Can you swim with sea turtles in Mexico?


Can you swim with sea turtles in Mexico? Some articles, blogs and reviews herald Akumal as one of the best places in the world to swim with turtles. For this reason, tourists flock from all over the Riviera Maya, from Cancún to Tulum, to Akumal to swim with turtles.


What to do if a sea turtle approaches you?

When you see a turtle coming up the beach, keep your distance, turn off any lights you are using and crouch down low. Do NOT walk closer! Always approach turtles from the side. This gives them a clear view of you and a clear path ahead of them if they want to swim away.


What beach has the most sea turtles?

The largest green turtle nesting population is found at Tortuguero, on the coast of Costa Rica where about 22,500 green turtle females nest annually. Raine Island, on Australia's Great Barrier Reef, has the second largest nesting population of about 18,000 females per season.


Can you swim with turtles in Playa del Carmen?

Embark on a half-day guided trip exploring ancient cenotes and enjoy the rare opportunity to swim with turtles at Akumal Beach. Enjoy round-trip hotel or meeting point transfers from Playa del Carmen, the Riviera Maya and Tulum. Arrive at Akumal Beach and enjoy the opportunity to swim with wild turtles.


Where is the best place to swim with turtles?

Below, you'll find a list of 13 amazing places in the world to dive and swim with sea turtles in their natural habitats.
  1. Galapagos Islands, Ecuador. ...
  2. The Great Barrier Reef, Australia. ...
  3. Ari Atoll, Maldives. ...
  4. Maui Island, Hawaii. ...
  5. Marsa Alam, Egypt. ...
  6. Sipadan, Malaysia. ...
  7. Cook Island Marine Reserve, Australia.


Where is the best place to swim with turtles in Mexico?

There are many different places where you can swim with sea turtles in Mexico, but there is one beach in particular where you are almost guaranteed to meet them! The beach where you can meet these sea creatures in their natural habitat is called Akumal Beach.


What beaches have the most sea turtles?

10 Best Beaches to See Sea Turtles in The World
  • 1.Refugio De Vida Silvestre La Flor, Nicaragua.
  • 2.Kuredu Resort, Maldives.
  • Xcacel Beach, Mexico.
  • 4.Laniakea Beach, Hawaii.
  • 5.Turtle Islands, Philippines.
  • 6.Gili Islands, Indonesia.
  • 7.Atolls Tikehau, French Polynesia.
  • 8.Zakynthos, Greece.


Is it illegal to touch sea turtles in Cancun?

Being on the sand can be one of the most dangerous periods of the turtles' lives as they are exposed to predators and poachers. Naturally, only one or two eggs out of one thousand will become adult sea turtles. They are spectacular creatures to see walking along the sand, but it is ILLEGAL to disrupt them in any way.


What time of year are turtles in Mexico?

Each year between June and November, sea turtles land on Mexico's beaches to nest, and hatching usually occurs during the months of August, September, October and early November.


Can you swim with sea turtles in Cancun?

Yes, and there's no need to spend a whole day to swim with turtles in Cancun! There are some other few places to snorkel with turtles in Cancun and Riviera Maya. For example, it's usual to swim with turtles in Akumal, however, you spend more time in transportation than actually swimming with them.


What is the best time to see turtles in Akumal?

The best time to see a turtle while Akumal snorkeling is May through November, (great lodging options then too) during their nesting season. But, there are usually turtles all year-round.


Is it worth going to Akumal?

Akumal attracts people worldwide with its beautiful white sand beaches, crystal clear waters and abundant sea life. Snorkeling and diving enthusiasts can swim in the bay with the famous giant turtles and explore the shipwrecks. However, it is forbidden to touch marine animals and corals.


Is it safe to swim with turtles in Mexico?

There's one important rule when visiting Akumal: DON'T touch the turtles! As cute as they may look to you hugging them may harm them, so please don't do this. Swim with turtles, leaving a decent distance as they need their personal space, the same way as humans do. Swim nearby but never touch the turtle.


Where can I snorkel with sea turtles in Mexico?

Akumal is located 100km (62 miles) south of Cancun in the heart of the Riviera Maya. In the natural protected area you get the opportunity to snorkel and enjoy the amazing Sea Turtles and the very colorful fish at the second largest reef in the world.