Don't just go to Tulum for the beautiful beaches! If you want to feel like you're taking a dip into another world, you have to hit up a cenote--or two. This post breaks down how to visit the cenotes in Tulum based on lessons I've learned from my Tulum travels.
And if you enjoy this article, you'll love my four-day Tulum itinerary, too!
What is a cenote?
Cenotes are natural pits of collapsed limestone, that have filled with crystal-clear groundwater making them attractive for swimming and wading. How deep are cenotes in Tulum? Some are shallow and others have depths up to 130 feet!
Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula is bursting with thousands of cenotes, and many popular ones are just a short drive from Tulum, Quintana Roo. Swimming in cenotes is one of my favorite things to do in Tulum.
History of Cenotes
Cenotes were considered sacred by the Mayan civilization and believed to be portals to the underworld. Today, they’re a Mexican bucket list experience for travelers seeking a memorable swim in some of the clearest water on Earth.
Some cenotes are open-air, resembling natural swimming pools, while others are partially or fully enclosed in caves, which adds a layer of adventure to your experience.
Plan to visit the Tulum Ruins to learn more about this area's ancient architecture and history!
What to Expect When Visiting Cenotes
Before diving in—literally—here are a few things to know:
- Go Early or Late: Cenotes get crowded, especially the popular ones. Arriving before 10 AM or after 3 PM can make for a more peaceful experience.
- Water Temperature: Cenote water is much cooler compared to Tulum’s warm ocean water. Although I'm used to hot and humid destinations, I found my dips in cenotes to be a nice way to refresh myself from the heat.
- Wildlife: Cenotes are often rich with small fish that may or may not nibble at your feet like a living pedicure treatment!
- Slippery Rocks: The limestone rocks that line the bottom of most cenotes are typically covered with algae. You might even feel slimy after emerging from the water.
- Respect the Environment: Most cenotes have some place to rinse off before you dive in to avoid contaminating the water. And don’t touch the stalactites and stalagmites in cave cenotes—they take thousands of years to form.
Here's everything you need to know about driving to Tulum and getting around!
Best Cenotes in Tulum Area
There are plenty of cenotes to choose from, each with its own unique appeal. Here are some of the best from my experience and traveler reviews:
Gran Cenote
One of the best cenotes for non-swimmers, Gran Cenote offers a mix of open-air and cave swimming with crystal-clear water. The entrance fee (currently $25 USD) includes snorkeling gear and life jackets. It’s very popular, so go early to avoid crowds.
Cenote Dos Ojos
A dream for snorkelers and divers, this cenote features two connected sinkholes with deep blue waters. If you’re feeling adventurous, book a guided dive into the Cenote Dos Ojos cave system.
Cenotes Casa Tortuga
One of the best in Tulum for snorkeling. This cenote complex has four swimming areas, making it great for groups and beginners. You’ll find both open-air and partially enclosed cenotes here and can even swim and snorkel with turtles! I highly recommend booking Casa Tortuga Cenote tour with a guide.
Cenote Calavera
You've probably seen photos of people suspended on the iconic rope swing here. This cenote is known as the “Temple of Doom” for divers, with three small openings that look like the eyes and mouth of a skull. This one is great for photo ops if you're daring enough and has a tiki bar onsite.
Cenote Suytun (Bonus – Worth the Drive)
Located about an hour from Tulum, this Instagram-famous cenote features a circular platform in the middle of a cave, illuminated by a single beam of light. It’s worth the trek if you’re looking for the perfect Instagram shot.
Here are all my tips and tricks for how to take vacation photos by yourself! Or check out my advice for slaying a vacation photoshoot with a professional!
Pro Travel Tip
If you’re short on time but want to experience multiple cenotes in one day, consider booking a Tulum cenotes tour. The options just below include transportation, guided snorkeling, and even stops at other must-see spots in Tulum!
What You'll Need
I recommend wearing water shoes when you go, as the limestone floors of cenotes are slippery with a capital S! Without them, I slipped and almost busted my ass more than once. Grab my favorite durable cheap water shoes!
Many cenotes prohibit sunscreen (even the reef-safe kind) to protect the delicate ecosystem. And between the shaded surroundings and requirements to rinse off before entering, even your eco-friendly sunscreen is pointless, anyway.
Are cenotes free in Tulum? Mostly no, so bring cash! Most Tulum cenotes charge entrance fees, and usually cost from $5-$30 USD per person. And some only accept cash.
The only free cenote in Tulum is Cenote Aldea Zama in the Aldea Zama neighborhood.
Last but not least, pack light with a swimsuit, cover-up, and towel in a waterproof bag with any of your valuables.
Check out my packing list with Tulum outfits for women for what to wear throughout your whole trip!
For Solo Travelers
Cenotes are definitely a solo-friendly activity just keep your safety in mind. While I did feel so peaceful when the time I arrived at the Caleta Tankha cenote and there was nobody else around, this was before I learned to swim well so the serene enclave could have been catastrophic had I needed any help!
And if you're looking to meet people while in Tulum, the group cenote excursions are a fantastic way to do that.
Read my best tips for women traveling solo to Mexico and all around the world!
Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely! At least, to me. Swimming in a cenote is a unique experience to this region that provides a change of pace to the beach club scene for solo travelers, couples, groups, and families.
More Favorite Tulum Moments
I hope this guide to cenotes near Tulum Mexico helps you have the most amazing trip. And sharing is caring so be sure to pin this post for later and follow me over on Pinterest. Thanks for reading!
