Mexico Cenotes
Tulum & Yucatan
Swim, Snorkel, Dive

A cenote is a natural sinkhole in limestone bedrock filled with crystal clear freshwater. The Yucatan Peninsula has over 6,000 cenotes connected to one of the largest underground cave systems on the planet. The Maya considered them sacred entrances to the underworld and used them as freshwater sources and ceremonial sites.

Single cenote entrance fees in Tulum and the Yucatan range from $10 to $25 per adult. Guided cenote tours with snorkel gear and transport start from $45, multi-cenote adventure tours from $89, and full day trips combining cenotes with Chichen Itza or Tulum ruins from $99 to $159 per adult.

Gran Cenote in Tulum is the easiest entry point with calm clear water, sea turtles and shaded picnic areas. Dos Ojos is the iconic cavern snorkel and dive cenote. Suytun is the famous photo cenote near Valladolid with the platform and sunbeam. Ik Kil pairs naturally with a Chichen Itza visit. Casual visitors should pick Gran Cenote, photo lovers Suytun, divers Dos Ojos.

November through April is the dry season with calm cenote water and the Suytun sunbeam appearing daily around midday. May to October is the rainy season, water levels rise and visibility is lower in some open cenotes. Cenotes are spring fed so water temperature stays around 24 to 26 degrees year round.

Most cenotes provide life jackets, and a confident wader can enjoy them safely. Open swim cenotes like Gran Cenote and Suytun are well lit with shallow areas and platforms. For cavern snorkel cenotes like Dos Ojos and Calavera you should be a comfortable swimmer. Cavern dives require open water diver certification.

Bring biodegradable sunscreen and reef safe insect repellent only. Regular sunscreen is banned to protect the cenote ecosystem. Most cenotes have showers required before entry. Bring a swimsuit, towel, water shoes for slippery rocks, a waterproof phone case for photos and cash for entrance fees and parking.

For Tulum and Riviera Maya cenote tours we recommend booking 48 to 72 hours in advance, especially in high season December through April. Day trips combining Chichen Itza with Cenote Ik Kil or Suytun fill up faster, book at least one week in advance. Instant confirmation on all bookings, free cancellation up to 24 hours before.

Yes. Most cenote tours offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before departure are non refundable. Check the specific tour for details.