality (“the pick-up was exactly on time”) and the effort made to accommodate last-minute bookings. The included transportation means you’re free to relax, take in the scenery, and leave logistics behind.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Arrival and Guided Tour

Once at El Retoño, you’ll receive a warm welcome from your guide—likely Tommy or similar—who provides safety instructions and an overview of the day. The guided tour lasts about an hour, during which you’ll learn interesting facts about the cenotes, their formation, and their significance in Mayan culture.

What we love here is the storytelling aspect—guides don’t just lead you around but share insights that deepen your understanding of the locale. This adds a layer of appreciation that transforms a simple swim into an educational experience.

Planning more time in Cancun? We've covered other experiences worth considering.

Swimming in Cenotes

After the tour, you’ll spend approximately 2 hours swimming in two separate cenotes. These natural formations are renowned for their crystal-clear water, which makes swimming both refreshing and visually stunning. Many reviews mention how peaceful and private these spots are, often feeling like having the cenotes to yourself.

“The place was nice and clean, the cenotes are amazingly peaceful and beautiful,” one traveler wrote, highlighting the pristine condition and tranquil vibe. The water is usually calm, with life jackets provided for extra safety, and the environment feels untouched—an authentic encounter with nature.

Exploring by Bike

Next, you’ll hop on bikes for around 30 minutes to explore more of the park and its surroundings. The bike tour is a fun way to see the park’s various trails, flora, and fauna, all while getting some light exercise. The use of bikes is inclusive—for seniors, disabled guests, or those who prefer not to cycle, transportation to the cenotes is available—which broadens accessibility.

As one reviewer noted, “We used their bikes to go to both cenotes and it was very fun,” emphasizing that it’s a pleasant, optional activity rather than a strenuous requirement.

Authentic Regional Lunch

After working up an appetite, you’ll be treated to a delicious, made-to-order lunch featuring regional ingredients. The meal lasts about 80 minutes, giving you ample time to savor your choice of main dish and drink. The reviews frequently mention the quality and flavor of the food, with some calling it “10/10” and “delicious.”

It’s a highlight because it offers a true taste of local cuisine in a relaxed setting, complementing the natural beauty seen earlier. Lunch is served from noon, so timing wise, it fits well after the morning activities.

More Great Tours Nearby

Free Time and Relaxation

Following lunch, you’ll have around 1 hour of free time. You might choose to unwind in hammocks, lounge chairs, or pools, as the park provides plenty of comfortable spots for rest. Many reviews mention how relaxing this part of the day is—listening to birds, soaking up sun, or simply soaking in the peaceful environment.

The availability of hammocks and pools adds a layer of comfort that many busy travelers appreciate, offering a break from more physically demanding activities.

While you're exploring Cancun, here are other experiences we've looked into

Return to Cancun

The day ends with a 70-minute transfer back to your original pickup point, completing a well-rounded experience. Drop-offs are available at the same three locations, making logistics straightforward.

Authentic Nature and Privacy: This isn’t a crowded tourist trap. Reviewers often mention having the cenotes “to ourselves,” which is rare and a major plus for those who want a peaceful, immersive experience.

Local Food and Culture: The freshly prepared regional meal and guided stories add depth, making it more than just swimming; it’s about understanding the land and its traditions.

Balance of Activity and Relaxation: The tour combines gentle adventure—cycling and swimming—with plenty of downtime, appealing to travelers who want to enjoy the outdoors without feeling rushed.

Convenience and Value: The all-in-one package, including transportation, food, equipment, and guides, offers great value. The reviews consistently praise the guides’ friendliness and knowledge, enriching the experience.

Possible Drawbacks

While the tour is ideal for many, it’s less suitable for wheelchair users or elderly travelers over 70 because of the biking component and physical activity involved. Also, those who dislike guided tours or prefer more independent exploration might find it less appealing.

Plus, alcoholic beverages and souvenirs are not included, so plan to bring cash if you want to purchase souvenirs or extra drinks.

This experience is perfect for adventurous travelers seeking an authentic, hassle-free day surrounded by nature. If you love swimming in clear waters, learning about local culture, and enjoying regional cuisine, you’ll find this tour hits all those notes.

It’s also well-suited for families or small groups who want a relaxed, guided experience that simplifies logistics. Since the tour offers bilingual guides and accessible transportation, it caters to a wide range of visitors, especially those eager to explore the natural beauty of Cancun’s cenotes.

The Cancun Cenotes El Retoño tour offers a memorable mix of natural beauty, cultural insight, and comfortable relaxation. Its thoughtful organization, from pickup to return, ensures you can focus on enjoying your day rather than stressing over logistics. The inclusion of biking, guided stories, and regional food adds authentic touches that elevate it beyond just swimming.

For travelers who value privacy and peaceful environments, this tour delivers a sense of exclusivity—many reviews mention having the cenotes virtually to themselves, which is a rare treat. The high praise for guides and the delicious food are the cherries on top of a well-rounded experience.

If you’re looking for a day that combines adventure, comfort, and cultural discovery in one package, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy nature, good stories, and tasty regional fare, making it a worthy addition to your Cancun itinerary.

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation from your hotel in Cancun, Costa Mujeres, or Puerto Morelos is included, along with drop-off at the same locations.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 6.5 hours, with most of that time spent swimming, biking, relaxing, and eating.

Can I choose my meal?
Yes, the lunch is an a la carte meal where you select your main dish and drink, with many reviews praising the quality and taste.

Are the cenotes crowded?
No, many reviews mention having the cenotes “to ourselves,” making it a peaceful experience away from crowds.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, biodegradable sunscreen, cash, and insect repellent. Note that open-toed shoes, alcohol, and speakers are not allowed.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the tour is family-friendly, it may not be suitable for wheelchair users or those over 70 due to biking and walking activities.

What if I don’t know how to ride a bike?
Transportation to the cenotes is available for those who don’t ride bikes, ensuring everyone can participate comfortably.

What’s the maximum group size?
While not explicitly stated, reviews suggest small to medium groups, ensuring personalized attention from guides.

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

This tour balances the thrill of discovering natural wonders with the comfort of well-organized logistics. It’s a fantastic choice for those eager to explore Cancun’s cenotes without the hassle—an authentic experience wrapped in convenience.