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Must-Visit Mexican Cenotes

Is taking a dip in crystal-clear water surrounded by jungle on your all inclusive vacation bucket list? It’s on ours! Move Mexico to the very top and explore the natural wonder that is its cenotes – pools of water that formed when porous limestone bedrock collapsed many years ago, some of which are part of large underground river systems or connected to the sea! You’ll find these gems across the Yucatan Peninsula and you’ll find our recos for the best cenotes in Mexico right here. Check ‘em out!

Gran Cenote

Just a few kilometres from Tulum, Gran Cenote is one of the most popular cenotes in Mexico. This open cenote without a limestone roof features two natural wells and an underwater cave, and it’s a great spot for snorkelling and scuba diving with plenty of tropical fish to admire. As it’s one of the most famous natural attractions in the country, the best time to visit would be right when it opens for exploring, or take your time and ride a bike over in true Tulum fashion.

Cenote Suytun

This picturesque cave is one of the most Instagrammable cenotes in Mexico. Its highlight feature is a circular platform right in the middle of the water, illuminated by a natural spotlight at midday. While you’re waiting for your turn to snap a pic, take in the cave’s stunning stalactites and stalagmites that have formed over centuries. Interested in a swim? You’ll be required to shower first in order to protect the ecosystem in the cenote – and wear a life jacket! It’s quite deep.

Cenote Oxman

For days full of fun in the sun, there’s not much better than Cenote Oxman. This open cenote’s walls are covered in lush vegetation making it a feast for the eyes, but the star of the show is the Tarzan rope swing! The first jump may be nerve wracking, but we bet you’ll get back on again and again. Pack a snorkel mask or rent one there to get a good look at your underwater friends or enjoy the cenote’s other facilities including sun loungers, a pool and restaurant.

Laguna de Kaan Luum

Nature lovers, you listening?! Found in the middle of a lagoon, this 80-metre-deep hole, one of the most recognizable cenotes in Tulum, has an intense blue hue. While you can’t swim in the cenote, the lagoon around it is shallow and warm, perfect for snorkelling but be sure to wear protective clothing as wearing sunscreen is not permitted. While visiting, keep an eye out for local animal species including parrots, iguanas, badgers and even jaguars!

Ik Kil

While there are plenty of open cenotes in Cancun, this one’s special – it’s located near one of the New World Wonders, Chichen Itza, and visiting both is a must. The picturesque swimming hole is covered in lush vegetation and climbing vines that hang down, creating an almost ethereal feel, with a five-metre-high area for all those adrenaline-seekers out there to jump from. Taking a dip in the refreshing pool is the perfect cherry on top after exploring Mexico’s history on a tour of the nearby archaeological wonder

Cenote Zaci

If you’re heading south with little ones, check out this cenote in Mexico that’s clutch for families near Tulum! This small, open cenote’s waters are unbelievably clear and only three feet deep (perfect for little swimmers!). It also features a thrilling zipline and a jumping platform plus parent and kid-friendly facilities like comfy loungers to soak up the sun, a manmade pool and a spot to grab a bite and cold drink. If you have time, hop on over to Gran Cenote, just a short drive away!

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