Stunning cenote in the Yucatán
Cenotes Guide

Top 10 Best Cenotes

From famous swimming spots in Tulum to quiet places off the main road — the cenotes I keep returning to.

Gran Cenote
#1

Gran Cenote

Semi-open
Location
5 min from Tulum
Entry fee
500 MXN
Hours
8:00 – 16:45 daily
Depth
8 m shallow areas

One of the most visited cenotes near Tulum, excellent for swimming and snorkeling. Wooden platforms make entry easy and the wide opening lets in plenty of light.

Highlights

  • · Snorkel gear available
  • · Wooden platforms
  • · Sea turtles
  • · Stalactites
Local tip: Arrive at 8:00 sharp to beat the tour buses. Biodegradable sunscreen only.

Photos

Cenote Dos Ojos
#2

Cenote Dos Ojos

Underground system
Location
Ruta de los Cenotes, near Tulum
Entry fee
350 MXN
Hours
8:00 – 17:00 daily
Depth
Deep cavern diving

Two adjacent cenotes connected by a vast underwater cavern system, world-famous for cave diving and snorkeling.

Highlights

  • · Cave diving
  • · Excellent snorkeling
  • · Bat cave nearby
Local tip: Go in the morning for the famous light beams.

Photos

Cenote Ik Kil
#3

Cenote Ik Kil

Open well
Location
Near Chichén Itzá
Entry fee
180 MXN
Hours
8:00 – 17:00 daily
Depth
40 m deep

A spectacular open cenote with hanging vines and waterfalls, perfect to combine with a Chichén Itzá visit.

Highlights

  • · Dramatic vines
  • · Diving platform
  • · On-site changing rooms
Local tip: Visit before 11:00 to avoid Chichén tour groups.

Photos

Cenote Suytun
#4

Cenote Suytun

Cave
Location
10 min from Valladolid
Entry fee
250 MXN
Hours
9:00 – 17:00
Depth
Shallow

Famous for the iconic stone platform and a single beam of light piercing the cave at midday — Instagram heaven.

Highlights

  • · Light beam at noon
  • · Stone platform
  • · Easy access
Local tip: Arrive 11:30–12:30 for the light beam.

Photos

Cenote Azul
#5

Cenote Azul

Open
Location
Riviera Maya, near Playa del Carmen
Entry fee
120 MXN
Hours
9:00 – 17:30
Depth
Various pools

Three connected pools in the jungle — perfect for families with cliff jumping spots for the brave.

Highlights

  • · Family-friendly
  • · Cliff jumping
  • · Picnic areas
Local tip: Bring snacks; great for a half-day trip.

Photos

Cenote Calavera
#6

Cenote Calavera

Open well
Location
Tulum
Entry fee
250 MXN
Hours
9:00 – 17:00
Depth
Deep

Three openings give it the “skull” nickname. Loved by divers and adventurous swimmers.

Highlights

  • · Rope swing
  • · Deep diving
  • · Locals' favorite
Local tip: Combine with Gran Cenote for a full day.
Cenote Yokdzonot
#7

Cenote Yokdzonot

Open
Location
Near Chichén Itzá
Entry fee
80 MXN
Hours
9:00 – 17:00
Depth
45 m

Community-run cenote with hanging roots and turquoise water — a quieter alternative to Ik Kil.

Highlights

  • · Community-managed
  • · Quiet
  • · On-site restaurant
Local tip: Try the on-site Mayan kitchen.

Photos

Cenote Xkeken & Samula
#8

Cenote Xkeken & Samula

Cave pair
Location
Dzitnup, near Valladolid
Entry fee
150 MXN combined
Hours
8:00 – 17:00
Depth
Variable

Two beautiful cave cenotes a few meters apart, both featuring breathtaking light beams and roots.

Highlights

  • · Two-in-one ticket
  • · Cave atmosphere
  • · Roots from above
Local tip: Bring a waterproof flashlight.

Photos

Cenote Cristalino
#9

Cenote Cristalino

Semi-open
Location
Puerto Aventuras
Entry fee
200 MXN
Hours
9:00 – 17:00
Depth
Up to 7 m

Crystal-clear waters with mangroves and a small jumping cliff. Often overlooked by tourists.

Highlights

  • · Cliff jump
  • · Mangroves
  • · Small crowds
Local tip: Combine with Cenote Azul nearby.
Cenote Zaci
#10

Cenote Zaci

Semi-open
Location
Center of Valladolid
Entry fee
30 MXN
Hours
8:00 – 18:00
Depth
100 m

Right in town — perfect quick swim while exploring colonial Valladolid.

Highlights

  • · Walking distance
  • · Cheap
  • · Restaurant on site
Local tip: Great after Chichén Itzá day-trip.

Photos