Best cenotes near Tulum
Top 10 cenotes to visit near Tulum
Mexico's breathtaking Yucatan Peninsula is home to some of the country's most incredible locations. Home to outstanding beaches, fascinating Mayan ruins, and stunning cenotes, this Mexican coastline is one of the most visited destinations in Central America. However, while the area offers a great variety of things to do, no trip to the Yucatan Peninsula is complete without visiting at least one of the cenotes. The region is peppered with thousands of cenotes, cavernous sinkholes that hold a glistening body of water, creating a natural swimming cave.
A wealth of cenotes exists close to Tulum, making the area an excellent base for exploration. The best way to discover the Mexican cenotes is to visit multiple places, as each has its own beauty and charm. If you are visiting Tulum for at least 4 days, visiting at least 2-3 cenotes offers an unbelievable introduction to the natural phenomenon of cenotes and the beauty of the Yucatan Peninsula.
1 - Cenote Ik-Kil
2 hours from Tulum
While it may be a two-hour drive from Tulum, Cenote Ik-Kil is definitely worth the journey. One of Mexico's most popular cenotes, it is advised to arrive early to avoid the crowds. The cenote is arguably the most beautiful on the Yucatan Peninsula. Close to Chichen Itza, a visit to Cenote Ik-Kil is perfect to combine with exploring Mexico's most famous Mayan archaeological site.
2 - Cenote Oxman
1.5 hours from Tulum
Located in the estate of Hacienda Cenote Oxman, this stunning cenote is one of Mexico's best-hidden gems. With vines and a rope swing, Cenote Oxman is beautiful and bursting with fun-filled action.
3 - Cenote Saamal
1.5 hours from Tulum
One of the best swimming cenotes on the Yucatan Peninsula, Cenote Saamal is amongst the oldest in the region. Fed by a cascading waterfall, Cenote Saamal is outstanding for swimming and boasts numerous jumping platforms.
4 - Cenote Ma'ax
30 minutes from Tulum
Cenote Ma'ax is undoubtedly the highlight of the Yucatan Peninsula. Located at the Akumal Monkey Sanctuary, most people often visit the monkeys and skip the cenote. And they are missing out on a real treat. Cenote Ma'ax is one of the most hypnotizing cenotes in Mexico, a magical cave of sacred waters, stalagmites, and stalactites. Also home to seventeen species of bats, Cenote Ma'ax is a must-visit for wildlife lovers.
5 - Cenote Suytun
1.5 hours from Tulum
One of the most recognizable cenotes in Mexico, Cenote Suytun is the most Instagrammable cenote of them all. This one is a real crowd-pleaser so expect it to be jam-packed.
6 - Cenotes San Actun
40 minutes from Tulum
Cenotes San Actun is the world's longest underground cave network and amongst the most impressive and unique diving locations on the planet. Grab your snorkel or diving gear to explore this diverse underwater world's breathtaking and captivating beauty, encountering stalagmites, animal fossils, and archaeological treasures.
7 - Cenotes Zapote
2 hours from Tulum
A cenote tour for adventure-seekers. Cenotes Zapote is a prehistoric park home to four magical cenotes. Each cenote on tour offers several thrilling activities, including zip lining, jumping, and snorkeling.
8 - Cenote Multum Ha
1 hour from Tulum
Nestled 18 meters underground, Cenote Multum Ha is one of the region's deepest cenotes with the mystical aura of the Mayan underworld. The glistening, turquoise waters are inviting, with deep waters perfect for jumping from multiple platforms.
9 - Cenote Chaak Tun
1.5 hours from Tulum
One of the most incredible underground adventures on the Yucatan Peninsula, Cenote Chaak Tun introduces you to the sacred waters and spiritual portals celebrated by the ancient Mayans. Considered Mexico's most enchanting cenote, Cenote Chaak Tun offers peace, tranquility, and supreme beauty.
10 - Gran Cenote
15 minutes from Tulum
Found in the heart of Tulum, Gran Cenote offers an impeccable introduction to Mexico's cenotes without the drive time. One of Tulum's most popular tourist attractions, Gran Cenote can get extremely busy but provides a first impression of cenotes if you're short on time in Tulum.
Helpful tips
for visiting cenotes
You will be asked to shower at most cenotes before entering the water.
At most cenotes, you will be asked to wear a safety jacket. This is less common at smaller cenotes.
Don't use sunscreen or cosmetic products before visiting a cenote to preserve Riviera Maya's rare environment.
Wear water shoes for safety.
Make sure to bring a protective waterproof case for your phone/camera.
Upon entering, the water is cold, but you will get used to it.
Bring towels and a change of clothes.
Enjoy!