Discover the Best of Tulum: Cenote Zemway & Zacil Ha with Lagoon Tour
If you’re after a full day of authentic Tulum experiences, this tour delivers on that front. For $116 per person, you get a well-rounded mix of cultural sights and natural beauty, all within approximately 13 hours. Two days in a row, you can indulge in the famous Chichen Itza archaeological site with an expert guide, and then switch gears to explore some of the region’s most beautiful cenotes and lagoons, topped off with a pirate-themed boat show in Cancun.
What makes this experience stand out? First, it offers flexibility — you choose whether to do the ancient ruins or the pirate show first. Second, the tour’s focus on authenticity and comfort shines through, from guided explanations at Chichen Itza to swimming in local cenotes that have been carved by nature over millions of years.
A potential downside? The long day might be tiring for some, especially with early starts and long bus rides. But for those who thrive on a packed itinerary, this is a fantastic way to see multiple highlights with minimal hassle.
This experience suits travelers who love a mix of history, nature, and lively entertainment. It’s perfect if you’re eager to explore the iconic Mayan ruins, cool off in turquoise cenotes, and enjoy a fun, family-friendly pirate boat show — all in one trip.
Key Points

- Flexible Schedule: You choose the order of visiting Chichen Itza and the pirate show, allowing for a personalized experience.
- Comprehensive Day: Combines archaeological marvels, stunning cenotes, lagoons, and lively entertainment.
- Included Meals and Transport: Round-trip transportation from Tulum, plus a box lunch and buffet dinner included.
- Authentic Experiences: Swim in natural cenotes like Zemway, Zacil-Ha, and Multum Ha, with a chance to relax in a beautiful lagoon.
- Family-Friendly: Activities and entertainment suitable for all ages, with fun contests and dancing during the pirate show.
- Small Group Atmosphere: Max of 45 travelers, ensuring a more personal touch and better interaction.
An In-Depth Look at Your Day in Tulum

Planning more time in Tulum? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
Starting Early: The Journey to Chichen Itza
Your adventure begins at 7:00 am with a pickup at the Super Aki store in Tulum. The comfortable coach ride to Chichen Itza helps you unwind after a busy morning, and the early start is especially appreciated if you want to beat the crowds. As you approach, the anticipation builds to see one of the New7Wonders of the World — the Kukulkan Pyramid.
Guided Tour of Chichen Itza
Once on site, your guide (in reviews, Jenner is praised for being “awesome” and patient) walks you through the ancient city, pointing out the Temple of the Warriors, the Ball Court, and the Observatory. These ruins aren’t just photo ops; they’re windows into the sophisticated civilization of the Maya.
The tour balances storytelling with factual insights, making history engaging without overwhelming. Standing beneath El Castillo during sunset or sunrise is unforgettable, but even during the day, you’ll marvel at how these stones have withstood centuries.
Sacred Cenote Swim
A highlight here is the chance to swim in a sacred cenote — a natural sinkhole that played a vital role in Mayan rituals. The water is refreshingly cool, and the experience is both spiritual and fun. It’s a good chance to cool off after exploring the ruins and to appreciate how the Maya harnessed natural resources.
Yucatecan Buffet Lunch
Next, a buffet lunch of Yucatecan favorites awaits, offering a taste of local spices and flavors. The meal is simple but satisfying, giving you energy for the rest of the day. This is a practical addition — getting a good meal included means you avoid overpriced tourist spots and enjoy authentic cuisine.
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Transition to Cenotes & Lagoons: The Natural Beauty
Following the archaeological tour, you’ll head to the Laguna Kaan Luum. Its striking blue waters and the floating cenote at the center make it a scenic pause. Here, you can relax, swim, or take photos of the stunning landscape.
Next, you’ll visit three separate cenotes: Zemway, Zacil-Ha, and Multum Ha. Each offers a different flavor: Zemway is open and inviting, Zacil-Ha offers crystal-clear waters, and Multum Ha is underground and perfect for a refreshing dip.
Why These Cenotes Matter
These natural formations give you a chance to connect with the land in a way that’s both invigorating and peaceful. The water clarity and surrounding nature are what travelers love most. As one reviewer noted, Zemway’s open nature makes for a “beautiful” and nostalgic experience, reminiscent of ancient Mayan traditions.
The Evening Pirate Show
After a long day of sightseeing, the tour shifts gears in Cancun with a pirate ship adventure. Boarding at the marina, you settle in for a lively boat ride, complete with costumed pirates battling it out. The show is family-friendly, with plenty of antics, dancing, and contests, making it a fun end to your day.
You’ll enjoy a grilled chicken dinner with drinks, while the pirates entertain and engage with the crowd. It’s a relaxed, informal atmosphere, great for families or anyone looking to unwind with some lighthearted fun. The reviews highlight the entertainment’s “family-friendly” nature and how the guides (like Jenner) make the experience memorable.
What This Tour Means for You

This tour is a solid choice if you want a well-rounded taste of Tulum and Cancun. The combination of cultural history, natural beauty, and entertainment offers value that goes beyond just ticking boxes. The inclusion of transportation, meals, and entrance fees simplifies planning and makes sure you’re not caught unprepared.
The long hours are a consideration — but if you’re enthusiastic about seeing the major sights and enjoying local natural wonders, it’s well worth it. Remember that you’re traveling in a small group, which enhances the experience without the chaos of a large tour.
Who Would Love This Tour?
Travelers interested in Mayan history will appreciate the guided visit to Chichen Itza. Nature lovers will relish the cenotes and lagoon. Families will find the pirate show entertaining, and those craving a full-day adventure will love how smoothly everything is organized. If you’re short on time but want to see a lot, this is a smart, value-packed option.
FAQs
What is included in the tour?
The tour includes round-trip transportation from Tulum, entrance to Kaan Luum Lagoon, Cenote Zemway, Cenote Zacil-Ha, and Multum Ha, a box lunch, a buffet dinner with drinks, and the pirate boat ride.
Can I choose the order of the activities?
Yes, you can decide whether to do Chichen Itza or the pirate show first, giving you some flexibility based on your preferences or energy levels.
How long is the entire day?
Expect roughly 13 hours, starting at 7:00 am and ending back at the meeting point after the pirate show in the evening.
Is the tour suitable for kids?
Absolutely. The pirate show is family-friendly, and the cenotes are safe for swimming with proper supervision.
What should I bring?
Bring towels, swimsuits, a change of clothes, and perhaps a waterproof camera. Note that lifejackets in cenotes are not included, so consider bringing your own if you prefer extra safety.
Are meals included?
Yes, a box lunch and a grilled chicken buffet dinner are part of the package.
What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to rain or storms, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.
How many people are in the group?
Maximum group size is 45 travelers, maintaining a comfortable atmosphere for sightseeing and interaction.
Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Definitely. One review mentions a solo traveler’s positive experience, especially with the guide Jenner helping capture photos and make connections.
Final Thoughts

This combined tour offers a thoughtfully curated blend of history, natural beauty, and fun entertainment. For those who want to maximize their time and experience multiple highlights in one day, it hits the mark. The inclusion of authentic cenotes, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and a lively pirate boat show makes it a well-rounded adventure.
Travelers who appreciate detailed guiding, natural scenic spots, and lively cultural shows will find this tour enriches their Tulum visit. It’s ideal for those eager to see the iconic sites without the hassle of organizing multiple separate trips, and for families or groups of friends seeking a lively, memorable day.
While the pace is brisk, the variety and richness of experiences make it a worthwhile investment. Just remember to bring your sense of adventure, a good swimsuit, and your camera — you’ll want to capture these moments.
In essence, this tour offers a convenient, engaging way to experience both the ancient and natural wonders of the Yucatán, paired with lively evening entertainment. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or just in search of a fun day out, it promises a well-balanced dose of excitement and culture.
More Tour Reviews in Tulum
More Tulum experiences we've covered
- Chichen-itza & Cenote Private Tour
- 4×1 Mayan Experience! Tulum Ruins, Coba, Cenote + Transportation from Tulum City
- Private Tulum Photography Experience
- Half Day Outdoor Adventour ATV, Rappel, Cenote, Aquatic Zipline
- Tulum: Guided Bar Crawl with Free Shots and Games
- Tulum: Sailing tour
- Discovery Scuba Diving
- Mayan Jungle Adventure (Private, Full Day)
- Coba and Punta Laguna Guided Birdwatching Private Tour
- Cobá Adventure (Private, Full Day)
- TULUM 4×1, Archaeological area, COBA, Cenote, transportation and lunch
- Tulum Ruins Exploration and Horseback Riding and Cenote Adventure
