The 3 Best Cenotes In Tulum
Welcome to Tulum, a paradise on the Yucatán Peninsula known for its stunning beaches, rich history, and, most importantly, its captivating cenotes. Cenotes are natural sinkholes filled with crystal-clear freshwater, offering a unique and refreshing experience for visitors. This guide will take you on a journey through the three best cenotes in the Tulum area.
What Are Cenotes?
Cenotes are natural sinkholes formed by the collapse of limestone bedrock, revealing pristine groundwater underneath. They were sacred to the ancient Maya civilization, and often considered entrances to the underworld. Today, cenotes offer a unique and refreshing escape for both locals and tourists.
Types of Cenotes
There are three main types of cenotes: open-air, semi-open, and underground. Open-air cenotes are exposed to the sky, while semi-open ones are partially covered, creating a mystical ambiance. Underground cenotes, found in cave systems, provide an otherworldly experience for divers.
How To Get To A Cenotes:
I recommend renting a car on your trip to Tulum so you can visit multiple cenotes in one day. However, if you don’t, there are plenty of great tour options! You can find one here
What To Bring
Pack essentials like swimwear, a towel, water shoes, and a waterproof case for your phone or camera. Remember to keep insect repellent or biodegradable sunscreen for after the cenote as it will contaminate the water and damage the fragile ecosystem.
Gran Cenote
Possibly the most well-known cenote, Gran Cenote is known for its beautiful crystal-clear waters and intricate cave formations, it also offers snorkeling and diving opportunities. Swim alongside turtles and explore the underwater world. This is one of the best cenotes in Tulum and super easy to visit! Arrive early as it
2. Dos Ojos Cenote
Dos Ojos is truly one of the best cenotes in Tulum and one of my favorites! Translated meaning "Two Eyes," it refers to the two connected sinkholes. Ideal for both snorkeling and diving, it boasts mesmerizing stalactite formations and a captivating underwater cave system. You can snorkel here, explore the cenotes, go cliff diving, and even ziplining. They have a super thrilling one where you can GO UPSIDE DOWN (yes you read that right)
3. Suytun Cenote
You’ve seen this place all over Instagram - this is truly one of the best cenotes in Tulum. A little further than the others at about an hour and a half ride from Tulum it has been a sacred site for the Mayans for centuries. There even features a semi submerged platform that you can walk out onto as you bask in the crystal clear waters that make up this cenote.
@findingfiona Replying to @andieb17 crazy beautiful bucket list place you need to see 😍 #travel #bucketlist ♬ Fake ID X Walking On A Dream Carter Walsh Remix - CarterWalsh
A warning about this place though, it gets strangely competitive in here. Most people are going for the photos, but it’s such an amazing place to swim around and there are so many fish. Don’t get too caught up in taking photos and if you want the best ones, make sure to book the earliest time slot.
Time slots are only 1.5 hours, if you don’t end up getting the photo - just book another slot.
Check out more thing to do in Tulum here
And there you have it! Three of the best cenotes in Tulum, if I could only visit one, it would definitely be Suytun Cenote. This place is amazing and truly one of the best. But if you only have time for one during the day, Gran Cenote is a great bet! It’s super close and convenient. Which one is your favorite?
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