The Ultimate Guide to Exploring Cenotes in Tulum
Written by Mony Figueroa
Things to Know Before Visiting a Cenote
Before you dive into the refreshing waters of Tulum's cenotes, here are a few important things to keep in mind since cenotes are delicate ecosystems that need to be treated with respect to stay beautiful for everyone:
No Sunscreen or Bug Spray: Even the biodegradable kind. These products can harm the water and the creatures living in it.
Avoid wearing makeup or skin products: They can contaminate the water.
No Eating or Drinking: Enjoy your snacks outside the cenote area to keep the water clean.
No Smoking: Smoke can harm the environment and the smell lingers in these natural spots.
Don’t Touch the Stalactites: I know it's tempting, but they are fragile. Look, but don’t touch.
Shower Before You Enter: Many cenotes have showers for rinsing off before you take a dip. This helps keep the water clean.
Life Jackets: Some cenotes require them for safety, especially if you’re not a strong swimmer.
Now you’re ready to explore these natural wonders!
Cenote Dos Ojos
Location: 12 miles from Tulum towards Playa del Carmen, in Dos Ojos Park
Open Times: 8 AM to 5 PM
Imagine two huge, crystal-clear pools connected by a massive underwater cave. That’s Cenote Dos Ojos, or "Two Eyes." The first pool is perfect for a relaxing swim or snorkeling, where you can see all sorts of fish and stunning rock formations. The second pool is a bit more adventurous, with mesmerizing stalactites and stalagmites. If you're feeling brave, take the 1300-foot corridor to the "bat cave" and witness hundreds of bats hanging from the ceiling. Dos Ojos is part of the largest underwater cave system in the world, spanning an incredible 215 miles! It’s best to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds.
Gran Cenote
Location: About 3 miles from Tulum on the road to Coba
Open Times: 8 AM to 4 PM
Gran Cenote is a real gem, with its clear water and sandy bottom. It’s a fantastic spot for both beginners and experienced swimmers. The water is so clear you can see turtles swimming around and fish darting through the plants. Gran Cenote is also a top choice for divers, connecting to one of the world’s largest cave systems. The cenote is family-friendly, with plenty of space to relax and picnic.
Cenote Calavera
Location: 1 mile from Tulum, on road 109 towards Coba
Open Times: 9 AM to 4 PM
Also known as Skull Cenote, this spot is perfect for thrill-seekers. The entrance looks like a skull with three eye sockets you can jump through into the deep, cool water below. There’s also a wooden ladder for a more relaxed entry. Inside, you’ll find bats hanging from the ceiling and an otherworldly atmosphere. It’s not as crowded as some of the other cenotes, making it ideal for friends or couples looking for a unique adventure and some great photo opportunities.
Cenote Zacil-Ha
Location: 5.5 miles from Tulum in the direction of Cobá
Open Times: 10 AM to 6 PM
Cenote Zacil-Ha, meaning "clear water" in Mayan, is a stunning natural pool that has been transformed into a small ecotourism complex. This cenote is perfect for families, offering a safe and enjoyable environment for swimming, snorkeling, and even diving. You can explore "Las Lagrimas," a cave that connects with the nearby Carwash Cenote and Calavera Cenote, reaching depths of up to 115 feet. There’s even a small zip line for added fun! Visit early to avoid the crowds and enjoy a peaceful morning swim.
Carwash Cenote (Aktun-Ha)
Location: 5 miles from Tulum towards Coba
Open Times: 10 AM to 6 PM
Called like that because it was once a spot where locals washed their cars, Carwash Cenote is now a stunning place to swim and dive. The semi-open cenote is surrounded by lush vegetation and features a 16-foot deep diving area with fascinating stalactites, aquatic plants, various fish, and freshwater turtles. For a deeper adventure, explore the 50-foot cave with an authorized guide.
Casa Cenote
Location: Near Pavo Real Resort, between Playa del Carmen and Tulum
Open Times: 9 AM to 5 PM
Description: Casa Cenote is nestled between the jungle and the beach, creating a unique environment with its crystal-clear turquoise waters surrounded by mangroves. It’s ideal for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The cenote is family-friendly, with a shallow depth of only 6 meters.
Punta Mercedes
Cenote Nicte-Ha
Location: 14 miles from Tulum
Open Times: 8 AM to 5 PM
Looking for a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path cenote? Cenote Nicte-Ha is a small, serene spot surrounded by nature. The clear water is filled with fish, turtles, and beautiful aquatic plants. It’s a perfect place to escape the crowds and enjoy a quiet moment. Close to the popular Dos Ojos Cenote, Nicte-Ha is great for a double adventure in one day.
Cenote Azul
Location: 25 miles from Tulum and 15 miles from Playa del Carmen on Highway 307
Open Times: 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM
Cenote Azul, or "Blue Cenote," is a family favorite with its shallow pools and crystal-clear water. There are trails leading to three natural pools where you can swim and snorkel, spotting fish and colorful plants. For a bit of excitement, there’s a cliff where you can jump from a height of 16 feet into the refreshing water below. Its proximity to Jardin del Eden, makes it a great addition to your travel plans.
Cenote Jardin Del Eden
Location: About a 40-minute drive from Tulum in the direction of Playa del Carmen
Open Times: 9 AM to 5 PM
Surrounded by greenery, the large open-air pool lives up to its name, resembling the Garden of Eden. It’s perfect for swimming, cliff jumping, and snorkeling in the clear waters. The cenote is also popular with scuba divers exploring its cave system. Less crowded than some of the other cenotes, Jardin Del Eden offers a peaceful retreat in the heart of nature.
We hope this guide helps you make the most of your visit to the cenotes in Tulum. Remember to respect these natural wonders and enjoy the unique beauty they offer.
If you have any questions or need assistance, your concierge at Maya Luxe is here to help.
Enjoy your adventure!