Snuba Cancun Mexico Guide: Best Options for Snuba in 2023
Looking for Snuba in Cancun Mexico? You’ve come to the right guide!
As a travel blogger that lives in nearby Playa del Carmen, I’ve got the inside scoop on Snuba in Cancun and the Riviera Maya region.
To be honest, Snuba is not that widely available in Cancun but there are a couple of places that offer incredible Snuba experiences.
MY TOP PICK
⌚️ Don’t have time to read the full article?
The best place for Snuba in Cancun is at Xcaret Park, which offers an incredible Snuba Reef experience.
In this post, I’m sharing everything you need to know about Snuba in Cancun, including where you can do it, what it’s like, how much it costs, and more.
So if you’re planning a trip to Cancun and want to give Snuba a try during your Mexico vacation, I’ve got you covered!
Ready to find out all about Snuba in Cancun? Let’s dive in!
What is Snuba?
Snuba is a type of underwater activity that combines the convenience and safety of snorkeling with the exploration of scuba diving.
So basically, it’s a cross between snorkeling and scuba diving.
Snuba involves breathing underwater through a scuba diving regulator that is connected through a hose to an air tank that floats above you on the surface.
That way, you don’t need to lug around any air tanks or heavy equipment and you can stay underwater longer.
Snuba also allows you to reach deeper depths than regular snorkeling so you can explore more fascinating coral reefs and see a wide variety of marine species.
And unlike scuba diving, you don’t need any special certification and the equipment is easy to use.
Plus, Snuba sessions usually last less than an hour so it’s great for beginners who want a taste of underwater life without making a huge commitment.
Where to Snuba in Cancun
These are the best places for Snuba in Cancun:
1. Xcaret Park
The best place for Snuba in Cancun is at Xcaret Park (pronounced “Ish-ka-ret”), which is a beautiful eco-park located a little over an hour south of Cancun.
Xcaret Park is one of the top attractions in Riviera Maya, and is a full-day adventure park experience with more than 50 different activities on its massive property.
The theme park’s main focus is on Mexican culture and history where you can explore various cultural exhibits and performances such as the nightly Xcaret Mexico Espectacular show.
And kids and nature lovers can enjoy the numerous wildlife encounters at Xcaret’s Aviary, Butterfly Pavilion, and Coral Reef Aquarium.
In addition, there are water activities such as swimming in underground rivers and snorkeling in lagoons, as well as premium water activities such as Snuba Reef, Sea Trek, and shark, dolphin, and stingray encounters.
Snuba Reef at Xcaret Park
- 🕒 DURATION: 1 hr 15 min
- 📅 HOURS: Daily at 11:00AM, 11:45AM, 2:30PM, 4:15PM
- 👨👩👧👦 AGES: 12+
- 🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Book tickets on the official website here →
Snuba Reef is one of the premium experiences at Xcaret so how it works is that you’ll first need to purchase your admission ticket to Xcaret Park, then add on the Snuba Reef experience for an additional cost.
Snuba Reef at Xcaret is a 1 hr 15-minute underwater adventure where you’ll take a boat ride out to explore the underwater world at Barracuda Reef.
The Xcaret Snuba system provided consists of a snorkel mask and a diving regulator attached to an oxygen tank that floats on the surface. You’ll also be given fins and a weight belt to use during the activity.
You’ll have the help of an expert instructor who will provide a safety training and teach you how to use the equipment before diving in.
During the Xcaret Snuba dive, you’ll reach a maximum depth of 23 feet where you’ll get to see all kinds of marine life such as tropical fish, stingrays, and coral reefs.
2. Xel-Ha Park
Another one of the Xcaret adventure parks, Xel-Ha (pronounced “Shell-Ha”) is a beautiful natural water park located about 1.5 hours south of Cancun.
Xel-Ha Park is one of the best water parks in Playa del Carmen where you can participate in a variety of water activities such as snorkeling, lazy rivers, overwater ziplines, cliff jumping, and cenote exploration.
Plus, the 98 ft tall Scenic Lighthouse is the park’s most iconic feature where you can climb to the top and descend down one of its four spiral water slides.
Just like Xcaret, you’ll need to purchase an admission ticket first, then you can add-on activities for any premium experiences such as Snuba.
At Xel-Ha Park, you can choose between two different Snuba experiences: Snuba Cenote and Snuba Caleta.
Snuba Cenote at Xel-Ha Park
- 🕒 DURATION: 60 min
- 📅 HOURS: Daily at 10:00AM, 11:15AM, 12:30PM, 2:45PM, and 4:00PM
- 👨👩👧👦 AGES: 12+
- 🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Book tickets on the official website here →
Snuba Cenote is a 1-hour activity where you’ll get to explore one of Xel-Ha’s many cenotes up to 23 feet (7m) below the surface.
You’ll be provided with all the necessary gear including a mask, fins, a Snuba diving helmet, and a weight belt.
Then an instructor will provide safety instruction as well as teach you how to use the Snuba equipment.
Once you’ve practiced for a few minutes, you’re ready to explore the cenote with the help of a flashlight and guide.
During the Snuba Cenote dive, you’ll get to see cenote marine life and fascinating rock formations as you glide through the underwater depths of the cenote.
Snuba Caleta at Xel-Ha Park
- 🕒 DURATION: 60 min
- 📅 HOURS: Daily at 10:00AM, 11:15AM, 12:30PM, 2:45PM, and 4:00PM
- 👨👩👧👦 AGES: 8+
- 🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Book tickets on the official website here →
Snuba Caleta is the second type of Snuba experience at Xel-Ha Park and it’s a 1 hour underwater adventure in the calm waters of Xel-Ha’s natural inlet (known as the “Caleta”).
This area has shallow water with a maximum depth of about 10 feet (3 m) so it’s suitable for younger kids ages 8 and up.
You’ll be provided with Snuba gear, fins, and a weight belt, and an instructor will be there to provide safety instruction and teach you how to use the Snuba equipment.
You’ll see a unique ecosystem where the fresh water of an underground river system meet the warm currents of the Caribbean Sea in an area known as thermocline and halocline.
And during the Snuba Caleta dive, you’ll get to discover a variety of coral reefs, tropical fish, and marine life.
Why Snuba in Cancun?
Snuba in Cancun is the perfect way to explore and discover the underwater world without all the cumbersome equipment and training required for scuba diving.
It’s a totally unique activity that gives you a whole new perspective on life underwater, and the waters near Cancun are crystal clear and perfect for this type of adventure.
So if you’re somebody that loves the ocean and wants to explore its depths without having to commit to a full scuba dive certification, then Snuba is a great alternative.
And since you’ll be able to reach deeper depths, you’ll be able to see more than you would on a traditional snorkeling tour in Riviera Maya.
Is Snuba in Cancun worth it?
Yes, Snuba in Cancun is definitely worth it! The Mexican Caribbean is a prime location for Snuba with crystal clear water and lots of fascinating marine life and coral reefs to explore.
You’ll get an up close view of the underwater world and marine life such as stingrays, tropical fish, and coral that you wouldn’t be able to see on a snorkeling tour.
Plus, it’s the perfect activity for those who want to explore the underwater world without having to commit to the time and expense of getting a full scuba diving certification.
And in addition to the Snuba experience, you’ll also have access to either Xcaret Park or Xel-Ha, which have tons of other activities included as well.
What will you get to see during Snuba in Cancun?
Snuba in Cancun is a unique way to explore the beautiful underwater world of the Riviera Maya at depths of up to 23 feet (7 m).
If you choose one of the ocean Snuba experiences, you’ll get to see a variety of marine life in their natural habitat such as coral reefs, stingrays, sea turtles, colorful fish, and more.
Plus, you’ll be able to take advantage of the clear waters near Cancun and get a totally unique perspective on life underwater.
And if you choose the cenote Snuba experience, you’ll get to explore the mysterious depths of an incredible underground river system with beautiful rock formations, unique to freshwater cenotes in Riviera Maya.
Who is Snuba in Cancun suited for?
Snuba is a great activity for both kids and adults who want to dive deeper and explore the unique underwater world near Cancun.
Snuba Caleta at Xel-Ha requires kids to be at least 8 years old, while Snuba Cenote at Xel-Ha and Snuba Reef at Xcaret are a bit deeper and require kids to be at least 12 years old.
People of all swimming levels are welcome, however it is mandatory for the participant to know how to swim.
Also, Snuba is not recommended for pregnant women or those suspected of being pregnant, as well as people with asthma, claustrophobia, hypertension, diabetes, or a heart condition.
How much does Snuba cost in Cancun?
The cost of Snuba in Cancun varies depending on the Snuba location and what type of experience you choose.
At Xcaret, the price for Snuba Reef is typically around $70 USD per person, plus the entrance fee for admission to Xcaret.
At Xel-Ha, the price for Snuba Cenote is around $60 USD per person and Snuba Caleta is typically around $50 USD per person, plus admission to Xel-Ha.
Admission prices for Xel-Ha are cheaper than Xcaret so if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, then Xel-Ha is the way to go.
Travelista Tip: The Premium Activities at Xcaret and Xel-Ha are cheaper if you book them online in advance rather than at the park so be sure to book ahead!
Cancun Snuba Diving: FAQs
Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about Cancun snuba tours:
No, Snuba is not necessarily easier than snorkeling. Snuba requires some basic swimming skills and training is required before you can get in the water.
Yes, Snuba is much safer than scuba diving as there are less risks involved. You don’t need to be certified and you don’t have to worry about handling tanks or using specialized equipment.
No, Snuba requires basic swimming skills as you will be swimming in the water without life jackets.
During Snuba, you’ll breathe through a scuba diving regulator that is attached by a hose to an air tank that floats on the surface of the water.
In Cancun, the maximum depth that you can Snuba is about 23 feet (7 m).
Yes, kids can do Snuba in Cancun but the minimum age requirement varies depending on which experience you choose. For example, at Xel-Ha, Snuba Caleta requires kids to be at least 8 years old while Snuba Cenote requires kids to be 12 or older.
Conclusion: Snuba Diving Cancun Guide
I hope this guide has given you a better understanding of what Snuba is and how to make the most of your Snuba experience in Cancun.
As a combination of snorkeling and scuba diving, Snuba is a new way to explore the underwater world without committing to a full scuba diving certification.
During your Cancun Snuba adventure, you’ll get to discover a variety of coral reefs, tropical fish, and other sea life at depths greater than you could reach with snorkeling.
The only places to do Snuba in Cancun are at Xcaret Park and Xel-Ha, which are both adventure parks that offer tons of activities in addition to the Snuba experience.
While both offer incredible Snuba experiences, I would recommend the Snuba Reef experience at Xcaret simply because it’s closer to Cancun and the Snuba experience takes you out by boat to explore the nearby reef in open water.
But if you’re looking to save money, Xel-Ha is cheaper than Xcaret overall and has two Snuba experiences to choose from–Snuba Cenote and Snuba Caleta.
No matter which you choose, you’re sure to have a totally unique experience and get a never before seen view of the underwater world in Cancun!
🇲🇽 Traveling to Mexico soon?
These are the Mexico travel resources I use and recommend:
🏨 Hotels: I always find the best deals for Mexico hotels and resorts on Expedia or Booking.com. If you prefer a vacation rental, check VRBO as they are often cheaper than AirBnB’s added fees!
✈️ Flights: I recommend using Skyscanner for the best Mexico flight deals. Be sure to sign up for their price alerts for your preferred travel dates.
🚗 Rental Cars: I recommend using Discover Cars because you can compare multiple car rental companies and see detailed ratings for overall value, ease of pick-up, efficiency of agents, car condition, and overall time spent.
🚙 Cancun Airport Transportation: I recommend booking a private transfer with Cancun Airport Transportation for the quickest and most hassle-free option!
🤿 Tours & Activities: I always use Viator or GetYourGuide for booking tours and activities in Mexico. You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, plus they have excellent customer service if you were to have any issues.
🚨 Travel Insurance: After my Dad broke his hand in a taxi accident in Playa del Carmen, I always recommend buying travel insurance before your trip for added peace of mind! I recommend Travel Insurance Master for short trips or Safety Wing for digital nomads.
☀️ Biodegradable Sunscreen: Don’t forget to add biodegradable sunscreen to your Mexico packing list! Regular sunscreen is prohibited when swimming in the ocean and cenotes in Mexico, so you’ll need to pack some biodegradable sunscreen for sun protection. I recommend Sun Bum Sunscreen, which is reef-friendly, vegan, and cruelty-free.
