21 best Cenotes AND GUIDED TOURS in Yucatán, Mexico

The Yucatán peninsula is known for its beaches, culture and heritage. But hidden below the surface is the enigmatic world of cenotes. Discover turquoise underground pools, jungle oases, and postcard-perfect spots for the ultimate swim, dive, or Instagram moment.

These magical sinkholes are connected by underground rivers and offer mystical adventures. Revered by the ancient Maya as sacred portals to the underworld, these pools were essential both spiritually and as their chief source of freshwater in the region.

The water-filled sinkholes formed when limestone bedrock collapses to reveal and connect to underground rivers and caves, creating a vast, hidden aquatic world beneath the jungle. Swimming in a cenote is enchanting—crystal-clear water, magical beams of sunlight, and often dramatic stalactites surround you, creating a surreal and ancient ambiance.

21 best cenotes in Yucatán

It took me ages to put the rating together - as many cenotes are unique and so different - it is hard to compare them let alone make a ranking. But here it goes.

1. Cenote Ik Kil

Special: Enormous, open air, circular cenote fringed by vines; a favorite after visiting Chichen Itzá, great for cliff jumping and epic photos.
Getting There: 1hr40min from Cancún, 2hr from Tulum by car or bus to Chichen Itzá, then taxi.
Amenities/Prices/Season: Entry 200 pesos, restaurant, life jackets, lockers, free parking, buffet optional; open 9am–5pm year-round.
Tip: Go early to avoid crowds.

2. Cenote Atik Tulum

Special: Jungle park and art installations in addition to a beautiful open-air cenote with a waterfall; picture-perfect and unique experience.
Getting There: 15min drive from Tulum; taxi or rental car suggested.
Amenities/Prices/Season: 350 pesos entry, all facilities, open year-round.
Tip: Visit late afternoon for fewer crowds and magical lighting.

3. Cenote Saamal

Special: Semi-open cylinder with a waterfall, beautiful gardens, and zipline nearby; set within Hacienda Selva Maya.
Getting There: 5km from Valladolid (short taxi or bike).
Amenities/Prices/Season: 200 pesos, buffet restaurant, shop, restrooms, changing areas, open year-round.
Tip: Perfect for families and larger groups.

4. Cenote Suytun

Special: Most iconic Instagram cenote—dramatic stone walkway with a light beam from the ceiling; cave-like and mystical.
Getting There: 10 minutes by taxi or bike from Valladolid; 2hr from Tulum or Cancún.
Amenities/Prices/Season: 250 pesos, lockers, life jackets, restaurant, hotel on site, open 9am–5pm.
Tip: Go early to beat crowds and catch the best photo op.

5. Cenote Xooch (Santa Bárbara)

Special: Circular semi-open cenote with roots hanging dramatically; included in Santa Bárbara tour (Homún).
Getting There: 1hr from Mérida by car or colectivo, or 2.5hr from Cancún/Tulum.
Amenities/Prices/Season: 350 pesos for three-cenote combo (bike/cart transport included), restrooms, snacks, open all year.
Tip: Bring a waterproof camera for unique angles.

6. Cenote Chacsikín (Santa Bárbara)

Special: Huge underground gallery cenote with wooden platforms, beautiful blue water, stalactites, and peaceful swimming.
Getting There: Included in the Santa Bárbara package (Homún).
Amenities/Prices/Season: Same as above, safe and family-friendly, rest areas available.
Tip: Ideal for relaxed swimming and photography.

7. Cenote Choj Ha

Special: Hidden, remote underground cathedral cave with epic stalactites; off the main tourist path so rarely crowded.
Getting There: 1.5hr from Tulum or Cancún, 50min from Valladolid, car preferable.
Amenities/Prices/Season: 150 pesos, basic facilities, showers, and changing rooms, open year-round.
Tip: Bring snacks since there’s little nearby!

8. Gran Cenote (Tulum)

Special: Famous for turquoise water, swimming with turtles, cave tunnels, and open areas; snorkeling gear included.
Getting There: 10min drive from Tulum, car, taxi, or colectivo.
Amenities/Prices/Season: 500 pesos, showers, lockers, gear rental included, open year-round.
Tip: Arrive early to swim with turtles in peace.

9. Cenote Taak Bi Ha

Special: Crystal-clear, cave cenote with platforms for jumping and underground rivers for snorkeling or scuba diving.
Getting There: 50min from Playa del Carmen, accessible best by car or taxi.
Amenities/Prices/Season: 350 pesos, life jackets and facilities included, open year-round.
Tip: Best for divers and cave-exploring adventurers.

10. Cenote Calavera (Tulum)

Special: Skull-shaped opening, social-media famous swing, small but atmospheric, fun for photos and quick dips.
Getting There: 5min drive from Tulum, also walkable or bikeable.
Amenities/Prices/Season: 250 pesos, bar, bathrooms, rest area, open year-round.
Tip: Go in the morning for fewer people and atmospheric lighting.

11. Cenote Hool Kosom

Special: Perfectly round closed cenote with a dramatic light-hole effect; popular on cenote tours near Homún.
Getting There: In Homún, 1hr from Mérida, taxi or moto-taxi from town center.
Amenities/Prices/Season: 80 pesos, showers, snacks, family-friendly, open year-round.
Tip: Combine with other Homún cenotes for a full-day experience.

12. Cenote Canunchen (Homún)

Special: Cavernous, deep underground pond with multiple high platforms for jumping and beautiful stalactites.
Getting There: Next to Hool Kosom in Homún, usually part of cenote tours.
Amenities/Prices/Season: 100 pesos, event-friendly, restrooms and showers, open year-round.
Tip: Great for adventurous swimmers and event photography.

13. Cenote Zací (Valladolid)

Special: Gorgeous semi-open cenote in central Valladolid with stalactites and waterfalls; easy walk from the city’s main plaza.
Getting There: Walk from central Valladolid, 2hr from Cancún/Tulum by road.
Amenities/Prices/Season: 60 pesos, life jackets included, restaurant on site (100 pesos minimum spend = free entry), open year-round.
Tip: Arrive in the morning for a quieter swim.

14. Cenote Palomitas

Special: Immense undergound swimming “cathedral” with dramatic stalactite formations and crystal water.
Getting There: Remote location near Yalcobá (Valladolid area) – taxi strongly recommended or part of ranch tour.
Amenities/Prices/Season: 200 pesos, restaurant, life jackets, showers.
Tip: Quiet and peaceful for those seeking tranquility.

15. Cenote Tankach-Ha

Special: Cozy cave cenote near Coba Ruins with high-clear water and multiple jump platforms—excellent for adventurous swimmers.
Getting There: 10min from Coba ruins, 1.5hr from Tulum/Cancún, colectivo options from Tulum/Valladolid, then local taxi.
Amenities/Prices/Season: 100 pesos, basic toilets, changing rooms, open year-round.
Tip: Combine with a Coba ruins day trip.

16. Cenote Choo-Ha

Special: Neighbor to Tankach-Ha, large cave with manageable depth for families, clear water, plus facilities.
Getting There: Same as above; near Coba archaeological site.
Amenities/Prices/Season: 100 pesos, showers, changing rooms, basic facilities, open year-round.
Tip: Shallow water makes it ideal for families and kids.

17. Cenotes Dzitnup: X'keken & Samula

Special: Two cave cenotes in one ticket, X’keken has magical stalactites, Samula welcomes swimmers with a root-filled ceiling and turquoise water.
Getting There: 7km from Valladolid, bike or taxi from town center.
Amenities/Prices/Season: Combined entry 235 pesos; parking, life jackets, changing areas, open year-round.
Tip: Arrive early for solitude and great lighting.

18. Cenote Cleotilde

Special: Deep jungle cenote with wild tree roots and dramatic swimming—unique adventure as part of a local cenote package.
Getting There: Near Chunkanán, access via cenote Mani-Chan ticket office, guided tours only.
Amenities/Prices/Season: 290 pesos package for three cenotes, open year-round, rustic facilities.
Tip: Bring mosquito repellent.

19. Cenote Azul (Playa del Carmen or Bacalar)

Special: Shallow parts for families and deep ledges for the brave; popular, easy access, and plenty of activities.
Getting There: 20min from Playa del Carmen or 30min from Tulum by car or colectivo; Bacalar’s Azul is farther south.
Amenities/Prices/Season: Around 140 pesos, shallow/deep areas, rental gear, snacks, family-friendly, open year-round.
Tip: Come early or late to avoid crowds.

20. Dos Ojos Cenote

Special: Most famous cave diving cenote with two interconnected caves; great for snorkeling, diving, and families.
Getting There: 20min from Tulum by car or colectivo, then short walk or bike.
Amenities/Prices/Season: 350-600 pesos; lockers, rentals, guides, open year-round.
Tip: Pre-book for diving or guided tours.

21. San Lorenzo Oxman Cenote

Special: This is an open-air cenote surrounded by dramatic rocky walls and dangling tree roots, featuring a fun rope swing for water jumps. There's a picturesque viewpoint, a swimming pool, a full restaurant, and a jungle garden on the Hacienda San Lorenzo property.
Getting There: Just 10-15 minutes by bike, taxi, or car from central Valladolid. From Tulum or Cancún, drive or bus toward Valladolid, then take Calle 54 out of the city.
Amenities/Prices/Season: Entrance is 150 pesos (cenote + pool access) or 350 pesos with restaurant lunch included. Facilities include a swimming pool, restaurant/bar, showers, changing rooms, lockers, and lounge chairs. Open daily, 9am–5pm.
Tip:Arrive early for a quieter experience—the cenote is popular in the afternoons, especially after Chichén Itzá visits. Bring a towel and water shoes for ease and safety.

Unlock the most photogenic adventures with the most Instagrammable cenote photo spots. Whether you crave dramatic sunbeams, emerald-jungle settings, or crystal-clear cave pools, these cenotes deliver unforgettable backdrops for your feed.

Cenote Suytun: The iconic stone platform illuminated by a strong beam of light from the ceiling—perfect for dramatic solo portraits.
Cenote Ik Kil: A circular, open-air sinkhole draped in hanging vines and roots with towering stone walls—a dreamlike jungle shot.
Gran Cenote: Lush greenery, wooden walkways, clear blue water with turtles, and gentle cave tunnels create gorgeous water reflection photos.
Cenote Xcanahaltun: A vast cavern filled with stalactites and magical sunlight—shoot from the wooden platform for mystical ambiance.
Cenote Xooch (Santa Bárbara): A symmetrical, semi-open cenote with a lone tree and dangling roots—perfect for a postcard-worthy frame.
Cenote Calavera: Known as the “Skull Cenote,” its circular opening and fun rope swing offer playful and striking cave contrasts.
Cenote Samulá: Rays of light streaming from above illuminate a vibrant blue pool and twisted roots for a surreal photo.
Cenote Oxman: Famous for its rope swing, blue pool, and jungle scenery—ideal for action shots and lush, tropical vibes.

Must have Items for a Cenote Tour

Before diving into the cenotes' crystal-clear waters, make sure you have the following items:

A sturdy pair of walking shoes or sandals: As you navigate through the uneven terrain surrounding the cenotes, comfortable footwear is essential to keep your feet protected.
Insect repellent: While the cenotes themselves are not known for having many bugs, it's always a good idea to have some repellent on hand, especially if you plan to explore the surrounding jungle.
Sunscreen and a hat: The Mexican sun can be intense, so it's crucial to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Apply sunscreen generously and wear a hat to shield your face from direct sunlight.
A swimsuit and a towel: One of the highlights of visiting cenotes is taking a refreshing dip in their pristine waters. Don't forget to pack your favorite swimsuit and a towel to dry off afterwards.
A reusable water bottle: Staying hydrated is key during your cenotes tour. Bring a reusable water bottle to ensure you have access to clean drinking water throughout your adventure.

Now that you're all packed and ready to go, let's discuss some important safety measures to consider:

Tips for Getting to and Between Cenotes in the Yucatán Peninsula

Reaching the enchanting cenotes scattered throughout the Yucatán Peninsula is an adventure in itself. Planning your journey ahead of time will ensure you spend less time worrying about logistics and more time immersing yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of these natural wonders. Transportation Options Most cenotes are located in rural or remote areas, so having a flexible means of transportation is key:

Rental Cars: Renting a car is one of the best ways to explore multiple cenotes at your own pace. Major rental agencies can be found in Cancún, Mérida, and Playa del Carmen. Driving gives you the freedom to visit lesser-known cenotes that aren’t on the typical tourist route. Just be sure to check that your rental car is equipped to handle occasional bumpy or unpaved stretches.
Taxis and Rideshares: In smaller towns such as Homún or Valladolid, taxis or moto-taxis (tuk-tuks) can be hired for short journeys between cenotes. Remember to agree on the fare beforehand since meters are rare in these areas.
Tours: For a worry-free experience, consider joining a guided tour. Many local operators organize day trips that visit several cenotes, often including transportation, entrance fees, and sometimes even meals.

Transportation Options Between Cenotes

Navigating between the captivating cenotes can be just as much an adventure as the visit itself. At many cenote sites, especially popular destinations like those in Homún, transportation is part of the experience. After arriving at the main visitors’ center, visitors typically have a couple of options for exploring the network of cenotes scattered across the landscape:

Bicycles: Many sites provide bicycles for guests. Pedaling along shaded trails gives you the freedom to explore each cenote at your own pace. It’s a wonderful way to soak in the scenery, feel the breeze, and stop for photos whenever inspiration strikes.
Trucks or Shuttles: For those who prefer a more relaxed approach, hop aboard a truck or small motorized shuttle. These often depart regularly and are included in the entrance fee at various cenote parks. Trucks are a favorite among families and anyone looking to travel the bumpy gravel paths without breaking a sweat.

Depending on the location, you’ll find other options like tuk-tuks or even horse-drawn carriages, each bringing its own charm to the adventure. Whichever you choose, getting from cenote to cenote becomes an integral part of the journey—another chance to immerse yourself in the wild beauty of the Yucatan.

The journey to a cenote often involves winding through the lush Yucatán countryside. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Prepare for Rural Roads: Roads leading to cenotes can be narrow, uneven, or riddled with potholes, especially as you get closer to your destination. Exercise patience and drive slowly, especially after rains when conditions can be slippery.
Navigation Tools: Download offline maps (such as Google Maps or Maps.me) prior to your trip—cell service can be patchy in remote areas. Some cenotes are not well signposted, so having a reliable map or GPS will help keep you on course.
Parking and Facilities: Most well-known cenotes offer parking areas and facilities such as restrooms, showers, and sometimes small snack stands. Carry some cash in pesos for entrance fees and smaller purchases, as credit cards are not always accepted.
Travel in Daylight: For the safest experience, plan your visits during daylight hours. Not only is it easier to navigate, but it also allows for the best views of the cenotes’ vibrant colors.

How to Reach Cenotes Without a Car

Worried about exploring the cenotes without your own wheels? Fear not—the adventure is still well within reach! One of the joys of visiting the Yucatan is how accessible these natural wonders are, even if you’re traveling solo or relying on public transportation. If you’re based in a nearby town like Valladolid, it’s surprisingly simple to make your way to many cenotes. Local buses, known as “colectivos,” regularly connect towns and drop travelers close to popular cenote locations. Once you arrive in town, you’ll find an abundance of taxis eager to take you the final stretch—just be sure to agree on a price before hopping in. For the more adventurous, renting a bicycle is also a fun and eco-friendly option, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace. No matter how you get there—bus, taxi, or bike—the journey is part of the experience. You’ll wind through charming streets, pass vibrant markets, and perhaps spot a few hidden gems along the way. Reaching the cenotes is refreshingly simple, so let curiosity be your guide and set out to discover these underground treasures.

Safety Measures to Consider

Follow your tour guide's instructions: Your tour guide is there to ensure your safety and provide valuable information about the cenotes. Listen attentively to their guidance and follow their instructions at all times.
Be mindful of your surroundings: As you explore the cenotes, be aware of your surroundings and watch your step. The terrain can be uneven, so take your time and walk with caution.
Avoid diving headfirst: While the cenotes' waters may seem inviting, resist the temptation to dive headfirst. Water depths can vary, and it's important to enter the water feet first to avoid any potential injuries.
Use handrails when available: Some cenotes may have stairs or walkways with handrails. Make use of these safety features to maintain your balance and prevent any slips or falls.
Respect the cenotes' fragile ecosystem: Cenotes are not only beautiful but also home to a delicate ecosystem. Refrain from touching or disturbing any wildlife or rock formations you may encounter during your tour. Let's leave the cenotes as we found them, preserving their natural beauty for future generations.

Making the Most of Your Cenotes Tour

Best Time to Visit Cenotes

The best time to visit cenotes in Mexico is during the dry season, which typically runs from November to April. During this period, the weather is pleasant, and the water clarity is at its best. However, cenotes can be visited year-round, so even if you're traveling during the rainy season, you can still have a memorable experience.

Tips for Sustainable and Respectful Tourism

When visiting cenotes, it's crucial to practice sustainable and respectful tourism. Avoid using chemical-based sunscreen, as it can harm the delicate ecosystem. Instead, opt for biodegradable options that are safe for the environment.

Additionally, respect the cenotes' rules and guidelines, such as not littering and refraining from loud noises that may disturb wildlife or other visitors. By being conscientious travelers, we can ensure the preservation of these magical natural wonders for future generations.

History and geology of Cenotes

The History and Significance of Cenotes

The history of cenotes dates back thousands of years when the ancient Mayans considered them sacred sites. For the Mayans, cenotes were vital sources of freshwater in an otherwise dry region. They believed that these natural sinkholes were portals to the gods and used them for important ceremonies and rituals.

Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the Mayans as you explore the mystical cenotes. Picture yourself standing on the edge of a cenote, surrounded by lush greenery and the sounds of nature. Close your eyes and imagine the ancient Mayans gathering here, their voices echoing through the cavernous depths, as they paid homage to their deities.

Today, cenotes continue to hold cultural and historical significance for the people of Mexico. Exploring them not only provides a glimpse into the ancient Mayan civilization but also allows travelers to connect with the spiritual energy that surrounds these natural wonders.

As you descend into the depths of a cenote, feel the coolness of the air and the touch of the water droplets on your skin. Let the tranquility of the surroundings envelop you, transporting you back in time to an era of mysticism and reverence.

Geological Formation of Cenotes

Cenotes are geological formations unique to the Yucatan Peninsula. They are formed when the porous limestone bedrock collapses, revealing underground rivers and pools of crystal-clear water. The word "cenote" comes from the Mayan word "dzonot," meaning sacred well.

Delve into the fascinating geological processes that shaped these natural wonders. Imagine the slow erosion of the limestone over thousands of years, creating vast underground networks of interconnected water bodies. Visualize the moment when the earth's surface gave way, exposing these hidden treasures to the world.

These natural sinkholes vary in size, shape, and depth, offering a diverse range of experiences for visitors. Some cenotes are open-air, while others are hidden within caves, adding to the sense of mystery and enchantment. Imagine yourself swimming in the crystal-clear waters of an open-air cenote, surrounded by towering cliffs and vibrant vegetation. Or picture yourself exploring a hidden cenote within a cave, guided only by the soft glow of sunlight filtering through cracks in the rock.

As you stand on the edge of a cenote, take a moment to appreciate the intricate beauty of nature's handiwork. Marvel at the delicate balance between the forces of erosion and creation, which have shaped these geological marvels over millennia.