Discover the Wonders of Centro Ecológico Akumal
Explore marine conservation at Centro Ecológico Akumal, a nature preserve and research institute dedicated to the protection of sea turtles and marine ecosystems.
Nestled along the stunning coastline of Quintana Roo, Centro Ecológico Akumal is a dedicated non-profit organization focused on the conservation of marine ecosystems. This nature preserve and research institute invites tourists to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Akumal, where you can witness the vibrant underwater world and engage in eco-friendly activities that promote awareness and sustainability.
A brief summary to Centro Ecológico Akumal
- Carretera Puerto Juarez ~ Tulum, Km. 104, Akumal, Yodzonot, Quintana Roo, 77776, MX
- +529848759095
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit during the week to avoid larger weekend crowds and enjoy a more personal experience.
- Bring your snorkeling gear if you have it; rentals may be limited and it's best to have your own.
- Wear biodegradable sunscreen to protect the marine life while enjoying the waters.
- Check the schedule for educational programs that might coincide with your visit for an enhanced experience.
- Plan to spend a few hours to fully explore the area and participate in activities without feeling rushed.
Getting There
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Collective Transport (Colectivo)
From anywhere in Tulum, head to the main road (Carretera Tulum-Cancún). Look for a 'colectivo' van which can be found at designated stops; the main one is near the ADO bus station, or you can wave one down along the road. Make sure to confirm with the driver that they are going to Akumal. The ride will take about 30 minutes and cost around 40-60 pesos. Once you arrive in Akumal, you can ask the driver to drop you off near the Centro Ecológico Akumal, which is located at Carretera Puerto Juarez ~ Tulum, Km. 104. It's a short walk from the drop-off point.
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Bicycle Rental
If you prefer a more active approach, rent a bicycle from one of the many rental shops in Tulum. Follow the signs towards the main road (Carretera Tulum-Cancún) and head north. The ride to Akumal is about 20 km and can take around 1-1.5 hours. You will pass through beautiful scenery along the way. Keep an eye out for the signs indicating Akumal. Once you reach the main entrance to Akumal, follow the signs toward Centro Ecológico Akumal.
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Walking
If you are feeling adventurous and staying close to the beach, you could walk towards Akumal, but be aware that this is a long trek of approximately 20 km. Start from Tulum beach area and head north along the coastline until you reach the main road (Carretera Tulum-Cancún). From there, you can walk along the main road to Akumal, where Centro Ecológico Akumal is located at Km. 104. This option is not recommended for everyone due to the distance and heat, but for those who enjoy long walks, it can be an enriching experience.
Discover more about Centro Ecológico Akumal
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Two Eyes Cenote
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Adoratorio, ruinas Chac-hal-al
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Adventure place
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Mangla de Bahia Soliman
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Dolphin Discovery Riviera Maya
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Cozumel Charters
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Gran Cenote
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Great Plateform
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Templo del Dios del Viento
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Templo Maya (Tulum Playa)
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Tulum
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Casa de Las Columnas
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Official Tulum Ruins Parking Sindical427
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El Castillo
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Casa del Chultún
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Unmissable attractions to see
Akumal
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Akumal -Swiming with Turtles
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Akumal Parking
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Playa Akumal
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Akumal Dive Shop
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Akumal Dive Center
0.1 km
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Tsuuk Akumal - Parque Natural
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Akumal snorkel tortugas
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Akumal lagoon snorkeling
0.4 km
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Playa Free Tortugas
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Akumal Temple
0.7 km
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Bahía de la Media Luna
0.8 km
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cenote santa cruz
1.1 km
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Jungle Fish Beach Club
1.3 km
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akumal natura rescue
1.7 km
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Essential places to dine
Tequila Restaurant
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Capricho á la Carte Restaurant
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Agave
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Santa fe
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Barcelo Maya Kyoto Restaurant
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Brasserie
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Rodizio Restaurant
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Caribe
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Chez Waffle
14.0 km
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Café Olé International
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O Sole Mio
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Dos Chíles
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Lara&Luca Puerto Aventuras
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Restaurante 081
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Nauti Burro
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
MexicArte
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Barcelo Maya Palace Gift Shop
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Meraki Boutique by RMH
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Nina Aventuras Boutique
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Origen All Market Puerto Aventuras
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HENRY MORGAN, La Boutique de Puerto Aventuras
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El Mercadito
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Multiplaza Puerto Aventuras
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Lani Boutique
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Ropa Americana L & O
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Boutique Pichito Amoroso
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CIRCLE K PUERTO MAYA
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Issa boutique
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Tienda Calaveritas
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Camelia Boutique
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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La Jarra Bar
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Bahia Lobby Bar
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Mall bar
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Bar Mojado Colonial
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Lobby Bar Carey
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Coco Bar
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Bar Teatro
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El Cielo Bar
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The Pub
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Sun Bar
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Dive Bar & Snack
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Eden Bar
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Arribo Bar
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