The Best Cenotes in Cancun: A Guide to the Hidden Gems of Mexico
Here’s a little secret: there are no cenotes in Cancun itself!
But don’t let that stop you from exploring these incredible underground pools. There are some fantastic Cenotes in the region, and they’re not too far from Cancun.
Cenotes are natural sinkholes that form when the limestone bedrock collapses and exposes the groundwater underneath. They are foundall over the Yucatan Peninsula, but some of the most spectacular ones are near Cancun.
Have you ever dreamed of swimming in a natural pool surrounded by lush jungle, exotic wildlife, and ancient history? If so, then you need to visit the cenotes in Cancun.
Cenotes are not only beautiful, but also rich in culture and history. The Maya considered them sacred and used them for rituals, ceremonies, and sacrifices. They also believed that cenotes were portals to the underworld, where gods and spirits dwelled.
Visiting cenotes in Cancun is a unique and unforgettable experience. You can swim, snorkel, dive, or just relax in the crystal clear water. You can also explore the caves, tunnels, and formations that hide beneath the surface.
And you can learn more about the fascinating Maya civilization that once thrived in this region.
In this article, I will show you some of the best cenotes in Cancun that you don’t want to miss. I will also give you some tips and advice on how to get there, what to bring, and what to expect.
Ready to discover the best Cenotes near Cancun?
Let’s go!
Sommaire
- The Best Cenotes in Cancun: A Guide to the Hidden Gems of Mexico
- My favorite cenotes in Cancun
- Map of the best cenotes near Cancun
- Where to stay in Cancun
- Top Tips for Exploring Cenotes in Cancun
- Rent a car in Cancun
- How to find a cheap flight to Cancun
- You’re traveling in Mexico? These articles will help you!
My favorite cenotes in Cancun
If you are in a hurry and can’t read my full article, here are the best cenotes to visit near Cancun:
- Best family friendly cenote: Cenote Azul
- Best cenote tour: The Cenote Trail (click here to book it!)– guided bike tour in Tulum with 3 cenotes and a brunch in the jungle
- Best cenote tour from Cancun: Rio Secreto (click here to book it!) – guided visit of Rio Secreto, light lunch and pick up from your hotel
- Swim in a cenote in Cancun: Jardin del Eden
- Cheapest cenote in Cancun: Cenote Choj Ha
- Hidden cenote in Cancun: La Noria
- Cenote diving in Cancun: Dos Ojos (advanced) and Escondido (intermediate)
- Cenote snorkeling in Cancun: Gran Cenote
- Most easily accessible from Cancun without a car: Jardin del Eden, Escondido and Cenote Azul (they’re all next to each other)
1. Rio Secreto
Rio Secreto is a unique adventure takes you through an underground river and caverns with amazing stalactites, stalagmites, fossils and crystal formations. You will also see different colors and shapes of water, from turquoise to emerald to black.
To protect the environment and ensure your safety, you need to join a guided tour (small group) and the guide will give you a wetsuit, a helmet, and a life jacket. You also need to wear water shoes (not flip flops).
Rio Secreto is a must-see cenote in Cancun for anyone who loves nature and adventure. By the way, it was voted the best natural reserve in Mexico and Central America at the World Travel Awards❤️
Book your tour here, that includes equipment, entrance fee, locker, towel, buffet lunch and transportation from Cancun:
How to get to Rio Secreto from Cancun:
Rio Secreto is located about 1h south of Cancun, very close to Playa del Carmen.
If you have a car, you can get there easily. If not, you can take public transportation: a bus or a colectivo to Playa del Carmen, followed by a colectivo to Tulum (and ask the driver to stop at Rio Secreto).
2. Cenotes Kin Ha
If you are looking for the best cenotes in Cancun to enjoy with your loved ones, Cenote Kin Ha and Cenote Blanca Flor are great options.
You can experience different types of cenotes: a subterranean one, an open one with ziplines, rope swings and five platforms to jump from.
Cenote Kin Ha is ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. The water is clear and refreshing, and you can see fish and turtles swimming around.
- Reservation is mandatory – entrance fee starts at $23 USD per adult and $5 USD per kid an includes both cenotes
- There are also lockers, showers, restrooms, and a restaurant on site
How to get to Cenotes Kin Ha from Cancun:
Cenote Kin Ha is located about 40 minutes south of Cancun along the Ruta de los Cenotes (Cenote Route) in Puerto Morelos.
I strongly recommend getting there by car because public transportation means taking a bus to Puerto Morelos, then a colectivo to Leona Vicario (getting off here) and walking around 6 km under the sun. Same thing for the return (and there are NOT many colectivos on the Leona Vicario road!)
3. Cenote Verde Lucero
Cenote Verde Lucero is another beautiful cenote in Cancun. It is an open-air cenote with a rectangular shape and a natural rock wall around it.
Cenote Verde Lucero is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and jumping. The water is deep and green, and you can see some underwater caves and formations.
There are also some wooden platforms and ladders that allow you to jump from different heights into the water. I had so much fun jumping from the highest platform and feeling the rush of the water. It was one of the highlights of my trip to Cancun!
- The entrance fee is $20 USD per adult and $10 USD for children, or $8 USD for adults and $4 USD for children presenting your ID.
- You can rent snorkel gear or bring your own. There are also lockers, showers, restrooms, and a snack bar on site.
How to get to Verde Lucero from Cancun:
Cenote Verde Lucero is located about 45 minutes south of Cancun along the “Ruta de los Cenotes”, the Leona Vicario road.
Public transportation: The good news is that Verde Lucero is one of the easiest cenotes to reach on the Ruta de los Cenotes, as it is very close to the main road. Take a bus or colectivo to Puerto Morelos, then another colectivo or a taxi to Verde Lucero.
4. Parque Selvatica
Parque Selvatica is not just a cenote, but a whole adventure park in the Riviera Maya.
It has an open-air cenote with a circular shape and a wooden platform around it and you can see some fish and turtles. There are also some rope swings and zip lines that add some fun and adrenaline to your visit.
It was a great way to experience the nature and adventure of the Riviera Maya. I had so much fun in the cenote and flying over it on a zip line. It was one of the most thrilling and enjoyable days of my trip to Cancun!
- This park is located about 1h south of Cancun near the town of Puerto Morelos
- You need to wear comfortable clothes, shoes, and sunscreen. You also need to sign a waiver and follow the safety instructions.
Parque Selvatica is one of the best eco-parks in Cancun for adrenaline seekers and thrill lovers. It is a place where you can have an unforgettable adventure in the jungle. You should definitely try it if you are looking for something different and exciting.
You can book your Selvatica tickets with hotel pick up here, includes zip lines, Tarzania, safari truck ride to a cenote and lunch:
5. Cenote Siete Bocas
Cenote Siete Bocas is on of the most beautiful cenotes near Cancun.
It is an underground cenote with seven openings in the ceiling that let in some light and fresh air.
Cenote Siete Bocas is perfect for diving. The water is deep and dark, and you can see some amazing rock formations and fish. There are also some caves and tunnels that you can explore with a guide.
I discovered this cenote when I was looking for something different and adventurous. It was not very easy to find, but it was worth it. It was like a hidden treasure in the jungle!
- The entrance fee is $25 USD per person and $20 USD for nationals. Entrance includes mandatory life vest.
- There are no food vendors inside so I recommend you bring your own snacks or lunch
How to get to Cenote Siete Bocas from Cancun:
This cenote is located about 1h of Cancun along the Ruta de los Cenotes (Cenote Route) in Puerto Morelos.
If you don’t rent a car: take a colectivo to Puerto Morelos, then a taxi. Another option would be to take another colectivo in Puerto Morelos that goes on the Ruta de los Cenotes, he will drop you off at the entrance (on the main road) and you will need to walk around 20 min to get to the cenote.
6. Cenote Zapote
Eco Parque Cenotes Zapote is a top destination near Cancun in my opinion, as it offers both open and underground cenotes to explore in one location.
Cenote zapote is an open-air cenote with a circular shape and a large tree in the middle.
What makes this cenote so special are the “hell’s bells”, which are huge cone-shaped stalactites that hang from the bottom of the cenote. They look like giant bells and they create a surreal and mysterious atmosphere. I loved swimming, snorkeling, and diving in the cenote and admiring these amazing formations.
You should definitely add it to your bucket list!
- The entrance fee starts at $40 USD per adult and $30 USD per kid. Each package includes different things. There are also lockers, showers, restrooms, and a restaurant on site.
- Reservation is mandatory, and if you want the full experience (transportation, buffet, activities): Book the Cenote Zapote tour here!
How to get to Cenote Zapote from Cancun:
Cenote Zapote is located about 50 minutes south of Cancun along the Ruta de los Cenotes (Cenote Route).
I got there by car, and I wouldn’t recommend going with a colectivo because (as I already explained for it’s neighbor Kin Ha) you would still need to walk about 6 km from the road!
7. Cenote La Noria
Cenote La Noria is an underground cenote with a small opening in the ceiling that lets in some light and fresh air.
Cenote La Noria is perfect for diving and snorkeling. The water is deep and dark, and you can see some amazing rock formations. There are also a lot of underwater structures that you can explore.
It also has several rope swings and platforms for those who want to have some fun and adrenaline. ATV and horse activities are available for you in that place.
I found this cenote by chance when I was driving along the Ruta de los Cenotes (Cenote Route). It is located about an hour south of Cancun near the town of Puerto Morelos. It is not very well known, so it was not crowded at all.
- The entrance fee is $20 USD per person and $15 USD for locals. There´s a little restaurant where you can try some really good tacos (especially the cochinita tacos!) or a plate of nachos.
How to get to Cenote La Noria from Cancun:
A car is the best way to get to Cenote Noria. Alternatively, you can take a bus or colectivo to Puerto Morelos (1h) and then a cab to the cenote. Remember to book the same driver for your return and agree on a time!
8. Cenote Fantasma
Cenote Fantasma is another awesome cenote near Cancun. It is a semi-open cenote with a small opening in the ceiling that lets in some light and fresh air.
It’s not very touristy, so usually there are not so many people around.
Cenote Fantasma is perfect for diving and snorkeling. The water is deep and dark, and you can see some amazing rock formations and fossils. There are also some hidden chambers and passages that you can explore with a guide.
- The entrance fee is $10 USD per person (or 15$usd with lunch included). There are also lockers, showers, restrooms, and a snack bar on site.
How to get to Cenote Fantasma from Cancun:
Cenote Fantasma is located in Chemax about 1h55 of Cancun, on Cancun-Kantunil/México 180D, in direction of Valladolid
9. Gran Cenote
Gran Cenote is one of the most famous and beautiful cenotes near Cancun. It is a semi-open cenote with a large opening in the ceiling that creates a stunning contrast of light and shadow.
It is ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. The water is clear and blue, and you can see some amazing coral formations and fish. There are also some caves and tunnels that you can explore with a guide.
This is one of the best cenotes in Cancun for nature lovers and photographers. You can see tons of fish trough the water and lots of turtles.
It is a place where you can enjoy the beauty and tranquility of the water and the scenery. I loved the photos I took there, simply marvelous.
- The entrance fee is $25 USD per person and $6 for nationals (snorkel gear included). There are also lockers, showers, restrooms, and a souvenir shop on site.
How to get to Gran Cenote from Cancun:
It is located about an 1h50 of Cancun, near Tulum.
You can get there by car or a colectivo (shared taxi) from Cancun or Playa del Carmen. If you don’t have a car: rent a bike in Tulum, it will only take you about 15 min to arrive 😉
My favorite tour includes pick up from your hotel, a guided bike tour of Tulum, the Gran Cenote, the Escondido Cenote and the Cristal Cenote, with a brunch in the jungle.
You need to book it here:
10. Cenote Escondido
This is another beautiful cenote near Cancun. It is an open-air cenote with a long and narrow shape and a natural rock wall around it.
It is ideal for swimming, snorkeling, diving and jumping. The water is clear and green, and you can see some fish and turtles. There are also some wooden platforms and ladders that allow you to jump from different heights into the water.
This is one of the best cenotes in Cancun for relaxing and enjoying the beauty of nature.
It is a place where you can have fun and cool off from the heat. I loved swimming and snorkeling there and jumping from the highest platform. It was such a refreshing and fun day.
- The entrance fee is $8 USD per person. You can rent snorkel gear or bring your own.
How to get to Cenote Escondido from Cancun:
It is located about two hours south of Cancun near the town of Tulum. You can get there by car or a colectivo (shared taxi) from Cancun or Playa del Carmen.
Once in Tulum, you can rent a bike or book this tour (click here) that includes a bike tour in Tulum, Cenote Escondido, Gran Cenote and Cenote Cristal, with a brunch in the jungle.
11. Cenote Choj Ha
Cenote Choj Ha is an underground cenote with a small opening in the ceiling that lets in some light and fresh air.
The water is deep and dark, and you can see some amazing stalactites and stalagmites. There are also some hidden chambers and passages that you can explore with a guide.
Cenote Choj Ha is one of the best cenotes in Cancun for adventure seekers because it is a place where you can experience the mystery and magic of the underground world.
It’s way less crowded than other cenotes around Valladolid and Cancun or Tulum, and it’s managed by the Maya families, who have made very few changes to preserve their authentic side.
- The entrance fee is $7.5 USD per person. You can rent googles, life-vest and lantern for $18 USD extra
How to get to Cenote Choj Ha from Cancun:
Cenote Choj Ha is located about 1h30 of Cancun following the 180D, near the town of Valladolid. You can get there by car or a colectivo (shared taxi) from Cancun or Playa del Carmen.
A guide will show you the stalactites and stalagmites, a hidden cenote where you can swim and over 300 handprints painted on the walls!
It’s a totally off-the-beaten-path tour. The only challenge is that you need a car because public transport is almost impossible.
12. Cenote Azul
In my opinion, Cenote Azul is the most family-friendly cenote near Cancun: you and your kids can have a blast swimming and snorkeling in the shallow and clear water, and you can even bring lunch and drinks (but no alcohol) because there are many shaded tables.
It is an open-air cenote with a round shape and a wooden deck around it. You can also spot some coral formations and fish in the water. The greenery around the cenote adds to its beauty and charm.
- Check out my detailed guide: Cenote Azul (Playa del Carmen): Perfect for Families!
How to get to Cenote Azul from Cancun:
Cenote Azul is located about 1h30 south of Cancun, very close to Playa del Carmen.
- You can get there by car following the Carretera Cancun-Chetumal 307
- It is also easily accessible with public transportation: take an ADO bus or a colectivo from Cancun to Playa del Carmen, then another colectivo (corner of Calle 1 Sur and Avenida 45 norte) to Tulum and tell the driver you get off at Cenote Azul (it’s only 15-20 min).
13. Jardin El Eden
A beautiful cenote near Cancun, Jardin El Eden (click here to see my detailed guide!) is very close to Cenote Azul and Cenote Cristalino.
It is an open-air cenote and a natural rock wall around it.
The water is clear and turquoise, and you can see many colorful fishes and turtles.
It has some wooden platforms and ladders that allow you to jump from different heights into the water.
I visited this cenote on a sunny day and it was like a paradise. The water was refreshing and the scenery was beautiful.
You can either bring your lunch and use some of the shaded tables, or get something from the snack bar (burritos, tacos, choripán, as well as snacks, etc.) I bought the chicken burrito (130 pesos) and it was tasty.
- The entrance fee is $10 USD per adult and $5 USD per kid.
How to get to Jardin del Eden from Cancun:
This cenote is located about 1h40 south of Cancun near Playa del Carmen.
You have an easy option to get there by car or public transportation: just take a bus or colectivo to Playa del Carmen, then another one to Tulum and let the driver know you need to stop at El Eden or Cenote Azul (15-20 min).
14. Kantun Chi
Kantun-Chi is one of the most beautiful cenotes in Cancun and a hidden gem in the jungle of the Riviera Maya!
You can swim, snorkel, dive, or kayak in the crystal clear water and explore the caves, tunnels, and formations that hide beneath the surface. I visited this park on a rainy day and it was like a dream.
The park has a little restaurant, there are not a lot of dishes but the food is good (i loved the fish tacos)!
- Reservation is mandatory – Book your tour (click here!) that includes a guided hike with access to 5 cenotes, lunch and equipment
- The tour lasts about four hours. You need to wear comfortable clothes and shoes.
How to get to Kantun Chi from Cancun:
This park is located about 1h15 of Cancun near Puerto Aventuras and Playa del Carmen, very close to Cenote Cristalino
15. Cenote Dos Ojos
Cenote Dos Ojos is one of the most amazing natural wonders in the Yucatan Peninsula.
- Check out my detailed guide: Why You Should Visit Cenote Dos Ojos (Tulum)
It consists of two sinkholes connected by an extensive network of underground rivers and caves that belong to the Sac Actun system, the largest underwater cave system in the world (350km!).
You can explore this incredible place by snorkeling or diving and marvel at the crystal-clear water, the stunning rock formations, and the diverse marine life. It offers some of the best cavern dives for beginners and experts alike.
Whether you want to have a relaxing swim, an adventurous dive, or a fun photo session, cenote Dos Ojos is the perfect destination for you.
It is a fascinating place to explore the ancient history and culture of the Maya people, as well as the natural beauty and biodiversity of the cenote ecosystem.
- The entrance fee starts $17 USD per person, but with a guide it can get to $40 USD.
- There’s a restaurant by the entrance since you cannot eat by the cenote.
This cenote is one of the most impressive cenotes in the Riviera Maya. It is a place where you can experience the beauty and wonder of the underground world.
Dos Ojos Park is also very close to Parque Xel-Ha (5 min by car) and the beautiful white sand beaches of Xcacel and Chemuyil (10 min on Highway 307).
So it’s easy to combine a trip to two cenotes or Cenote Dos Ojos with some beach time!
How to get to Cenote Dos Ojos from cancun:
- It is located about 2h south of Cancun near Tulum.
- If you don’t have a car, you can take a colectivo to Tulum and tell the driver to stop at Parque Dos Ojos.
Map of the best cenotes near Cancun
Where to stay in Cancun
- Mayan Monkey Cancun: a hostel with a festive atmosphere in Cancun’s hotel zone, very close to the beach and bars. Terrace, outdoor pool, bar with happy hour, air conditioning, ping-pong, good wifi. Private rooms and dorms, from only 24$usd!
- Bed and Breakfast Pecari: if you are looking for more comfort, I recommend without hesitation this establishment. It is a beautiful Bed and Breakfast located in a quiet street near the city center and the ADO bus station, with a relaxation area by the pool, spacious rooms, and a good breakfast, starting at 50$usd per night!
- Beachscape Kin Ha Villas & Suites:rooms, suites, and villas for 2 to 12 people with direct access to the beach. Outdoor pool, children’s pool, gym, restaurant, beach bar. Breakfast included, starting at 218$usd per night.
- The Royal Sands Resort & Spa: spacious rooms and suites with ocean views, in the heart of Cancun’s hotel zone. Large outdoor pool, gym, spa, fine restaurants, sports bar and many activities. All inclusive, starting at 485 $usd per night
Top Tips for Exploring Cenotes in Cancun
- Wear water shoes (Aquashoes) to protect your feet. Cenotes are sinkholes that are the result of the collapse of limestone bedrock. As a result, walking around cenotes can be very slippery. Wearing water shoes will improve your cenote experience 10-fold.
- Bring a good camera. Cenotes are amazing places to take a variety of photos. You can capture the beauty of the water, the surrounding nature, and the underwater life. If you have a waterproof camera or a GoPro, you can also take some stunning shots of the cenote from below. Just be aware that some cenotes may charge extra for using drones or professional cameras.
- Visit early especially if it is a popular cenote. Cenotes can get crowded during peak hours, especially if they are close to tourist hotspots like Cancun or Tulum. If you want to enjoy the cenote in peace and tranquility, try to arrive early in the morning or around mid-day when everyone’s out for lunch. You will also avoid the long lines and have more space to swim and explore.
- Don’t wear sunscreen. Most cenotes don’t allow you to wear sunscreen, and they also usually require you to shower first. This is because sunscreen contains chemicals that harm the local organisms and pollute the water. If you are worried about getting a sunburn, consider wearing a rash guard or other sun protection clothing.
- Bring enough cash (preferably pesos): The entrance fee for cenotes must be paid in cash. I haven’t yet come across one that accepts credit cards. You will also need cash if you want to rent snorkel gear, lockers, or buy snacks and drinks.
- Choose the right cenote for your preferences and abilities. You should also consider your level of comfort and experience with swimming, snorkeling, or diving before choosing a cenote. There are different types of cenotes: open, semi-open, and underground:
-Open cenotes are exposed to the sky and have more natural light and vegetation.
-Semi-open cenotes have small openings in the ceiling that create beautiful light beams and reflections.
-Underground cenotes are completely enclosed in caves and have no natural light. They may also have narrow passages and low ceilings that require crawling or diving.
Rent a car in Cancun
Renting a car is for sure the best way to explore Cancun and make the most of your stay!
While it’s not super useful to visit the city, having a car is a must to discover the rest of the country.
To rent a car, personally, I always use Booking.com Cars, for a few reasons:
- You can easily compare the rental cars prices between all the agencies: for sure the easiest way to find the best rate!
- Cancellation is often offered free of charge: no need to worry if you change your mind
- Booking Cars offers full insurance coverage at a lower price than the rental companies, so it’s an instant saving with no effort
Simply click on the green button to find your rental car at the best price:
How to find a cheap flight to Cancun
Cancun International Airport a large airport that receives many flights from Europe and North America, with the major known companies (Air Transat, Air Canada, Iberia, Aeromexico, Interjet, KLM, etc.). It will be very easy to find tickets at the date that suits you.
To find a cheap flight to Cancun as well as the best domestic flights in Mexico, you should use our flight comparison tool in partnership with Skyscanner. It is guaranteed to get you the best price!
🚗 Rent a car
🗽 Book entrance tickets and guided visits
🏄 Book your sports activities
🌍 Take a travel insurance
🙎 Book a tour
✈️ Book your flight
You’re traveling in Mexico? These articles will help you!
Discover all my articles about Mexico: All my articles to help you plan your trip to Mexico are listed there.
- Where to stay in Cancun? The guide to the best hotels and resorts, for all budgets
- All-Inclusive Hotels in Cancun: The 27 Best All-Inclusive Resorts!
- The Best Hotels near Cancun Airport
- Cancun: the 35 Best Things to Discover
- 1 Day in Cancun – The Perfect 24h itinerary
- 2 Days in Cancun – How to make the most of your week-end in Cancun
- 3 Days in Cancun – What to See, Do and Eat
- 4 Days in Cancun – The Best Itinerary + Where to stay
- 5 Days in Cancun – The Ideal Itinerary for First-Time Visitors
- Itinerary: 10 days in Mexico – Mexico City, Chiapas and Yucatan
- Itinerary: 2 weeks in Mexico – Best itinerary to discover the Yucatan Peninsula and Chiapas!
- Itinerary: 3 weeks in Mexico – Mexico City, Puebla, Oaxaca, Chiapas, Campeche, Yucatán and Riviera Maya
- Itinerary: 1 month in Mexico – My Epic 30-31 Days Itinerary from Mexico City to Cancun
- Road trip in Mexico: The best itineraries for 10, 15, 21 days and a month
- Itinerary: 1 week in Yucatan – The Ultimate 6, 7 or 8 days Itinerary
- Itinerary: 10 days in Yucatan – Best Itinerary for 9, 10 or 11 Days in Yucatan
- Itinerary: 2 weeks in Yucatan – Epic Itinerary + All my Best Tips!
- Itinerary: 3 weeks in Yucatan – Best things to do in 20-21 days
- Itinerary: 1 month in Yucatan – Yucatan Peninsula in 29, 30 or 31 days from Cancun
- Road trip in Yucatan: The best itineraries for 7, 10, 15, 21 days and 1 month
You’re using Pinterest? Here is the picture to pin!
