My mother, (age 66), my self (42,) and my daughter (18) all went snorkeling together we had an awesome time. The guides were funny and had a lot of information. They...
In September 13, 2024When we think of snorkeling, the most common image that comes to mind is that of a bright sea, full of sunlinght, with turquoise waters and tropicla fish swimming between coral reefs. However, these is an equally fascinating experience, but much les know: night snorkeling.
Immersing yourself in the ocean at nighfall may sound mysterious, even a little intimidating, but it is precisely that feeling that makes this activity so magical. And there is no better place to do it than Riviera Maya, a coastal paradise that, under the moon, reveals a world completely different from the one you see during the day.
Night snorkeling is exactly what it sounds like: a snorkeling experience that takes place after sunset. Equipped with an underwater lamp, you mmerse yourself in the warm Waters of the Caribbean to discover the marine life that awakens when nigtht falls. Many marine animals are nocturnal, which means that they only go out to Hunt, mate or explore when the sun disappears.
Darkness adds an element of emotion, but also allows the colors to look more intense with the light of the flashlight. In addition, if you are lucky, you could witness one of the most impressive spectacles of nature: bioluminescence, the natural glow that certain marine organisms emit in the dark.
During a night snorkeling tour in Cancún, you can meet a wide variety of sea creatures. Some of the most common sightings include:
Octopuses: more active during the night, coming out of their hiding places to hunt.
Lobster and crabs: that travel the seabed in serch of food.
Rays: sliding elegantly through the sand.
Sleeping parrot fish: sometimes covered by a layer of slime that protects them.
Sea turtles: swimming near reef or resting among rocks.
Fluorescent corals: some types of coral glow under ultraviolet light.
Bioluminiscence: microorganisms that emit flashes at the slightest movement.
It’s a real underwater safari… but with stars on your head instead of the sun.
1. Akumal
Akumal is one of the most iconic places to snorkel in the Mexican Caribbean. Its name means “place of turtles” in Maya, and for good reason: it is one of the few places where you can swim with sea turtles in their natural hábitat. At night, these turtles approach the coast to rest, which makes Akumal an ideal place to oberve them without disturbing their behavior.
2. Cozumel
The island of Cozumel is a Paradise for divers and also for snorkel enthusiasts. Its reefs, part of the Mesoamerican Reef System, are home to great biodiversty. During the night, the reefs are transformed: the colorful fish withdraw, and creatures such as hedgehogs, starfish, eels and crustaceans appear on the scene.
3. Puerto Morelos
A small and charming coastal town that houses part of the National Park Puerto Morelos Reef. This reef is shallow, making it an excellent place for night snorkeling. With the right guide, you can explore coral tunnels and observe species in their nocturnal routine.
4. Cenotes of Tulum and Playa del Carmen
Some cenotes offer night snorkeling with special lamps. These bodies of freshwater, connected through underground rivers, are unique in the world. The feeling of swimming in a cenote in complete darkness, with only your flashlight iluminating the rock formations and reflecting lights in the crystal clear water, is a spiritual experience for many.
A typical tour includes:
Complete snorkeling equipment: mask, fins, snorkel and vest.
Submersible lamps: essential for safe exploration.
Certified guide: with knowledge in marine fauna, first aid and management of groups.
Transportation: many agencies offer tranfr to and from your hotel.
We recommend the following agency: Airport Transportation | Airport Taxi & Airport Shuttle Services | Airport Transfers
Safe briefing: before entering the water, you will be explained how to use the equipment, how to behave near the corals and what to do if you see animals.
Average duration: between 1.5 and 2 hours in the water. Some tours combine night snorkeling with a dinner or bonfire on the beach to closet he night with a flourish.
Don’t go alone: always snorkel at night with a certified guide.
Avoid the use of chemicals: do not use sunscreen or repellents before entering the water. Many products damage corals.
Keep calm: at first, it may seem strange to swim in the dark. Trust your team and your guide.
Respect marine life: do not touch or sent animals. Observing is enough
Check your equipment before entering: make sure your mask has no leasks and that your flashlight is well held.
This activity is open to people over 12 years old who can swim and are in good physical condition. You don’t need previous snorkeling experience, but you should feel comfortable in the water
It is not recommended for people with claustrophobia, heart problems or medical conditions that worsen at sea. Check with your guide before booking.
In addition o being one of the most popular tourist destinations in México, Cancún offers:
Warm Waters all year round.
Rich marine biodiversity.
Certified operators and safe tours.
Easy Access form Cancún, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Cozumel and Akumal. In addition, Cancún is parto f the Mesoamerican Reef System, the second largest reef in the world, home to more than 65 coral species and more than 500 species of fish.
Night snorkeling is more than a tourist activity. It is an opportunity to connect with nature in a deep, silent and almost spiritual way. Under the moon and surrounded by marine life, you realice how little we need to feel alive: only salt water, darkness and a little curiosity.
If you visit Cancún, don’t miss this experience. Whether yo do it in Akumal, Cozumel, a hiden cenote or a vibrant reef, the night will show you a Caribbean that fe know… and that you will never forget.
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My mother, (age 66), my self (42,) and my daughter (18) all went snorkeling together we had an awesome time. The guides were funny and had a lot of information. They...
In September 13, 2024Luis and the other tour guide (can’t remember the name sorry) were very nice and patient with everyone. They kept checking in on everyone to make sure no one got left...
In June 06, 2024Easy to get picked up and a great time snorkeling out in Puerto Morelos! Our guide and coral...
In April 25, 2024Our tour guides - Luis and Jesus - were amazing. They were very kind, patient and great at guiding us through the reefs. They would point out large aquatic life and...
In April 11, 2024We took our family of 9 on a snorkel trip with this company and had the best time! Our guides were super friendly and you could tell they love what they...
In February 29, 2024Our guides were amazing and definitely had a great time. I would recommend this to all my family and friends....
In February 29, 2024An amazing time seeing the reef! The staff were incredibly helpful and quick to point out...
In February 23, 2024The guides were great. Good time, had by all...
In February 22, 2024I have snorkeled at many locations, and this one near Puerto Morelos y undoubtedly one of the bests. Highly recommend...
In December 08, 2023They did an excellent job of taking care of everyone when we went snorkeling....
In December 03, 2023