11 Best Tulum Cenote Tours You Won’t Want to Miss in 2024
REady to book the best Tulum cenotes tours?
As I’ve been living in Mexico since 2018, you can imagine that I’ve explored countless cenotes on several Tulum cenote tours. I know first-hand that not all tours are created equal, and it’s not always easy to find great cenote tours in Tulum Mexico — but I’m here to help.
Tulum has A LOT of cenotes tours to choose from, and picking one can be overwhelming. For this article, I used my insider knowledge to vet all the tours to make sure they’re highly rated and well-reviewed — so all you have to do is book a Tulum cenote tour and enjoy!
Don’t have time to read the whole article? The best Tulum cenote tour is this All Inclusive 3 Cenotes & Tulum Ruins Tour with Lunch. On it, you’ll swim in cenotes, tour Tulum Ruins, and enjoy a traditional lunch.
If that one’s not for you, don’t worry! There are plenty of other great Tulum cenotes tours so you can explore these unique jungle pools. In fact, this article features the 11 Best Tulum Cenote Tours, and each one offers something a little different than the others.
From Tulum ATV and cenote tours to full-day cenote Tulum Ruins excursions, are you ready to discover the most unique Tulum cenotes tours? Great, then let’s dive in (oh, and all cenote puns in this article are very much intended).
Top 3 Picks: Best Tulum Cenote Tours
#1 TOP PICK
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
All Inclusive Tour: 3 Cenotes, Tulum Mayan Ruins & Lunch
✔️ Swim in 3 Tulum cenotes
✔️ Guided Tulum Ruins tour
✔️ Lunch & transportation included
#2 PICK
Mayan Underworld: Tulum Cenotes & Lagoon Tour
✔️ Swim in 2 cenotes and 1 lagoon
✔️ Round-trip transportation
#3 PICK
Tulum Cenotes Without Crowds
✔️ Visit 2 off the beaten path cenotes
✔️ Local guide & lunch included
The 11 Tulum Best Cenote Tours
1. All Inclusive: 3 Cenotes & Tulum Ruins Tour with Lunch
⭐️ Rated: 4.95 out of 5 Stars | ⏰ Time: 7 hours | Check rates & availability
Looking for the best Tulum Ruins and cenote tour? Look no further! This All Inclusive Tulum Tour to 3 Cenotes & Tulum Ruins not only takes you to the sites with a private guide, but offers a lot of nice extras at no additional charge.
The tour also includes round-trip transportation from your accommodation, all entrance fees, and a traditional Mayan and Mexican food lunch cooked in front of you in an open kitchen. 🍹 BONUS: As soon as they pick you up, you’ll get a mimosa welcome cocktail.
Visiting the Mayan ruins and swimming through the cenotes were probably one of the best parts of our trip. Our tour guide at the ruins was very knowledgeable and super friendly, he really did a great job immersing us in the Mayan culture… Thank you so much for the amazing tour, we highly recommend this experience to others!
—sydni (See more reviews)
A complete Tulum cenotes experience, you’ll visit three different types of cenotes to get the full experience. As we know, the “best Tulum cenote” is the one YOU like best, so you’ll get to check out a cave cenote located fully underground, a semi-open cenote, and a fully open cenote.
You will also learn about the importance cenotes play in Tulum’s ecosystem, the flora and fauna that surrounds them, and the Mayan culture and history that hides inside them.
Best of all, you decide how long you want to stay at each cenote to swim and explore. 🛟 Note: Goggles and life vests are provided so you can float through the cenote at your convenience.
Finally, you’ll end the day with lunch at one of the best, most authentic restaurants in Tulum Town (AKA Downtown Tulum). Enjoy Mexican and Yucatan foods, like cochinita pibil tacos and sopa de lima (lime soup; a local delicacy) before being dropped off at your hotel, Airbnb or hostel.
For the cost, this tour can’t be beat because you get so much included and there are no pesky hidden fees. It is also one of the highest-rated Tulum cenotes tours, so don’t hesitate to reserve your spot now because this one does often sell out.
Best Tulum Cenote Tours
2. Mayan Underworld: Tulum Cenotes & Lagoon Tour
⭐️ Rated: 4.96 out of 5 Stars | ⏰ Time: 4.5 hours | Check rates & availability
This Underworld Maya Cenote & Lagoon Experience Tour includes not only a visit to two cenotes — but also a Tulum lagoon (which just so happens to have another cenote in the center of it).
On this tour, you’ll visit two types of cenotes, a cave cenote and an open cenote (sometimes called a swimming pool cenotes because it looks like a natural swimming pool in the jungle).
You can stop searching, you’ve found the best possible experience in Tulum… I’m not going to tell you about the three cenotes because it’s best to discover them for yourself [but] needless to say, this is a perfectly-crafted excursion.
—Jason (See more reviews)
The cave cenote is located off the beaten path, and the number of people allowed in each day is restricted, so you can expect a private feel. Trust me when I tell you this is one of the most beautiful cenotes in Mexico!
In the open cenote, you can jump into this natural pool and also snorkel in its crystal-clear waters. 🐠 Note: For those who want to snorkel and see some fish, these open cenotes are the best cenotes for snorkeling.
After the cenotes, you’ll visit Kaan Luum Lagoon, one of the coolest Tulum hidden gems. It looks similar to the famous Blue Hole in Belize — but unlike the Blue Hole, this is a shallow, freshwater lagoon so it’s easy to just relax in the water and splash around.
Best Tulum Cenote Tours
3. Tulum Cenotes Without the Crowds Tour (Private Tour Available)
⭐️ Rated: 4.98 out of 5 Stars | ⏰ Time: 5 hours | Check rates & availability
On this Non-Touristy Tulum Cenotes Without Crowds Tour, you’ll visit two types of cenotes — one above ground and one underground cave cenote. ⚠️ Note: If you’re looking for a private cenote Tulum tour, you can book this one so it’s for just you and your group.
Speaking of private, that’s the name of the game here! This tour is all about visiting the hidden gem Tulum cenotes without crowds, and having them to yourself to experience the stillness of the cave and hear the songs of the jungle birds — with no one and nothing to distract you.
This host was the best. Kaeru knew the best private cenotes and taco restaurants in Tulum. A level above some other tour guides, clearly.
—Ronald (See more reviews)
After exploring the lush Yucatan jungle and swimming in the two cenotes, enjoy a traditional Mexican food picnic lunch. Host and Tulum local, Kaeru, promises “one of the most authentic meals of your vacation,” during this off the beaten path Tulum experience.
While you won’t know which cenotes you’re visiting until you arrive for the tour (a common practice for Tulum cenotes tours, btw) you can ask Kaeru ahead of time for a custom made itinerary that includes a cenote from your Tulum bucket list.
Best Tulum Cenote Tours
4. Tulum Cenote Tour with Snorkeling & Turtle Swim
⭐️ Rated: 4.95 out of 5 Stars | ⏰ Time: 4.5 hours | Check rates & availability
This Tulum, Snorkel Reef, Turtles & Cenote Tour checks quite a few items off any Mexico bucket list: exploring Mayan Ruins in Tulum ✔️, swimming in cenotes ✔️, snorkeling with turtles ✔️, sampling traditional Yucatan food from this region ✔️
You’ll start this adventure touring the Tulum Ruins, a beautiful Mayan Ruins site overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Here, your knowledgeable guide will explain all the history, symbolism and significance of these Mexico ruins.
I’ll save you some time… go ahead and book now! Alejandro is the best tour guide. He is very knowledgeable about the Mayan culture, mystical culture and the surrounding nature and wildlife… We had a blast!!!
—Jessica (See more reviews)
After the tour, walk down the staircase at Tulum Mayan Ruins to the beach cove beneath (known as Playa Ruinas, or the Tulum Ruins Beach).
Here, you’ll board a boat and head to the best place for Tulum snorkeling tours. As part of the second largest reef on Earth, the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, you’ll see tropical fish 🐠 and hopefully even sea turtles 🐢, as they tend to hang out in the area you’ll go.
After some time snorkeling, you’ll head to one of the top Tulum cenotes for another swim in these natural pools. On the way back to your hotel, enjoy a stop at a locals’ only restaurant for a traditional Yucatan food meal.
With so many things to do in a single day, and a stop at some of the iconic landmarks in Mexico, it’s easy to see why this is considered one of the best Tulum cenote and ruins tours.
Best Tulum Cenote Tours
5. Discover the Most Instagram Worthy Cenotes Near Tulum
⭐️ Rated: 4.98 out of 5 Stars | ⏰ Time: 8 hours | Check rates & availability
Looking for cenote tours from Tulum that will take you to visit the best cenotes near Tulum? You’ve found it! This Discovering the Best Insta Cenotes Yucatan Tour is the best way to see the Instagram worthy cenotes located just outside Tulum.
While there are many gorgeous cenotes in Tulum, you don’t want to miss out on the chance to visit the Instagrammable cenotes located in neighboring towns.
100% recommend this cenotes tour; this is a must do! The start time is early, but it was so worth it. We had the cenotes all to ourselves and got amazing pictures with no crowds. Our tour guide, Ulises… was an amazing photographer and knows all the good angles.
—judy (See more reviews)
Two of the most beautiful cenotes in Yucatan, Suytun Cenote and San Lorenzo Oxman Cenote are included on the tour. You’ll also visit one gorgeous hidden gem cenote in the Mayan jungle that you’d never find via Google.
After getting all your beautiful photos in the most Instagram worthy cenotes, you’ll visit the pueblo magico (magic town) of Valladolid Mexico for a gourmet Yucatan food lunch.
If you’re considering any Tulum day trips, this is one of the best Yucatan cenote tours available. To my knowledge, it is also one of the only Cenote Suytun tours available.
Best Tulum Cenote Tours
6. Chichen Itza Ruins & Cenote Tour from Tulum
⭐️ Rated: 4.94 out of 5 Stars | ⏰ Time: 5 hours | Check rates & availability
Looking for the best Chichen Itza and cenote tours from Tulum? Look no further because you’ve found it! This Chichen Itza Ruins, Valladolid & Cenote Tour is a way to see a lot of amazing sites in just one day.
As one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Chichen Itza is among the best Mayan Ruins in Yucatan, and the most famous one of them all. Being such an important site, visiting is a true Mexico bucket list experience for many visitors.
I am so glad I decided to do this experience. Everything was very well thought out from start to finish… My favorite part about the tour was the cenote, as photos do not do it justice… I 10/10 recommend booking this experience!
—kyle (See more reviews)
Located near Chichen Itza Mayan Ruins, you’ll also visit the Mexico pueblo magico of Valladolid to explore one of the most charming towns in Yucatan.
Valladolid is a beautiful, colorful colonial town that’s one of the most up-and-coming Mexico travel destinations. While visiting, you’ll enjoy a traditional Yucatan food lunch in a restored hacienda-style mansion.
As this article is all about Tulum cenote tours, you’ll of course also swim in a cenote on this tour! A truly magical experience, you’ll enjoy some time in a local, community-run cenote for an off the beaten path experience away from the crowds.
With so much offered on this action-packed day trip, it’s easy to see why this is considered the best Mayan Ruins and cenote tour from Tulum.
Best Tulum Cenote Tours
7. Snorkel the Hidden Cenotes of Tulum Tour
⭐️ Rated: 4.95 out of 5 Stars | ⏰ Time: 4.5 hours | Check rates & availability
This Snorkel the Hidden Cenotes of Tulum Tour takes you to three different cenotes, all different types, where you can swim and snorkel.
Enjoy an open swimming pool cenote, a semi-open cenote where bats fly freely overhead (they are adorable, and never come near humans), and an underground cave cenote.
Alex was awesome! He was super knowledgeable of all the cenotes around Tulum, and took us to some amazing locations. Definitely would recommend booking with him to anyone. The tacos at the end are worth it!!
—Ethan (See more reviews)
Each cenote on this tour was strategically chosen, each just 10-15 minutes from one another, so you don’t waste any of your precious cenote time on the road.
After exploring and swimming, you’ll enjoy lunch at a top secret, locals’ only Tulum taquería (taco shop). If you want to try the best Tulum tacos, don’t miss this tour.
8. Professional Tulum Cenotes Photoshoot (Private Underwater Photography Session)
⭐️ Rated: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏰ Tour Time: 3 hours | 📸 Check rates & availability
This Cenotes & Underwater Photography Tour is a visit to the coolest Tulum cenotes with professional photographer, Manual, there to capture all the magic.
You’ll meet Manual in Tulum Town (AKA Downtown Tulum) early in the morning to have the best lighting possible, and be the only ones at the cenotes.
Wow. What a magical morning. This is one of those experiences that make you feel transported to another reality! …What a gift it was. I cannot recommend this experience or host enough.
—lily (See more reviews)
During this Tulum underwater photography experience, you’ll see some of the most spectacular cenotes in Tulum, and have photos to share afterwards.
What’s included? You’ll receive an online gallery with 20 edited images, three weeks after the experience, as they will be edited before release. For an additional cost, you can also arrange for drone shots.
Best Tulum Cenote Tours
9. Tacos & Tulum Cenotes Tour
⭐️ Rated: 4.96 out of 5 Stars | ⏰ Time: 4 hours | Check rates & availability
This Tulum Tacos & Cenotes Tour is a true locals’ experience to visit some of the best cenotes in Mexico, as well as a local taquería (Tulum taco shop).
Start the day getting to know the hosts, Sebastian and Hector, over coffee and fresh fruit. Two Tulum locals, your hosts will share some cenote facts and history with you, before you begin your journey to swim in the Tulum cenotes.
Thank you so much for this unforgettable experience!…The cenotes were breathtaking [and] the taco spot afterwards… chef’s kiss. So happy we chose this experience!
—Larissa (See more reviews)
From here, you’ll go to two cenotes that you’d never find anywhere online! After a refreshing swim in these cenotes, you’ll head to a Tulum taco shop that only locals know about and enjoy some of the best tacos in Tulum.
As you’ll likely be alone at these non-crowded cenotes, enjoy a few hours disconnecting from the outside world in Tulum’s beautiful, quiet and peaceful nature.
Best Tulum Cenote Tours
10. Tulum Cenotes Bike Tour with Lunch Included
⭐️ Rated: 4.96 out of 5 Stars | ⏰ Time: 4 hours | Check rates & availability
This Tulum Bike, Cenotes, Jungle & Lunch Experience Tour is a peaceful bike ride through the Yucatan jungle to see two unique cenotes.
At them, you can snorkel and swim at your own pace, as the trip will be tailored to how the group wants to divide their time at the cenotes.
Amazing experience. The cenotes are absolutely stunning and the whole thing was so much easier with Marcela guiding us. Completely recommend this — so glad we booked.
—Frankie (See more reviews)
After visiting the second cenote, and working up an appetite biking and swimming, you’ll enjoy a traditional lunch outdoors. ⚠️ Note: Inform host, Marcela, of any food restrictions in advance.
This is a chance to really enjoy Tulum’s nature, exploring the jungle on a bike trail only locals know about. With so many amazing reviews, it’s easy to see why this made the list of the best Tulum cenote tours from Tulum.
Best Tulum Cenote Tours
11. Tulum Bike Tour to 3 Cenotes with Mayan Snacks Included
⭐️ Rated: 4.99 out of 5 Stars | ⏰ Time: 5 hours | Check rates & availability
Looking for the most budget-friendly Tulum cenotes tour? You’ve found it!
On this Tulum Bike Tour to 3 Cenotes, you’ll have to make your way about 25 minutes north of Tulum to the small town of Chemuyil, Mexico. You can get there by rental car or taxi, as this is an easy trip (though it’s not the best idea to try public transportation).
In Chemuyil, you’ll ride bicycles through town and the jungle, making your way to three different cenotes around the community. At the end of the tour, you’ll stop at a local restaurant where you can purchase a delicious lunch.
Miguel was our guide and WOW. Respect. This was such a well-rounded, enriching experience; I would go back and do the exact same tour 10 more times if I could… Well worth it. Words do no justice, you just have to go see for yourself <3
—Courtney (See more reviews)
A rustic and budget-friendly tour, you won’t get any bells and whistles on this one. However, you will get to see the more natural side of Yucatan Mexico away from the crowds, and meet some local people along the way.
This tour is led by Einner and his crew from the Bejil-Ha EcoTourism Project. These locals have a strong passion for showcasing their homeland, and the magical cenotes in it. If you want to support local companies and enjoy a true eco-adventure in the jungle, this is the tour for you.
Your bike to visit the different cenote locations, snorkel equipment, a lifejacket (optional to use), bottled water and snacks (usually fresh fruit) are all included. However, you will have to pay for your own transport from Tulum to Chemuyil.
Best Tulum Cenote Tours
Cenotes Packing List: What to Bring to Tulum Cenotes
Wondering what to pack for Tulum cenotes? You’re not alone!
Since this will likely be your first visit to any of the best Mexico cenotes, you’re probably unsure what to take and what to leave home. Don’t worry — I’m here to help.
Below, you’ll find a list of seven things you need to consider when making your Tulum cenotes packing list.
This list highlights what you’ll want to bring to any cenotes in Tulum (or cenotes near Tulum) you’re visiting, like Laguna Kaan Luum & Cenote, El Gran Cenote, Cenote Sac Actun, Cenote Carwash (AKA Cenote Aktun-Ha).
1. Go Pro Waterproof Camera
- 5.3K 60 Ultra HD Video
- 27 Megapixel Photos
- Award-Winning HyperSmooth 6.0 Image Stabilization
- Webcam with Live Streaming
- 1/1.9 Image Sensor
- Whats Included: HERO12 Black, Enduro Rechargeable Battery, Curved Adhesive Mount, Mounting Buckle + Thumb Screw, USB-C Cable
If you’ve been considering getting a GoPro Hero, the photogenic Yucatan cenotes make for the perfect place to put the camera to good use.
📸 Looking for an inexpensive GoPro alternative? I recommend this Akaso EK7000, an Amazon Best Seller.
2. Long Sleeve Bathing Suit (AKA Rash guard or Swim shirt)
🚨 In case you didn’t know: Sunscreen is prohibited in ALL cenotes!
That’s right: You’re not allowed to wear sunscreen of any kind in any cenote. Yes, this also includes eco-friendly sunscreens and reef safe sunscreens because they can harm the natural environment.
However, you will want sun protection, so opt for these long sleeve bathing suits and even these waterproof sun hats so you don’t end up with a bad sunburn on your Tulum vacation.
3. Mask and Snorkel
- 180° Panoramic View
- Anti-Fog and Anti-Leak Dry Snorkel Technology
- Made of High Quality PC and Medical Grade Silicone
- Detachable Camera Mount (Fits GoPro, Akaso, and most models)
- Adjustable straps designed for comfort in the water
You can snorkel in many Tulum cenotes to see the rocks underneath and all the little fish.
For those who want to conserve luggage space, these small goggles and this roll up snorkel are a great option, but this combo mask and snorkel is the best option for snorkeling in Tulum cenotes, as well as the Tulum lagoons and the Caribbean Sea.
4. Water Shoes
Here’s one of the best Tulum travel tips: Don’t forget to buy and bring your water shoes! As cenotes are natural pools, most have slippery rocks, muddy ground, etc.
Water shoes also help you not slip in general, especially when walking down any staircase entryways.
5. Waterproof Phone Holder
If you’re planning to take Instagrammable cenote photos, this inexpensive waterproof phone holder that goes around your neck really comes in handy.
With these, you can take them in water and capture the Tulum cenotes from all angles.
6. Waterproof Fanny Pack
This waterproof fanny pack is another great option. Not only are they cute, but it will also hold all your valuables, not just your phone.
Wondering about lockers at Tulum cenotes? While some do have locker rental options, some don’t, so the best option is to keep all your belongings on you with this waterproof waist bag.
7. Quick Dry Towel
This quick dry towel is one of the best things to throw in your suitcase when packing for Mexico, and will definitely come in handy when you visit the cenotes and Yucatan beaches.
Best Tulum Cenotes Tours: FAQ
What are cenotes?
A cenote is a deep sinkhole in the natural limestone floor, which exposes the freshwater underground. This sunken-in area forms a natural pool (or cenote), and these cenotes are found especially in Yucatan Mexico.
The word “sinkhole” describes the process of how the cenotes came to be. At one time, all cenotes were encased in the Yucatan Peninsula’s native limestone rock.
Over time, some rock has eroded, collapsed, and “sunk in” to reveal the water beneath — which is the cenote water we can now swim in.
The cenotes aren’t individual pools, but rather derive from the same water that comes from massive freshwater rivers flowing beneath the Yucatan Peninsula.
In fact, some cenote water comes from the largest underground river on Earth, the Sistema Sac Actun (Cenote Sac Actun).
🛑 Just want a short answer to, What is a cenote? Mexico’s cenotes are natural freshwater pools located primarily in the Yucatan Mayan jungle.
Best Tulum Cenote Tours
What are the 4 types of cenotes?
Of the (approx.) 6,000 cenotes in Yucatan, there are four distinct types of cenotes: open, semi-open, cave, and diving cenotes.
While everyone wants to know what’s the best cenote Tulum has, there’s no definitive answer. You’ll just have to visit the different types so you can decide on YOUR best (which isn’t so bad, really)!
Each type is unique and beautiful in its own way, so make sure to visit as many types of Mexican cenotes as you can.
1. Open Cenotes
You may see these called “swimming pool cenotes,” because they’re completely open and look like a natural swimming pool.
Some of the best open cenotes include Cenote Azul (Blue Cenote), Cenote Zacil-Ha, El Gran Cenote, Cenote Corazon del Paraiso, and Cenote Escondido.
⚠️ Note: When it comes to famous cenotes in Tulum, El Gran Cenote is at the top of the list. A few people have asked me about a Gran Cenote Tulum tour, and this Cenote Triple Adventure Tour in Tulum is the only one I know of that includes Gran Cenote.
2. Semi-Open Cenotes
These cenotes are semi-encased in their native limestone rock. Semi-open cenotes have large walls surrounding the pool itself, and a large hole in the top where sunlight gets in — like Cenote Ik-Kil, Cenote Zemway and Cenote Atik, a strong contender for the best cenote in Tulum!
3. Closed Cenotes in Caves
Cave cenotes are exactly as the name says. These are located underground in a cave, and you’ll have to access them by going down some stairs — like Cenote Suytun. This one does have a hole at the top where a single light beam comes in, but it’s still considered a closed cave cenote.
4. Dive Cenotes for Diving
The final type is also located inside a cave, but the water in these cenotes is much deeper so they are sought out for diving.
These include Cenote Dos Ojos, Cenote Calavera, Cenote Ponderosa, and Cenote El Pit, known as the one of the best Tulum diving cenotes.
🤿 Note: You must be scuba dive certified for cenote diving! For those who are, check out these two tours: Cenotes Scuba Diving Tulum Tour and Go Dive Cenotes in Tulum Tour — both of which have great reviews on Tripadvisor.
Best Tulum Cenote Tours
How many cenotes are there?
There are about 6,000 cenotes in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula — which is the largest concentration of cenotes found anywhere on Earth.
How many cenotes are in Tulum?
About 200 — This answer depends on who you ask, as some people say there are exactly 226 of cenotes in Tulum, but other people say there are a bit more or a bit less.
How do you pronounce cenote?
Wondering how to say the word cenote? You’re not alone! The cenote pronunciation is sen-no-tay, and it’s sen-no-tays in plural.
Best Tulum Cenote Tours
What is the best Tulum cenotes tour?
The best Tulum cenote tour is this All Inclusive 3 Cenotes & Tulum Ruins Tour with Lunch. On it, you’ll swim in 3 cenotes, tour Tulum Ruins with a private guide, and enjoy a traditional lunch — with everything included in the purchase price, and no additional fees!
Do you need a tour to visit cenotes in Tulum?
No — You can absolutely visit the cenotes on your own. If you want to do so, be mindful of time because many are located in rural areas and you’ll want to be out of there before dark because you likely won’t have a cell signal to safely navigate back to Tulum.
Best Tulum Cenote Tours
What’s the best way to visit Tulum cenotes on your own?
As cenotes are pretty spread out, the easiest way to go on your own is to rent a car in Tulum and make a plan to visit a few cenotes in one day. You can take a bus or public transportation to some cenotes, but not many because they tend to be located in rural areas of the Yucatan jungle.
Are cenote tours worth it?
Yes — A tour will offer you something invaluable that going on your own does not: Advice from a local. As Tulum cenotes tours are led by Tulum locals who know the area well, you end up visiting all the hidden gem cenotes without crowds of people.
Best Tulum Cenote Tours
How many cenotes can you visit in a day?
1-3 — Really, you can visit as many as you want in a day, though there usually aren’t more than three cenotes located in the same general area, and the drive time between these cenote areas can be long.
How much is a cenote tour in Tulum?
It varies — Tulum cenote tours range in price based on how many cenotes you visit and if there are any extras included, like lunch or a visit to other Tulum attractions. ON average, expect to pay $30 USD-$150 USD per person for the best cenote tours Tulum has to offer.
Best Tulum Cenote Tours
Are the cenotes in Tulum worth it?
Yes — Not only are they worth it, but there are people who travel to Tulum only to enjoy the cenotes. A haven for swimmers, snorkelers and scuba divers alike, there are only cenotes in a few places on Earth, so don’t miss out on visiting the Tulum cenotes.
What are the best cenotes in Tulum?
This is a subjective answer, because different people fall in love with different Tulum cenotes for different reasons. Of all the cenotes in Tulum and cenotes near Tulum, some of the most popular and most-visited include Cenote Ik-Kil, Gran Cenote, Cenote Dos Ojos, Cenote Calavera and Cenote Suytun.
Best Tulum Cenote Tours
What is the best non-touristy cenote in Tulum?
There are a few non-crowded cenotes in Tulum to check out, like Cenote Cristal, Cenote Escondido and Cenote Corazon del Paraiso. These are all located just minutes from Tulum Town (also known as Tulum Pueblo or Downtown Tulum).
What is the most picturesque cenote?
There are A LOT of beautiful cenotes in Mexico, and some of the most famous are the Instagrammable cenotes like Cenote Suytun, Cenote Ik Kil, Cenote Calavera and La Gran Cenote Tulum. 📸 To visit them all, book this Mexico Instagram Cenotes Tour.
Best Tulum Cenote Tours
Can you swim in Tulum cenotes?
Yes — You can swim in the Tulum cenotes, and they contain freshwater, so it is a very refreshing activity on those hot Tulum days. At many cenotes and lagoons, like Yal Ku Lagoon, you can enjoy some amazing snorkeling while you swim.
Can non-swimmers go in cenotes?
Yes — Depending on the cenote, most have shallow areas near the edges. Also, many cenotes have life jacket rentals, and they’re usually only about $1 USD, so make sure to rent one if you need to.
Best Tulum Cenote Tours
Can you snorkel in a cenote?
Yes — Cenotes contain freshwater, so they all have visibility for snorkeling to some degree. However, some cenotes are better for snorkeling than others, and the most famous snorkeling cenotes are Tulum Gran Cenote, Casa Cenote Tulum (AKA Cenote Manatí), Dos Ojos Cenote and Cenote Jardin del Eden.
Do you need water shoes for cenotes in Tulum?
No, but they do come in handy — As cenotes are natural pools, most have slippery rocks around the sides and mossy-covered staircases to enter into the cenote. These water shoes will help you not slip, especially when walking down any staircase or ladder entryways.
Best Tulum Cenote Tours
How cold is cenote water?
77° Fahrenheit (25° Celsius) on average — The temperature of the water in cenotes doesn’t really fluctuate much, so it’s about the same year-round. While it might feel cool when you first jump in, you’ll warm up in about one minute.
Do crocodiles swim in cenotes?
Yes, but you probably won’t see one — While you can theoretically find crocs in any body of fresh water in the Yucatan (including cenotes and lagoons), they tend to prefer larger swimming spaces and shallow water. Since cenote sinkholes are usually small and deep, it’s very uncommon for people to see crocodiles in cenotes.
Best Tulum Cenote Tours
How deep is the water in a cenote?
Wondering, How deep are cenotes? On average, cenotes are quite deep at about 10- to 50-feet (3-15 meters). Cenote El Pit is the deepest cenote in Quintana Roo State at about 390-feet-deep (119 m), but it’s reserved for divers only.
What is the best time of day to go to cenotes?
Right when they open — To beat the crowds, especially at the most popular cenotes in Tulum like Calavera Cenote, Cenote Car Wash and El Gran Cenote (sometimes spelled as El Grand Cenote), head there right when they open.
Best Tulum Cenote Tours
Can you wear sunscreen in cenotes?
No — To practice responsible and sustainable tourism in Mexico, do not wear sunscreen, lotion and/or insect repellent of any kind, and do your part to keep cenote water clean. Also, most cenotes require you to shower or rinse off before entering, so everything will wash off anyway.
Are cenotes free in Tulum?
No — You can expect to pay an entrance fee at all Tulum cenotes, which can range from $50 pesos to $400 pesos (about $3-$25 USD). There is one exception, Cenote Aldea Zama, which is the only free cenote in Tulum Mexico.
Final Thoughts: Best Tulum Cenote Tours
There you have it — all the best Tulum Mexico cenote tours and top-rated Tulum cenote excursions! Which one caught your eye? If that question has you like 🤷♀️ and you’re still undecided about the best cenote tour Tulum has, please allow me to help with this suggestion:
I recommend this 3 Cenotes & Tulum Ruins Tour with Lunch. On this cenote triple adventure tour in Tulum, you’ll swim in 3 cenotes, tour Tulum Ruins, and enjoy a traditional lunch.
With a quick Google search, you’ll discover there are hundreds of beautiful cenotes in Tulum, and thousands of Yucatan cenotes in Riviera Maya — so it can be difficult to choose which ones to visit (especially if this is your first trip to Tulum).
There are some great ones “on” the beaten path, but one of the main reasons to opt for a tour is that a Tulum local will take you to the lesser-visited, off the beaten path cenotes.
If you want a private Tulum cenote experience away from the crowds, and those coveted Instagram cenotes photos without people in them, then you must venture beyond the standard list of cenotes — and a local tour guide is the best person to take you to those.
⚠️ Coming from other places in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula? Check out this Tulum Cenote Tour from Cancun and this top-rated Tulum and Cenote Tour from Playa del Carmen.
Want to book more Tulum Mexico Tours?
Looking to take more tours in Tulum during your visit? Tours are so convenient because you don’t have to worry about planning anything — you just show up and enjoy!
Here are all of my recommendations for the top-rated Tulum tours:
Tulum Travel Planning Guide
1. Should I buy Mexico travel insurance?
100% YES! — With basic coverage averaging just $5-10 USD per day, enjoy peace of mind with a plan from Travel Insurance Master, one of the biggest names in travel insurance. (Read more)
2. Can you drink the water in Tulum?
No — You’ll want to buy this Water-To-Go Bottle, which filters your drinking water so you don’t get sick from drinking water in Mexico, and helps keep you hydrated while traveling Mexico. (Read more)
3. Is it safe to rent a car in Tulum?
Yes — Renting a car in Mexico is one of the best ways to see the country! I always rent with Discover Cars, which checks both international companies and local Mexican companies, so you get the best rates. (Read more)
4. Will my phone work in Tulum?
Maybe — It depends on your company, so check with your provider. If you don’t have free Mexico service, buy this Telcel SIM Card. As Mexico’s largest carrier, Telcel has the best coverage of any Mexico SIM Cards. (Read more)
5. What’s the best way to book my Tulum accommodations?
For Tulum hotels, Booking.com is the best site, but for hostels, use Hostel World. If you’re considering a Mexico Airbnb, don’t forget to also check VRBO, which is often cheaper than Airbnb.
6. What do I pack for Tulum?
Head to the Ultimate Tulum Packing List to get all the info you need on packing for Mexico.
7. What’s the best site to buy Mexico flights?
For finding cheap Mexico flights, I recommend Skyscanner.
8. Do I need a visa for Mexico?
Likely Not — U.S., Canadian and most European Passport holders don’t need a visa for Mexico; but check here to see if you do a Mexico travel visa. The majority of travelers will receive a 180-Day FMM Tourist Visa or passport stamp upon arrival.