A visit to Tulum is incomplete without taking a plunge in one of the many cenotes surrounding the Tulum area. These natural wonders, renowned throughout Mexico, offer a refreshing escape with their crystal-clear waters and mesmerizing underwater landscapes. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a rejuvenating swim, snorkel among vibrant marine life, or simply soak in the serene beauty of these geological marvels, cenotes are a must-see on your Mexican bucket list.
From breathtaking light beams illuminating hidden caves to tranquil settings perfect for relaxation, these top 5 cenotes near Tulum promise an unforgettable experience.
What is a cenote?
A cenote is a natural sinkhole or well formed when the roof of an underground cave collapses, exposing the groundwater beneath. These geological formations are typically found in regions with limestone bedrock, which is easily eroded by water. Cenotes are particularly prevalent in the Yucatán Peninsula of Mexico, where they were formed over thousands of years through the dissolution of limestone. The exposed water in a cenote can range from clear, deep pools to shallow, murky ponds, depending on the extent of sediment accumulation and the presence of vegetation.
Cenotes hold significant cultural and historical importance, especially to the ancient Maya civilization. They were often regarded as sacred places and used for rituals, offerings, and sacrificial ceremonies due to their connection to water, which was a crucial resource in the region. Today, they are popular attractions for tourists and divers, offering unique opportunities to explore underwater landscapes and enjoy the natural beauty of these striking formations.
Know before you go
How to get to a cenote? You can easily reach the cenotes near Tulum Centro by renting a bike or scooter. However, if you’re looking to explore cenotes across the Yucatán Peninsula, you can either join one of the many available cenote tours or rent a car and drive up at your own convenience.
Cenotes accept cash : Most cenotes require an entrance fee, typically paid in cash, with prices ranging from 90 MXN to 500 MXN per person.
No Sunscreen Allowed : To protect the delicate ecosystem of a cenote, the use of sunscreen is not permitted, even if it is labeled as eco-friendly. Research has shown that chemicals found in sunscreen, regardless of their eco-friendly claims, can still harm aquatic life and water quality. So most cenote require you to take a shower and wash your hair before entering the waters.
Life Jacket is required : With an exception of a few cenotes, most of them require you to wear a life jacket to swim or snorkel in a cenote.
Outside food is not allowed : To maintain the cenote’s pristine condition, outside food and drinks are not permitted. The on-site restaurant offers a variety of dining options to satisfy your cravings, and the Package with Food Included also comes with a complimentary drink.
Parking : Most of the cenotes offer complimentary on-site parking for scooter and cars.
Cenote Tours: You can easily visit cenotes on your own, but if you’d prefer to avoid the hassle of arranging transportation, I highly recommend this cenote and snorkeling tour with hotel pickup and drop off.
Best Cenotes near Tulum
1. Gran Cenote
10 minutes from Tulum Centro
500 Pesos for entrance, life jacket and locker
Gran Cenote, just outside of Tulum on Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, is a must-visit for exploring the region’s natural beauty. With its crystal-clear turquoise waters, it’s perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The cenote features both open-air and cave sections, surrounded by lush greenery and striking rock formations, creating a serene and captivating atmosphere.
One of the highlights of Gran Cenote is snorkeling alongside turtles in the shallow waters. As you explore the darker cave areas, you might even spot bats roosting above. The sunlight filtering through the water creates a magical underwater scene, making Gran Cenote a truly unforgettable experience.
Gran Cenote is typically open daily from 8:00 AM to 4:45 PM, but it’s always a good idea to check for any changes in hours before your visit. To fully enjoy the tranquil beauty of the cenote and avoid the crowds, I recommend arriving early in the morning, just as it opens. Visiting during these early hours not only gives you a more peaceful experience but also allows you to appreciate the clear waters and stunning surroundings before the midday rush begins.
2. Cenote Calavara
5 minutes from Tulum Centro
250 Pesos for entrance, life jacket and locker
On the way to Gran Cenote, stop by Cenote Calavara for a unique experience. Cenote Calavera, also known as the “Temple of Doom,” is just a short drive from Tulum. Its name, meaning “skull” in Spanish, comes from the three circular openings in the cenote’s ceiling that resemble a skull when viewed from above. This cenote offers a thrilling experience, especially for those who enjoy a bit of adventure.
Cenote Calavera is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. One of its best highlights is the adrenaline rush you get from jumping through one of the small openings into the clear, deep waters below. The cenote’s dramatic rock formations and vibrant underwater life add to the excitement, making it a must-visit spot for adventure seekers.
3. Atik Tulum Park
15 minutes from Tulum Centro
450 Pesos for entrance, life jacket and locker
Atik Tulum Park offers a unique blend of natural beauty and artistic expression. The park features a beautiful cenote with crystal-clear waters, a waterfalls and surrounded by lush greenery, providing a tranquil escape from the town’s hustle and bustle. It’s the perfect spot for a refreshing swim or a relaxing dip.
The cenote at Atik Tulum Park is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. One of the park’s standout features is the ladder that allows you to climb down into the cenote and ascend back up, adding a touch of adventure to your visit. This highlight enhances the overall experience, making your time at the cenote even more memorable.
Beyond the cenote, Atik Tulum Park is also known for its various art installations scattered throughout the location. Among these is a captivating display made of numerous small skulls, which are intricately arranged to form a striking visual effect. These creative works blend beautifully with the natural surroundings, offering you a chance to enjoy both the cenote and the artistic expressions of local creators. Whether you’re there for the swim or the art, Atik Tulum Park delivers a unique and enriching experience.
This hidden gem is one of the newest cenotes in the area, which means it often has fewer visitors. As a result, you can enjoy a more peaceful experience and visit at any time during its open hours.
4. Cenote Suytun
1 hour 20 minutes from Tulum Centro
250 Pesos for entrance, life jacket and locker
Cenote Suytun is an Insta-famous spot renowned for its unique features and stunning natural beauty. The main cenote is highlighted by its striking rock formations, including impressive stalactites and stalagmites that create a dramatic and enchanting atmosphere. A standout feature is the platform extending into the crystal-clear waters, providing an ideal vantage point for capturing breathtaking photographs. Natural light streaming through an opening in the cenote’s ceiling further enhances the scene, adding a magical touch to your photos.
The best time to visit Cenote Suytun is between 12 PM and 2 PM, when the sun is directly overhead and creates a perfect light beam through the cenote’s opening, ideal for stunning illuminated photos. However, this peak time also coincides with when tour buses frequently arrive, making it quite crowded. To avoid the rush and still enjoy the perfect lighting, consider arriving early or later in the day.
In addition to the main cenote, the park also features another cenote, providing a diverse experience for visitors. The combination of the beautifully illuminated platform and the captivating rock formations in the main cenote ensures that Cenote Suytun is a must-visit for anyone looking to explore natural beauty and capture unforgettable moments.
5. Cenote Ik Kil
2 hours 10 minutes from Tulum Centro
200 Pesos for entrance, life jacket and locker
Cenote Ik Kil is the perfect place to unwind after exploring the nearby ruins of Chichén Itzá. This stunning cenote, renowned for its breathtaking beauty, features cascading vines that drape over its edges, creating a lush and serene setting. The clear, deep waters are ideal for a refreshing swim, and there’s a set of natural stone formations you can climb to dive into the cenote, adding an adventurous touch to your visit.
In addition to its natural charm, Cenote Ik Kil is a great spot for wildlife enthusiasts. The area around the cenote is often frequented by iguanas, which can be spotted basking in the sun or wandering around the edges. The combination of the cenote’s scenic beauty and the chance to see these fascinating reptiles makes Ik Kil a memorable stop on your Yucatán adventure.
For your utmost convenience, tickets to Cenote IK KIL can now be purchased online without any hidden charges or additional fees. By visiting Boletia, you can secure your tickets at the official 2024 Cenote Ik Kil entrance fees, ensuring a hassle-free entry upon your arrival.
What to bring to a cenote?
When visiting a cenote, it’s essential to pack appropriately to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Here’s a list of items to I recommend bringing:
- Swimwear: Wear a swimsuit as preferably covered as you can’t use sunscreen in a cenote and you don’t want to get tanned.
- Towel: Bring a towel to dry off after swimming.
- Water Shoes: These protect your feet from sharp rocks and help you navigate slippery surfaces around the cenote.
- Snorkeling Gear: If you plan to snorkel, bring your own mask, snorkel, and fins. Some cenotes offer rental gear, but it’s often more comfortable to use your own.
- Sunscreen: most cenotes ask you to take a shower before you enter a denote to protect the reef. But you can use sunscreen after.
- Change of Clothes: Bring dry clothes to change into after your visit.
- Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated by bringing a refillable water bottle. Many cenotes have limited facilities, so it’s good to have your own water.
- Camera or GoPro: For capturing the stunning views and underwater scenes. Ensure it’s waterproof if you plan to take it into the water.
- Bug Spray: Depending on the location, you may encounter mosquitoes or other insects, so insect repellent can be useful.
- Light Snacks: Pack light snacks, but check if food and drinks are permitted in the cenote area.
- Cash: Most cenotes accept cash at the entrance so its better to have Mexican Pesos to pay for entry and snorkeling equipment
- Waterproof Phone Pouch: if you choose to use your phone to take photos, I highly recommend getting a waterproof phone pouch, which will keep your devices safe.
Remember to respect the natural environment by avoiding the use of harsh chemicals and following local guidelines to preserve the beauty and health of the cenote.
