cenotes mexico excursion

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Tour Xenotes: descubre los cenotes en Cancún

Diviértete en tu visita a Cancún y la Riviera Maya, con experiencias que te llevan a interactuar con todos los tipos de cenotes en Cancún que existen, a través de diversas actividades en cada uno de ellos: rappel asistido, tirolesas, kayak y nado de exploración acuática, para que disfrutes al máximo en entornos naturales perfectamente adaptados y te sientas en armonía con estos enigmáticos lugares. Además, el Tour Xenotes por Xcaret incluye transportación a los cuatro cenotes , guía certificado, fotógrafo, transportación, alimentos y bebidas.

Encuentra la naturaleza de un oasis maya con el Tour Xenotes

Rappel Asistido

Desciende en rappel asistido hacia las profundidades de un cenote de caverna por un tramo de 25 m. Al llegar a sus refrescantes aguas, podrás observar el imponente paisaje bajo la superficie.

Justo en un cenote antiguo , podrás deslizarte en una tirolesa y acuatizar en sus refrescantes aguas. Una experiencia que no debes perderte.

El entorno milenario y la conexión con un oasis maya. Llénate de energía renovadora mientras observas el paisaje y remas un kayak por un cenote abierto .

Nado en Cenotes

Sumérgete en las refrescantes aguas de los cenotes y percibe cómo te rodea la naturaleza. También podrás hacer un nado de exploración acuática utilizando un visor.

Exclusividad

Cuatro cenotes exclusivos que solo pueden visitarse en el Tour Xenotes. ¡Vive la naturaleza de una manera única!

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• Xenotes Tour

Tour Xenotes

Visit four private cenotes at the famous ruta de los cenotes.

Xenotes is the only Cancun tour that takes you to visit the four types of cenotes ( sinkholes ) that exist in nature: semi-open, the open gran cenote , ancient, and the cavern blue cenote . Have fun with activities such as assisted rappel, zip-lines, kayaking, exploration swimming, or cliff jumping. To replenish energy, a delicious picnic will be waiting for you. Enter the heart of the jungle at the best cenotes in Cancun .

Must present an ID before boarding.

About your Xenotes Tour

• Round-trip transportation with certified guide.
• Visit to the four different types of cenotes that exist.
• Assisted rappeling into Lu’um, a cavern cenote.
• Zip-lines and cliff jumps at K’áak’, an open cenote, and at Iik, an ancient cenote.
• Kayaking through Ha’, a semi-open cenote.
• Exploration swimming in Ha’, a semi-open cenote.
• Cold and hot drinks (waters, sodas, Mexican-style hot chocolate, coffee), as well as seasonal fruit at the end of the first cenote.
• Jungle picnic that includes julienne soup, a cold bar of meats and premium cheeses, variety of rustic breads, dressings, salads, water, wine, and beer.
• Equipment: life jacket, swim mask, rappel gear, kayak and inner tube.
• Restrooms, showers, changing rooms and towels.

Recommendations

• Wear a swimsuit, water shoes and comfortable clothing. Additionally, bring an extra change of clothes and a towel.
• Only use of sunblock and sunscreen containing titanium oxide and zinc oxide are allowed in the park.
• Remember to bring cash or a credit card to purchase souvenirs, get the photos of your visit, or enjoy an Optional Activity.

Important Information

• Children over 4.5 ft but under 12 years of age must show an ID to verify their age as well.
• For the zip-line activity, a minimum height of 4.5 ft (1.4 m) and a minimum weight of 88 lbs (40 kg) are required.
• The use of the life jacket is mandatory during all water activities.
• This tour is not recommended for people with heart, lung, or spine conditions; with asthma, diabetes, or hypertension; or pregnant women or those suspected of being pregnant.
• The average water temperature of the cenotes is 75 to 78° F throughout the year.
• Please take into account that the cenotes are located in the middle of the jungle, so some roads to reach them are not paved and could be bumpy.
• Also be aware that due to the location of the cenotes in the middle of the jungle, cell phone service is likely unavailable.
• Reservations cancelled more than 2 days prior to your original booking date are subject to a 10% charge for administrative fees; cancellations made between 0 and 2 days prior to your original booking date, or in the case of no-shows or not using your coupon, are nonrefundable. Any change on your booking date is subject to an adjustment in the price.
• It is not possible to make a date change the same day of your visit.
• There might be changes without prior notice to the tour’s logistics or operation.
• Smoking Control: At Grupo Xcaret we comply with government regulations by offering smoke-free and emission-free spaces. For smoking, we have designated exclusive areas restricted for minors, pregnant women, senior citizens, and people with cardiovascular and pulmonary health problems.

Transportation included

• Roundtrip transportation from your hotel is included. Select your hotel or meeting point from the list.
• Skip lines! You have direct access.
• Pickup time depedns on your hotel’s location. Once you select it from the list, you will have the exact hour to be on time at the lobby or meeting point.
• The drop off time is according to the location of your hotel.

About the destination

What is a cenote.

Cenotes are natural deep-water wells (sinkholes), which are fed by the filtration of rain and by the currents of underground rivers that are born in the heart of the earth.

What are the best cenotes in Cancun?

There is only one tour in Cancun that takes you to visit the four types of cenotes that exist, the Xenotes tour. You will be able to swim and do different adventure activities in an open, semi-open, closed and ancient cenote.

What cenotes to visit if I go to Cancun?

The best way to decide is by the type of cenote and the activity in them. It can be rappelling in a cavern cenote, zip lining in an ancient one or kayaking and snorkeling in an open one. And you can do it all in the Xenotes Tour.

How many cenotes are there in Cancun?

There isn't an exact number of cenotes, but it is estimated that there are more than 60 cenotes in the Ruta de los Cenotes (Cenotes Route) in Puerto Morelos, minutes from Cancun.

What is the closest cenote to Cancun?

Near Cancun you will find the Ruta de los Cenotes (Cenotes Route), a road with entrance to dozens of different cenotes. You can also book the Xenotes Tour and visit four different cenotes on the same route.

How much does the entrance to a cenote cost?

Prices depend on each cenote, the activities to be done in it, facilities, if food is included, etc. The best option is to book a tour that takes you to several cenotes in Cancun and includes everything, such as the Xenotes Tour.

How to get to the cenotes in Cancun?

There are two ways to get to the Cenotes in Cancun . One is by car driving through the Puerto Juarez - Chetumal federal highway to the Cenotes Route. The other is on a tour that includes transportation from the comfort of your hotel, like the Xenotes Tour.

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The 15 Best Cenotes in Mexico

My list of the most beautiful cenotes in mexico.

Cenotes are stunning natural formations that are perfect for snorkeling, diving or just swimming .

But with thousands of cenotes to choose from, how do you decide which cenote  to visit on a trip to Mexico ?

To help you out, I have compiled this guide with my 15 top picks of cenotes in Mexico , located in the Riviera Maya , Yucatan , Campeche and even Chiapas .

You will also find a section at the end of the article with information on the different types of cenotes, what to expect, what to bring, when is the best time to go and much more.

1. Dos Ojos Cenote (Tulum)

2. gran cenote (tulum), 3. cenote sac actun (tulum), 4. cenote azul (playa del carmen), 5. rio secreto (playa del carmen), 6. aktun chen (akumal), 7. cenote ik kil (chichen itzá), 8. cenote zací (valladolid), 9. cenote dzitnup (valladolid), 10. cenote chihuán (izamal), 11. cenote xbatún (mérida), 12. cenote kankirixche (merida), 13. hacienda mucuyché (mérida), 14. miguel colorado cenote (campeche), 15. chukumaltic cenote (chiapas), the best cenotes by region, what is a cenote, what to do in a cenote, how many cenotes are there in mexico, how much do cenotes cost, how cold is the water in the cenotes, are the cenotes in mexico safe, when is the best time to visit cenotes, what to bring to a cenote, my last tips for visiting cenotes in mexico, rent a car in mexico, find your flight at the best price, you’re traveling in mexico these articles will help you, cenotes in mexico: the definitive guide.

If you are short on time and don’t want to read my entire article, here are the best cenotes to visit in Mexico :

• Best cenote in Mexico for families: Cenote Azul
• Best cenote tour: Rio Secreto (click here to book!) – Guided tour to Rio Secreto, light lunch and pick-up at your hotel.
• Best cenote for swimming in Mexico: Cenote Jardin del Eden
• Cenote for diving in Mexico: Dos Ojos and Sac Actun
• Cenote for snorkeling in Mexico: Gran Cenote
• The cheapest cenote: Cenote Zaci
• Sacred Cenote in Mexico: Ik Kil Cenote
• Best cenote with restaurant in Mexico: Hacienda Mucuyché
• Best cenote with restaurant in Mexico: Cenote X’Batún and Cenote Kankirixche
• Most accessible in Mexico without a car: Jardín del Edén , Cenote Escondido and Cenote Azul (15 min by colectivo from Playa del Carmen )

Cenote Dos Ojos is one of the most famous and beautiful cenotes in Mexico.

It is a semi-open cenote with clear waters, ideal for families who want to snorkel, as well as for diving enthusiasts who want to explore its caves (with tunnels, stalactites, stalagmites, fossils, etc.).

It is located in Dos Ojos Park , which also hosts the Jaguar, Nicte Ha, El Pit and Los Monos cenotes, which are all very different. It is the perfect place to spend several hours 😉

• Cenote Dos Ojos is located 20 minutes from Tulum , on the road to Playa del Carmen.
• Entrance fee: 400 pesos (200 pesos for children under 12 years old) or 800 pesos for guided dives (with all equipment).

The Gran Cenote in Tulum is one of the most famous cenotes in the Riviera Maya.

It deserves its popularity with its clear waters that are ideal for diving, its cave and its underwater corridor that connects the two parts of the cenote.

You will also find hammocks under the shade and a large grassy area where you can relax, sunbathe or have a picnic.

My Advice For the full experience, you can also take this guided bike tour of Tulum that includes Gran Cenote, Cenote Escondido and Cenote Cristal, with brunch :

• Entrance fee 500 pesos, locker 30 pesos, snorkel gear 80 pesos
• To avoid the crowds and make the most of this tourist cenote, I recommend you get there as soon as it opens at 8am.
• If you don’t have a car, you can rent a bike because it is not far from downtown Tulum. Then if you want, you can continue along Highway 109 to see other cenotes like Zacil-Ha, Calavera and Carwash.

With its crystal clear waters, large stalactites, colorful fish, bats and fossils, the impressive Sac Actun is not very crowded.

But it’s not just any cenote: research in 2018 revealed that Sac Actun is also connected to Dos Ojos , making it the largest underwater cave system in the world , stretching 217 miles!

It is a dream place to snorkel, dive and observe the jungle fauna of the Riviera Maya .

The entrance fee is a little pricey, but it is worth it since it includes the guide, the equipment, the visit of several cenotes and caves with a mystical atmosphere.

• Entrance fee 650 pesos for the 1h guided tour, snorkel equipment and life jacket
• I recommend you to go by car or cab, but if you go by public transport, you will have to walk 3,7 miles to the entrance

For a complete experience, you can also book this tour to Sac Actun with transportation from Tulum, snorkel in the bay of Tulum (with breathtaking views of the ruins) and the Sac Actun cenote .

Book the tour here:

Cenote Azul in Playa del Carmen , and more specifically in Puerto Aventuras , is an ideal cenote for families with kids because it is easy to access, with shallow areas and several rocks to sit on in the water.

And that doesn’t mean it’s boring at all: you can jump from a 16 ft wall, snorkel, and have a natural pedicure thanks to the fish that feed on the dead cells of your feet 😉

Another advantage of Cenote Azul in the Riviera Maya is that it is very close to Kantun Chi Park , Cenote Cristalino , Cenote Jardin del Eden , Akumal and Xpu-Ha beach .

• Do not confuse the Cenote Azul of Playa del Carmen with the Cenote Azul of Bacalar   which is near the border with Belize.

Rio Secreto is a unique experience that I always recommend for a Yucatan road trip.

It is a natural reserve that conceals an amazing system of semi-flooded caves and an underground river that stretches for 25 miles, 82 ft below the surface.

To protect this incredible place, you need to go with a guide who will take you to explore about 1970 ft of this route filled with stalactites and stalagmites, walking and swimming, with a helmet, headlamp and wetsuit.

Since the tours are only for small groups and space is limited, I suggest you book your tickets in advance.

You can get your tickets for Rio Secreto here , which include a lunch prepared with local ingredients:

Aktun Chen is a natural park that offers an immersive nature experience in the Akumal region .

Besides its 10 zip lines, 2 hanging bridges, its wildlife zoo (with monkeys, coatis, kinkajous , etc.) and its underground cenote, it offers a guided walking tour through a cave that is more than 5 million years old.

It is an underground tour of more than 1900 ft that was ranked in the TOP 10 of the best and most impressive underground tours in the world by National Geographic magazine!

• You can book the activities separately, but I recommend you to visit the cave and the cenote.
• 5 min from Akumal, 15 min from Tulum, 25 min from Playa del Carmen.

Cenote Ik Kil is often called the cenote of Chichen Itza , but it is not in the archaeological site as some agencies suggest.

However, it is just a few kilometers from Chichen Itza and is the perfect place to cool off after a visit under the Yucatan sun.

It is the most touristy cenote in Mexico (always good to know what to expect!), but it is really beautiful with its lush vegetation and offers all the amenities: free parking, restaurant, towels, lockers, life jackets.

My advice To avoid the hassle of transportation and organization of the day, you can book this tour to Chichen Itza (click here!) , which includes pick-up, visit to Chichen Itza, cenote Ik Kil, buffet lunch and free visit to Valladolid.

Cenote Zací is a fairly large cenote, surrounded by rock walls and plants, which is easily accessed by a stone staircase.

Besides being beautiful, it is very convenient and here is why:

-It has a path around it and platforms at different heights: perfect for the whole family , regardless of age

-It is located right in the center of the city, only 10 minutes from the main square: you can easily include the cenote in a half-day or full-day itinerary in Valladolid

-If you spend 100 pesos at the on-site restaurant, you get free access to the cenote : good and cheap!

• Entrance fee 60 pesos, life jacket included

The community of Dzitnup is home to two of Mexico’s best cenotes: Xkeken and Samula , often called simply the Cenotes of Dzitnup.

Both cenotes are located in a cave.

In my opinion, the X’kekén cenote is more impressive with its light well, turquoise water and large stalactites, but the Samulá cenote is also worth seeing with its high natural ceiling.

• Entrance fee is 235 pesos (includes the 2 cenotes + life jacket)
• Dzitnup is 15 minutes from the city of Valladolid so it is easy to reach even without a car. You can take a 60 peso colectivo in front of the Casona el Negro Aguilar (Calle 44)

Officially, all cenotes are public and government property, but access to them can be private.

This is the case of the Chihuán cenote , which you can enter through the backyard of a local family’s house.

You descend into a cave with a low ceiling, beautiful rock formations and crystal clear, artificially illuminated waters, perfect for swimming or snorkeling.

This is one of the must-see cenotes in Mexico , but since it is not advertised, there are very few visitors.

It is conveniently located on Highway 180 between Valladolid and Merida , only 30 minutes from Chichen Itza and Izamal !

• The entrance fee is 100 pesos per person, with parking, showers, lifejacket rental included.
• The entrance is 650 ft from Highway 180 between Merida and Valladolid, so it is easy to get there even by bus or colectivo.

Cenote X-Batún definitely deserves a spot among the cenotes you must visit in Mexico .

I love its wild side, with stone paths, wooden stairs, all surrounded by trees, many roots and plants that are home to various birds.

Besides, it is not very touristy and it is run by a local cooperative .❤️

When you arrive at the traditional village of San Antonio Mulix , you will see a sign that says “Registration for access to the cenotes”.

You have to pay at the small booth next to it and they give you a card that you have to return later in order to pass.

The entrance also gives access to Cenote Dzombacal , a semi-open cenote, not very big, with transparent and shallow water that lets you see different types of fish.

Actually, the X’Batún cenote is much nicer, but both are worth doing.

• It is located in San Antonio Mulix, 45 minutes from Mérida towards Uxmal
• You can rent bicycles, there are also cabins for the night and a camping area
• Entrance fee is 150 pesos (for the 2 cenotes X’Batun and Dzonbacal), bicycle 40 pesos, snorkel equipment 40 pesos, life vest 30 pesos

This beautiful cenote in the Mérida region, between the towns of Abalá and Mucuyché , gets its name from the Kankirixche tree , which means “tree of yellow fruits” in Yucatec Maya.

It is located in a semi-open underground cave, with clear waters, large roots and rock formations.

The water depth varies from 16 ft to 160 ft, making it ideal for swimming, snorkeling and diving.

The cenote is run by a cooperative and is very well preserved.

By the way, I recommend two other natural cenotes nearby that are not very touristy: Yaal Utzil (also called Cenote Mucuyche) and Chihuo Hol

• The entrance fee is 150 pesos with a life jacket included
• There is a restaurant on site, but it is only opened on weekends

Just 10 minutes from Cenote Kankirixch and a stone’s throw from Cenote Yaal Utzil is Hacienda Mucuyché with a completely different style.

Here, nature has been modified by humans to create two cenotes that are located in an old hacienda (17th century), so that they are connected by a channel surrounded by dense vegetation.

It is a touristy place, not very wild, but the result is really impressive and that is why it deserves a spot in the top of the most beautiful cenotes in Mexico!

The tour lasts about 2 hours and takes you first to explore the hacienda, then to cenote Carlota which is an open cenote.

After crossing the stunning channel surrounded by dense vegetation, walking or swimming, you will arrive at Cenote Azul Maya which is an absolutely gorgeous underground cenote.

The guide will lend you a snorkeling mask, but the water is so clear that you can easily see the bottom even without equipment.

It is a bit more expensive than other places, but the facilities are comfortable, the place is very clean, the guides are very nice and, after the tour, you can enjoy the restaurant and the pool .

Y… not to mention that it is a very photogenic place !

• There are also night tours to see the site illuminated. You have to follow their social networks to find out the dates.

My advice You need to book in advance , either by phone 9995 47 60 87, or by taking a tour that includes Mucuyché .

You can click on the name to book (all include pick-up at your hotel and lunch):

• Uxmal archaeological site + Hacienda Mucuyché
• Hacienda Sotuta de Peón + Hacienda Mucuyché
• Mayapan archaeological site + Hacienda Mucuyché
• Check out my guide: The 20 best things to do and see in Merida

Campeche is the least touristy state of the Yucatan Peninsula and its magnificent cenotes are rarely mentioned!

The advantage of Campeche’s cenotes is that they are quite wild, and the disadvantage is that they have almost no infrastructure (with a few exceptions).

What I recommend if you want to enjoy a nice day activity is to go to the town of Miguel Colorado , 2 hours from the city of Campeche and 30 minutes from Escarcega.

Here you will find 2 cenotes: Cenote Azul is the largest, where you can swim, kayak and zip line.

Continuing on foot less than 0,30 miles into the jungle surrounded by orchids, you then reach the Cenote Los Patos .

It gets its name from the numerous ducks that live there, some endemic, others migratory. Unfortunately, the water is not accessible, but the view is worth it!

• The entrance fee is 150 pesos (with kayak) or 250 pesos with kayak and zip line

Cenote Chucumaltik , “the Hidden Beauty”, is one of the natural wonders of Chiapas, just 40 minutes from the El Chiflón waterfalls and 2 hours from the Montebello Lakes .

This Chiapas cenote offers incredible visibility of 130 ft, making it an ideal place for swimming and snorkeling (don’t forget your mask!).

But it is also a amazing place to dive with its 230 ft depth and its bottom that conceals petrified trees, sulfur chimneys, caves and a sculpture of the Virgin.

• There are several entrances to the cenote, and prices ranges from 30 to 100 pesos
• There is no food on site or nearby, but there are tables in the shade, so bring snacks and water

Tourist map of the cenotes of Mexico

If you are looking for the best cenotes in Mexico for a specific region, here are my other guides:

• Best cenotes in Yucatan
• Best cenotes in Tulum
• Best cenotes in Playa del Carmen
• Best cenotes in Valladolid
• Best cenotes near Cancun

Everything you Need to Know about Cenotes

The word cenote derives from the Mayan “ts’ono’ot”, which means “cavity with water”.

Cenotes are freshwater wells, many of which are connected to a vast network of caves, tunnels and underground rivers.

The cenotes were very important for the ancient Maya, as they were their main source of fresh water and represented the gateway to the underworld where many gods resided.

For this reason, cenotes were sacred sites where sacrifices and offerings of various kinds were performed.

There are three types of cenotes:

• Open cenotes : these are natural pools surrounded by stone walls, often adorned with vegetation that attracts birds and butterflies
• Semi-open cenotes : these are covered by a rock dome with sunlight filtering through an opening
• Cavern cenotes : these are subterranean cenotes, hidden in caves that can be accessed by a ladder. These are my favorite because you really feel like you are in another world!

Swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, zip-lining, rappelling, etc.

Activities vary, among other things, depending on the depth of the water, as well as the size and type of cenote.

It is hard to get an exact number, but it is estimated that there are between 6,500 and 7,000 cenotes in Mexico , most of them located in the Yucatan Peninsula.

Out of these, about 150 cenotes are open to visitors.

There are also cenotes in Guatemala and Belize.

The price of cenotes varies greatly depending on their location.

As the cenotes in the Riviera Maya are much more touristy, the entrance fee is around 200-500 pesos, but others can cost as little as 50-60 pesos.

There really is something for every budget.

The water in the cenotes is quite cool, but not freezing.

It can reach up to about 77 °F (25°C), but since the weather is very hot and humid, you might feel cold when you enter the water, and then you will adjust to it.

The temperature of the water also depends on how much sunlight it gets: the water in the open cenotes is warmer than in the subterranean cenotes.

You don’t need a wetsuit for swimming or snorkeling, but if you are going to dive deeper, you might want to wear one.

Yes, they are safe, but of course you should always be cautious because cenotes are fed by underground rivers and, even if the current is very gentle, there can be a suction effect in some places.

It is better to wear a life jacket (usually available for free or at a low cost, depending on the cenote), especially if you are children or anyone who is not very confident in swimming.

Also, because it is not the sea, there is no salt in the water: you don’t float here!

There are no crocodiles or other animals that could harm you. There are only some small fish, turtles and sometimes bats.

If you are visiting a very popular cenote, go in the morning before 10:30 am or after 3pm to avoid the crowds. The time of day will really make a difference in your experience. 😉

Also keep in mind that cenotes are usually crowded with local families on Saturdays and Sundays, so I suggest you go on a weekday to have more peace and quiet.

• Bathing suit
• Cash : it is very important because cards are not accepted. So bring enough money for the entrance fee to the cenote, and extra expenses (locker rental, something to eat, etc.)
• Waterproof case for your phone : you will be able to film and take pictures underwater with your phone. They are easy to find for sale all over the Riviera Maya.
• Sandals and comfortable shoes : to get to the entrance of some cenotes, you may have to walk along a rocky path.
• Aquashoes : you can actually wear just sandals, but the cenotes are surrounded by rock, and it is much more comfortable for your feet to wear aquashoes ! You can buy them for a good price at Walmart or Soriana.
• Towel : we tend to forget, but towels are not provided in the cenotes
• Snorkel Mask and Snorkel Tube : very useful to fully enjoy the cenote and be able to observe underwater! You can easily buy them at Walmart or Soriana.
• Enough water : cenotes are usually located in hot and humid areas, so it is important to stay hydrated.
• Snack : as I said, in a cenote you don’t float, so it is more tiring to swim and dive than in the sea. This will make you hungry.😋
• Avoid bringing valuables , as lockers are not always available
• Cenotes (subterranean or semi-open) are the perfect activity when it rains. However, the water might not be crystal clear, but a bit cloudy.
• Be a responsible traveler : use only biodegradable sunscreen, always remember to shower before entering a cenote and never touch the stalactites or stalagmites. This is very important.
• Bring a plastic bag to make sure you return with your trash. In Mexico, there are very few trash cans!

Renting a car is for sure the best way to explore Mexico and make the most of your stay!

To rent a car, personally, I always use Rentalcars.com, for a few reasons:

• You can easily compare the rental cars prices between all the agencies: for sure the easiest way to find the best rate!
• Cancellation is often offered free of charge: no need to worry if you change your mind
• Rentalcars offers full insurance coverage at a lower price than the rental companies , so it’s an instant saving with no effort

Simply click on the green button to find your rental car at the best price:

To save money on flight tickets , you can use our flight comparator for Mexico, in partnership with Skyscanner: it’s  the guarantee to pay the best price  for your international and domestic flights!

Discover all my articles about Mexico : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Mexico are listed there.

• The 35 Best Things to Do in Mexico
• Yucatan Peninsula : Top 20 things to Do and See
• Playa del Carmen : Top 30 Things to Do and See!
• Cancun : the 35 Best Things to Discover
• Tulum: 21 Best Things to Do + All My Best Tips!
• Itinerary : 10 days in Mexico – Mexico City , Chiapas and Yucatan
• Itinerary : 2 weeks in Mexico   – Best itinerary to discover the Yucatan Peninsula and Chiapas!
• Itinerary : 3 weeks in Mexico – Mexico City, Puebla , Oaxaca , Chiapas, Campeche, Yucatán and Riviera Maya
• Itinerary : 1 month in Mexico – My Epic 30-31 Days Itinerary from Mexico City to Cancun
• Road trip in Mexico : The best itineraries for 10, 15, 21 days and a month
• Itinerary : 1 week in Yucatan – The Ultimate 6, 7 or 8 days Itinerary
• Itinerary : 10 days in Yucatan – Best Itinerary for 9, 10 or 11 Days in Yucatan
• Itinerary : 2 weeks in Yucatan – Epic Itinerary + All my Best Tips!
• Itinerary : 3 weeks in Yucatan – Best things to do in 20-21 days
• Itinerary : 1 month in Yucatan – Yucatan Peninsula in 29, 30 or 31 days from Cancun
• Road trip in Yucatan : The best itineraries for 7, 10, 15, 21 days and 1 month

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I have created this blog to give you all my best tips to plan your next trip to Mexico, regardless of your budget. I share detailed itineraries, advice about places to visit as well as recommendations for transportation, hotels and restaurants. I hope I will also help you to discover amazing off the beaten path destinations in Mexico!

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Cenotes Tours in Cancun

A unique and iconic attraction of the Yucatan Peninsula, the cenotes are magical places where the underground world exposes its secrets and incredible beauty. Swim, snorkel, explore and even dive in spectacular cenotes to enter a world of crystal clear waters, complex rock formations and absolute peace immersed in nature. Visiting a cenote is something you should not miss when visiting Cancun and the Riviera Maya, since only then can you understand the mystical appeal of these places that have fascinated all their visitors since time immemorial.

Extreme Canopy Adventure Tour

Ride 10 exciting zip lines with over 2 miles of thrill adventure, then ride in an army truck to a hidden jungle cenote and jump into the water.

Departs from: Cancun and Riviera Maya

Duration: 5 hours approx.

Chichen Itza Private Tour

Visit the amazing Chichen Itza Ruins on a personalized private tour from Cancun and Riviera Maya. Discover one of the most amazing places in the world without itineraries.

Duration: 10 hours approx.

Snorkel Xtreme Tour

Get amazed with the Riviera Maya beauty and snorkel between colorful fish while you enjoy the best sandy beach around. Fly 21 meters (70 feet) above the jungle canopy on a thrilling zip line ride!

Duration: 8-9 hrs.

Coba Mayan Village

Join us on an adventure to ancient city of Coba exploring the ruins, learning about Mayan culture, swim in a pristine cenote, and dine on traditional cuisine from Yucatan.

Duration: 6 hours approx

Ek Balam Mayan Traditions

Join us on a captivating journey through time and nature with our Ek Balam Archaeological and Cenote Adventure Tour! Step into the mystical world of the Mayas as you explore one of their impressive architectural marvels, the city Ek Balam.

Duration: 12 hours approx

Kaan Luum and Cenotes

Join us on this tour to the south of the Mayan Riviera and discover amazing places of natural beauty unique in the world.

Duration: From 7 to 8 hours

Tulum, Cenote and Playa del Carmen

Visit one of the most important archaeological zones of the Mayan culture: Tulum where you can admire the unique view of the ruins on the edge of the beautiful Caribbean Sea. Later you will swim and relax in the crystalline waters of a cenote and taking a walk on the 5th Avenue in Playa del Carmen.

Departs from: Cancun and Puerto Morelos

Chichen Itza Mayan Cuisine

On this tour we offer a cultural alternative as much fun to visit one of the Seven Wonders of the World. We will learn about the Mayan culture through its typical food and beverages and we will cool off at one of the most beautiful cenotes in the area.

Duration: 11 hours (approx.)

Xcaret and Chichen Itza

This package provides an affordable alternative to visit 2 of the most popular attractions for Cancun and Riviera Maya visitors, Xcaret EcoPark and The Mayan Ruins of Chichen Itza.

Duration: 11-12 hrs. approx

Gimme All Tour

For those who enough is never enough; We give all activities at Selvatica Adventure Park! including Extreme Canopy, Swim in the cenote, Polaris RZR, Tarzania Coaster, Monster Zip Lines, Skywalk and Bungee swing

Duration: 4 hours approx.

Xenotes Tour

Live nature at its best visiting four different cenotes and enjoy fun activities and extreme adventures like Kayak, Zip-line, Inner tubes, Rappel and Snorkel

Duration: 7-8 hours approx.

Xichen Clasico Tour

Discover why Chichen Itza is a World Heritage Site and a Wonder of the World. We will take a guided tour of the ruins site and learn about the fascinating world of the Mayas.

Duration: 11-12 hrs.

Off Road and Flight Challenge Tour

Six amazing activities in one unforgettable day! An experience of a lifetime awaits you.

Mayan Adventure Tour

A Riviera Maya snorkel tour so you can see it all! Explore three different eco-systems in one of the most complete snorkel tours out there.

Chichen Itza Regular Tour

Don't miss the opportunity to visit Chichen Itza during your Cancun vacations; the ancient capital of the Mayan Empire and learn why it has been designated one of the modern wonders of the world.

Duration: 11-12 hours approx.

Chichen Itza and Cenote Maya Tour

Visit in one excursion two spectacular attractions full of culture and magic, Chichen Itza and Cenote Maya will make you live an exciting and fun trip where history and natural beauty come together to surprise you.

Departs from: Temporarily unavailable

Duration: 12 hours approx.

Tulum and Pacchen Tour

Dive deep into the storied past and colorful present of the Mayan culture in one extraordinary expedition combining the jaw ping landscapes and rich history of Tulum archaeological site with a visit to the lively Maya community of Pacchén.

Duration: From 10 to 11 hours

Valladolid Magic Town

Join us to visit the wonderful colonial town of Valladolid located in Yucatan between Mérida and Cancún. Get amazed by the impressive Cenote Saamal and enjoy a regional buffet.

Duration: From 9 to 11 hours

Chichen Itza Time Masters

Visit the world famous archaeological zone Chichen itza, discover the mystery of its emblematic temples, refresh yourself swimming in a typical sacred cenotes, you will also know the beautiful colonial city of Valladolid a magical town in Yucatan.

Duration: 10-11 hours approximately

Emotions Native Park

Experience the emotion of driving an ATV vehicle through jungle trails. Enjoy pleasant walks immersed in a protected natural area to explore caves. Fly, discover, learn, swim, enjoy different emotions in this outstanding park.

Duration: Aprox 5 hours

Jungle Maya Expedition

Discover the world longest underwater cave system, rappel into a beautiful cenote and explore the Mayan jungle while flying over the treetops on ziplines.

Duration: 7 hours (approx.)

Ek Balam and Cenote Maya Tour

Visit Ek Balam, the most recent archaeological zone in the region to be opened to the public. You will also enjoy the Cenote Maya Park, a beautiful natural formations and great natural pool of 80 m of diameter.

Coba Maya Encounter

Unforgettable excursion including a guided tour to Mayan ruins of Coba to continue with a lot of exciting activities including Zip-line, Cenote Swimming, Rappelling, Canoe paddling and much more.

Duration: 9 hours (approx.)

Cancun Cenotes Tours

Delight your senses and make lifelong memories with Cancun Cenotes Tours. Make your cenote excursion reservation now, and allow us to serve as your entryway to the captivating beauty that Cancun’s cenotes hide beneath the surface.”

2-in-1 Cancun Cenote Tour

Half day cenote tour to two cenotes with A/C transportation from your hotel.

From: $65 USD

ATV, Cenotes & Ziplines Tour

Visit two cenotes while riding your own ATV, or sharing with a partner.

From: $79 USD

Cancun Cenotes Tours Gallery

Take a look at the visual journey that our guests have experienced. Astonishing landscapes, nature, water, and recreative activities to enjoy at Cancun’s nature.

Witness the magic captured by our guests as they explore the hidden gems of the Yucatan Peninsula, from the crystal-clear waters of cenotes to the lush surroundings that serve as the backdrop to their adventures. Each image tells a story of exploration, discovery, and the sheer joy of connecting with nature in its purest form.

Leveling up the Cenotes Tours in Cancun

With so many things to do in Cancun, it can be overwhelming to decide what to do in Cancun, or even worse, what excursions are even worth.

Luckily for you, we are here!

We at Cancun Cenote Tours have carefully picked only the very best locations to create the best cenote excursions from Cancun.

Wander in real nature and not man-made tourist traps. Our selection includes cave swimming, the best cenotes near Cancun, with jumping platforms, zip lines, and decks to achieve amazing photoshoots.

Everything is planned for you, including hotel pickup and drop-off, experienced staff members, and safety equipment and standards. Discover locations that you won’t want to miss and might not find on your own!

frequently asked questions

This is what we asked the most about our excursions to the cenotes from Cancun. You can also take a look at our Google My Business .

We pick up from any hotel in Cancun, Costa Mujeres, Moon Palace and Puerto Morelos.

For Bnb we set up a meeting point.

Reschedule 24 hours before the tour with no extra cost (under availability).

Cancel 24 hours before the tour and get 100% refund.

No Show. If you don’t show up for the pickup, the driver will leave a form at your hotels lobby and no refund will be made.

Cancelations under 24 hours will be considered as no show.

We recommend the tour for +4 year old.

We have dedicated safety equipment for the little ones.

Not at all.

There are some rumours that some cenotes can suck you in. However all cenotes are studied by professional divers and world-class scientists for years due to paleontological and antropoligical matter.

So it takes years before cenotes are available for the public.

Early in the morning! Less people, water has not been touched, so better photos and better memories.

Yes please! And then you can tag us in social media.

Remember cenotes are deep and you are responsible of your phone or camera.

We also have some photographers if you want to leave your belongings in your locker.

AMPLIFY YOUR EXPERIENCE.

Discover the unique nature of the yucatan..

Progreso and Merida's most Authentic Adventure Experiences for Families of ALL ages, Couples, & Anyone who likes to get off the beaten path.

Rated #1 Progreso independant cruise excursions On TripAdvisor

Don’t do this….

Progreso & Merida’s Best Adventure Tours

We now offer 2 options on our yucatan excursions….

 PRIVATE Adventure Tours

For your Family or group, No age limits, pick ANY excursion, No minimum or maximum group size. Your own PRIVATE and Personal Yucatan tour.

SEMI-PRIVATE Adventure Tour

CRUISE SHIP GUESTS ONLY: You can join others on this fun and exciting Semi-Private Group Adventure.  Maximum total group size 18 Guests from your ship.

A full day of cenotes, Mayan ruins, haciendas, food, and much more!

Click the play button to see adventure that awaits you.

We will be waiting for you where the FREE shuttle drops you off at the terminal in Progreso.

We will have a sign with your name on it and a smile .

Highly Recommended. If you are looking for an excursion in Progreso, this is the one! I definitely recommend this over booking something through the cruise line. It's more Private & more Authentic experience! Completely safe, fun and a great experience. We were returned to the port with plenty of time to spare. If we ever return to Progreso we will definitely be taking another one of their tours!

– ALLISON

Michigan, USA

Our Guide on this Private tour really made the tour come alive in a way that made it an experience we will never forget. We chose this company because we wanted to spend our money on a Local Company that respects are hires Local people, and that gives back to the local communities that it operates in. Thank you again for making our time in the Yucatan fun, easygoing and meaningful.

– JULIE & MEL

Anchorage, Alaska

LATEST YUCATAN CENOTE BLOG POSTS

Read about our adventures through cenotes, the yucatan jungle, touring mayan ruins, and so much more.

– Yucatan Mexico: 5 Points of Interest You Will Never Forget

When you read about “Yucatan”, many articles refer to the “Yucatan Peninsula” which actually is comprised of three states:  Quintana Roo (Cancun, Rive

– Beyond Progreso – Top 5 Things to do with Your Kids

If you are visiting Progreso by cruise ship or vacationing for a few days or a week, Progreso (and area) has much to offer to families. In our previou

– Hidden Cenotes of Mayapan – An Exploratory Adventure with YucatanCenote Eco-Adventures

It’s a hot day in July 2017 and what do we do on our day off work?  We go out exploring, looking for more areas to share with our guests.  Two of our

We are based in Progreso Mexico, and offer Yucatan tours that include VIP pickup in Progreso or Merida.

Since 2014 we have been exploring the cenotes and other incredible attractions of the Yucatan peninsula in Mexico.

Our Yucatan tours include pyramids, cenotes, and traditional Mayan food

Join our veteran local guides on the most authentic eco-adventure tours in the Yucatan.

• Cenote & Nature

Cenote & Reef Snorkel

$ 99 USD -30%

Google: 4.5 - 17,870 reviews

3 and a Half Hours

Min 8 years old

Journey into a cenote in Cancun on this 3 and a half hour excursion! Your day begins with a pickup in one of our temperature-controlled courtesy vehicles, right from your hotel. Upon arrival at the cenote, you’ll get to view the expansive natural rock formations made from sinkholes hundreds of years ago. Your friendly tour guide will provide you with a brief history of the cenotes, where you’ll learn how ancient Mayan civilizations considered these cenotes to be sacred relics.

In the cenote, you and your small group will be led by your friendly guide to see first-hand the breathtaking caves and caverns filled with stalactites and stalagmites. Here, you’ll get to swim and float in the crystal clear waters, experiencing the beauty of the ancient cenote. After swimming and exploring, you’ll get a chance to spot the vibrant marine life in the famous Yal-kú Lagoon in Akumal. At the lagoon, we’ll fit you for your snorkeling gear and you’ll be free to explore the natural wonders within these warm waters, from vibrant reefs to unique fish. To finish our 3 and a half hour tour, we’ll provide you with a scenic ride back to your hotel.

Jump in and float along on a guided tour in the brisk waters of a unique geological element of Mexico - the ancient Mayan Cenotes. Cenotes are natural sinkholes that expose groundwater underneath.

Navigate through breathtaking caves and caverns and discover the history of stalactites and stalagmites as you explore the ancient rock formations up close! Next, snorkel through an incredible lagoon brimming with aquatic life.

Weave in and out of large rock reefs that are home to a diverse assortment of tropical fish in this hidden gem of the Caribbean coast. 

Cenote Snorkeling in Cancun — Experience the Cenotes Firsthand

When most people think of snorkeling in Cancun, they likely think of the beach. After all, most snorkeling excursions take place in shallow ocean waters just off the coasts of tropical hotspots. But Cancun is no ordinary tropical destination.

This magical region is home to many cenotes, natural sinkholes filled with pristine water, where you'll get to see stunning rock formations.  You'll visit the famous Yal-kú Lagoon in Akumal for a truly unique type of snorkeling.  

All About the Cancun Cenotes

Millions of years ago, much of the Yucatan Peninsula was covered by ocean water. As ocean levels decreased through the Ice Age to the modern day, the water receded to leave behind the peninsula we know today. This great movement of water led to massive erosion and the creation of cave systems and sinkholes connected to the sea.

If you know where to look, you can find bodies of water hidden within the land of the Yucatan Peninsula just outside of Cancun. These are the Cancun cenotes. Many of these amazing underground water sources feature truly breathtaking cave formations.

By taking our Cenotes & Snorkeling Tour here at Cancun Adventures, you'll get to experience these natural wonders firsthand.

A Truly Immersive Tour

At Cancun Adventures, we are committed to helping travelers experience the wonders of Cancun up close and personal. That's why we've put together this intimate and comprehensive cenote & Snorkeling Tour.

Led by the region's top tour guides, our tour gives you the opportunity to snorkel in Cancun and Playa del Carmen's most stunning cenotes and lagoons.

Great for kids, teens, and adults, this tour allows you to take an exploration into your own hands — in landscapes you truly have to see to believe! Round trip transportation is provided. Book your Cenotes & Snorkeling Tour with our team today!

What's included in this experience

• Professional bilingual guide
• Entrance to the cenotes and Yal-Kú Lagoon
• Snorkeling equipment
• Bottled water
• Round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned van from most hotels in Cancun and Playa del Carmen

What's excluded

• Professional photography services

What do you need to know before you book

• Minimum Age: 8 years. Child pricing applies to ages 8 to 11 years.
• Not recommended for guests with limited mobility
• Guests must be relatively fit and must be able to swim
• For safety reasons, we do not recommend participation in any snorkel activity if you have respiratory problems, injuries, back/neck issues, heart conditions, or conditions that can cause loss of consciousness
• Round-trip transportation is included from select hotels exclusively for our guests who book their tours at least 24 hours in advance
• Please consider 2 to 5 hours of transportation for this tour. The actual time depends on your hotel's location.

What to bring

• Wear your Swimsuit
• Towel beach
• A change of clothes
• Sun protective clothing
• Water shoes
• Extra money for optional purchases

15 BEST Cenote Tours from Cancun [2024]

By: Author Stefania Guglielmi

Posted on Last updated: December 29, 2023

Categories Mexico , North America

Looking for the perfect Cancun cenote tour? You’re in the right spot! Check out this list of the best cenote tours from Cancun.

It’s certainly not a secret anymore that you can find some incredible cenotes in Cancun. They’re all over the Riviera Maya as well, in places like Tulum, Playa del Carmen, and Valladolid. Cenotes have officially taken over my Instagram feed!

If you’ve been following this blog, you might already know I’m pretty obsessed with cenotes . I even wrote tons of posts about them over the last few years!

Last year I went back and spent a few months in Mexico , mainly in the Yucatan/Quintana Roo region. This gave me the chance to visit more cenotes and update the information on this blog.

Visiting cenotes should definitely be on your list of things to do in Cancun ! Some people prefer exploring the cenotes on their own. However, others prefer to join a Cancun cenote excursion, so they can enjoy the day without hassle.

👉 I especially recommend a tour if you don’t have a rental car . Taxi prices have increased tremendously over the years. So much, that you will end up spending more on taxi rides if you’re visiting a few cenotes than you would spend on a tour.

However, just because you can find hundreds of cenote tours from Cancun available, it doesn’t mean they are all good and worth your hard-earned money!

That’s why we’ve done the work for you, and selected the very best Cancun cenote tours. They all come with  excellent reviews from previous travelers , and offer great value.

⚠️ Update 2024 : This post used to include an activity that combines a visit to the cenotes with swimming with turtles in Akumal. Unfortunately, after my last visit, I can’t recommend anymore any activity that involves the turtles in Akumal.

This is because the experience has ceased to be sustainable . Here at Every Steph, we care about the wildlife’s well-being, and we ask you to do the same.

I personally use (and trust)  Viator  and Get Your Guide to book tours around the world. Both companies offer a  24-hour cancellation policy . This means you will receive a full refund if you cancel most experiences at least 24 hours in advance.

Not enough time? These are the very best tours 👇

Table of Contents

OUR PICK: The BEST Cancun Cenotes Tour

Coming from Cancun and want to see a few different cenotes in one day? This Tour Cenotes Oasis Maya by Xcaret will allow you to make the most of your day. You will snorkel and kayak in four private cenotes, and even get to rappel and zipline.

• The Fire Cenote, K’áak’ , is an open cenote surrounded by jungle, with lush vegetation. It’s the perfect one for swimming or inner tubing.
• The Wind Xenote, Xenotes Iik’, is an ancient cenote where you can enjoy zip-lining and cliff jumping from seven meters high.
• The Earth Xenote, Lu’um , is a closed cenote with tunnels and caves, that can be accessed via assisted rappel.
• Lastly, the Water Xenote, Xenotes Há , is semi open cenote with beautiful aquatic flora and rock formations. There you’ll enjoy swimming and a one-hour kayak ride.

You’ll be served cookies and chocolate in between cenotes. Once you’re all cenoted out, enjoy a fancy jungle picnic. Soup, deli meats, cheeses, and salad, will be paired with beer, wine, and other beverages. It’s the perfect end to a perfect day!

👉 Why this tour? This tour in my opinion is one of the best Cancun cenote tours (if not THE best!) as you get to experience 3 different types of cenotes (open, cave, and semi-open cenotes). Most other tours will only show you one or two types of cenotes.

Read what the reviews say 👇

“ Swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, slides, ziplining and cliff diving. What more can you ask for!? Some great tips in the reviews and definitely worth the trip. Will definitely be a long-term memory, and making a lasting impression with our teens. So fun!” Heather_G – Read more reviews

📝 This tour includes: Transfers, entrance fee, all activities, snacks, a picnic lunch, water, and drinks. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Other GREAT Cenote Tours from Cancun

▶️ Check out this Cancun Cenote Tour: Snorkeling, Rappelling, and Ziplining . You’ll head into the Yucatan Peninsula jungle for a delightful 4-hour adventure. Start with a guided snorkeling tour in the underground Nohoch Nah Chich and Sac Actun cenotes.

Learn about the importance of sinkholes to the Mayan empire, and then hop aboard an ATV for a ride through the forest.

Rappel down into a cenote, where you’ll enjoy a refreshing splash, and glide above the trees in three ziplines. Cap off the tour with a Mayan ceremony and lunch.

📝 This snorkeling Cancun cenote tour includes : Roundtrip transfers, entrance fees, all activities, equipment, a guide, and lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

▶️ The Cenotes Adventure with Tequila Tasting and Mayan Snack is a great alternative. You’ll go to the heart of the Mayan jungle for a guided cenote hopping experience.

Discover the stunning natural pools, and enjoy ziplining and jumping into them from a platform. Swim and splash around in the crystal-clear waters for a while.

Before returning to Cancun, you’ll take part in a guided tequila tasting, relish a local snack, and watch a traditional dance.

📝 This tour includes : Hotel pick-up and drop-off, lifejackets, a guide, tequila tasting, and a snack. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Private Cenote Tours in Cancun

If you prefer a private tour with just your family and friends, these are the best choices for Cancun private tours to cenotes.

▶️ Embark on an epic VIP Cenotes Private Tour in the Yucatan Peninsula. Join a pro snorkel guide in exploring three magical cenotes: Yal-ku Lagoon, Cenote Xunaan Ha, and Cenote Taak Bi Ha.

You’ll discover the underwater world of Mexico as you swim, jump, and even trek through an amazing underground river.

Everything’s covered, from snorkel gear to prebooked entry and transfers from your Cancun hotel.

📝 This cenote excursion Cancun includes : Hotel pick-up and drop-off, a guide, entrance fees, snorkeling gear, and bottled water. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

▶️ This Private Dream Underground World (Off the beaten path Cenote cavernous exploring) is a great option. During a half-day trip, you’ll get to visit the spectacular Sac Actum, an underwater cave system of cenotes near Cancun.

Learn about the site’s impressive rock formations and its geology from a knowledgeable guide. Then, go swimming and snorkeling in two different cenotes. You’ll end the trip with a snack and drinks.

📝 This cenotes Cancun tour includes : Hotel pick-up and drop-off, a guide, entrance fees, snorkel gear, snacks, and drinks. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

▶️ This Private Tour – The best Cenotes in Yucatan – Suytun & Oxman is one of the full-day Cancun excursions to enjoy with your family.

Leave the city behind and make your way to two renowned – and very photogenic! – cenotes in the Riviera Maya. The tour is designed for photographers and Instagrammers, after all.

Depart early in the morning to avoid the crowds, and marvel at the spectacular cenotes Suytun and Oxman, located in the famous Ruta de los Cenotes. You’ll learn about their history and the importance of cenotes for the Mayan people from your private guide.

Enjoy free time to swim and snap pictures, and cap off the trip with a tasty lunch.

📝 This private cenote tour from Cancun includes : Private transfers, a guide, entrance fees, bottled water, and lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Snorkeling in the Reef and at a Cenote in Cancun

The 5-in-1 Cancun Snorkeling Tour: Swim with Turtles, Reef, Musa, Shipwreck and Cenote is the ultimate water adventure. It’s a family-friendly tour that will take you snorkeling in all sorts of amazing locations, and it’s suitable for both newbies and experts.

Snorkel in a coral reef teeming with life, and explore an underwater shipwreck with an expert guide. You’ll also swim with statues at MUSA, and jump into the cool waters of a cenote. Access to showers and lockers are included, as well as roundtrip transfers.

📝 This tour includes : Round trip transportation, a guide, snorkeling gear, entrance fees, and bottled water. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Cancun Cenote Tours for Adventure Lovers

▶️ Looking for an adrenaline-filled day? Then this Selvatica Adventure Park: Ziplines and Cenote Tour from Cancun is just the one. It takes place in one of the most exhilarating parks in Riviera Maya.

In just 3.5 hours you’ll be soaring in the air with 10 zipline courses, each more thrilling than the last. Brave the zipline coaster, and admire the passing views from a bird’s eye perspective.

Then, relax in the refreshing waters of a private cenote. You’ll have time to cool off and swim before lunchtime.

📝 This A TV+ zipline cenote tour from Cancun includes : Admission, all activities, equipment, and lunch. Transfers can be added for an extra fee. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

▶️ What’s even cooler than cenotes, you say? Underground rivers! Join the unforgettable Admission Rio Secreto Wild Tour with Lunch for a spectacular experience.

On this full-day tour, you’ll cycle through the jungle, trek through incredible caverns, and snorkel in semi-flooded caves. It’s an action-packed day in the Mayan underworld with awesome guides, cool sights, and loads of fun.

Breakfast and lunch will be served to help you refuel between activities, and you’ll get to discover the striking geology of the site!

📝 This tour includes : Transfers, entrance fees, guide, all equipment, breakfast, and lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

▶️ How about this Horseback Riding in Cancun with ATV, Cenote, Ziplines, Lunch and Transfer ? It’s a 5-hour trip ideal for horse lovers and adrenaline junkies.

You’ll visit a jungle in Riviera Maya to enjoy a variety of outdoor adventures. Drive an all-terrain vehicle on rugged tracks, fly above the treetops with the zipline circuit, and ride a horse in a beautiful setting.

Finally, relax with a cenote swim, and savor a chicken fajita for lunch.

📝 This tour includes : Transfers, all activities, entrance fees, a guide, water, and lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Mayan Ruins + Cenote Tours from Cancun, Mexico

What’s better than combining nature and history ? In my experience, nothing beats immersing myself in the history and culture of the region, and then swimming in a beautiful natural pool. Here you can find the best cenote tours that combine Mayan ruins + cenotes from Cancun.

Cenote + Tulum Ruins Tours

I like the top-rated Viator Exclusive: Tulum Ruins, Reef Snorkeling, Cenote and Caves . In just one day you get to do a little bit of everything (and it’s one of the most popular tours among my readers too!)

Start the day with a guided tour of the Tulum ruins, an impressive Mayan site. Then, hop on a boat to reach the coral reef, where you’ll enjoy fantastic snorkeling.

End your day at Cenote Xtun, where you’ll get to swim and snorkel as you marvel at the thousands of stalagmites and stalactites that surround you. End the trip with a delicious lunch.

📝 This Tulum and cenote tour from Cancun includes : Hotel pick-up and drop-off, entrance fees, a guide, all activities, equipment, and lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Chichen Itza and Cenote Tour from Cancun

You really can’t leave Cancun without having visited Chichen Itza, one of the New 7 Wonders of the World !

▶️ With over 14 thousand positive reviews, the Chichén Itzá, Cenote & Valladolid All-Inclusive Tour is your best option. There’s no better tour to combine a trip to the Chichen Itza ruins + a swim at a beautiful cenote in Yucatan.

After a guided tour through the ancient Mayan ruins, you’ll head to Cenote Saaml, one of the most beautiful in the area. Swim to your heart’s content, and then refuel with a buffet lunch.

Finally, enjoy some free time to wander in the charming of Valladolid.

📝 This tour includes : Hotel pick-up and drop-off, a guided tour of Chichen Itza, a guide, cenote visit, and lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Tulum Ruins & Coba Ruins + Cenote Tour from Cancun

Dreaming of climbing a Mayan pyramid ? Then you have to head to the Coba ruins!

On the Tulum, Coba, & Cenote: Full-Day Tour you’ll visit two unique and very different Mayan ruin sites: Tulum and Coba. Enjoy guided tours on both locations, learning interesting historical facts from your guide.

Then, head to the beautiful cave cenote Mariposa, known for its turquoise waters, and cool off with a swim. Cap off the tour with a Mayan ceremony led by a Shaman, and a traditional lunch.

📝 This tour includes : Hotel pick-up and drop-off, a guide, entrance fees, life jackets, a Mayan ceremony, bottled water, and lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Cenote Diving Tours from Cancun

Are you interested in scuba or free diving? There’s a pretty limited selection of diving cenote tours in Cancun at the moment. Most cenote diving happens around Tulum, but here are the best ones I could find.

▶️ With this Try Freediving in a Cenote Nearby Cancun (Private Group) you’ll discover a beautiful underwater sport: freediving. A professional will guide you with the breathing techniques, and teach you how to dive in.

The class will take place in a beautiful open cenote, and it’s suitable for beginners. The group is no larger than four people to ensure the utmost comfort and personalization. At the end of the class, refuel with a tasty lunch.

📝 This tour includes : Transportation, a freediving class, all equipment, videos of your experience, and lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

▶️ The Diving in Cenotes: Discovering the Mayan Underworld is a half-day excursion. You’ll meet your guide at the diving school, and together head to a cenote as you learn about the renowned sinkholes.

You’ll be introduced to cenote diving, which is quite different from diving in the sea, and then get geared up to start the adventure. The trip includes two dives, and in between you’ll refuel with a tasty lunch.

Other refreshments will be available, and you’ll also have some free time to leisurely swim in the cenote.

📝 This cenote excursion from Cancun includes : Transfers from the diving school, cenote entrance fees, scuba equipment, two dives, lunch, and snacks. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

CENOTE TOURS CANCUN FAQs

After having done extensive research, in our opinion these are the very best Cancun cenote tours: • Tour Cenotes Oasis Maya by Xcaret (you’ll get to swim at 4 different cenotes) • VIP Private Cenote Tour Cancun • Viator Exclusive Combo Tour: Tulum Ruins, Reef Snorkeling Plus Cenote and Caves

Yes, you certainly can by joining specific cenotes in Cancun tours. However, it’s something that you need to plan in advance. You can’t just show up to a cenote and ask for diving equipment like you would do with snorkeling. If you’re a certified diver, I recommend the Diving in Cenotes: Discovering the Mayan Underworld . If you’ve never tried it before, you could start with a free diving class .

In my opinion, the ultimate Cancun cenote tour is the Cenotes Oasis Maya by Xcaret .

Stefania Guglielmi is the founder of Every Steph. Originally from Bologna, Italy, she's been traveling full-time since 2016 and has visited over 50 countries across 6 continents. She believes sustainable travel and luxury travel can go hand in hand and has been advocating for responsible tourism since 2014. Stefania's advice and travel experiences have been featured in important publications such as Business Insider, Refinery29, and Yahoo Money.

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The 15 Best Cenote Tours from Cancun

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Wondering what the best cenote tours from Cancun are? We’ve got you covered.

If you’re itching to see crystal clear water in something a little more unique than the ocean, then one of these excursions might just be the best option for you. 

Cenotes are natural wonders filled with unique rock formations, lush vegetation, and blue water. These popular attractions are the perfect place to truly bask in the wonder of nature and explore a side of Mexico away from the white sand beaches and all-day drinks.

These are by far the best Cenote tours from Cancun with the highest ratings.

60+ YUCATAN PENINSULA CENOTES ON A MAP

GET YOUR CUSTOMIZED GOOGLE MAP OF ALL THE CENOTES OF THE YUCATAN PENINSULA ✔️ 60+ Cenotes to explore in the Yucatan Peninsula ✔️ Descriptions + link to related posts ✔️ Pictures ✔️ Ongoing updates ✔️ All my cenote articles in a map!

Cenote adventure tours from Cancun

1. tour cenotes maya by xcaret from cancun.

5⭐️ 582 Reviews

Duration: 9 hours 

Experience an unforgettable adventure with the Tour Cenotes Maya by Xcaret. Snorkel, kayak, and swim among exotic aquatic flora and fish.

Get adventurous by zip lining over an ancient cenote and repelling down a rock wall — all before indulging in a gourmet picnic lunch.

With tour groups limited to 19, you’ll enjoy plenty of personalized attention from your Spanish and English-speaking guides.

You’ll head to Xenotes Oasis Maya, an incredible park with four of Mexico’s best cenotes that each provide you with different experiences:

• K’aak the fire cenote : swim or bob around in inner tubes while admiring the lush, jungle around you
• Iik’ the wind cenote : zipline or cliff jump into this gorgeous ancient cenote
• Lu’um the earth cenote : repel down through a hole in the roof of this closed cenote and enjoy the gorgeous waters
• Ha the water cenote : swim or kayak in this semi-open cenote and admire the underwater gardens

Not only do you get an opportunity to enjoy the gorgeous waters, underground river, and scenery, but you get to have a gourmet jungle picnic.

This is one tour you truly don’t want to miss.

What’s included

• Local English and Spanish-speaking guide
• Equipment use
• Picnic lunch
• Non-alcoholic beverages en route
• Hotel pick-up and drop-offs
• Light refreshments
• Priority access

What’s NOT included

2. snorkel, atv, zipline, and cenote adventure from cancun.

4⭐️ 38 Reviews

Duration: 7 hours 

Experience the ultimate adventure in Puerto Morelos with an all-day snorkeling, 4-wheeling and zip-lining tour.

Explore not one, but two, coral reefs, before taking an ATV through the jungle, and zip-lining through the treetops.

This day-long tour includes your lunch, drinks, and transportation. Plus, they’ve got all the equipment you need to participate.

Reviews say this trip is an amazing experience, but the ATV ride can seem a bit short and you’ll probably want extra cash for souvenirs .

However, while this tour does include a visit to a gorgeous cenote — if that’s your primary goal for participating, consider a Cenote focused tour instead.

• Round-trip transportation (in Cancun from the hotel zone or downtown)
• Speed boat (2 people)
• Snorkel in the “Angel” coral reef
• ATV tour (shared ATV for 2 persons on the same reservation)
• 5 zip lines (included at interactive cenote)
• Necessary equipment
• No transport in Riviera Maya or Costa Mujeres
• Doc and reef tax ($15 USD per person)

3. Discover 3 Cenotes and 1 Lagoon from Cancun

5⭐️ 1 Review

Duration: 12 hours 

Located south of Tulum, you’ll find the tranquil water of Laguna de Kaan Luum strikingly clear and just a hint of turquoise. It’s the ideal place to start your day on this four-stop tour .

Next, you’ll visit Cenote Zacil-Ha, the famous swimming hole known for its crystalline waters. Then finally you’ll visit Cenote Cristalino where you’ll see incredible crystal clear fresh water and Gran Cenote which has a spectacular descent down the stairs before you get to swim or dive through a tunnel guided by a rope.

This day-long excursion provides you with two meals (a boxed meal and a restaurant lunch), and a round-trip to Cancun.

• Round-trip transportation from Cancun
• Includes box lunch
• Entrance to the Kaam Lumm Lagoon for bathing and relaxing
• Entrance to the Cenote Zacil-Ha to bathe and refresh (Cenote, pool, zipline)
• Entrance to a grand cenote to bath and refresh
• Entrance to the cenote Cristalino for bathing and refresh
• Includes food 1 dish to choose
• Drinks in the restaurant
• Lifejackets

4. ATV, Ziplines, and Cenote Tour at Extreme Adventure Eco Park Cancun

4.5⭐️ 1,372 Reviews

Duration: 4 hours 

Looking for an unforgettable Cenote tour from Cancun? This tour at Extreme Adventure Eco Park combines zip lining, ATV off-roading, and swimming in gorgeous natural waters.

This is THE PERFECT pick for families that want to take a shorter excursion but still experience something unforgettable together.

This is an exciting excursion that provides exceptional value for your money. But make sure you wear thick, high socks while on the ATV and leave your phone at home (it’s not allowed!).

And be warned there are LOTS of bugs, but your average bug sprays aren’t always welcome during eco experiences.

Have fun with the family, make the most of your time and money, and do something you can talk about for years to come!

• Admission to Extreme Adventure Eco Park
• Zipline Circuit and Cenote with 1 zipline
• 50-minute ATV ride through the Mayan jungle
• Ride in an air-conditioned vehicle
• Security gear for Zipline and ATV
• Roundtrip transportation from your hotel or meeting point
• Pictures (available to purchase)
• Alcoholic beverages

Half-a-Day Cenote Tours Cancun

5. zip lining and cenote tour from cancun.

5⭐️ 4 Reviews

Who doesn’t want an opportunity to explore and adventure with the family?

This half-day tour is kid-friendly and includes swimming, ziplining, and riding on an ATV. With hotel pickup and drop-off, you don’t have to worry about the logistics.

Plus snacks and bottled water are included.

A truly fun-for-the-whole-family experience, your knowledgable, bilingual guides will help make sure your trip is safe and enjoyable while you swim, zip line, and ATV through the jungle.

• Bilingual guide
• Swimming in a cenote
• Ziplines in the jungle and in the cenote
• Snack and a bottle of water
• Medical insurance
• Transfer with A/C
• Any other activities in Riviera Maya
• Any meals, snacks, or beverages during the ground transportation trip
• Souvenirs or additional purchases
• Photo or video services

6. 5-in-1 Cancun Snorkeling Tour: Swim with turtles, reef, Musa, shipwreck, and cenote

4.5⭐️ 821 Reviews

Duration: 3.5 hours 

This 5-in-1 snorkeling tour allows you to swim with turtles, see the reef, enjoy part of the underwater art museum, and see both a shipwreck and a cenote.

It’s appropriate for both novice and experienced snorkelers.

You’ll get a chance to experience underwater life, from the exotic water creatures to the interesting scene of a shipwrecked boat.

The best part is, it’s an easy activity for most people to participate and is fun for the whole family!

• Roundtrip air-conditioned transportation
• Bottled water
• Showers and lockers
• Passenger insurance
• Fuel surcharge
• Use of snorkeling equipment
• The dock fee is not included ($10 USD per person)
• Tips for the crew (optional)
• $5 USD deposit for locker key (refunded when you return the key)

7. Tulum Guided Tour, Magical Cenote, Lagoon Snorkeling, and Beachside Lunch

5⭐️ 519 Reviews

This incredible tour is jam-packed with activities. You’ll have the opportunity to explore Tulum, the Magical Cenote, snorkel in Yal Ku Lagoon, and enjoy a beachside lunch.

You’ll have to sacrifice a day of your vacation, but it’ll be well worth it!

Snorkel in Yal Ku Lagoon where the fresh and salt waters merge, and be guided through the Tulum Archaeological site where you’ll learn about the ancient Mayan city that used to be there.

And end at Punta Venado Eco-Adventura where you can enjoy gorgeous turquoise waters and white sandy beaches.

• Hotel pick-up and drop off
• Professional guide
• Snorkeling gear
• Life jacket
• Souvenir photos (available to purchase)

8. Rio Secreto Plus Admission Ticket with Transportation from Riviera Maya Hotels

4.5⭐️ 262 Reviews

Duration: 5 hours 

Rio Secreto is an unforgettable adventure that will transport you to the Xibalba (the Mayan Underworld).

Experience a light and sound show projected on the geological formations inside, then take the opportunity to hike, bike, and swim, leaving you with incredible memories.

This excursion is perfect for those visitors looking to spend time in nature and see a little adventure. However, it’s a demanding day — so you’ll want to make sure you have time to rest up.

You also are only allowed limited spots to take photos, so you might want to opt for the photo option provided by the guides.

• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Use of bicycle
• Use of helmet
• Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
• Private Cenotes Tours in Cancun 

9. Private Snorkeling Tour in 2 Cenotes with Mayan Lunch

5⭐️ 18 Reviews

Duration: 6 to 7 hours 

Among the private tours available in Cancun, this snorkeling tour is perfect if you’re looking for a fun and unique experience.

You’ll be matched with knowledgeable, bilingual guides that can help you make the most of your day.

You’ll have the opportunity to swim in two different cenotes — choose between Jaguar, Nicte Ha, or Taak bi ha.

After which, you can enjoy a delicious lunch in the jungle.

This tour is perfect for people who are very interested in checking out cenotes during their trip to Cancun. If swimming and adventure-seeking are on your to-do list, this is the Cancun day trip for you.

• Hotel pick-up and drop-off
• Private transport by air-conditioned minivan
• Lunch (one meal a la carte) with water, soda, beer
• Beverages: water, soda, beer
• Use of snorkel equipment including life jackets and wet suits
• Access to Cenote Dos Ojos

10. Xenotes

5⭐️ 7 Reviews

Duration: 8 hours 

The Rita de Los Cenotes Xenotes Only tour provides an opportunity to experience all four different types of cenotes:

• open crystalline cenote
• great old cenote
• blue cavern cenote

This tour gives you the opportunity to zip line, kayak, swim, and explore, all before settling down for a picnic. It’s the ideal tour for those who want to discover the best of Mexico’s natural beauty and have an unforgettable adventure!

• Round-trip transportation with a certified guide
• Access to toilets, dressing rooms, towel
• All fees and taxes

11. Coba Ruins and Cenote Private Tour from Cancun Hotel Zone

5⭐️ 5 Reviews

Duration: 8 to 9 hours 

Explore the Coba ruins, swim in Cenotes, and enjoy lunch at a local Mexican restaurant with this private full-day tour .

Arrive early and take in the views from the summit of the ancient pyramid, before heading to Tamcach-Ha and Coo-Ha cenotes where you’ll have an opportunity to swim and snorkel in the middle of the jungle.

Then, end the day with a delicious meal at a local restaurant.

Your professional guides and hassle-free round-trip will make the logistics a piece of cake. You’ll cut costs because the lunch, snorkel gear, and souvenir photo are all included.

And you’ll have a day that you and the family will remember forever!

• Private Transport by air-conditioned minivan
• Professional guide 1 bike per person / 2 people per tricycle Rental in Coba
• Life jackets

Best combo ruins + cenote tours in Cancun

12. chichen itza, cenote and valladolid all-inclusive tour.

5⭐️ 9,078 Reviews

Duration: 12 hours

Chichen Itza is one of the most awe-inspiring sights in all of the Yucatan Peninsula, and this combo tour gives you a chance to see it along with the historic town of Valladolid and a spectacular cenote.

This full-day tour starts when your group arrives at Chichen Itza where you’ll have a chance to see the impressive step pyramid of Kukulkan (El Castillo).

You’ll then head to the open Saamal, where you’ll descend the stone steps and have time to capture all your photo keepsakes.

Your journey through history continues at the popular stop, the historic town of Valladolid, a great place to visit that’s seen its fair share of indigenous risings, like the War of Castes in 1847.

Today, it’s a favorite of visitors. From street markets to luxury boutiques, Valladolid offers something for everyone.

This is truly a must-experience if you want a chance to see it all but are only here for a short time. Run by knowledgeable guides, it’s an unforgettable trip — and don’t forget to swim in the cenote!

• Hotel pickup from Cancun and Riviera Maya or meeting point
• Certified bilingual guide
• Visit an amazing Mayan Cenote
• Entry/Admission – Cenote and Access to the restrooms and dressing rooms at Saamal
• Special area reserved for the buffet meal
• A 30-minute stop at Valladolid main square
• Chichen Itza access tax
• Lockers and life jackets
• Optional tips

13. Tulum Ruins, Reef Snorkeling Plus Cenote and Caves

5⭐️ 2,524 Reviews

Duration: 8 hours

This full-day excursion is jam-packed with things to do. Not only do you get a chance to visit the Tulum ruins, but you’ll head to the reef to snorkel and check out a cenote!

Your day starts at the Tulum Archeological site where you’ll learn about history and culture, and see the gorgeous Mayan ruins .

Then you’ll head to the reef to snorkel and see some truly breathtaking underwater sights. From there you’ll head to the third stop, the Xtun Caves.

Here you’ll have a chance to swim and snorkel in the limestone-filled water of the cenote.

This is one of the best tours if you’re looking for an unforgettable all-in-one Yucatan Peninsula experience.

• Roundtrip transportation with AC
• Water bottle
• Natural Marine Reserve Fee
• Souvenir photos

Cenote diving tours from Cancun

14. scuba diving cenote chac mool from cancun.

5⭐️ 2 Reviews

Duration: 1 day

Explore the crystal clear, underground waters of Cenote Chac Mool on a small group guided diving tour !

Due to its small 6-person limit, this is one of the best things you could do for first-time Cenote divers. However, you’ll have to be certified to dive in the first place to participate (don’t forget to bring your card).

This easy and relaxing 2-tank dive is perfect for certified divers looking for a unique adventure with some of the most beautiful underwater landscapes in the Riviera Maya.

This is a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. But before booking remember that you need to take a 24-hour break before boarding a plane after a dive — so this isn’t the best pick for your last day in Mexico!

• Transportation from the meeting point (Real Inn, Cancun)
• 2 tank dives in cenote Chac Mool
• Full SCUBA equipment
• Tanks, weight, torch
• Hotel pickup

15. Cenote Diving — Private Scuba Diving in Cenote Kukulkan

5⭐️ 160 Reviews

Duration: 6 hours 

The private diving tour in Cenote Kukulkan is for divers only — at the very least you need to be certified for open water dives. But pending you are, this half-day diving excursion is for you.

The day starts at 8 am at the pickup spot, after a short drive you’ll land at Cenote Kukulkan — a beautiful place you’ll only see underwater.

Gear is provided, and after a brief security briefing and gear check, you’ll head out on your dive.

This is a truly amazing and unforgettable experience. Most travelers who’ve been on a dive to these sacred places say it’s the highlight of their trip.

It’s packed with great, knowledgeable guides, and filled with breathtaking underwater visuals. Not to mention, lunch is included!

• Professional multilingual guide
• Typical Mexican lunch
• Snacks and refreshments
• Scuba equipment rental
• Transportation from the meeting point (Plaza las Perlas, Playa del Carmen)
• Cenote entrance fees (expect to pay 250 Mexican pesos)

Cenote Tours Packing list: what to wear for a cenote tour

Your cenote packing list is pretty simple, here is a list of things you will need.

☑️ Bathing suit (and an extra one to change)

☑️ Microfiber Towel

Sfee 2 Pack Microfiber Travel Towel, Quick Dry Towel Camping Towel Large Beach Towel Super Absorbent Compact Lightweight Sports Towel Gym Towel Set for Beach, Gym, Hiking, Pool, Backpacking, Bath, Yoga

☑️ Snorkeling gear

☑️ Water shoes

☑️ Mosquito repellent (to wear after you swam)

Keep mosquitos away!

OFF! Botanicals Deet-Free Insect Repellent, Plant-Based Bug Spray & Mosquito Repellent, 4 oz

6885 4.5-⭐️ Reviews

☑️ Light clothes

☑️ Comfortable shoes to walk in the jungle

Cenote Tours from Cancun FAQs

How much should I tip my tour guide?

Generally speaking, it’s customary to tip between 10-20% of the cost of the tour or activity. However, it is ultimately up to you to decide how much you feel is appropriate based on your overall experience.

If you had an especially good tour and enjoyed your guide’s company, then a larger tip may be in order.

Where is the best cenote in Cancun?

The best cenote in the Cancun area depends on what you’re looking for. However, some of the popular picks include:

• Cenote Azul (Playa del Carmen)
• Gran Cenote (Tulum)
• Cenote Zaci (Valladolid)

Can you visit cenotes without a tour in Cancun?

Yes, you can visit cenotes without booking a tour in Cancun. The best way is going to be to get a rental car. You will have to cover your own entrance fee, equipment, and anything else a tour might cover. 

Actually, I always recommend renting a car and driving on your own to discover all the best Cancun cenotes at your own pace.

However, if you don’t feel comfortable driving in a foreign country, it’s understandable and that’s where organized tours come in handy.

Discover Cars

Discover Cars is a great Car rental search platform to compare different car rental companies and choose the one that fits your needs. With more than 70000 Reviews and an average of 4.5/5 Score , Discover Cars helps you find the best Car Rental company in Cancun.

Do I need water shoes for cenotes?

A pair of sneakers or tennis shoes are great for this kind of tour. However, if you’re planning on spending time in the natural pool of water, you might want to consider water shoes as well.

Are cenotes cold in Cancun?

The average temperature of 23.5 C (75 F), making it cooler than the beautiful waters of the Caribbean Sea.

Are there crocodiles in cenotes?

Yes, crocodiles can sometimes be found in cenotes but it’s very rare to see them.

Is swimming in a cenote dangerous?

Swimming in a cenote is not dangerous perse, but you should be careful when you swim in its deeper areas and wear a life jacket if you are not a good swimmer, in case something happens.

Also, you should pay attention to the rocks underneath as sometimes it’s difficult to determine how far they are.

Especially if you love to jump from a platform, do it only when it’s allowed and in the designated areas.

Wrap-up: Best Cenote Tours from Cancun

Whether you want to cool off in the refreshing water of a cenote, have a jungle adventure, or simply explore the unique Mexican Cenotes, these cenote tours will help you do exactly that.

From full-day tours built for scuba divers looking to explore the deep water of this natural habitat to family-friendly experiences to some of the most beautiful cenote locations in the country.

No matter what kind of experience you’re looking for, there’s a blue cenote out there for you.

Hey there! This is Isabella, the founder and author of this site. I have been living in Cancun for the past 13 years and although I have been roaming around Mexico, Cancun's spectacular turquoise waters and pristine beach draw me back to this popular Mexican beach destination. That is why I decided to start this blog, to show you all the beauty you can find in Cancun and share helpful travel tips to help you plan a fabulous vacation in Cancun!

Ultimate Guide to 50+ Best Cenotes in Mexico

Adventurous Kate contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I will earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks!

If you’ve never visited cenotes in Mexico, you have a lot of fun ahead of you! These freshwater sinkholes are the best swimming spots on the planet — and you can only find them in one place.

There are more than 6,000 cenotes in Mexico, most of them located on the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico. You’ll find dozens of cenotes you can visit near tourism hotspots like Tulum, Playa del Carmen, Valladolíd, and Mérida.

Whether you’re planning to hit up the party scene in Tulum, lie on the beach in Cancun, do a big Yucatan road trip , or put down roots in Mérida for a few months, as I did two years ago, you should allot part of your trip to visiting cenotes!

But what cenotes are actually worth it? What are the best cenotes in Mexico?

I’m glad you asked. While I’ve been to around 20 or so of the best Mexico cenotes, there are way more than those. I asked my travel blogging colleagues to share their favorite cenotes, and they eagerly obliged.

Here we have shared more than 50 of the best cenotes in Mexico, where to find them, what they’re good for, when they’re open, and more!

Bookmark this page and send it to your friends, because you will be referencing it OFTEN when planning your trip to Mexico.

Table of Contents

What is a cenote?

A cenote is a freshwater sinkhole — an underground chamber that contains permanent water. Open and semi-open cenotes are created when the limestone bedrock above collapses in.

Additionally, cenotes are connected to underground rivers and subterranean water systems. The water is usually incredibly clear, as it’s been filtering through the ground for quite some time.

Cenotes are found throughout the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico (though there are occasional cenotes in other parts of Mexico like Chiapas).

Some scientists believe that cenotes were formed by the same meteor that killed the dinosaurs, wiping out much of the plant and animal life on the planet as a result. This meteor impact site is now Chicxulub crater, and cenotes fan out in circles from here.

Mayans and Cenotes

Cenotes were sacred places to the Ancient Mayans. Not only were they a much-need source of fresh water in a stiflingly hot climate, but in ancient times, Mayans believed that cenotes were the entrance to the underworld. The Mayan word for cenote is d’zonot , or ts’onot , meaning well.

Today archaeologists believe that the Maya carried out human sacrifices at the Sacred Cenote at Chichen Itza. Human blood was seen as nourishment for the gods and high-status prisoners of war were often the ones sacrificed.

Offerings were also made to Chaac, the god of rain, to prevent drought.

VERY important tip: Keep in mind that Mayans still exist today! Their civilization didn’t die out. Mayans live among us. Many Mexicans in the Yucatán Peninsula grow up speaking dialects of Yucatec Maya as their first language.

Types of Cenotes

As you’ll see in this post, there are SO many different kinds of cenotes!

Open cenotes are cenotes whose walls have collapsed in on them, and they are exposed to the sky. Some are surrounded by vegetation and may appear more like lakes.

Semi-open cenotes have parts that are open to the sky and parts that are closed.

Closed cenotes , or cave cenotes, are cenotes that are completely covered.

Underground cenotes , or ancient cenotes, are underground cenotes that have yet to be discovered.

Beyond that, there are two main kinds of cenote experiences.

Hacienda cenotes have facilities built around the cenote — often a pool, restaurant, and outdoor lounge areas. Some hacienda cenotes are full-on resorts, with accommodation and activities like horseback riding.

Some hacienda cenotes are Cenote Oxman outside Valladolid and Cenotes Santa Barbara in Homún, near Mérida.

Wild cenotes have few facilities — sometimes just a single toilet and a solitary employee collecting admission fees.

Some wild cenotes are Cenote Noh Mozon and Nah Yah Cenote , both in Pixyá near Mérida.

What do you do in cenotes?

It might seem like a dumb question, but what do people do in cenotes? Not dumb at all!

You can swim! You can snorkel! You can fly out on rope swings and jump in! In some of them, you can even dive. (Hell, in some of them, you can ONLY dive.)

Cenotes are the best place in the world to cool off. Which is one reason why they pair so nicely with a trip to Mayan ruins! The Yucatán is a very hot place, and you’ll be ready for a dip after a few hours in the sun.

Map of Cenotes in Mexico

Above you can see a map of the best cenotes in the Yucatán peninsula of Mexico. You can also see the full Google map here.

You’re probably thinking of Cenote Suytun , which is near the city of Valladolid.

There are so many excellent cenotes near Tulum — don’t miss Cenote Dos Ojos or the Gran Cenote!

There are dozens of good cenotes near Playa del Carmen . We love the Cenote Azul and Cenote Elvira!

Cenote Ik-Kil is a popular choice close to Chichen Itza, but I prefer Cenote Oxman , a bit of a further drive but worth it.

Cenote is pronounced seh-NO-tay .

8 Best Cenotes in Mexico

So we know there are a lot of cenotes in Mexico — but which ones are the best? Everyone has difference preferences, but here are the Mexican cenotes I think are extraordinary:

Cenote Zaci in Valladolíd — This cenote is enormous and brilliantly situated, right in the middle of the city, and even has a waterfall flowing into it from above! It’s also one of the deepest cenotes in Mexico.

Cenote Dos Ojos near Tulum — This cenote is very good for both snorkeling and scuba diving, and consists of two cenotes joined by an underwater tunnel.

Cenotes Santa Barbara in Homún, near Mérida — If you want a resort-like experience with several cenotes on site, this one will give you the local Mexican experience (more so than the ones on the Riviera Maya, which primarily cater to foreign tourists).

Cenote Noh Mozon near Mérida — The most spectacular wild cenote. Tough to get to on an extremely bumpy road, and home to the bluest water I’ve ever seen.

Cenote Oxman near Valladolíd — Just a solid, excellent cenote much less crowded than the big names near Chichén Itza, with a local crowd and great facilities.

Gran Cenote near Tulum — This cenote is extremely popular and mostly filled with foreign tourists, but it has the bonus of turtles swimming around. A fun choice for snorkeling.

Cenote Azul near Playa del Carmen — This cenote is open with a phenomenally blue color that is great in photos.

Cenote El Pit near Tulum — If you’re looking to dive in a cenote, El Pit is a huge achievement. It’s dark, it’s spooky, and you’ll never forget it.

Cenotes Travel Tips

Go early. You almost always get a better experience first thing in the morning when cenotes are least crowded.

Bring cash — small bills and coins if you can. Most cenotes only take cash as payment and can’t break larger bills. Cash is also useful for buying street food and public bathroom visits.

Go for a mix of hacienda cenotes and wild cenotes. There is a huge difference between a cenote with a full restaurant and pool and a cenote that is a hole in the ground — both are great and worth visiting!

Be careful with your drone. Some people like to bring drones to photograph cenotes from above, but not all cenotes allow them to be flown nearby. Be extremely cautious of people’s safety.

Keep in mind the time zone. The regions of Quintana Roo (Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum) and Yucatán (Valladolíd, Chichén Itzá, Mérida) are in two different time zones. Don’t miss your bus home!

Rent a car if you want to explore independently. The Yucatán is a safe and easy region to drive in Mexico, and driving will allow you to visit cenotes at your own pace. Visit 10 in a day if you want to!

The Ultimate Two-Week Yucatán Road Trip Itinerary in Mexico

Cenotes Tours in Mexico

One of the easiest ways to visit cenotes in Mexico is to book a cenote tour! This is an especially good option if you’re not comfortable driving in Mexico.

It’s also a good way to meet fellow travelers if you’re traveling solo in Mexico .

Here I’ve picked out some high quality cenote tours departing from four popular cities.

Cenotes Tours in Tulum

This budget Tulum cenote tour takes you to three cenotes just north of Tulum for a low price.

This mindfulness cenote experience has you practicing mindfulness and meditation in a gorgeous cenote. How very Tulum!

This Tulum snorkeling and cenote tour combines snorkeling the reef with exploring a cenote.

This Tulum Instagrammable cenotes tour actually takes you to two of the best cenotes near Valladolíd: Cenote Suytun and Cenote Oxman!

Cenotes Tours in Playa del Carmen

This classic “do it all in a day” cenote tour from Playa del Carmen includes Chichen Itza, a cenote, a buffet lunch, and the city of Valladolid.

This unusual cenote tour in Playa del Carmen includes swimming with turtles!

This morning tour of cenotes near Playa del Carmen gets you there while they are empty and gorgeous!

Cenotes Tours in Valladolíd

How about a cenote tour by bike? This Valladolíd bike tour includes stops at three different cenotes!

This tour gives you access to the Mayan ceremony c in a cenote near Valladolid.

Cenotes Tours in Mérida

This Mérida cenote tour takes you to two hard-to-reach wild cenotes. A good one to do as a tour.

This Mérida tour takes you to the Santa Barbara Cenotes — and possibly a few more if you have the time.

This experience takes you to two cenotes near Mérida , plus a hacienda and lunch with a Mayan family.

Read More: Is Mexico Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

What to Bring to Cenotes

Reef Safe Sunscreen or Biodegradable Sunscreen — Non-negotiable. Cenotes are a delicate environment and conventional sunscreen can harm them. Get used to using this throughout Mexico.

Sports Sandals — These are essential for any Mexico trip: great for climbing ruins, light hiking, walking on uneven sidewalks in cities, and climbing into gnarly wild cenotes while keeping your feet cool. I’ve rocked my Teva Tirra Sandals for more than a decade.

Dry Bag — Essential for keeping your electronics dry. Get a big one you can fit your whole purse or small backpack in. Mine saved me when I was shipwrecked !

Quick-Dry Towel — Pretty self-explanatory.

Insect Repellant — You’ll need it in the Yucatán.

Water Shoes or Reef Shoes (Optional) — You might appreciate them for shallow cenotes where you touch the ground and the cenotes with climbing walls.

Waterproof Phone Bag (Optional) — If you want to take your phone into the cenote with you, without having to lug a larger dry bag.

Snorkeling Gear (Optional) — Many cenotes offer snorkel gear rentals, but smaller remote cenotes do not. Worth the investment if you plan on doing a lot of snorkeling in Mexico (or the idea of sharing a snorkel skeeves you out).

Cenotes Near Tulum

Ah, Tulum — easily one of Mexico’s best beach resorts, famous for its Mayan ruins, white sand beaches, and enormous parties. Tulum has become a major destination on the Mayan Riviera over the last decade or so.

Some of the best cenotes in Mexico are close to Tulum — including famous cenotes like the Gran Cenote , where you can swim with tiny turtles and Cenote Dos Ojos , which is equally fun for snorkelers and divers.

And if you want to get a bit off the beaten path, check out Laguna Kaan Luum or Cenote Taak Bi Ha .

Tulum also makes a good base for cenotes trips further afield. See some top recommendations in the Cenotes Tours in Tulum section, and see some more below.

Cenote Calavera

Submitted by Daniel Carracciolo of Destinationless Travel

Cenote Calavera is located only a short 5-minute drive from the bustling tourist town of Tulum. The cenote got its name from its unique shape, which, when looked at from above, resembles a skull — Calavera is the word for skull in Spanish. 

Calavera is a really cool cenote to visit, especially among divers. Below the small opening in the limestone rock is a vast network of caves perfect for beginner cave divers. Although the experience can be scary, Calavera is still a rather open cave, and it’s a great introduction to cave diving. 

Those looking to cool off under the hot Mexican sun also love visiting Calavera, and it’s become somewhat famous with Instagrammers. Jump from above into the pool below your feet or pin drop through one of the cave’s narrow eyes. There is a ladder to access the cenote, and it’s a unique place to swim. 

The best part about Calavera is how close it is located to Tulum. You can get a taxi to the cenote for only a few dollars. 

Cenote Calavera is a must-visit and one of the best things to do in Mexico .

Address: Carretera Tulum Coba Km 1.7, 77796 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico

How to Get There: Driving or take a taxi is best.

Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM-5:00 PM

Admission: 100 pesos ($5 USD)

Cenote Car Wash

Submitted by Sarah Hughes of Live, Dream, Discover

The official name of this lovely open cenote is Aktun Ha, meaning water cave. The story goes that it was nicknamed Car Wash Cenote because people used to stop and wash their cars here. Its convenient location, just off the main road from Tulum to Coba, gives credence to this tale.

At first glance, Cenote Car Wash may not wow you as some of the more impressive cave cenotes do. Open-air cenotes are beautiful and great for swimming but they often look more like a pond than a magical grotto. However, go a little deeper and Car Wash is sure to become a favorite excursion from Tulum.

Climb down the old wooden steps, or jump off the higher platform, and be refreshed by the clear, cool waters. Then, dip your head under and open your eyes to see an underwater garden worthy of a Monet painting. You may even see a diver or two appear out of nowhere as they emerge from the underwater caves below.

We’ve visited Cenote Carwash several times and have a unique story from each visit. Once, we witnessed an underwater photography session of a girl submerged in a flowing white dress. The flowery background was stunning.

Another time we were asked if we wanted to see a water lizard which turned out to be a small crocodile! Don’t worry, he’s been there for years and is totally harmless. As this is one of our favorite cenotes near Tulum, there are sure to be more stories to tell soon.

Location: Calle Carretera Federal 109

How to get there: Car, taxi or colectivo, all 15 minutes from Tulum

Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM-6:00 PM

Admission: 50 pesos ($2.50 USD) for swimming, 120 Pesos ($6) for diving

Casa Cenote

Submitted by Trijit Mallick of Budget Travel Buff

Located just 8 kilometers north of Tulum, Casa Cenote is an exceptionally beautiful open-air cenote with crystal clear water, mangroves, and different types of fish, birds, and plants. Casa Cenote is a perfect place for you if you are looking for a fantastic diving and snorkeling experience near Tulum.

The emerald-green crystal waters, the mangrove forest, the natural caves hidden in the jungle, and the unique flora and fauna will leave you with special memories.

Casa Cenote is a quiet and  amazing place  where you can relax and chill by the water with no crowds as such. Snorkeling is the most popular activity in Casa Cenote. You can swim in the shallow part of the water where the maximum depth is 25 feet. Don’t go beyond the warning sign without a guide as crocodiles may present there.

You will be amazed by the clarity, light, and beautiful color of the water. You will see many small fishes like guppies, platys, and mollies that hide in the roots of the mangroves. You can even spot some birds like herons, pelicans, and some reptiles if you are lucky. Kayaks, paddleboards are also available for rent. Lockers are available.

You can take the Colectivo from the main avenue in Tulum and it will take around 15 minutes. It is comfortable and cheap but the only downside is that Colectivo will drop you on the side of the highway. You have to walk along a dirt road for another 20 minutes.

Address : Carr. Tulum-Puerto Juarez Fracc. Tankah Caribe Lt. 32 Mza. 3, Tulum, Mexico.

How to Get There: Take a 15-minute colectivo ride from Tulum, then walk 20 minutes along a dirt road.

Hours : Daily, 9:00 AM-5:00 PM

Admission : 120 pesos ($6 USD)

Choo Ha Cenote

Submitted by Tanya Korteling from Can Travel Will Travel

Choo Ha Cenote, located close to the Mayan ruins of Tulum and Coba, is a deep underground cenote full of stalactites and stalagmites. What makes this cenote even more special is that it’s less touristy than most of the other cenotes in the area.

To access this cenote, you have to climb down a slippery wooden staircase and then some limestone steps. Suddenly, the lights reveal a magical scene of glittering stalagmites and stalactites reflecting in the blue, crystal clear water.

Be prepared for a shock from the freezing water and make sure you take a snorkel to explore below the surface. Most people combine a visit to Choo Ha Cenote with a visit to the Mayan ruins at Coba or Tulum.

You can visit the cenote independently; it’s also possible to take a small group tour such as the fantastic  Mayan Experience Cenote Tour  we did from Puerto Morelos. 

As for facilities, there are simple changing rooms, lockers, toilets and a shower.

Address: Unmarked road, Chanchen 1, Cobá, Q.R., Mexico

How to Get There: Driving is best; you can also take a colectivo from Tulum to Coba and get a taxi from there. Just 5 km from Coba.

Cenote Corazón del Paraiso

Submitted by Isabella of Let’s Travel to Mexico

Located only 10 minutes from Tulum town, on the way to Felipe Carrillo puerto, cenote Corazon del Paraiso is a spectacular open cenote shaped like a heart — hence, the name Corazón, meaning heart in Spanish. 

It’s indeed one of the most beautiful open cenotes especially when you find spectacular white clouds reflecting in the crystal clear water. Together with the surrounding lush tropical vegetation, it creates a surreal setting, ideal for spectacular pictures, if you are into photography. 

Around the cenote, you will find spacious platforms and a seating area where you can relax and enjoy the peace and tranquillity of the place. 

However, you should bring your own snorkel and mask to check out what’s hiding beneath the surface. For the more adventurous, cave diving is also available, but you will need to book with a dive center. 

It’s always recommended to enter the cenote without any lotion or repellent on, and showers and bathrooms are available at the entrance. You can also rent life jackets and snorkel gear.

The cenote and the premises are very clean and well kept; please make sure you leave them as they are.

Address: Just west of Tulum along the main highway, Quintana Roo, Mexico

How to Get There: Drive or take a taxi or colectivo.

Admission: 150 pesos ($7.50), or 100 pesos ($5 USD) for locals

Cenote Cristal (Cenote Naharon)

Submitted by Daniel James

When in Tulum, one of the many cenotes that you can’t afford to miss is Cenote Cristal, also known as Cenote Naharon. Located a five-minute drive from Tulum Pueblo, this open cenote is a great choice if you want to go swimming and take advantage of its crystal clear waters.

The great thing about Cenote Cristal is that it allows you to see deep within the water without having to use any snorkeling or diving equipment. Also, you can enjoy the lofty palm trees and jungle-like flora that surround the area with fewer tourists than other more well-known cenotes. Not to mention, if you’re feeling brave, you can jump in the water from the wooden ledge that stands around 3.5 meters high.

Visiting Cenotes is one of many things to do in the  Rivera Maya , and this cenote is as family-friendly as it gets with a fully guided rope sitting one foot above the water’s surface, allowing younger swimmers to pull themselves back to the edge of the pool with ease. It’s a good idea to arrive early to avoid any disappointment, as there is usually a cut-off point during the late afternoon.

Address: On an unnamed road five minutes west of Tulum Pueblo, Quintana Roo.

How to Get There: Drive or take a colectivo from Tulum.

Admission: 150 pesos ($7.50 USD)

Cenote Dos Ojos

Submitted by Stefania Guglielmi of EverySteph

If you’ve seen pictures of cenotes on Instagram (and who hasn’t?!), chances are you’ve seen a picture of Cenote Dos Ojos . This cenote located between Tulum and Playa del Carmen is in fact one of the most famous of all — if not THE most famous one.

This sinkhole’s name means literally “two eyes,” and in fact, it’s a system of two different cenotes connected via an underground passageway. Both cenotes are stunning – one features the most beautiful bluest water you’ll see in a cenote, while the other ojo is darker and boasts some incredible stalagmite formations (and a colony of bats!). 

Most people tend to stop in the first one, so it’s always quite crowded – however, arrive early in the morning (before the cenote opens) so that you can enjoy the place without the crowds. If you’re lucky, you might even have it all to yourself as I did!

At Cenote Dos Ojos, you’ll find all sorts of facilities including bathrooms and changing rooms, lockers for your belongings, a covered picnic area, lifeguards on duty, and even a massage service. You’ll be also able to rent lifejackets and snorkeling gear.

Address: Cenote Jaguar Rd, 77780 Tulum, Quintana Roo, Mexico

How to Get There: Drive or take a taxi, just 20 minutes from Tulum.

Admission: 350 pesos ($17 USD)

Cenote Escondido

Submitted by Isabella of Boundless Roads

Located at only 3 km from downtown Tulum, Cenote Escondido is a cute small cenote that you can visit together with the Cenote Cristal, the more popular cenote on the opposite side of the road. In fact, they are mainly known as Cenote Cristal y Escondido and you must pay your entry fee to both at the Cenote Cristal.

Escondido means hidden in Spanish, and that is more than appropriate as it’s quite a trip to get there. So mke sure you go either by bike or car. If you get there by minivan or taxi it’s going to get complicated. 

Cenote Escondido is a small cenote wrapped in lush tropical vegetation and the sound of nature. It’s not very big and it has a long and narrow shape. This is different from other open cenotes, which are usually round.

The water is crystal clear and you can either swim, snorkel or even dive. Diving experiences must be booked in advance with a dive shop.

Also, you can play Tarzan! There are cords hanging from the trees on which you can swing and jump into the water. Or you can just sit on the benches and watch the adventurous ones doing it. 

Cenote Escondido is good for swimming and relaxing while soaking up the nature vibes. 

Address: Mayan Blue Rd, 77765 Q.R., Mexico

How to Get There: Drive or bike from Tulum.

Laguna Kaan Luum

Submitted by Sean Lau of Living Out Lau

There are plenty of cenotes in Mexico, but none is arguably as good for swimming and sunbathing as Laguna Kaan Luum, or Kaan Luum Lake. Though commonly referred to as a lake, its water source comes from the center where it connects with an underground river source. Technically speaking, it’s a type of open-air cenote.

Because of its varying depths, there are many different shades of blue to the lake. In fact, the beauty of it compares to the best beaches in Mexico, especially with the lush vegetation that surrounds Laguna Kaan Luum. Recently, the Kaan Luum added a swing that hovers over the water, making it the perfect Instagram photo opportunity.

When it comes to amenities, Laguna Kaan Luum features clean changing rooms for guests. At the lakeside, guests will find palapas where they can sit under and enjoy the Mexican sun. There are also small snack shops and locals selling coconuts on a good day.

If you want to visit Laguna Kaan Luum, you will want to find a  place to stay in Tulum . That is because Laguna Kaan Luum is only about 11 kilometers away from Tulum center, so travelers can either take a taxi for 10 minutes or bike for 30. Keep in mind that if you stay by Tulum Beach, your commute will be longer.

Address: Unmarked road, 10 minutes west of Tulum

How to Get There: Drive or take a taxi (10 minutes from Tulum Pueblo), or bike (30 minutes from Tulum Pueblo)

Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM-4:00 PM

Admission: 300 pesos ($15 USD)

Cenote Multum-Ha

Submitted by Eloise of My Favourite Escapes

When visiting the ruins in Coba, you should not miss the nearby cenotes. Cenote Multum-Ha is eight kilometers away from Coba, and you’ll have to drive two kilometers on an unpaved road to get there.

From the outside, it looks like there’s nothing to see. But once you go down the narrow spiral staircase, you reach a magical place. You’re 18 meters underground with no natural light, but the crystalline water in the cave looks stunning and inviting. After visiting the ruins in the hot and humid jungle, it’s a refreshing break.

As Cenote Multum-Ha is not as easy to access as the other cenotes near Coba, you may have the place just to yourself. The silence and calm make the visit very special. The lighting, the wooden platform, the line in the water…it has been well prepared to ensure visitors enjoy their time in and out of the water. Some say Multum-Ha is great for snorkeling, but there’s actually no need for  snorkeling equipment  to see through the transparent water.

Toilets, changing rooms and showers are available before entering the cenote.

Address: Carretera Principal Km6, 77740 Cobá, Q.R., Mexico

How to Get There: Driving, hiring a taxi, or a tour is best: eight kilometers from the Coba ruins, two on an unpaved road. Coba is 45 minutes from Tulum. You can also hire bikes at Coba to ride to the cenote.

Hours: 8:00 AM-6:00 PM

Cenote Nicte-Ha

Submitted by Steph of Every Steph

Cenote Nicte-Ha might not be as famous as Gran Cenote or its celebrity neighbor Cenote Dos Ojos, but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth your time. As you probably know by now (thanks Instagram!), swimming in cenotes is one of the best things to do in Tulum , and this is the perfect cenote if you fancy some peace and quiet.

Nicte-Ha is an open cenote, meaning that it looks like a natural open-air pool, which boasts crystal-clear, fresh water, and water lilies. The area around the cenote is very lush. Float on your back and look up at the sky, and it will feel like you’re swimming in the middle of the deep jungle.

Cenote Nicte-Ha is located in Parque Dos Ojos, on the same road where you’ll also find Cenote Dos Ojos and Cenote Jaguar, but it’s a completely different experience. Here you can escape from the crowds – come early in the morning and it won’t be difficult to have the cenote all for yourself.

Facilities at Cenote Nicte-Ha are limited – you’ll only find a (pretty basic) toilet here where you can get changed into your swimsuit if you need to.

Address: Cenote Jaguar Rd, 77780 Tulum, Mexico

How to Get There: Drive or take a taxi; it’s a 20-minute journey from Tulum.

Opening Hours : Daily, 9:00 AM-5:00 PM

Admission : 250 pesos ($12 USD)

Cenote El Pit

Submitted by Katie Diederichs of Two Wandering Soles

Not far from Tulum sits one of the most impressive cenotes for scuba diving in all of Mexico: El Pit. Diving in a cenote is one of the most unique  things to do in the Yucatán Peninsula , and it will likely be a highlight of your time in Mexico. 

Instead of marine life, divers will witness a natural phenomenon known as a hydrogen sulfide cloud. This is formed when organic materials, like leaves, decompose in the water, leaving behind a smoke-like layer of water that feels as if you’re swimming through a cloud. El Pit is also known as a fantastic location for underwater photography, as the light streams down in a beautiful yet eerie beam that looks almost magical in pictures. 

This cenote is really only worth visiting if you plan on diving, as the best views are from beneath the water. This means the best way to get to El Pit is to book a scuba diving tour with a reputable company that will bring you there and provide all the necessary gear. There is a $20 fee to dive here, and this is typically included in your scuba package. 

Since this cenote is mostly geared toward divers, there aren’t many facilities in the area other than toilets and a few tables. While not the most exciting cenote for snorkelers or those who plan on staying out of the water, El Pit is without a doubt one of the most memorable dive sites in the Yucatán.

Address: Unmarked road north of Tulum, 77773 Quintana Roo, Mexico

How to Get There: Join a scuba tour.

Hours: 8:00 AM-5:00 PM

Admission: $20 USD diving fee, typically included in a scuba tour package

Gran Cenote

Submitted by Jessica Schmit of Uprooted Traveler

The Gran Cenote is one of the most famous cenotes near Tulum, and for good reason! With its incredible turquoise waters, stunning underwater stalagmites, and abundant wildlife, this cenote has something for everyone.

Another bonus? Its location is only a 10 minute drive from the city’s downtown, so it’s easily accessible by taxi or even by any of the bikes that many hostels and hotels rent out.

Once you’ve arrived, you can take advantage of the lockers, life jackets, or snorkeling gear available for rent before jumping in the cool waters. Renting snorkeling gear is definitely a good call — in fact, this is one of the best snorkeling or diving spots in the area, with amazing rock formations below the water, which cause spectacular light beams to shine through the clear water, and dozens of tiny freshwater turtles and small fish swimming about.

Be sure to also paddle through the tunnel-like cave, with hundreds of chirping bats hanging overhead — there’s a second pool on the other side that’s incredibly picturesque and usually less busy than the cenote’s main section.

The Gran Cenote is quite popular with tour groups, so if you’d prefer to enjoy the cenote in peace, you should either aim to visit before 9:00 AM or after 3:00 PM. It’s also on the pricey side for a cenote, but thanks to its accessibility and picturesqueness, it’s certainly worth a stop to cool off while you’re in Tulum!

Address: Quintana Roo 109, 77796 Tulum

How to Get There: You can take a car or taxi — or rent a bike, as it’s close enough to Tulum.

Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM-4:45 PM

Admission: 300 pesos ($15)

Cenotes Sac Actún

Submitted by Bret Love of Blue Ridge Mountains Travel Guide

Located approximately halfway between the towns of Tulum and Akumal off Highway 307, Cenotes Sac Actún was established as the largest underground cave system in the world in 2018. It’s part of the Sac Actún river system, which stretches more than 163 miles, but exploration eventually proved it to be connected to the Dos Ojos cave system, which added another 52 miles to the total.

Long a favorite area for archeologists to explore, Sac Actún was made famous by the BBC’s  Planet Earth  and various National Geographic documentaries. The remains of a huge mastodon were discovered within the cave system back in 2008, as well as other animal skeletons and the skull of a teenage girl that was believed to be the oldest evidence of human habitation in the Yucatán Peninsula.

The cave is an easy day trip about 25 km from the heart of Tulum, and snorkeling its brilliant blue waters, surrounded by countless stalactites and stalagmites, is truly an otherworldly experience. It’s also a great way to beat the midday heat, as the water is as cool as the cave is dark.

While Sac Actún is commonly included in organized tours of the area, you can also do the guided snorkeling tour independently for around 450 pesos ($22 US), which includes a mask and snorkel.  The knowledgeable guides will use their flashlights to help point out unique rock formations, tiny fish below, and bat colonies above. But if you want to shoot underwater video, we highly recommend bringing your own flashlight (or renting one for an additional fee).

While the entrance fee may be pricier than other nearby cenotes, Sac Actun is a magical place that’s filled with caverns to explore. Get there first thing in the morning and you might even have the whole place to yourself!

Address: Carretera Federal 307 (Cancun-Chetumal) pasando, Xel-Ha, un kilometro hacia, 77760 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico

How to Get There: Driving or taking a taxi is best.

Admission: $35 USD for entry, 450 pesos ($22 USD) for the snorkeling tour

Cenote Taak Bi Ha

Submitted by Daria of The Discovery Nut

Located near popular Cenote Dos Ojos, Cenote Taak Bi Ha is often overshadowed by its famous neighbor. But make no mistake, Cenote Taak Bi Ha is well worth a stop thanks to its spectacular stalactites and stalagmites that leave many visitors in awe.

This cave cenote is also home to many bats and birds as well as an impressive cave system that attracts many divers. The water in Cenote Taak Bi Ha is spectacularly clear and its relatively shallow depth makes for a fun dive. Diving must be arranged with one of local tour operators, as diving in cenotes requires a special license.

Cenote Taak Bi Ha doesn’t have a lot of amenities besides parking, a small on-site store and life vests available at no extra fee.

Address: Taak Bi, Parque Dos Ojos Cenote S/N, Xel-Ha, 77762 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico

How to Get There: Best by driving or taxi. The entrance is behind Cenote Dos Ojos; continue along the bumpy road until you see the Cenote Taak Bi Ha sign.

Hours: 9:30 AM-5:00 PM

Admission: 400 pesos ($20 USD)

Cenote Tankah

Submitted by Natasha Karcz from  Planes, Trains and Karcz

Located a quick 10-minute drive northeast of Tulum’s vibrant core is one of its best kept secrets – Cenote Tankah. Accessible via hopping on the Tulum-Playa del Carmen bus or opting for a quick colectivo ride to the turn-off for the rustic Caleta Tankah Hotel, entry to the grounds includes a full meal plan with cocktail, a beachfront daybed and access to the entirety of their jungle property (which backs onto the renowned Tulum National Park, no less!).

Ensure to arrive early as the grounds act as an extraordinary alternative to the otherwise heavily trafficked public beach in Tulum. Boasting soft white sand and the Riviera Maya’s signature turquoise waters, you can anticipate all the luxury of Tulum with none of its crowds. It’s here, nestled within a rocky shoreline alcove, that you’ll find the seaside oasis of Cenote Tankah. 

Cenote Tankah, with its unique fusion of cool cenote groundwater and the crashing waves of the surrounding Caribbean Sea, form somewhat of a natural infinity pool; complete with unparalleled views and dreamy atmosphere. Add to the experience with a snorkel rental if you wish to really take in the plentiful marine life and rock formations, including tropical fish and crabs.

Be it as a stop on your greater Yucatán Peninsula adventure or as its own day trip, you’ll find no shortage of things to keep you busy and entertained at the scenic Cenote Tankah.

Address: Calle, México 307, 77760 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico

How to Get There: Driving or taking a taxi is best; you can also take a colectivo or bus.

Admission: 300 pesos ($15 USD) includes entry, meal, cocktail, and full access to grounds

Cenote Zacil-Ha

Submitted by Rachel-Jean Firchau of Rachel Off Duty

If you’re looking for an easily accessible, straightforward cenote near Tulum, look no further than cenote Zacil-Ha! Located just 10 minutes up the road from Tulum town by car, this small open-air cenote resembles a natural swimming hole, and because it’s not as popular as some of the other cenotes in the immediate area, visitors can usually expect smaller crowds and a more relaxing experience overall. 

Cenote Zacil-Ha is one of the more developed cenotes in Tulum, and you get access to a decent range of amenities including onsite bathrooms and changing areas, optional life jacket rentals, access to two man-made pools, and a small restaurant.

The cenote itself offers a handful of platforms from which to jump, a zipline suspended over the water, and a lifeguard on duty, making Zacil-Ha a great choice for those looking for a cenote with easy access points (no hiking, trekking, or long staircases required), or one that’s simply a more convenient choice for families and large groups.

Beyond its family-friendly qualities, Zacil-Ha is not one to overlook, even if you’re a solo traveler or couple looking for adventurous things to do in Tulum . Crystal-blue water with incredible visibility, coupled with deep underworldly crevasses you can only truly admire if you hold your breath and dive down, await you at this Tulum cenote. Be sure to bring goggles!

Address: Coba km 8, México 180D, 77780 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico

How to Get There: Driving or taking a taxi from Tulum is best.

Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM-5:30 PM

Admission: 200 pesos ($10 USD) for entry, 10 pesos ($0.50 USD) for the zipline

Cenotes Near Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen is one of the most popular resort towns in Mexico, and for good reason! What began as a smaller, more low-key alternative to Cancun has grown into a large city with everything you could hope for, right on the beach.

Many cenotes in the Playa del Carmen area are just off the road between Playa del Carmen and Tulum, like Jardin del Eden Cenotes and Cenote Azul .

The Playa del Carmen area is also home to Ruta de las Cenotes — a collection of cenotes near the town of Puerto Morelos. Some of these cenotes include Cenote Elvira , Cenote La Noria and Cenote Zapote .

For cenote tours, check out the Cenote Tours in Playa del Carmen section, or see a few suggestions below.

Cenote Azul

Submitted by Hannah and Adam of Getting Stamped

If you are staying in Playa del Carmen and looking for a great cenote nearby, make sure to check out  Cenote Azul . It’s located about 20 minutes south of Playa del Carmen and 30 minutes north of Tulum. 

A great way to visit cenotes in the Riviera Maya is with a rental car, but you could easily take a Colectivo (shared minivan taxi), which is super easy and cheap. Most drivers will know exactly where Cenote Azul is since it is one of the more popular cenotes. If they don’t the cenote by name, you can tell the driver to drop you off at the Barcelo Hotel – Cenote Azul is basically right in front of the hotel. 

Once you arrive you’ll see why how this cenote got its name and why it’s so popular. Azul is the Spanish word for the color blue, and this cenote definitely has some of the bluest waters you’ll ever dip your toes in. The crystal clear water reveals massive limestone boulders plunked into the blue water and make a postcard-worthy view. 

On top of the stunning scenery, Cenote Azul is often believed to be one of the largest cenotes in Mexico at around 600 feet wide. This cenote is an open-top cenote surrounded by lush jungle, which means lots of sunshine and less steps making it more accessible than some other cenotes.

Cenote Azul is great for families, swimming, and just relaxing — it’s a place where you could spend the whole day. The main pool in the middle of the area is perfect for cliff jumping, with clear deep waters. There are many smaller pockets and separate pools of water if you want some alone time too. 

You can also rent snorkel gear & a life vest or go a little deeper and try scuba diving in a cenote! Toilets are available and there’s a little shop to get snacks, but not much more than that. Plan on packing some snacks, find a shady spot, take your time, and enjoy the cenote. 

Address: On an unmarked road off the highway in Xpuha, Quintana Roo, Mexico

How to Get There: Drive or take a taxi or colectivo south of Playa del Carmen.

Hours: Daily, 8:30 AM-5:00 PM

Admission: 120 pesos ($6) for adults, 80 pesos ($4) for children age 4-8, 100 pesos ($5) for Quintana Roo residents

Cenote Chikin Ha

Submitted by Victoria Heinz of Guide Your Travel

Chikin Ha Cenote is located 30 minutes south of Playa del Carmen and just under 40 minutes north of Tulum. This cenote is half protected by a cave that is popular among divers and known for its crystal-clear azure water. You can swim and snorkel at Chikin Ha or explore the surrounding jungle.

Chikin Ha is a fantastic cenote to visit because you actually get a lot for your money and can visit several cenotes at once. The main cenote is arguably one of the most beautiful in the area and perfectly combines a refreshing swimming spot with a true cave exploration experience. It‘s also well-maintained and safe so even inexperienced swimmers can enjoy it.

Chikin Ha is actually made up of three different cenotes. For an extra charge you can even try ziplining, get snorkeling gear or rent bikes to get around. Don’t miss out on this cenote, it’s one of the best things to do in Mexico.

Address: On an unmarked road in Xpu-Ha, south of Playa del Carmen

Eden Cenote

Submitted by Allison Sicking of Viva La Travelista

Located less than 30 minutes south of Playa del Carmen,  Eden Cenote  is an expansive open cenote perfect for adventure seekers. As the name suggests, the Garden of Eden Cenote (Jardin del Eden Cenotes) is a lush natural retreat where you’ll find a deep swimming hole surrounded by dense greenery and overgrown trees.

With only restrooms and life jacket and snorkel rentals, there are few amenities on site. Eden Cenote is more of a relaxed setting where you can swim, snorkel, or just hang out in the water or on one of the many wooden platforms around the cenote. 

For those looking for an adrenaline rush, you’ll find a few different jumping ledges, the highest being from a sturdy tree protruding over the water. For scuba divers, Cenote Eden also offers a popular dive site for underwater cave diving.

Address: Unmarked road off Route 307, south of Playa del Carmen near Xpu-Ha

How to Get There: Driving or taking a taxi is best, or you can take a colectivo.

Hours: Sunday to Friday, 9:00 AM-5:00 PM

Admission: 200 pesos ($10 USD)

Cenote Elvira

Submitted by Nathan Sado of All About Glamping

Cenote Elvira is a magical cenote that can be rented out privately for the day with friends. The cenote itself has a waterfall flowing into it with a hanging swing for that perfect Instagram shot.

Not only is Cenote Elvira beautiful, but the property is amazing as well. Nestled among the jungle trees, the owners also offer a bar/kitchen area with a refrigerator and tables. There is a charcoal BBQ area and multiple hammocks and lounging areas to relax after a swim.

Various trails wind through the jungle for exploration and bathrooms and showers are on site. You may see the owner’s jungle pets from time to time, a few super cute dogs, and a Coati (Mexican raccoon).

You must book the cenote in advance and the rate is around 100-120usd for the day. This allows you to use the cenote and property from 10:00 AM until dark. Make sure to bring food, drinks and a change of clothes. Life jackets are usually provided if people in your group need them.

Address: Ruta de los Cenotes KM 20.8, Quintana Roo Puerto Morelos – Leona Vicario, 77580 Puerto Morelos, Q.R., Mexico

How to Get There: Driving or taxi is best, especially if you stay until dark. 45 minutes from Playa del Carmen or 50 minutes from Cancún.

Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM-6:30 PM

Admission: $30 USD per adult, $25 USD per child, to rent out the property for the full day

Cenote Kin Ha

Submitted by Claire Summers of Claire’s Itchy Feet

One of my favorite cenotes in Mexico is Cenote Kin Ha. Located in Puerto Morelos, a small fishing town, sandwiched between Playa del Carmen and Cancún, the cenote itself is located on La Ruta de los Cenotes.

The reason Cenote Kin Ha stands out for me is because of the activities that you can do there. It’s a closed cenote with incredible rock formations. There is also a large hole in the roof which you can jump in, or float in the water and get someone to take your picture from above. Scuba diving here is incredible and it is one of the rare deep cenotes dives non-cave divers are permitted to explore.

Other than swimming and scuba diving, at Cenote Kin Ha you can ride ATV’s and go horseback riding. There are several cenotes inside the park; the other one I would recommend visiting is Cenote Blanca Flor, especially if you are into ziplining 10 meters over a cenote and then letting go and jumping in (one of the more terrifying things I’ve done).

The only downside to visiting Cenote Kin Ha is that it can be tricky to get to unless you have a car. The best way to do this is to take a taxi and make an arrangement with the driver to collect you later in the day. Or rent a car from Playa del Carmen or Cancún and drive yourself; it’s super easy to find. 

Address: KM 18 de la Ruta de los Cenotes, Puerto Morelos, Q. Roo Mexico

How to Get There: Best to drive or take a taxi. Collectivo also an option.

Admission: 315 pesos ($15 USD) for entry, more for ATV riding or horseback riding

Cenote La Noria

Submitted by Karen of Outdoor Adventure Sampler

Cenote La Noria is located on La Ruta de los Cenotes near Puerto Morales, about an hour’s drive from both Cancun and Playa del Carmen. Cenotes Kin Ha and Zapote are nearby if you want to explore other cenotes in this part of the Mayan jungle.

La Noria is a cavern cenote with gorgeous turquoise water. Low hanging stalactites in the cave add to the magical experience. Entry to the cenote is via a stone ramp with stairs into the water. You can also jump through one of two holes on the surface into the water from an exciting height. A wooden raft floating in the cenote center is a great place to hang out or to launch on a rope swing across the water.

Admission to Cenote La Noria includes a lifejacket, locker, and use of the scenic grounds with picnic tables and hammocks. An on-site open air restaurant serves typical Yucatecan food as well as excellent pizza.

Other activities available at La Noria include zip-lining, riding ATVs in the jungle, and horseback riding for an addition fee. Certainly, beautiful crystal clear Cenote La Noria is one of the many amazing outdoor adventures on the Yucatan peninsula .

Address: On an unmarked road, Puerto Morales, Quintana Roo, Mexico

How to Get There: Drive or take a taxi; buses also available.

Admission: 250 pesos ($12.50 USD) for locals and $20 USD for everyone else; additional fees for zip-lining, ATV riding, and horseback riding

Rio Secreto

Submitted by Elle MacRae of 5 Suitcases

Rio Secreto is Mexico’s newest cenote! The underground cave system wasn’t discovered until 2005.  Local legend has it that a farmer was chasing an iguana when he came upon a cave. Upon entering the cave, he found several different rooms and a secret underground river. 

Over the course of the next few years, the caves became designated as a preservation site. Rio Secreto has 7.5 miles of underground rivers to explore. In some parts of the cave, the water is only ankle-deep; in others, the water is deep enough to swim.

Every tour of Rio Secreto is slightly different. There are fifteen different entrances to the cave system and each tour enters from a different point. This allows for a more intimate experience as you explore the caves.

A tour is required to visit Rio Secreto. The standard tour takes about 3.5 hours while the premium option takes 5.5 to 6 hours. Tours include an experienced guide, wetsuit, life jacket, helmet, towels, and lunch.

Address: Carretera Federal Libre Chetumal- Puerto Juárez Ejido Sur, 77712 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico

How to Get There: Many tours will pick you up from your hotel or a central pickup point.

Hours: Daily from 9:00 AM

Admission: $79 USD for adults, $39.50 USD for children age 4-12

Hacienda Tres Rios

Submitted by Lina and David Stock of Divergent Travelers

If you’re someone who loves exploring cenotes surrounded by pure nature where the animals outnumber the guests, then you need to visit Hacienda Tres Rios Nature Park and its 10 different natural cenotes. The Tres Rios Nature Park is a 326-acre natural paradise connected to Hacienda Tres Rios Resort that offers three distinct ecosystems including jungle, mangrove forest, and coastal dunes.

Getting to the cenotes is part of the adventure, twisting and winding through a protected ecosystem that’s unlike any other cenote property located along the Riviera Maya. It truly has been untouched by humans. Visitors have the chance to explore by foot, segway, or bike either as part of a tour or independently depending on how one likes to explore this ecological oasis.

Hacienda Tres Rios Nature Park offers a wide range of cenotes, each different from the next. Some offer bright blue, crystal clear water while others have water that is black as night. 

The most popular one is Cenote Aguila, where guests can swim in its crystal-clear waters surrounded by an untamed jungle. For the adventurous, you can snorkel around exploring all the aquatic life that calls these cenotes home. You can also float or kayak along its connecting river that leads to a private white sandy beach covered with palm trees.

Address: Carr. Cancún – Tulum km 54, 77760 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico

How to Get There: Drive, or take a taxi or colectivo between Cancún Airport and Playa del Carmen

Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM-5:00 PM (resort guests have 24-hour access)

Admission: Resort passes are $35-75 USD depending on amenities

Cenote Zapote

Submitted by Venaugh

Of all the cenotes in Mexico, Cenote Zapote is one of the most beautiful, and located close to what I think is one of the  best cities in Mexico , Playa del Carmen. Fun fact, it actually consists of four different cenotes, which was a pleasant surprise.

Whether you’re coming from Playa del Carmen or Cancun, it can take about an hour to get to this cenote. Entry was a bit expensive at 800 Mexican pesos, which was the basic package. At the main site, there is also a restaurant with bathrooms.

Starting with an open cenote, the first cenote looks much like a lake encircled with lush trees. The second is a bit intimidating as it’s an indoor cave that is quite dark.

Following this is another indoor cenote, however this one is bigger and the lighting was better, both natural, through a small opening, and artificial. There was a lot to see in this cenote as you swim in a circle around the main entrance allowing you to see the amazing rock structures.

The final cenote is exactly how you imagine a cenote should look, the blue pool reflecting the lush trees around. You can even dive off the platforms or scuba dive here, as it is 20 meters deep.

Address: Puerto Morelos, Av. Ruta de los Cenotes km 19, 77580 Puerto Morelos, Q.R., Mexico

How to Get There: Drive, take a taxi, or take a colectivo from Playa del Carmen or Cancun. 

Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM-8:00 PM

Admission: Packages to Cenote Zapote Prehistoric Park start at 800 pesos ($40 USD)

Cenotes Near Valladolid

Valladolíd is an absolute delight of the Yucatán. This small city is full of color and energy, and has more of a local feel than the busy resort towns on the Riviera Maya.

If you are looking to visit several Mexico cenotes, I strongly urge you spend some time in Valladolíd. There are lots of organized day trips to Valladolíd from Tulum and Playa del Carmen, but I recommend you stay at least one night.

The Valladolíd area is home to some of the best cenotes in Mexico, including Cenote Oxman , a personal favorite of mine; Cenote Suytun , the most famous cenote in Instagram; and Cenote Zaci , a striking behemoth right in the center of downtown Valladolíd!

Valladolíd also makes a great base for visiting the Chichén Itzá ruins, and visiting a nice cool cenote is the perfect post-ruins treat.

Cenote Choj-Ha

Submitted by Isabella of Mexico Cenotes and Ruins

Even though it’s been there for quite some time, Cenote Choj-Ha has only recently been put on the map of tourists and travelers. One reason is that it’s a little off the beaten path and it hasn’t been very much advertised until recently.

However, it’s a spectacular cenote that is worth a detour, even if it’s not exactly in your Yucatan itinerary .

Located on the main road from Cancun to Valladolíd, at only 12 km from Valladolid, Cenote Choj-ha is one of the most spectacular cave cenotes of the Yucatan peninsula. 

Once you walk down the man-made stairs you enter a magnificent natural work of art made by an infinite number of stalactites and stalagmites wrapping a crystal clear green lake. The view is surreal and it’s been nicknamed “the Cathedral”. It actually looks like that. For better enjoyment make sure you get there early morning and avoid weekends so you will have the cenote all for yourself. 

The cenote is managed by a local Mayan community that is doing an incredible job in preserving it and keeping it clean and preserved. In fact, among other rules, you cannot swim in the cenote if you haven’t taken a shower first. Showers and toilets are available on the premises.

Address: An unmarked road near Echerria, Yucatán, Mexico

How to Get There: Drive or take a taxi from Valladolíd.

Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM-5:00 PM

Admission: 100 pesos ($5 USD) 

Cenote Dzitnup (Cenote Xkeken)

Submitted by Lori Sorrentino of Travelinmad

Although Valladolíd — or Pucela , as the locals call it — is famous for its many historic sites, it’s also known for one of the most unique cenotes on the Yucatan Peninsula — Cenote Dzitnup, also known as Cenote Xkeken.

In Cenote Dzitnup there is very little natural light other than what streams in through the hole in the ceiling. Because of this, and the number of people visiting the cenote, it is also artificially lit.

Inside, the crystal-clear turquoise water reflecting the stalactites and the long tree roots eerily dangling from the ceiling of the cave is what attracts visitors far and wide. And due to its rather closed environment, the air inside can sometimes get hot and humid. So it’s not surprising that swimming in the refreshing cool water has become so popular that there’s now even a lifeguard on duty.

Outside near the parking lot you’ll find food vendors selling cold drinks, snacks, small souvenirs, and serving up local  Yucatan food specialties . Don’t pass it up — there’s always something delicious and it tastes so good after a swim!

Address: On an unnamed road in Dzitnup, Yucatán, Mexico

How to Get There: Drive or take a bus or taxi from Valladolíd; it’s six miles southwest of the city.

Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM-7:00 PM

Admission: 59 pesos ($3 USD)

Cenote Oxman

Submitted by Kate of New Hampshire Way

The Valladolíd area is rich with cenotes, and you have so many good ones to choose from! One of my absolute favorite cenotes in the Yucatán is Cenote Oxman, part of Hacienda Oxman (sometimes called San Lorenzo Oxman).

Hacienda Oxman was once an agave plantation dating back to the 18th century. Today, people come here to enjoy a day of relaxation and fun, with the cenote, pool, restaurant, areas with hammocks, and more. The restaurant makes terrific ceviche!

The cenote itself is a cave cenote, where you descend a long staircase to the water level. Several clusters of vines fall into the cenote, making it feel like a jungle escape. Best of all is the rope swing, where you can fly into the water like Tarzan!

Cenote may not be the most visually spectacular cenote, nor the largest, nor home to the best facilities — and yet it’s one of my favorite cenotes in Mexico. Why? What it does, it does extremely well, and the chilled vibe is second to none.

I visited Cenote Oxman after a visit to the Chichén Itzá ruins, which I highly recommend. It’s not the closest cenote to the ruins, but it’s much less crowded, and the resort caters to Mexicans rather than foreigners.

Address: Periférico, 97780 Valladolid, Yuc., Mexico

How to Get There: Drive, or take a taxi from Valladolid.

Hours: Daily, 7:30 AM-5:00 PM

Admission: 150 pesos ($7.50) for cenote entry alone — or 250 pesos ($12.50 USD) for cenote entry and 200 pesos ($10) worth of restaurant credit

Cenote Saamal

Submitted by David & Intan from  The World Travel Guy

Cenote Saamal is a nice natural sinkhole with a man-made waterfall, right outside the city of Valladolíd! It’s also a short distance from the famous Chichen Itza ruins.

Cenote Saamal has colorful clear blue water and a perfect circular shape, with an open ceiling and lots of green vegetation. Lifejackets are required to enter, and remember to shower beforehand too.

The Cenote Saamal is very popular with tour groups headed to Chichen Itza and Valladolíd, so it’s definitely not the most quiet cenote in Mexico, but you should still be able to experience it without the crowds if you come early in the morning or late in the afternoon.

There’s a restaurant and some shops above the cenote, where you can buy drinks, souvenirs, and other things. These shops are cash only, no credit cards.

If you happen to book a tour that includes this cenote, know that most tours already cover the entrance fee and a nice buffet meal at the restaurant above the cenote.

Address: Hacienda Selva Maya, Valladolid, Yuc., Mexico

How to Get There: Drive or take a taxi from Valladolíd; it’s just west of the city.

Admission: 150 pesos ($7.50) to enter, 250 pesos ($12) for entry and a buffet

Cenote Sac-Aua

Submitted by Mexico Cassie, author of the book Yucatán with Kids .

Cenote Sac-Aua is one of my favorite cenotes on the peninsula. It’s a circular, deep, open cenote that feels like a cave since only the middle section of the roof is gone. When you’re in the water, whether swimming or kayaking, be sure to look up and marvel at the magic happening above your head. There is really nothing like the view of a clear blue sky framed by curving cave walls and spectacular trees.

Sac-Aua is also reputedly the only cenote with a natural island and trees growing in its centre. It is accessed via a sturdy staircase in the centre of the cenote. When I was there in mid-2021, the island was under water but it’s generally dry and accessible, perfect for people who don’t feel like swimming but do want to enjoy the experience of a deep cenote.

Just 30 km outside of Valladolid, in the village of Dzalbay, Sac-Aua is easily visited as a day trip and can even be coupled with a trip to the fabulous Maya site of Ek Balam. At $190 pesos entry this isn’t one of the cheapest cenotes but it’s rarely busy, has kayaks available and also has a dry cave that everyone can enjoy exploring.

Address: Dzalbay, Yucatán, on an unnamed road.

How to Get There: Driving is best; it’s 30 km outside Valladolid.

Admission: 190 pesos ($10 USD)

Cenote Suytun

Submitted by Nathan Aguilera of Foodie Flashpacker

Cenote Suytun, located just 5 miles east of Valladolíd, is one of the most recognizable cenotes in Mexico. Nearly every travel blogger or Instagrammer has made their way down the stairs to capture the photo for themselves. 

Why is it so famous? The semi-open cenote has a man-made circular platform in the middle of its shallow basin that is perfect for Instagram photos! 

If you arrive at the right time of day — roughly 12:00-2:00 PM — you can capture an even more dramatic photo as an opening in the roof of the cenote allows a beam of light to break through and illuminate the platform. But beware: this cenote is very popular and you won’t be the only one there at this time trying to get the same photo. 

You can easily reach Cenote Suytun by car or colectivo. You can also go on an organized group tour, but I do not recommend this if you’re wanting the classic photo as it will be too crowded. In fact, if you see tour buses in the parking lots, it’s better to return later and time your entrance between tours. 

Address: Carretera Ticuch Km 8 S/n, 97780 Valladolid, Yuc., Mexico

How to Get There: Drive, taxi, or colectivo, 5 miles east of Valladolíd

Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM-5:00 PM (last entrance at 4:00 PM)

Admission: 120 pesos ($6 USD)

Cenote X’Canche

Submitted by Soumya Nambiar of Travel, Books & Food

Cenote X’Canche, also known as the Ek Balam Cenote, is a gorgeous open-air cenote and a must-visit during your Yucatán itinerary. It has a pretty tiny waterfall and is ideal for swimming, ziplining and even rappelling, all without the usual crowds found at most cenotes. On most days, you can find it practically empty since most people visit only the Ek Balam ruins without visiting the cenote.

You can easily spend half a day here and at the ruins, just 30 minutes from Valladolíd.

Once you get to the parking lot, there is a ticket counter with a restaurant, a few shops and bathroom facilities. There is a separate entrance for the cenote and once you enter, there is a 2 km walk each way. If you do not want to walk, you can rent a bike taxi, which is approximately 150 pesos ($7.50 USD) and includes the entrance fee for the cenote.

If you plan to zipline or rappel, please look at spending at least 400 pesos ($20 USD) including the bike taxi and the entrance fee. Parking is free, but you may have to tip the kids in the parking lot for watching over your car if you plan to drive there.

It is mandatory to shower before swimming. And there are changing rooms and showers right next to the cenote as well. Sunscreens are banned in this cenote as well.

For an ideal day here, look at spending around 2-3 hours exploring the ruins followed by around 1-2 hours swimming and having fun at the cenote.

Address: Ek Balam, Yucatán, Mexico

How to Get There: Driving is best.

Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM-4:00 PM

Admission: 70 pesos ($3.50 USD); visiting the ruins is an additional 413 pesos ($20 USD); extra for ziplining and rappelling

Xlakaj Cenote

Submitted by Julien Casanova

Take a drive 15 minutes south of Valladolid, just past Chichimila, to explore one of the Yucatan’s lesser known cenotes, Xlakaj. Entering the cenote is relatively easy. After paying the 50 pesos entry fee required of foreigners, park, and descend the wide stairs that lead you directly into the large open cenote surrounded by a tall rock cliff. 

The water is clear, refreshing, and teeming with small fish. Plant life abounds along the limestone rock circling the breadth of the cenote. The enchanting atmosphere feels as if you’ve discovered a special place, tucked away from the rest of the world.

The land around Xlakaj Cenote was built as a “bioparque” with a swimming pool, restaurant, and cabanas but don’t count on those being open these days. Instead, focus on the cenote. Go for a refreshing swim, relax, and return to the town of Valladolíd, which is a great base to explore the many Mayan Ruins and cenotes of the Yucatan.

For the more adventurous, the cliff at Cenote Xlakaj also offers places to jump into the cenote from both 20 and 60 feet high. With its remote feeling despite the proximity to Valladolíd, you’ll feel like you’ve discovered something special.

Address: Unmarked road in Chichimila, Yuc., Mexico

How to Get There: Drive or take a taxi 15 minutes south of Valladolíd

Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM-5:00 PM

Admission: 50 pesos ($2.50 USD)

Cenote Zaci

Submitted by Zoe of Zoe Goes Places

Among the many cenotes across the Yucatan peninsula, Cenote Zaci is still unique by being located in the very heart of Valladolíd. Despite being just three blocks from the city’s main square, a visit to Cenote Zaci will leave you feeling like you’ve been transported to the middle of the jungle.

This semi-open cenote features a waterfall over the remaining cave top, lots of fish and up to 100-meter-deep water! Plus, if you’re feeling daring, you can even jump in from an eight-meter platform. Though don’t worry, steps are available too!

It takes just 10 minutes to reach the cenote by foot from the central square. Free parking is available on the nearby streets and in the small parking lot on-site. You’ll find the cenote on Calle 36, on the block between Calle 37 and 39.

Entrance costs just 30 pesos per person, with life jacket rental costing another 30 pesos per person. Additionally, there is a restaurant on-site and if you spend 100 pesos per person you get free entry to the cenote. Lockers are also available. Though the cenote is currently closed for renovations (as of January 2022), it is expected to reopen soon.

Address: Calle 36, Sta Ana, 97780 Valladolid, Yucatan, Mexico

How to Get There: It’s right in the heart of downtown Valladolíd. You can’t miss it.

Admission: 30 pesos ($1.50 USD)

Cenote Zazil Tunich

Submitted by Paulina of UK Everyday

Zazil Tunich Cenote is a very spiritual place. As soon as you enter a sacred cave, a shaman will give you a blessing to swim in crystal clear water. You will feel like exploring a completely different world. Lovely illumination, incredible rock formations  and well maintained wooden pathway will make you fall in love with this magical cenote. 

The best way to get to Zazil Tunich Cenote is to drive. Another option is to buy a Chichen Itza and Cenote Zazil Tunich tour that will allow you to explore two amazing places the same day. 

To avoid crowds, visit the cenote during the week. However, if you want to experience the Mayan Ceremony, you need to book your ticket for Friday, Saturday or Sunday. 

Zazil Tunich is just 40 minutes drive from Vallladolid. However, you have to book your visit in advance as there are only three group entries per day. The tour includes dinner, Mayan ceremony of purification and swimming in crystal clear waters of cenote. 

Zazil Tunich’s incredible stalagmites and stalactites are the largest in Yucatan. These formations reminded me so much of Drogarati Cave in Kefalonia , as well as about the fact that stalactites grow very slowly, just 1 cm every 100 years. 

This incredible cenote will offer you once in a lifetime experience. For example, you can book an exclusive romantic dinner 20 meters underground. It is a great location for special events such as engagements as well as cooling off after exploring Mexico on extremely hot days.

Address: Km. 6 , Carretera Yalcobá-Xtut Yalcoba, 97794 Yalcoba, Yuc., Mexico

Hours: Daily, 1:00 PM-7:15 PM

Admission: $45 USD, including dinner, the Mayan ceremony, and free time to swim

Cenotes Near Chichen Itza

The Chichén Itzá ruins are one of the most popular places to visit in the Yucatán. These striking ruins are home to some of the largest pyramids in the Yucatan.

Chichén Itzá has limited shade, which means it’s often a hot and sweaty experience. One of the best things to do afterwards is to cool off in a cenote! And there are several nearby, like Cenote Ik Kil . Though don’t overlook the cenotes near Valladolid — I actually prefer going to Cenote Oxman after Chichén Itzá.

One BIG tip: don’t go to Chichén Itzá on a Sunday. Sundays are free for all Mexicans and it’s tough to find parking.

Sacred Cenote of Chichén Itzá

Submitted by Claire Sturzaker of Tales of a Backpacker

Cenotes were a vital water source for the Maya, so they needed to make sure they had access to water in their cities. There are four open cenotes actually inside the  Chichen Itza archaeological complex , the largest one being the Sacred Cenote. Unlike most of the cenotes in the Yucatan, you can’t swim in the Chichen Itza cenotes. 

The Sacred Cenote is 60 meters wide, with steep walls surrounding the green water. At the bottom of the Sacred Cenote, archaeologists have discovered a range of objects that suggest the Maya made offerings to their gods, in particular the rain god Chaac. 

Artefacts of gold, jade, copper, pottery, wood and textiles have all been found, the wood and textiles preserved by the water. They also found human skeletons of men, women and children who originally came from all across Mexico and Central America.

It is estimated that some 200 human sacrifices were thrown into the cenote — it’s not known if they were dead or alive when they hit the water, although recent research suggests that most were already dead.

As well as the Sacred Cenote, archaeologists recently discovered that the main pyramid at Chichen Itza, El Castillo, is built over the top of an underground cenote, which could have also had major religious significance for the Maya given that they built their temple above it. The research continues!

Address: ChichénItzá, Yucatán, Mexico

How to Get There: There are countless tours to Chichén Itza from destinations all over the Yucatán peninsula. You can also visit independently by car or bus.

Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM-4:30 PM

Admission: 497 pesos ($25 USD) for entry to the whole complex

Cenote Ik-Kil

Submitted by Erin Tracy of Traveling Thru History

Ik Kil Cenote is an underground semi-open sinkhole just outside the ruins of Chichen Itza. There is a tunnel staircase that leads down to the water which affords stunning views of the water as you descend. This cenote is open to the sky and has hundreds of beautiful vines hanging down from the foliage above.

You can enter the water using a short wooden ladder or by climbing some stairs to a platform before jumping into the water. Be aware that this cenote is about 150 feet deep. Due to the depth of the water and only having one exit point from the water, inexperienced swimmers and those with young children should exercise caution when visiting this cenote.

One of the reasons this cenote is so popular is because of the amenities. There are lockers, showers, towel rentals, life vest rentals, and two restaurants on-site. There are open-air showers in front of the lockers which visitors are required to use before descending to the cenote.

Be sure to bring shoes with a solid grip as the stone stairs can be a bit slick. If you decide to purchase food from either of the restaurants before descending to the cenote, be sure to finish your meal since no food or drink is allowed past the cenote entrance. 

Address: Unmarked road just east of the Chichen Itza ruins

How to Get There: Drive or take a taxi, or join one of the many tours.

Admission: 80 pesos ($4 USD)

Yokdzonot Cenote

Submitted by Noel Morata of Travel Photo Discovery

If you are  visiting places around Merida  and looking for fun adventure outside, consider visiting some of the amazing cenotes or sink holes in the region. One of the fun ecotourism cenotes to visit in the area is called Yokdzonot Cenote in central Merida.

What makes this cenote unique, outside of the gorgeous limestone cliffs and vine draped greenery that surround the aqua colored pools? You can do other things here, like taking a cooking class or even do a zip line tour in the forest areas of the jungle landscape surrounding the cenote.

The wonderful thing about this cenote is that it is operated by a local co-op that benefits the local community in the small pueblo town of Yokdzonot, Yucatán. All proceeds from the entrance fees, cooking class, restaurant and zip line tours go directly into the community fund of the local pueblo, which is a fantastic way of supporting every aspect of the community commerce and employment.

The cenote park primarily employs mostly women from the community that help to operate the cenote grounds, tours, and restaurant, keeping the whole concept of local, eco-friendly and natural travel (plus fantastic trails and local Yucatan food).

Address: Calle 20 s/n, 97922 Yokdzonot, Yuc., Mexico

How to Get There: Driving is best — it’s just west of Chichén Itzá.

Admission: 125 pesos ($6) for entry, extra for cooking classes, zipline tours, etc.

Cenotes Near Mérida

If you want to fall in love with a magnificent city in Mexico — a place with fantastic dining, gorgeous colorful streets, and exactly zero beach tourists — go to Mérida! I visited Mérida one winter and loved it so much, I came to live here the next winter!

The secret of Mérida is out by now, but that doesn’t stop it from being a fantastic place to visit. Mérida is also well located when it comes to cenote-hopping. Just outside Mérida is the cenote-rich town of Homún, where you can visit a resort like Cenotes Santa Barbara or hire a tuk-tuk driver to take you to wild cenotes few people have heard of!

I think Mérida is one of the best places in Mexico for day trips. If you have your own car, put together a day of the Mayapán ruins, the yellow city of Izamal, and a nearby cenote of your choice.

Would you rather go on a tour? Check out the tours listed below, or see the Cenote Tours in Mérida section.

Nah Yah Cenote

Submitted by Cassie Goodluck-Johnson of Native Nomad Life

One of the most beautiful cenotes in the Yucatan peninsula is the largely unknown and gorgeous Nah Yah cenote. An hour drive southeast of Mérida, it is a perfect day trip to accompany an off-the-beaten-track cultural experience in the Mayan town of Pixyá with our friend and guide Lucia of Bonita Merida Experiences .

Driving down a white dirt road into the jungle, you approach this cenote. The narrow, steep stairs descend down into the large cenote, as your eyes adjust and you take in how far the cenote expands in all directions, including beneath.

Be sure to bring goggles or a snorkel as well as a life jacket if you need the extra support as there is nowhere to stand in this cenote unless you stay on the little dock at the base of the stairs.

As we swam into Cenote Nah Yah, what struck us the most was how beautiful the semi-covered cenote is when the light shines through the middle of the hole on top. Be sure to arrive in the late morning or early afternoon (no later than 12:00 PM) as this is the best time to take advantage of the position of the sun shining its beautiful rays straight down through the gorgeous, clear blue water. I truly felt like a mermaid!

One of the best surprises is the unassuming cave hidden along the back wall. We were thrilled to sit perched inside the cave admiring the beauty of this giant cenote with its grand ceiling.

Address: Off a dirt road north of Pixyá, Yucatán, Mexico

How to Get There: Best with a tour, or be ready to drive carefully down a rough road.

Admission: 60 pesos ($3 USD)

Cenote Noh Mozon

On the journey to Cenote Noh Mozon, you may be wondering what you’ve gotten yourself into. Once you reach the town of Pixyá, you turn onto a tiny dirt road full of uneven bumps and dips, driving slowly to avoid damaging your car.

It looks like there’s nothing out here. Dirt and dust, bedraggled trees. But eventually you come to a cenote with minimal facilities. An attendant takes your admission fee and you peer inside the massive crater to see the brightest, bluest shade of water you’ve ever seen.

I visited Cenote Noh Mozon on a rare overcast February day in Mérida. That did not detract from the color whatsoever. With vines hanging into the crater and shrieking flocks of birds flying around the edge in circles, it feels like you’ve discovered a place that very much did not want to be found.

Swimming in this cold, cool water is one of the best things you can do on a sizzling hot Yucatecan day. Some dive trip also come to Noh Mozon to enjoy the outstanding visibility beneath the surface.

If you’re going to visit any one wild cenote, I highly recommend Cenote Noh Mozon, arguably one of the wildest cenotes of all. It also pairs well with a visit to the Mayapán ruins.

Address: On a dirt road outside Pixyá, Yucatán, Mexico

How to Get There: Drive. You’ll want a quality car that can manage the bumpy road.

Admission: 40 pesos ($2 USD)

Cenote San Ignacio

Located just outside Mérida in the town of Chocholá, San Ignacio Cenote is a freshwater pool located inside a deep cave. Rather than the typical circular cenotes you’ve seen, this cave leads to an amorphous underground pool, with various depths and craggy ridges to hold onto.

Here you’ll find groups of friends crowding the various nooks, chatting and laughing with each other.

Cenote San Ignacio is part of a large, well-appointed boutique hotel complex, complete with a swimming pool, restaurant, and lounge areas.

Uniquely, Cenote San Ignacio is the only cenote complex in the Yucatán that gives you access at night.

And the restaurant is of particular note — you should prioritize having a meal here. The food is outstanding, and I had the best sopa de lima here that I’ve EVER had. (And I ate a TON of sopa de lima while living in the Yucatan!)

I visited Cenote San Ignacio on the way back to Mérida from the Uxmal ruins, which requires a slight detour but is well worth it.

Just know that this cenote gets very crowded on the weekends, which is compounded when the cenote itself feels on the small side. You may prefer going during the week. Just make sure you get that amazing soup for lunch!

Address: C. 23 126, Centro, 97816 Chocholá, Yuc., Mexico

How to Get There: Drive or take a taxi to Chocholá

Hours: Daily, 12:00 PM-10:00 PM

Admission: 170 pesos ($8 USD) for access to the grounds; 150 pesos ($7.50 USD) for Yucatecans with ID

Cenote Santa Barbara

Submitted by Nate Goodluck-Johnson of Native Nomad Life

Santa Barbara Cenote is located an hour’s drive southeast of Mérida, Yucatán, in the small town of Homún, which is known for its abundance of cenotes. In this area there are many to choose from, but Santa Barbara definitely holds its own.

On the property of Santa Barbara, there are three cenotes (Cascabel, Chaksikin, Xoch) to visit. Along with access to the cenotes, your admission covers a lifejacket (which is mandatory) and a choice of three options for transportation: walking, biking, or horse-drawn carriage. 

There are three different types of cenotes in the Yucatan: cave, semi-open, and open. Each of the cenotes has its own unique charm and adventure. One of the draws of going to Santa Barbara is that you can visit all three in one trip.

Cenote Cascabel: This is a closed-type cenote, using artificial lights to illuminate the cenote’s beautiful blue water. 

Cenote Chaksikin: This is a semi-open type cenote with a large wooden staircase that leads down to the platform that is surrounded by the water. You can jump or swing into the cenote from the platform or gently lower down using one of the semi-submerged ladders.

Cenote Xoch: The last cenote on the property is an open sky-type cenote and is approximately 40 meters deep. Entering down a manmade, carved-out stairway and through a tunnel in the cliff wall, you will see the reflection of the circle of the sky in the crystal blue waters with trees surrounding the circular opening to the outside world. 

Want to go with a group? This Airbnb Experience takes you to the Santa Barbara cenotes and possibly a few extras if you have the time.

Address: YUC 10, 97580 Homún, Yuc., Mexico

How to Get There: Drive or take a colectivo from Mérida to Homún.

Cenote Santa Rosa

Submitted by Chris of Punta Cana Travel Blog

Cenote Santa Rosa is an off-the-beaten track cenote in Homún, close to Mérida. It is by far not as famous as the neighboring Cenotes Santa Barbara (just 5 minutes walking away) or the Cenotes Cuzamá. However, you are also getting rewarded with a less touristy experience compared to other famous cenotes in Yucatán.

Cenote Santa Rosa is a completely closed cenote, also known as an underground or subterranean cenote. There is no daylight in the cave, but the cenote is illuminated, allowing for some good photo opportunities.

Inside the cenote there is hardly any place to stand except a small wooden platform, so if you are going to visit Cenote Santa Rosa, you definitely should be willing to swim. Furthermore, you shouldn’t be claustrophobic, as the way down to the cenote is super narrow but impressive. Once arrived, you get rewarded by beautiful cave views and a refreshing swim.

Besides the cenote, you can enjoy a well-maintained garden, spacious outdoor areas, showers, restrooms and a local restaurant.

Address: C. 30-A, 97580 Homún, Yucatán, Mexico

How to Get There: Drive, taxi, or take a colectivo to Homún from Mérida. Alternatively, take a colectivo to Cuzamá and a tricycle taxi to Cenote Santa Rosa (departs more often).

Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM-6:00 PM

Cenote X’Batun

Submitted by Shelley of Travel Mexico Solo

One of the best off-the-beaten-path Mérida cenotes is Cenote X’Batun. It is also one of the most beautiful cenotes in Mexico, with bright blue water and hanging vines that make it look like a tropical paradise. With these lesser-visited cenotes, you may have the whole place to yourself; especially on a weekday.

Located in San Antonio Mulix, a remote Yucatan pueblo, the best way to get there is by  renting a car in Mexico  and driving. There are other cenotes in San Antonio Mulix, Mexico, like Cenote Hacienda Mucuyche, Cenote Dzonbakal and Cenote Yaal Utzil, so you can have a whole cenote day! Beautiful Hacienda Yaxcopoil is also not too far away.

There isn’t much in the way of facilities at Cenote X’Batun, so come with your bathing suit on and some snacks in the car. There is an outdoor shower, which you’ll have to rinse off in before entering. Admission gets you into both Cenote X’Batun and Cenote Dzonbakal, located underground in a cave.

Address: Carr. cenotes, San Antonio Mulix, Mérida, Yuc., Mexico

How to Get There: Driving is best. It’s about one hour from Mérida.

Cenote Xlacah

Submitted by Shelley of Travel to Merida

You’ll find Cenote Xlacah at Dzibilchaltun Ruins, the closest  Mayan Ruins near Mérida, Mexico . Your admission to the cenote is included with the cost of admission to the ruins, so just bring a bathing suit when you visit Dzibilchaltun.

The Dzibilchaltun ( zee-bee-shall-tune ) site isn’t huge, but there are pyramids and ruins you can climb, a museum and sculpture garden. The museum and garden have artifacts discovered during Dzibilchaltun excavations and excavations conducted at other Mayan ruins.

After checking out the Dzibilchaltun Ruins, head to the restrooms and change into your bathing suit for a refreshing swim in Xlacah Cenote. This is what’s called a “swimming pool” cenote, or open cenote. Unlike the cave cenotes, there’s nothing overhead above the water, and you’ll get into this Cenote Xlacah the same way as you’d enter a swimming pool.

The water near the edges of this cenote is shallow. For visitors who don’t swim or aren’t comfortable swimming, just hang out in the shallows by the sides and enjoy the refreshing waters. Cenote Xlacah has clear water, so you can see the plants, small fish and even an occasional turtle swimming below you. It’s a great cenote to bring a mask and snorkel, so you can swim around and enjoy the underwater views.

Address: Zona Arqueológica de Dzibilchaltún Dzibilchaltún, 97305 Mérida, Yuc., Mexico

How to Get There: Driving is best. It’s about 45 minutes from Mérida.

Admission: 227 pesos ($11 USD)

Cenotes Near Cancún

The city that started it all! White sand beaches on one side, a lagoon on the other, the largest city on the Yucatán Peninsula, and one of the top beach vacations from east coasters during the winter.

It’s easy to feel isolated from local life in Mexico when you’re staying in the Zona Hotelera, which exists only for tourists, but getting out to cenotes is one of the best ways to see the natural side of the country.

If you’re looking for cenotes near Cancún, most of them are down south closer to Playa del Carmen. I recommend browsing that section. Below are some top-recommended cenote tours from Cancun.

Cenotes Near Bacalar

If you’re looking for a natural wonder in Mexico that will blow your mind, you need to check out Bacalar. This is one of my all-time favorite places in Mexico!

Located in southern Quintana Roo, close to the Belize border, Bacalar is home to Laguna Bacalar — a lake of seven colors. Taking a boat out on the lake is one of the best ways to enjoy this incredible place to visit.a

Bacalar is home to a few cenotes, including its own Cenote Azul , and the Cenote Negro . Some of Bacalar’s cenotes are actually part of the lake itself — the only way you can tell is the difference in color.

Trust me, if you visit Bacalar, you will not regret it. Stay for two nights minimum.

Read More: The Ultimate Guide to Bacalar, Mexico

Submitted by Brodi Cole of Our Offbeat Life

While most people visit Bacalar for the lovely turquoise colors of its lagoon, Cenote Azul Bacalar is another fun place to visit. Don’t confuse this with Cenote Azul in Playa del Carmen, though! 

There is a small mangrove river flowing between the Bacalar lagoon and Cenote Azul Bacalar. However, the cenote is much deeper than the lagoon so it’s a far darker shade of blue. Visitors pay 50 pesos to either swim or simply sit in the on-site restaurant and enjoy the view.

Life jackets are available to rent for less confident swimmers. And, there is a wooden swing hung from a tree overhanging the water that swimmers can enjoy. It also makes for excellent Instagram pics. In addition, there are bathrooms available, which also act as changing rooms for visitors who don’t want to get their car seats wet. 

The cenote is so big that it would be too difficult for most people to swim across. (Note from Kate: My friends tried . It wasn’t pretty.) Instead, the adventurous souls who leave the cenote’s edge can cross it using the buoys running through the middle. It’s a fun challenge!

Finish off your day with a stop at one of the best restaurants in Bacalar .

Address: Carr. Federal 307, Chetumal-Cancun Km 34, 77930 Bacalar, Q.R., Mexico

How to Get There: Drive or take a taxi from central Bacalar.

Hours: 10:00 AM-6:00 PM

Admission: 25 pesos ($1 USD)

Cenote Negro

Submitted by Allison Green of Eternal Arrival

One of the most unique cenotes in Mexico is Cenote Negro, which you can find in the town of Bacalar right along the lagoon. If you’re staying in the town of Bacalar, it’s hard to miss Cenote Negro as it’s right in town!

Cenote Negro is unique in that it’s one of the deeper cenotes in Mexico, at 90 meters (nearly 250 feet) deep! It gets its name (which means “Black Cenote” in Spanish) for the deep, dark color of the water that results from its impressive depth.

Note that you are not able to swim in this cenote, though you can visit by boat or paddleboard. There are no amenities, as the cenote is undeveloped and is just part of the lake. However, it is still possible and worthwhile to visit!

The most popular way most people visit Cenote Negro is on one of the boat tours of the lagoon. These tours typically include Cenote Negro, the Pirates’ Channel, and a visit to Bacalar’s unique stromatolite formations, and they depart from Bacalar town. You can book a boat tour online and they typically cost around $45 USD and last about 4 hours.

Another fun way to visit Cenote Negro is by stand up paddle board! I first experienced Cenote Negro on a sunrise standup paddleboard tour, and it was an incredible way to see the beautiful contrast of colors between the lagoon and the cenote. A sunrise paddleboard tour costs around $25, lasts about 3 hours.

Address: Av 1 27, Magisterial, 77933 Bacalar, Q.R., Mexico

How to Get There: Best seen on a day boat tour around Bacalar. This is a good one.

Hours: Open 24/7

Admission: None

Cenotes Near Isla Holbox

Isla Holbox (pronounced HOLE-bosh) is one of my favorite beach destinations in Mexico. This tiny island is a world away from the high-rise hotels of Cancun and party crowds of Tulum.

Isla Holbox has one cenote — Yalahau Cenote — which is technically on the mainland and a popular spot on Isla Holbox boat trips.

Come to Holbox to kick back and relax, and you’ll have a hard time pulling yourself away when it’s time to leave! I recommend visiting soon, as the island seems to become more and more developed each year.

Read More: The Ultimate Guide to Isla Holbox, Mexico

Yalahau Cenote

Submitted by Mary Gabbett of Green Global Travel

The once-sleepy fishing village of Isla Holbox has emerged over the last decade as an increasingly popular ecotourism destination. Located about two hours from Cancún on the north coast of the Yucatán Peninsula, the tiny island is a nature-lover’s paradise with loads of excellent outdoor attractions nearby.

There are no cars on the island, but golf cart taxis can take you from  Isla Holbox hotels  to the area from which island-hopping boat tours depart. 

Part of the 154,052-acre Yum Balam Nature Reserve (which protects the world’s largest whale shark sanctuary), the Yalahau Cenote is a common stop for tours to Isla Pájaros (a.k.a. Bird Island). Located about 30 minutes from Isla Holbox by boat, the cenote features a breathtaking blue pool fed by a freshwater spring, and has a rich history of tales to tell. 

Our native guide explained that this tiny island was once home to an ancient Mayan trading port, until a Mayan king decided to transform it into his own private paradise. Local legends suggest that he used his wealth to build lushly landscaped gardens with ornate fountains and a royal pool decorated with Jade stones. The setting was so beautiful, many people believed that the spring was a fountain of youth. 

Sadly, invading Spanish conquistadors destroyed it all upon their arrival in the Yucatan, keeping the gems for themselves and using the stones to build one of the first Christian churches in Latin America (in nearby Boca Iglesias).

The island later became a refuge for the Spanish pirate Miguel Molas, who made Yalahau his home for nearly four decades. Originally employed by the Spanish government, Molas realized that he could make more money by guiding smugglers through the area’s waters, and eventually he got into a fight with the pirate Jean Lafitte’s brother, Pierre, in nearby Isla Mujeres.

Today, this Holbox cenote is a peaceful, pristine place that’s simply perfect for cooling off during a hot day. There’s a nominal 50 pesos entry fee, but it’s usually included as part of larger island-hopping tours. If you can, try to visit in the morning before the crowds arrive, and you may have the dock and picnic area all to yourself! 

Address: On the coastline, west of Chiquilá, Quintana Roo, Mexico

How to Get There: Book a boat tour around Isla Holbox that visits many of the island’s hard-to-reach attractions.

Hours: Daily, 8:30 PM-5:00 PM

Cenotes in Chiapas

Did you know there are cenotes in Chiapas?! I honestly didn’t know until recently! The region of Chiapas is in the south of Mexico, wild and exploding with natural wonders.

The two biggest tourist draws in Chiapas are the ruins of Palenque and the beautiful city of San Cristóbal de las Casas, and both make good bases for exploring the region. I personally enjoyed Sumidero Canyon , an incredible natural wonder near San Cristóbal.

Chiapas is much less developed for international tourism than the Yucatán, though it’s very popular with Mexican travelers. I wouldn’t recommend road tripping around Chiapas for a first-time Mexico visitor, but if you’ve been here before and love it, it’s a great next adventure.

Cenote Chukumaltik

Submitted by Jodie Dewberry of Alajode

Unlike many of Mexico’s cenotes, Chukumaltik doesn’t lie hidden beneath a wall of rock. Instead, it is wide open like a small lake and expands across a vast area, making it just as impressive as it is unique. On a sunny day, you can see the petrified trees that lie on the bottom, nearly 70 meters below the surface.

Chukumaltik is located a short drive from Comitán, a town that makes a great base for any Chiapas tour (or part of one). Since Chiapas is so spread out and infrastructure is lacking in most areas, by far the best way to get around is by renting a car. Whether you fly directly into Comitán or take a road trip from elsewhere in Mexico, you’ll only be able to visit the coolest spots with your own wheels. 

The drive from Comitán to Chukumaltik takes around 45 minutes — watch out for the many, many speed bumps! — and the trip can be combined with visits to many of the nearby waterfalls.

Don’t be surprised if you drive straight past the entrance to Chukumaltik at first. To get there, you need to walk through a gate and take a very short hike through the greenery. As you turn the final corner, the vast cenote will appear. There is a small area to leave belongings, but there are no toilets or changing facilities.

Address: On an unmarked road in Comitán, Chiapas, Mexico

How to Get There: Driving is best. 45 minute drive from Comitán.

Hours: Daily, early morning until 5:00 PM

Planning a Trip to Mexico:

• Solo Female Travel in Mexico: Is it Safe?
• What NOT to Do in Mexico
• Two Weeks in Mexico: The BEST Yucatan Road Trip Itinerary

Places to Visit in the Yucatán and Mexico’s Caribbean Coast:

• Things to Do in Bacalar, Mexico, The Lake of Seven Colors
• Guide to Isla Holbox, Mexico’s Most Magical Island
• 50+ Best Cenotes in Mexico

Places to Visit in Inland Mexico:

• The Absolute Best Things to Do in Oaxaca, Mexico
• Best Mexico City Neighborhoods to Stay In
• 35+ Best Things to Do in Guanajuato, Mexico
• How to Visit Sumidero Canyon from San Cristobal de las Casas

Places to Visit on Mexico’s Pacific Coast:

• 24 Fabulous Things to Do in Sayulita, Mexico
• Guide to Bucerías, Mexico, an alternative to Puerto Vallarta

Have you been to Mexico? What’s your favorite cenote?

11 Best Tulum Cenote Tours You Won’t Want to Miss in 2024

REady to book the best Tulum cenotes tours?

As I’ve been living in Mexico since 2018 , you can imagine that I’ve explored countless cenotes on several Tulum cenote tours. I know first-hand that not all tours are created equal, and it’s not always easy to find great cenote tours in Tulum Mexico — but I’m here to help.

Tulum has A LOT of cenotes tours to choose from, and picking one can be overwhelming. For this article, I used my insider knowledge to vet all the tours to make sure they’re highly rated and well-reviewed —  so all you have to do is book a Tulum cenote tour and enjoy!

Don’t have time to read the whole article? The best Tulum cenote tour is this All Inclusive 3 Cenotes & Tulum Ruins Tour with Lunch . On it, you’ll swim in cenotes, tour Tulum Ruins, and enjoy a traditional lunch.

If that one’s not for you, don’t worry! There are plenty of other great Tulum cenotes tours so you can explore these unique jungle pools. In fact, this article features the 11 Best Tulum Cenote Tours, and each one offers something a little different than the others.

From Tulum ATV and cenote tours to full-day cenote Tulum Ruins excursions, are you ready to discover the most unique Tulum cenotes tours? Great, then let’s dive in (oh, and all cenote puns in this article are very much intended).

Top 3 Picks: Best Tulum Cenote Tours

#1 TOP PICK

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ All Inclusive Tour: 3 Cenotes, Tulum Mayan Ruins & Lunch ✔️ Swim in 3 Tulum cenotes ✔️ Guided Tulum Ruins tour ✔️ Lunch & transportation included

Mayan Underworld: Tulum Cenotes & Lagoon Tour ✔️ Swim in 2 cenotes and 1 lagoon ✔️ Round-trip transportation

Tulum Cenotes Without Crowds ✔️ Visit 2 off the beaten path cenotes ✔️ Local guide & lunch included

The 11 Tulum Best Cenote Tours

1. all inclusive: 3 cenotes & tulum ruins tour with lunch.

⭐️ Rated: 4.95 out of 5 Stars | ⏰ Time: 7 hours | Check rates & availability

Looking for the best Tulum Ruins and cenote tour? Look no further! This All Inclusive Tulum Tour to 3 Cenotes & Tulum Ruins not only takes you to the sites with a private guide, but offers a lot of nice extras at no additional charge.

The tour also includes round-trip transportation from your accommodation, all entrance fees , and a traditional Mayan and Mexican food lunch cooked in front of you in an open kitchen. 🍹 BONUS: As soon as they pick you up, you’ll get a mimosa welcome cocktail .

Visiting the Mayan ruins and swimming through the cenotes were probably one of the best parts of our trip . Our tour guide at the ruins was very knowledgeable and super friendly, he really did a great job immersing us in the Mayan culture… Thank you so much for the amazing tour, we highly recommend this experience to others! —sydni ( See more reviews )

A complete Tulum cenotes experience, you’ll visit three different types of cenotes to get the full experience. As we know, the “best Tulum cenote” is the one YOU like best, so you’ll get to check out a cave cenote located fully underground, a semi-open cenote, and a fully open cenote.

You will also learn about the importance cenotes play in Tulum’s ecosystem, the flora and fauna that surrounds them, and the Mayan culture and history that hides inside them.

Best of all, you decide how long you want to stay at each cenote to swim and explore. 🛟 Note: Goggles and life vests are provided so you can float through the cenote at your convenience.

Finally, you’ll end the day with lunch at one of the best, most authentic restaurants in Tulum Town (AKA Downtown Tulum). Enjoy Mexican and Yucatan foods, like cochinita pibil tacos and sopa de lima (lime soup; a local delicacy) before being dropped off at your hotel, Airbnb or hostel.

For the cost, this tour can’t be beat because you get so much included and there are no pesky hidden fees . It is also one of the highest-rated Tulum cenotes tours, so don’t hesitate to reserve your spot now because this one does often sell out.

Best Tulum Cenote Tours

2. mayan underworld: tulum cenotes & lagoon tour.

⭐️ Rated: 4.96 out of 5 Stars | ⏰ Time: 4.5 hours | Check rates & availability

This Underworld Maya Cenote & Lagoon Experience Tour includes not only a visit to two cenotes — but also a Tulum lagoon (which just so happens to have another cenote in the center of it).

On this tour, you’ll visit two types of cenotes, a cave cenote and an open cenote (sometimes called a swimming pool cenotes because it looks like a natural swimming pool in the jungle).

You can stop searching, you’ve found the best possible experience in Tulum … I’m not going to tell you about the three cenotes because it’s best to discover them for yourself [but] needless to say, this is a perfectly-crafted excursion . —Jason ( See more reviews )

The cave cenote is located off the beaten path, and the number of people allowed in each day is restricted, so you can expect a private feel. Trust me when I tell you this is one of the most beautiful cenotes in Mexico!

In the open cenote, you can jump into this natural pool and also snorkel in its crystal-clear waters. 🐠 Note: For those who want to snorkel and see some fish, these open cenotes are the best cenotes for snorkeling.

After the cenotes, you’ll visit Kaan Luum Lagoon, one of the coolest Tulum hidden gems. It looks similar to the famous Blue Hole in Belize — but unlike the Blue Hole, this is a shallow, freshwater lagoon so it’s easy to just relax in the water and splash around.

3. Tulum Cenotes Without the Crowds Tour (Private Tour Available)

⭐️ Rated: 4.98 out of 5 Stars | ⏰ Time: 5 hours | Check rates & availability

On this Non-Touristy Tulum Cenotes Without Crowds Tour , you’ll visit two types of cenotes — one above ground and one underground cave cenote. ⚠️ Note: If you’re looking for a private cenote Tulum tour , you can book this one so it’s for just you and your group.

Speaking of private, that’s the name of the game here! This tour is all about visiting the hidden gem Tulum cenotes without crowds, and having them to yourself to experience the stillness of the cave and hear the songs of the jungle birds — with no one and nothing to distract you.

This host was the best.   Kaeru  knew the best private cenotes and taco restaurants in Tulum. A level above some other tour guides, clearly. —Ronald ( See more reviews )

After exploring the lush Yucatan jungle and swimming in the two cenotes, enjoy a traditional Mexican food picnic lunch. Host and Tulum local, Kaeru, promises “one of the most authentic meals of your vacation,” during this off the beaten path Tulum experience.

While you won’t know which cenotes you’re visiting until you arrive for the tour (a common practice for Tulum cenotes tours, btw) you can ask Kaeru ahead of time for a custom made itinerary that includes a cenote from your Tulum bucket list.

4. Tulum Cenote Tour with Snorkeling & Turtle Swim

⭐️ Rated: 4.95 out of 5 Stars | ⏰ Time: 4.5 hours | Check rates & availability

This Tulum, Snorkel Reef, Turtles & Cenote Tour checks quite a few items off any Mexico bucket list: exploring Mayan Ruins in Tulum ✔️, swimming in cenotes ✔️, snorkeling with turtles ✔️, sampling traditional Yucatan food from this region ✔️

You’ll start this adventure touring the Tulum Ruins, a beautiful Mayan Ruins site overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Here, your knowledgeable guide will explain all the history, symbolism and significance of these Mexico ruins.

I’ll save you some time… go ahead and book now! Alejandro is the best tour guide. He is very knowledgeable about the Mayan culture, mystical culture and the surrounding nature and wildlife… We had a blast!!! —Jessica ( See more reviews )

After the tour, walk down the staircase at Tulum Mayan Ruins to the beach cove beneath (known as Playa Ruinas, or the Tulum Ruins Beach).

Here, you’ll board a boat and head to the best place for Tulum snorkeling tours. As part of the second largest reef on Earth, the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, you’ll see tropical fish 🐠 and hopefully even sea turtles 🐢, as they tend to hang out in the area you’ll go.

After some time snorkeling, you’ll head to one of the top Tulum cenotes for another swim in these natural pools. On the way back to your hotel, enjoy a stop at a locals’ only restaurant for a traditional Yucatan food meal.

With so many things to do in a single day, and a stop at some of the iconic landmarks in Mexico, it’s easy to see why this is considered one of the best Tulum cenote and ruins tours.

5. Discover the Most Instagram Worthy Cenotes Near Tulum

⭐️ Rated: 4.98 out of 5 Stars | ⏰ Time: 8 hours | Check rates & availability

Looking for cenote tours from Tulum that will take you to visit the best cenotes near Tulum? You’ve found it! This Discovering the Best Insta Cenotes Yucatan Tour is the best way to see the Instagram worthy cenotes located just outside Tulum.

While there are many gorgeous cenotes in Tulum, you don’t want to miss out on the chance to visit the Instagrammable cenotes located in neighboring towns.

100% recommend this cenotes tour; this is a must do! The start time is early, but it was so worth it. We had the cenotes all to ourselves and got amazing pictures with no crowds. Our tour guide, Ulises… was an amazing photographer and knows all the good angles. —judy (See more reviews)

Two of the most beautiful cenotes in Yucatan, Suytun Cenote and San Lorenzo Oxman Cenote are included on the tour. You’ll also visit one gorgeous hidden gem cenote in the Mayan jungle that you’d never find via Google.

After getting all your beautiful photos in the most Instagram worthy cenotes, you’ll visit the pueblo magico (magic town) of Valladolid Mexico for a gourmet Yucatan food lunch.

If you’re considering any Tulum day trips, this is one of the best Yucatan cenote tours available. To my knowledge, it is also one of the only Cenote Suytun tours available.

6. Chichen Itza Ruins & Cenote Tour from Tulum

⭐️ Rated: 4.94 out of 5 Stars | ⏰ Time: 5 hours | Check rates & availability

Looking for the best Chichen Itza and cenote tours from Tulum? Look no further because you’ve found it! This Chichen Itza Ruins, Valladolid & Cenote Tour is a way to see a lot of amazing sites in just one day.

As one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Chichen Itza is among the best Mayan Ruins in Yucatan, and the most famous one of them all. Being such an important site, visiting is a true Mexico bucket list experience for many visitors.

I am so glad I decided to do this experience. Everything was very well thought out from start to finish… My favorite part about the tour was the  cenote , as photos do not do it justice… I 10/10 recommend booking this experience! —kyle ( See more reviews )

Located near Chichen Itza Mayan Ruins, you’ll also visit the Mexico pueblo magico of Valladolid to explore one of the most charming towns in Yucatan.

Valladolid is a beautiful, colorful colonial town that’s one of the most up-and-coming Mexico travel destinations. While visiting, you’ll enjoy a traditional Yucatan food lunch in a restored hacienda-style mansion.

As this article is all about Tulum cenote tours, you’ll of course also swim in a cenote on this tour! A truly magical experience, you’ll enjoy some time in a local, community-run cenote for an off the beaten path experience away from the crowds.

With so much offered on this action-packed day trip, it’s easy to see why this is considered the best Mayan Ruins and cenote tour from Tulum.

7. Snorkel the Hidden Cenotes of Tulum Tour

This Snorkel the Hidden Cenotes of Tulum Tour takes you to three different cenotes, all different types, where you can swim and snorkel.

Enjoy an open swimming pool cenote, a semi-open cenote where bats fly freely overhead (they are adorable, and never come near humans), and an underground cave cenote.

Alex was awesome! He was super knowledgeable of all the cenotes around Tulum, and took us to some amazing locations. Definitely would recommend booking with him to anyone. The tacos at the end are worth it!! —Ethan ( See more reviews )

Each cenote on this tour was strategically chosen, each just 10-15 minutes from one another, so you don’t waste any of your precious cenote time on the road.

After exploring and swimming, you’ll enjoy lunch at a top secret, locals’ only Tulum taquería (taco shop). If you want to try the best Tulum tacos, don’t miss this tour.

8. Professional Tulum Cenotes Photoshoot (Private Underwater Photography Session)

⭐️ Rated: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏰ Tour Time: 3 hours | 📸 Check rates & availability

This Cenotes & Underwater Photography Tour is a visit to the coolest Tulum cenotes with professional photographer, Manual, there to capture all the magic.

You’ll meet Manual in Tulum Town (AKA Downtown Tulum) early in the morning to have the best lighting possible, and be the only ones at the cenotes.

Wow. What a magical morning . This is one of those experiences that make you feel transported to another reality ! …What a gift it was. I cannot recommend this experience or host enough. —lily ( See more reviews )

During this Tulum underwater photography experience, you’ll see some of the most spectacular cenotes in Tulum, and have photos to share afterwards.

What’s included? You’ll receive an online gallery with 20 edited images, three weeks after the experience, as they will be edited before release. For an additional cost, you can also arrange for drone shots.

9. Tacos & Tulum Cenotes Tour

⭐️ Rated: 4.96 out of 5 Stars | ⏰ Time: 4 hours | Check rates & availability

This Tulum Tacos & Cenotes Tour is a true locals’ experience to visit some of the best cenotes in Mexico, as well as a local taquería (Tulum taco shop).

Start the day getting to know the hosts, Sebastian and Hector, over coffee and fresh fruit. Two Tulum locals, your hosts will share some cenote facts and history with you, before you begin your journey to swim in the Tulum cenotes.

Thank you so much for this unforgettable experience!… The cenotes were breathtaking [and] the taco spot afterwards… chef’s kiss . So happy we chose this experience! —Larissa ( See more reviews )

From here, you’ll go to two cenotes that you’d never find anywhere online! After a refreshing swim in these cenotes, you’ll head to a Tulum taco shop that only locals know about and enjoy some of the best tacos in Tulum.

As you’ll likely be alone at these non-crowded cenotes, enjoy a few hours disconnecting from the outside world in Tulum’s beautiful, quiet and peaceful nature.

10. Tulum Cenotes Bike Tour with Lunch Included

This Tulum Bike, Cenotes, Jungle & Lunch Experience Tour is a peaceful bike ride through the Yucatan jungle to see two unique cenotes.

At them, you can snorkel and swim at your own pace, as the trip will be tailored to how the group wants to divide their time at the cenotes.

Amazing experience. The cenotes are absolutely stunning and the whole thing was so much easier with Marcela guiding us . Completely recommend this — so glad we booked. —Frankie ( See more reviews )

After visiting the second cenote, and working up an appetite biking and swimming, you’ll enjoy a traditional lunch outdoors. ⚠️ Note: Inform host, Marcela, of any food restrictions in advance.

This is a chance to really enjoy Tulum’s nature, exploring the jungle on a bike trail only locals know about. With so many amazing reviews, it’s easy to see why this made the list of the best Tulum cenote tours from Tulum.

11. Tulum Bike Tour to 3 Cenotes with Mayan Snacks Included

⭐️ Rated: 4.99 out of 5 Stars | ⏰ Time: 5 hours | Check rates & availability

Looking for the most budget-friendly Tulum cenotes tour? You’ve found it!

On this Tulum Bike Tour to 3 Cenotes , you’ll have to make your way about 25 minutes north of Tulum to the small town of Chemuyil, Mexico. You can get there by rental car or taxi, as this is an easy trip (though it’s not the best idea to try public transportation).

In Chemuyil, you’ll ride bicycles through town and the jungle, making your way to three different cenotes around the community. At the end of the tour, you’ll stop at a local restaurant where you can purchase a delicious lunch.

Miguel was our guide and WOW. Respect. This was such a well-rounded, enriching experience; I would go back and do the exact same tour 10 more times if I could … Well worth it. Words do no justice, you just have to go see for yourself <3 —Courtney ( See more reviews )

A rustic and budget-friendly tour, you won’t get any bells and whistles on this one. However, you will get to see the more natural side of Yucatan Mexico away from the crowds, and meet some local people along the way.

This tour is led by Einner and his crew from the Bejil-Ha EcoTourism Project. These locals have a strong passion for showcasing their homeland, and the magical cenotes in it. If you want to support local companies and enjoy a true eco-adventure in the jungle, this is the tour for you.

Your bike to visit the different cenote locations, snorkel equipment, a lifejacket (optional to use), bottled water and snacks (usually fresh fruit) are all included. However, you will have to pay for your own transport from Tulum to Chemuyil.

Cenotes Packing List: What to Bring to Tulum Cenotes

Wondering what to pack for Tulum cenotes? You’re not alone!

Since this will likely be your first visit to any of the best Mexico cenotes, you’re probably unsure what to take and what to leave home. Don’t worry — I’m here to help.

Below, you’ll find a list of seven things you need to consider when making your Tulum cenotes packing list.

This list highlights what you’ll want to bring to any cenotes in Tulum (or cenotes near Tulum ) you’re visiting, like Laguna Kaan Luum & Cenote , El Gran Cenote , Cenote Sac Actun, Cenote Carwash (AKA Cenote Aktun-Ha).

1. Go Pro Waterproof Camera

• 5.3K 60 Ultra HD Video
• 27 Megapixel Photos
• Award-Winning HyperSmooth 6.0 Image Stabilization
• Webcam with Live Streaming
• 1/1.9 Image Sensor
• Whats Included: HERO12 Black, Enduro Rechargeable Battery, Curved Adhesive Mount, Mounting Buckle + Thumb Screw, USB-C Cable

If you’ve been considering getting a GoPro Hero , the photogenic Yucatan cenotes make for the perfect place to put the camera to good use.

📸 Looking for an inexpensive GoPro alternative? I recommend this Akaso EK7000 , an Amazon Best Seller.

2. Long Sleeve Bathing Suit (AKA Rash guard or Swim shirt)

🚨 In case you didn’t know: Sunscreen is prohibited in ALL cenotes!

That’s right: You’re not allowed to wear sunscreen of any kind in any cenote. Yes, this also includes eco-friendly sunscreens and reef safe sunscreens because they can harm the natural environment.

However, you will want sun protection, so opt for these long sleeve bathing suits and even these waterproof sun hats so you don’t end up with a bad sunburn on your Tulum vacation.

3. Mask and Snorkel

• 180° Panoramic View
• Anti-Fog and Anti-Leak Dry Snorkel Technology
• Made of High Quality PC and Medical Grade Silicone
• Detachable Camera Mount (Fits GoPro, Akaso, and most models)
• Adjustable straps designed for comfort in the water

You can snorkel in many Tulum cenotes to see the rocks underneath and all the little fish.

For those who want to conserve luggage space, these small goggles and this roll up snorkel are a great option, but this combo mask and snorkel is the best option for snorkeling in Tulum cenotes, as well as the Tulum lagoons and the Caribbean Sea.

4. Water Shoes

Here’s one of the best Tulum travel tips: Don’t forget to buy and bring your water shoes ! As cenotes are natural pools, most have slippery rocks, muddy ground, etc.

Water shoes also help you not slip in general, especially when walking down any staircase entryways.

5. Waterproof Phone Holder

If you’re planning to take Instagrammable cenote photos, this inexpensive waterproof phone holder that goes around your neck really comes in handy.

With these, you can take them in water and capture the Tulum cenotes from all angles.

6. Waterproof Fanny Pack

This waterproof fanny pack is another great option. Not only are they cute, but it will also hold all your valuables, not just your phone.

Wondering about lockers at Tulum cenotes? While some do have locker rental options, some don’t, so the best option is to keep all your belongings on you with this waterproof waist bag.

7. Quick Dry Towel

This quick dry towel is one of the best things to throw in your suitcase when packing for Mexico , and will definitely come in handy when you visit the cenotes and Yucatan beaches .

Best Tulum Cenotes Tours: FAQ

What are cenotes.

A cenote is a deep sinkhole in the natural limestone floor, which exposes the freshwater underground. This sunken-in area forms a natural pool (or cenote), and these cenotes are found especially in Yucatan Mexico.

The word “sinkhole” describes the process of how the cenotes came to be. At one time, all cenotes were encased in the Yucatan Peninsula’s native limestone rock.

Over time, some rock has eroded, collapsed, and “sunk in” to reveal the water beneath — which is the cenote water we can now swim in.

The cenotes aren’t individual pools, but rather derive from the same water that comes from massive freshwater rivers flowing beneath the Yucatan Peninsula .

In fact, some cenote water comes from the largest underground river on Earth, the Sistema Sac Actun (Cenote Sac Actun).

🛑 Just want a short answer to, What is a cenote? Mexico’s cenotes are natural freshwater pools located primarily in the Yucatan Mayan jungle.

What are the 4 types of cenotes?

Of the (approx.) 6,000 cenotes in Yucatan , there are four distinct types of cenotes: open, semi-open, cave , and diving cenotes.

While everyone wants to know what’s the best cenote Tulum has, there’s no definitive answer. You’ll just have to visit the different types so you can decide on YOUR best (which isn’t so bad, really)!

Each type is unique and beautiful in its own way, so make sure to visit as many types of Mexican cenotes as you can.

1. Open Cenotes

You may see these called “swimming pool cenotes,” because they’re completely open and look like a natural swimming pool.

Some of the best open cenotes include Cenote Azul (Blue Cenote), Cenote Zacil-Ha , El Gran Cenote , Cenote Corazon del Paraiso , and Cenote Escondido.

⚠️ Note: When it comes to famous cenotes in Tulum, El Gran Cenote is at the top of the list. A few people have asked me about a Gran Cenote Tulum tour, and this Cenote Triple Adventure Tour in Tulum is the only one I know of that includes Gran Cenote.

2. Semi-Open Cenotes

These cenotes are semi-encased in their native limestone rock. Semi-open cenotes have large walls surrounding the pool itself, and a large hole in the top where sunlight gets in — like Cenote Ik-Kil , Cenote Zemway and Cenote Atik , a strong contender for the best cenote in Tulum!

3. Closed Cenotes in Caves

Cave cenotes are exactly as the name says. These are located underground in a cave, and you’ll have to access them by going down some stairs — like Cenote Suytun . This one does have a hole at the top where a single light beam comes in, but it’s still considered a closed cave cenote.

4. Dive Cenotes for Diving

The final type is also located inside a cave, but the water in these cenotes is much deeper so they are sought out for diving.

These include Cenote Dos Ojos , Cenote Calavera , Cenote Ponderosa, and Cenote El Pit, known as the one of the best Tulum diving cenotes.

🤿 Note: You must be scuba dive certified for cenote diving! For those who are, check out these two tours: Cenotes Scuba Diving Tulum Tour and Go Dive Cenotes in Tulum Tour — both of which have great reviews on Tripadvisor.

How many cenotes are there?

There are about 6,000 cenotes in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula — which is the largest concentration of cenotes found anywhere on Earth. 

How many cenotes are in Tulum?

About 200 — This answer depends on who you ask, as some people say there are exactly 226 of cenotes in Tulum, but other people say there are a bit more or a bit less.

How do you pronounce cenote?

Wondering how to say the word cenote? You’re not alone! The cenote pronunciation is sen-no-tay , and it’s sen-no-tays in plural.

What is the best Tulum cenotes tour?

The best Tulum cenote tour is this All Inclusive 3 Cenotes & Tulum Ruins Tour with Lunch . On it, you’ll swim in 3 cenotes, tour Tulum Ruins with a private guide, and enjoy a traditional lunch — with everything included in the purchase price, and no additional fees!

Do you need a tour to visit cenotes in Tulum?

No — You can absolutely visit the cenotes on your own. If you want to do so, be mindful of time because many are located in rural areas and you’ll want to be out of there before dark because you likely won’t have a cell signal to safely navigate back to Tulum.

What’s the best way to visit Tulum cenotes on your own?

As cenotes are pretty spread out, the easiest way to go on your own is to rent a car in Tulum and make a plan to visit a few cenotes in one day. You can take a bus or public transportation to some cenotes, but not many because they tend to be located in rural areas of the Yucatan jungle.

Are cenote tours worth it?

Yes — A tour will offer you something invaluable that going on your own does not: Advice from a local . As Tulum cenotes tours are led by Tulum locals who know the area well, you end up visiting all the hidden gem cenotes without crowds of people.

How many cenotes can you visit in a day?

1-3 — Really, you can visit as many as you want in a day, though there usually aren’t more than three cenotes located in the same general area, and the drive time between these cenote areas can be long.

How much is a cenote tour in Tulum?

It varies — Tulum cenote tours range in price based on how many cenotes you visit and if there are any extras included, like lunch or a visit to other Tulum attractions. ON average, expect to pay $30 USD-$150 USD per person for the best cenote tours Tulum has to offer.

Are the cenotes in Tulum worth it?

Yes — Not only are they worth it, but there are people who travel to Tulum only to enjoy the cenotes. A haven for swimmers, snorkelers and scuba divers alike, there are only cenotes in a few places on Earth, so don’t miss out on visiting the Tulum cenotes.

What are the best cenotes in Tulum?

This is a subjective answer, because different people fall in love with different Tulum cenotes for different reasons. Of all the cenotes in Tulum and cenotes near Tulum, some of the most popular and most-visited include Cenote Ik-Kil , Gran Cenote , Cenote Dos Ojos , Cenote Calavera and Cenote Suytun .

What is the best non-touristy cenote in Tulum?

There are a few non-crowded cenotes in Tulum to check out, like Cenote Cristal , Cenote Escondido and Cenote Corazon del Paraiso . These are all located just minutes from Tulum Town (also known as Tulum Pueblo or Downtown Tulum).

What is the most picturesque cenote?

There are A LOT of beautiful cenotes in Mexico, and some of the most famous are the Instagrammable cenotes like Cenote Suytun , Cenote Ik Kil , Cenote Calavera and La Gran Cenote Tulum . 📸 To visit them all, book this Mexico Instagram Cenotes Tour .

Can you swim in Tulum cenotes?

Yes — You can swim in the Tulum cenotes, and they contain freshwater, so it is a very refreshing activity on those hot Tulum days. At many cenotes and lagoons, like Yal Ku Lagoon , you can enjoy some amazing snorkeling while you swim.

Can non-swimmers go in cenotes?

Yes — Depending on the cenote, most have shallow areas near the edges. Also, many cenotes have life jacket rentals, and they’re usually only about $1 USD, so make sure to rent one if you need to.

Can you snorkel in a cenote?

Yes — Cenotes contain freshwater, so they all have visibility for snorkeling to some degree. However, some cenotes are better for snorkeling than others, and the most famous snorkeling cenotes are Tulum Gran Cenote , Casa Cenote Tulum (AKA Cenote Manatí), Dos Ojos Cenote and Cenote Jardin del Eden.

Do you need water shoes for cenotes in Tulum?

No, but they do come in handy — As cenotes are natural pools, most have slippery rocks around the sides and mossy-covered staircases to enter into the cenote. These water shoes will help you not slip, especially when walking down any staircase or ladder entryways.

How cold is cenote water?

77° Fahrenheit (25° Celsius) on average — The temperature of the water in cenotes doesn’t really fluctuate much, so it’s about the same year-round. While it might feel cool when you first jump in, you’ll warm up in about one minute.

Do crocodiles swim in cenotes?

Yes, but you probably won’t see one — While you can theoretically find crocs in any body of fresh water in the Yucatan (including cenotes and lagoons), they tend to prefer larger swimming spaces and shallow water. Since cenote sinkholes are usually small and deep, it’s very uncommon for people to see crocodiles in cenotes.

How deep is the water in a cenote?

Wondering, How deep are cenotes? On average, cenotes are quite deep at about 10- to 50-feet (3-15 meters) . Cenote El Pit is the deepest cenote in Quintana Roo State at about 390-feet-deep (119 m), but it’s reserved for divers only.

What is the best time of day to go to cenotes?

Right when they open — To beat the crowds, especially at the most popular cenotes in Tulum like Calavera Cenote , Cenote Car Wash and El Gran Cenote (sometimes spelled as El Grand Cenote), head there right when they open.

Can you wear sunscreen in cenotes?

No — To practice responsible and sustainable tourism in Mexico, do not wear sunscreen, lotion and/or insect repellent of any kind, and do your part to keep cenote water clean. Also, most cenotes require you to shower or rinse off before entering, so everything will wash off anyway.

Are cenotes free in Tulum?

No — You can expect to pay an entrance fee at all Tulum cenotes, which can range from $50 pesos to $400 pesos (about $3-$25 USD). There is one exception, Cenote Aldea Zama, which is the only free cenote in Tulum Mexico.

Final Thoughts: Best Tulum Cenote Tours

There you have it — all the best Tulum Mexico cenote tours and top-rated Tulum cenote excursions! Which one caught your eye?  If that question has you like 🤷‍♀️ and you’re still undecided about the best cenote tour Tulum has, please allow me to help with this suggestion:

I recommend this 3 Cenotes & Tulum Ruins Tour with Lunch . On this cenote triple adventure tour in Tulum, you’ll swim in 3 cenotes, tour Tulum Ruins, and enjoy a traditional lunch.

With a quick Google search, you’ll discover there are hundreds of beautiful cenotes in Tulum, and thousands of Yucatan cenotes in Riviera Maya — so it can be difficult to choose which ones to visit (especially if this is your first trip to Tulum).

There are some great ones “on” the beaten path, but one of the main reasons to opt for a tour is that a Tulum local will take you to the lesser-visited, off the beaten path cenotes.

If you want a private Tulum cenote experience away from the crowds, and those coveted Instagram cenotes photos without people in them, then you must venture beyond the standard list of cenotes — and a local tour guide is the best person to take you to those.

⚠️ Coming from other places in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula? Check out this Tulum Cenote Tour from Cancun and this top-rated Tulum and Cenote Tour from Playa del Carmen .

Want to book more Tulum Mexico Tours?

Looking to take more tours in Tulum during your visit? Tours are so convenient because you don’t have to worry about planning anything —  you just show up and enjoy!

Here are all of my recommendations for the top-rated Tulum tours:

• 💎 Tulum Private Tours
• 🛥️ Tulum Boat Tours
• 🗿 Tulum to Chichen Itza Tours
• 🐬 Sian Kaan Tours from Tulum
• 🤿 Tulum Snorkeling Tours
• 📸 Tulum Photoshoot Tours
• 🗿 Tulum to Coba Ruins Tours
• 🐋 Tulum Whale Shark Tours
• 🗿 Tulum Ruins Tours
• 🚲 Tulum Bike Tours
• 🍽️ Tulum Food Tours
• 🥃 Tulum Mezcal Tasting Tours
• 🌮 Tulum Taco Tours
• 👩‍🍳 Tulum Cooking Classes
• 🏍️ Tulum ATV Tours
• 🚗 Cancun to Tulum Tours

Tulum Travel Planning Guide

1. should i buy mexico travel insurance.

100% YES! — With basic coverage averaging just $5-10 USD per day, enjoy peace of mind with a plan from Travel Insurance Master , one of the biggest names in travel insurance. ( Read more )

2. Can you drink the water in Tulum?

No — You’ll want to buy this Water-To-Go Bottle , which filters your drinking water so you don’t get sick from drinking water in Mexico, and helps keep you hydrated while traveling Mexico. ( Read more )

3. Is it safe to rent a car in Tulum?

Yes — Renting a car in Mexico is one of the best ways to see the country! I always rent with Discover Cars , which checks both international companies and local Mexican companies, so you get the best rates. ( Read more )

4. Will my phone work in Tulum?

Maybe — It depends on your company, so check with your provider. If you don’t have free Mexico service, buy this Telcel SIM Card . As Mexico’s largest carrier, Telcel has the best coverage of any Mexico SIM Cards. ( Read more )

5. What’s the best way to book my Tulum accommodations?

For Tulum hotels, Booking.com is the best site, but for hostels, use Hostel World . If you’re considering a Mexico Airbnb, don’t forget to also check VRBO , which is often cheaper than Airbnb.

6. What do I pack for Tulum?

Head to the Ultimate Tulum Packing List to get all the info you need on packing for Mexico.

7. What’s the best site to buy Mexico flights?

For finding cheap Mexico flights, I recommend Skyscanner .

8. Do I need a visa for Mexico?

Likely Not — U.S., Canadian and most European Passport holders don’t need a visa for Mexico; but check here to see if you do a Mexico travel visa. The majority of travelers will receive a 180-Day FMM Tourist Visa or passport stamp upon arrival.

A Guide To Mexico’s Most Beautiful Cenote Excursions

One of Mexico's best excursions involves visiting one of many cenotes, and you should know about them - and where to find them - beforehand.

Mexico rolls Mayan ruins, alluring beaches, steep canyons, lush forests, adventurous activities, and the most intriguing sinkholes called "Cenotes" within itself. Home to around 6000 cenotes in the Yucatan and Quintana Roo peninsula, more than any place in the world, these unique cenotes should be on everyone's list while visiting Mexico.

What Is A Cenote & Why Are They Significant?

Natural sinkholes caves formed by the collapse of limestone bedrock and filled by the currents of underground rivers are called cenotes. As the rock collapses, a secret subterranean world of groundwater pools is unleashed. It takes hundreds of years for the erosion of limestone and is often connected by underground caves.  Gradually, they became quite prominent for swimming, diving, and exploring hidden facts.

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The Types of Cenotes In Mexico

Basically, there are four types of cenotes.

Open Cenotes:  Open Cenotes are natural, open pools, and less deep.

• Eg: Cenote Carwash Near Tulum

Semi-Open Cenotes:  It has some parts exposed and some parts hidden by a cave.

• Eg: Cenote Calavera

Cave Cenotes:  It can be accessed by the land level entrance and it paves up ahead for an underground pool having both shallow and deep areas.

• Eg: Cenote Samula

Underground Cenotes:  Quite tedious to reach, the experienced divers can have only access to them.

• Eg: Pet Cemetery Cenote Near Tulum

Cultural and Religious Significance of Cenotes

As per Mayans, the inhabitants of the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico, Cenotes are considered as an entrance to Xibalba, a place where Mayan gods would visit. Cenotes were sacred wells for them. Chaac, the Mayan God of Rain, Lightning, and Thunder has its association with it and thus, the intriguing Chichen Itza has been built on cenotes.

Most Beautiful Cenote Excursions In Mexico

No place in the world can boast of gorgeous cenotes such as Mexico, especially the Yucatan Peninsula. Here is a list of the most mesmerizing cenotes.

Cenote Dos Ojos, Tulum

The term, "Dos Ojos" means two eyes and thus the cenote is literally split into two parts. One part is lighter and shallow which is perfect for snorkeling whereas the other half is dark and deep which is ideal for scuba diving. Probably, swimming can still be claustrophobic here but the beams of light penetrating through water can be enlightening. The dry caves and the bats among stalactites are unique aspects of it as well as the stalactites and stalagmites of the caves.  The diving gear can be also rented at the center itself and the torch is quite imperative nonetheless.

• Opening Hours, Location & Costs:  It is located three km away off the highway, 307 and 22 km north of Tulum and 50 km south of Playa Del Carmen. Entrance to this cenote costs around 18 $ and children under six are free. Life jackets are included in this price.

Gran Cenote

The Gran Cenote is the best in Tulum which beholds crystal clear water against the lush jungle. Basically, this cenote has two swimming areas connected by a cave.

Either one can snorkel between underground stalactites, go diving in the cenote cave system or enjoy the mini turtle sanctuary which is set inside the cenote. The best time to visit it is from late November to April.

• Opening Hours, Location & Costs:  The cenote is open from 8 am to 4.45 am. Entrance to this cenote costs around 15$ which does not include any equipment rentals. It is located around 5kms from the center of Tulum.

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Cenote Samulá, near Valladolid and Chichén Itza

One of the best cenotes in the world, it is enclosed in a cave and has the combination of high ceilings of the cave, cool water, and the dancing light. The unique feature of this cenote is a cave hole open to the sky. While the beam of sunlight makes it photogenic on the Instagram ladder, it has chilled water compared to the other cenotes. Visiting Mayan ruins nearby can just be a cherry on the cake.

• Opening Hours, Location & Costs:  Located at a 15 min drive outside of Valladolid in a town called Dzitnup, it is open from 8 am to 7 pm. The price costs around 6$ for its entrance.

Suytun Cenote, Near Cancun

A mystical cenote owing to the underground cave with a walkaway in the middle of it makes it quite attractive. As the light beams through the walk away, it features a monolithic cave with turquoise water around. The cave is pretty dark inside as it's completely underground and also gives a glimpse of ancient civilizations.

• Opening Hours, Location & Costs:  A short 15-minute drive from the center of Valladolid in the Yucatan Peninsula, this is quite close to the city center. The entrance fee is around 3.50 $ and is open from 9 am to 5 pm.

Calavera Cenote

Best Cenote for scuba diving, Calavera Cenote is also known as "Temple of Doom" and "Skull Cenote". Its cave system has the longest underground river not only in Mexico but across the world. It does not only has freshwater but also saltwater, unlike other cenotes. However, the unique aspect persists that both don't mix although coexist in layers.

This cenote has 3 entrances to underground caves whereas the main entrance has a stair leading down, to climb in and out of the cenote.

• Opening Hours, Location & Costs:  Located around 10 mins drive from the center of Tulum, it costs around 5$ for swimming and 10$ for diving purposes. It opens from 9 am till 5 pm.

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Cenotes and Paradise Lagoon

Description

Practical information, good to know.

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• Experience the magic of swimming in an underground cenote (freshwater sinkhole) below the Mayan jungle
• Swim in a paradise lagoon tucked away in the Riviera Maya, where fresh and salt waters mix
• Snorkel and see amazing rock formations at the cenote and a multitude of fish at the lagoon
• Activity duration: 3.5 hours (not including transportation time to and from activity)
• Hotel pick-up and drop-off included

A Riviera Maya Cenote Excursion

• Round-trip, air-conditioned transportation
• Professional eco-guide
• Snacks on board the vans (bottled water, fruit and crackers)
• Snorkel gear (mask, snorkel, fins) and life jacket (mandatory)
• For safety reasons, this activity is not suitable for guests with limited mobility, respiratory problems, injuries, back/neck issues, heart conditions, or other conditions that can cause loss of consciousness
• Guests must be relatively fit and must be able to swim
• Guests are recommended to wear a bathing suit underneath their clothing and bring additional comfortable clothing and footwear, water shoes, biodegradable sunscreen and repellent, sunglasses, beach towel, a change of clothes, an underwater camera, and extra money
• Minimum suggested age: 8 years old
• Please note that our partner will be providing transportation in their vehicle so that you can enjoy this exciting excursion.
• Tour Language: English / Spanish
• Tour Location(s): Cancun / Riviera Maya
• Season: All year long
• Duration: 3.5 hours (approx.)
• Minimum Age Requirement: 8 years old
• Hotel Pick-up Available: Yes
• Good Physical Condition Required: Yes
• Suitable For Children : Yes
• Suitable For Elderly: Yes
• Pregnant Woman Allowed: No

• Legal Disclosure
• Privacy Policy

Cenotes in Mexico

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How did the cenotes emerge in Mexico?

Yucatan Peninsula: Cenotes in Mexico, here Conote Corazon, Tulum

Lonely Planet

Travel Guide for Mexico

Language Guide Mexico

Spanish Word by Word

Important for the Maya: Cenotes are entrances to the Mayan underworld called Xibalba

The Maya went to the cenotes when they wanted to contact the  gods of the underworld . Even today, some cenotes are sacred places for the Mayan descenders, where ceremonies are performed. The term cenote is derived from the Mayan language, “Dzonot” means “water hole”. They are probably the basis for the development of the Mayan culture in  southeast Mexico . All important Mayan sites on the Yucatan Peninsula are located close to cenotes. They provided the water supply for the Mayan cities with  several thousand inhabitants .

Cenotes in Mexico in today’s time

Cenotes Yucatan Peninsula

Parts of the caves that are now under water were not yet flooded during the Maya period. Archaeologists and cave divers explore the cenotes in Mexico to find information about past life. For example, a skeleton of at least 12,000 years old was found in the Hoyo Negro cave on the Yucatan Peninsula in 2014. This got a lot of attention in the world of archeology (see video below).

Water supply

The largest underground water system supplies the region of the Yucatan Peninsula with drinking water.

Tourist importance

Youtube video National Geographic: The Americas’ Oldest Most Complete Human Skeleton

Types of cenotes in mexico.

Cenotes as caves

Completely covered with karst rock, these cenotes are often many meters underground. They can be filled with water or dry. It depends on the water level. Sometimes the light enters through cracks or openings. Then there are impressive light shows that often resemble a laser show.

Half-open cenotes

Half-open cenotes are often just the entrance to deeper cave systems. A field covers water or grottos underneath. Light penetrates and creates a mystical atmosphere.

Open cenotes

Sulfur clouds in cenotes

Mexico Cenotes: sulfur clouds create a mystical atmosphere

Cressi Schnorchel and Mask

Schnorcheling in Cenotes

Canon SLR camera

Canon EOS 4000D Kit

The best Cenotes in Mexico

Cenotes in Mexico: The water is often in an underground cave

The best Cenotes in Mexico: Xel Ha

Mexiko: The best Cenotes in Yucatan: Xel Ha

• Swim on tubes across the river
• Discover cenotes and caves
• Lighthouse with a fantastic view
• Jungle hike
• All inclusive catering including non-alcoholic drinks
• Children’s playgrounds etc.

The best Cenotes in Mexico: Xcaret

The best Cenotes in Mexico: Eden (14 meter)

The best Cenotes in Mexico: Cenote Eden

Divers start the dive along a  wide tunnel with lots of light. At a maximum of 14 meters/45 feet, the Halokline gives dramatic effects through the incoming daylight. Do not forget your underwater camera! Due to its shallow depth, this cenote is also suitable for beginners. You can observe the halocline (dividing line between fresh and salt water) at a shallow depth. Particularly impressive are the temperature differences between the warmer salt water and the refreshing fresh water. This might be also of interest: -> The best Tequila from Mexico

The best Cenotes in Mexico: Chichin Ha

The best Cenotes in Mexicoo: Chickin Ha

The best Cenotes in Mexico: The Pit (30 – 40 meter)

Cenote  The Pit, Riviera Maya with archeological findings

Divers with a visit to the National Park can combine the deep dive Pit with a shallow dive in Dos Ojos. The Cenote The Pit is a round cenote. To enjoy all the beauty of this cenote, you have to go down deep. That’s why we also need an Advanced Open Water or Deep Dive Adventure Dive for this dive.

The best Cenotes in Mexico: Dos Ojos (8-10 meter)

The best Cenotes in Mexico: Dos Ojos

Cenote Dos Ojos – Barbie Line (8 meter, 24 feet)

The first dive follows a circular walk of about 500 meters. This dive is very shallow. Accompanied by a lot of natural light, you can emerge anywhere in the shortest time on the surface. That’s why this dive is good for beginners. The incidence of light creates impressive light formations. Dreamlike stalactites hang from the ceiling. Do not forget to breathe with so much beauty!

Cenote Dos Ojos – Bat Cave (10 Meter, 30 feet)

The best Cenotes in Mexico: Calavera (16 meter)

The best Cenotes in Mexico, Yucatan Halbinsel: Gran Cenote

The best Cenotes in Mexico: Angelita (30 meter)

Angelita Cenote in Mexico

The best Cenotes in Mexico: Aktun Ha / Carwash (16 meter)

Carwash  Cenote Riviera Maya

The best cenotes in Mexico: Dreamgate

Dreamgate Cenote in Mexico

• The cenotes in Mexico were formed millions of years ago
• Already the ancient Maya used the cenotes for their fresh water supply
• Sulfur clouds in the cenotes are formed by the separation of fresh and salt water
• Many cenotes line the main road of the Riviera Maya

AFFILIATE LINKS

Hello, my name is Birgit and I write about interesting topics around vacations in Mexico and traveling on the Yucatan peninsula. I would love to hear from you and I am always happy to receive ideas and recommendations for new articles.

Enjoy reading!!!

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Visit Cenotes in the Yucatan Peninsula

M exico’s Yucatan Peninsula is a land steeped in ancient history and full of beauty, mystery and wonder. With its centuries-old Maya civilization, the tropical jungles, and grand temples, it’s a place that offers a unique glimpse into the past. But the real magic of this area lies in its natural phenomenon – the cenotes. Visit cenotes in the Yucatan for an experience like no other.

Honestly, this is one of our family’s favorite things to do in all of Mexico. We love to visit cenotes and have probably done this more than five times over the last several years.

What is a Cenote?

First things first. Cenotes are like natural swimming holes that have been formed over time from pockets of limestone, fed by fresh rainwater and filtration from above. They are interconnected by a network of tunnels that flow the clean water through the rivers and out to sea. These cenotes are like deep water wells, with refreshing, clear water.

Since they are millions of years old, their origins are uncertain. However, many scientists conclude that cenotes were formed as part of the Big Bang. A meteor hit the Earth nearby, forming the Gulf of Mexico and spraying rock and debris for hundreds of miles. Looking at a map, the cenotes encircle the meteor’s impact point like an arc.

Regardless of origin, cenotes today beckon visitors to take a dip in their calm, clear waters. Visit cenotes for recreation, a bit of lore and perhaps a glimpse into our ancient history.

Types of Cenotes

There are different kinds of cenotes, each with its unique features. The Maya believed these cenotes were sacred gateways to the underworld, where their gods and ancestors resided.

Open Cenotes – Where sunlight dapples the water, fern grottos form along the walls, and vines dangle down the sides.

Semi-Open – Where natural light still filters through, but mostly under a rocky overhang.

Cave Cenotes – Where visitors climb down man-made staircases into darkened caverns, many with stalactites, stalagmites, and other interesting rock formations.

Ancient Cenotes – Where they have been designated as special to the local Mayan and Aztec people, who used them for religious rituals and spiritual honors.

Day Trips to Visit Cenotes

The Yucatan Peninsula is famous for having thousands of cenotes that dot the thick, tropical jungles. Many of them have been discovered and prepared for visitors to enjoy. Some are trek-worthy from most major resort destinations around the area, while others are even located in city centers, within restaurants, and on hotel grounds. Most are privately owned.

There are plenty of cenotes located very close to the major destinations in this area, including Cancun, Playa Del Carmen, Tulum, and Merida.

Visit Cenotes Near Cancun

Nearest to Cancun is the Ruta De Los Cenotes (Route of the Cenotes) with more than ten options within a 30-minute drive of the Cancun resorts. Some of the best include Kin Ha, a cave cenote that has deep blue waters you can step into or jump from a platform, and La Mojarras, one of the more active cenotes equipped with ziplines where you can drop directly into the water below.

Another exciting option is Siete Bocas (Seven Mouths), which has seven entrances (or mouths) to the underground network of rivers that flow into a beautiful turquoise pool. And for those who like a little adventure, La Noire is a darker cave cenote with zipline and jumping platform, as well as bats lurking in the hollows.

Tour companies near Cancun: Maritur DMC is a destination management company that is great for larger groups and organized tours from a number of destinations including Cancun.

Visit Cenotes Near Playa Del Carmen

If you’re staying in Playa Del Carmen, you must check out the Cenote Azul, one of the most beautiful cenotes in the area and popular because it is open to the sky and great for visitors of all ages.

You can also book a special Xenotes Tour with Xcaret that visits several special cenotes. The tour includes Ha Cenote, a semi-open cenote with vines and tree roots hanging down from the rocky cliffsides. Snorkeling and kayaking are available here. At nearby Iik Cenote, you can enjoy ziplines over the water, along with a cliff jump more than 20 feet high. Another exciting option is the Lu’um Cenote, where you can rappel into a cavern cenote with ancient rock formations and an underground pool for swimming. There’s also K’aak’ Cenote, which is like a waterpark with natural water slides, ziplines, and cliff jumps into the blue waters.

Tour company near Playa Del Carmen: The Xcaret Tour called Xenote is great for guests staying at any of the three Xcaret resort properties. Tours are available daily from Cancun and Playa Del Carmen areas. Even if you are not a resort guest, it’s possible to book their tours.

Visit Cenotes Near Tulum

If you’re staying in Tulum, there are several great cenotes nearby. One popular option is the Cenote Dos Ojos Park, which is an all-purpose cenote. It offers ample sunlight, beautiful cave formations with stalactites and stalagmites, and even hammocks for relaxing.

There are also several underground cenotes located near the Mayan ruins at Coba, including Cenote Choo-Ha, Tamcach-Ha, and Multum-Ha, all with interesting rock formations. For an Instagram-worthy experience, check out the Suytan cenote, famous for its stone path and circular platform that juts out into the deep blue pool.

Tour company near Tulum: AllTournative Adventures is a private tour company with many options for authentic adventures and excursions that include cenotes in a respectful and educational approach. We had a blast spending the day with them and touring the ruins at Coba along with some fantastic cenotes nearby.

Visit Cenotes Near Merida

If you’re staying in Merida, there are several great cenotes nearby, including the Ik Kil Cenote, located in the city of Valladolid near Chichen Itza. This enormous cenote is popular as a refreshing and beautiful reward after visiting the Mayan ruins. Another popular option is the Santa Barbara Cenotes, the most visited in the Merida area. This location offers three gorgeous cenotes, each offering a different experience, one blue, one green, and one turquoise. For a more gentrified experience, check out the Cenote Hacienda Mucuyche. It’s located on the property of a private 18th-century plantation, complete with a restaurant, shop, and other amenities.

Tour company near Merida: Merida Gay Tours , owned by Ricardo Godoy, is an excellent guide for cenotes, ruins, and other excursions in Merida and throughout the Yucatan. (Even if you are not a member of the LGBTQ+ community – allies welcome!) His tours include cenotes near Cancun, Playa del Carmen and Tulum in addition to Merida. He also has other tours of interest if you want to visit the ruins, etc.

Grab Your Swimsuit. Or Don’t!

Visiting cenotes is an absolute must-do activity when visiting the Yucatan Peninsula. With thousands of cenotes to choose from, you’ll have no trouble finding one that suits your interests. Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, a place to relax and cool off, or a bit of both, cenotes are the perfect destination for adventuresome travelers. Some locations are private and you could even do a little skinny dipping.

So grab your swimsuit, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure, and take a dive into these cool cenotes.

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