Cenote Atik Tulum: Ultimate Guide to this Instagrammable Cenote
WANT TO VISIT A UNIQUE CENOTE IN TULUM MEXICO?
Cenote Atik is unlike any other spot I’ve come across in Mexico.
As I’ve lived in Mexico since 2018, with much of that time spent in the Yucatan, you might imagine I’ve been to more cenotes than I can count — but Atik… it’s different.
Tucked away in Atik Natural Park, this gem is often dubbed the Mystical Mayan Jungle.
As you head down the staircase, the view of the breathtaking sinkhole below will leave you in awe. And here’s the kicker — Cenote Atik is still a well-kept secret.
This is your chance to explore the cenote’s natural beauty without crowds.
From Cenote Atik photos to avoiding the crowds, how much the Cenote Atik entrance fee is, to how to get to Cenote Atik — all the info you need about the Atik Cenote is right here.
Cenote Atik Mexico: Your Complete Visitor’s Guide
Where is Cenote Atik located?
Cenote Atik is located at 7FQV+3H, 77797 Rancho Viejo, Q.R., Tulum, Mexico.
Located amongst the natural wonders on the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico, Cenote Atik is located just 7 miles (11 km) from Tulum Town (AKA Downtown Tulum).
It’s also easily accessible from any of the vibrant cities nearby, including Playa del Carmen, Riviera Maya, Cancun, Izamal “The Yellow City,” and Valladolid pueblo magico (magic town).
📍 Cenote Atik Map
📲 Note: I recommend anyone visiting to get a Mexico SIM Card, as your signal can go in and out in the more rural parts of the Yucatan, where Cenote Atik is.
You can also download an offline map from Google Maps or Maps.Me before you drive to Cenote Atik.
🤿 Looking for more cenotes near Tulum, Mexico? Check out 35 Best Tulum Cenotes + Free Cenotes in Tulum Map
What are the Cenote Atik hours?
Need to know when is Cenote Atik open so that you can plan your visit accordingly? You can dive into the most unique Tulum cenote daily, from 9am to 5:30pm.
What’s the best time to visit Cenote Atik?
Right when they open — Early risers can take advantage of the 9am opening hour, as this is the best time to visit Cenote Atik.
Arriving as soon as it opens means you’re there before the crowds start to gather.
What’s the best day to visit Cenote Atik?
Mondays to Thursdays — I’d suggest visiting Cenote Atik on the weekdays (if you can).
If you can’t visit on a weekday, opt for the early morning or late afternoon so you avoid the weekend afternoon crowds.
Tulum Cenotes usually attract crowds, especially during the weekends, holidays and afternoons, but as a newer cenote in Tulum, Cenote Atik is a hidden gem because it hasn’t been open too long.
For now, you’ll likely find very few visitors when you visit — but that won’t last forever.
However, until Atik Cenote gets as popular as the other well-known cenotes in Tulum (like Cenote Calavera and Kaan Luum Lagoon), you can escape the crowds and enjoy peace and quiet any time of the day or week.
What’s the Cenote Atik admission cost?
Admission to Cenote Atik is $349 MXN pesos (about $22 USD) to just swim in the cenote.
Cenote Atik is a must-visit Tulum destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. While you’re there, you can also take advantage of everything the park has to offer for an additional cost.
Atik is not just a cenote, but a natural park inside the Mayan Jungle.
Immerse yourself in art installations, water attractions, and exotic galleries for $549 MXN pesos (about $30 USD). You can purchase tickets online or at the box office when you arrive.
While the Atik Cenote price is more than some of the cenotes Tulum has to offer, trust me; it was worth visiting Cenote Atik!
When I went, there was hardly anyone at this cenote — and we got to enjoy a truly relaxing afternoon away from the crowds.
🪪 Note: Cenote Atik Accepts Online Payment
While most cenotes require you to have cash on-hand, Cenote Atik makes your trip planning easy.
You can purchase your tickets to Cenote Atik and Atik Park online — no need to worry about carrying lots of cash or waiting in line at the ticket counter.
However, if you want to buy some snacks, rent a life jacket and/or rent a locker, you’ll need to bring a few pesos along with you.
🚫 Note: You can not bring outside food and drinks in with you.
How much time do I need at Cenote Atik?
If you’re looking for a quick dip in the cenote, 1-2 hours will suffice.
However, if you want to elevate your experience by exploring the art installations, reflection pools, and wandering through the jungle oasis of Atik Cenote, set aside 3 hours.
Can I take photos of Cenote Atik?
Yes — If you want to take Cenote Atik photos with your camera phone, that’s OK.
However, there’s an additional cost of $299 pesos (about $17 USD) to use professional cameras.
🚫 Note: Drones are not permitted at Cenote Atik.
Cenote Atik Layout and Structure
Are there facilities at Cenote Atik?
Yes — You have everything at Cenote Atik Tulum Mexico, from restrooms and showers to life jack rentals and a snack bar (though options are limited).
🚿 Cenote Atik Showers, Changing Rooms & Restrooms
Right before you enter the cenote, you’ll find showers and bathrooms not just for your convenience but for the preservation of the cenote as well.
By washing off any oils, sunscreen and lotions from your skin, you’re helping to keep the flora and wildlife in the cenote protected.
So, never forget to take a few minutes to rinse off before admiring these natural wonders.
🦺 Cenote Atik Life Jackets
If you’re hesitant about cliff jumping into the deep waters, you can rent a life jacket for $50 pesos (about $2 USD) from the rental counter.
It’s not required, but it can be nice to float around this spectacular cenote without worry.
Like many cenotes, the water at Cenote Atik is deep in the center.
There is one rock in the middle of the cenote that people were using to sit on — in case you’re wondering, this is not one of the best cenotes in Tulum for non-swimmers.
🎟️ Cenote Atik Tickets Counter
The Cenote Atik ticket booth is located just in front of the parking lot. Tickets are available for purchase on-site, or online.
When I visited, they were not accepting credit cards, but they did let us pay with U.S. dollars instead of pesos.
Make sure you have your shoes on, as the path leading to the cenote is rocky.
🥤 Cenote Atik Snack Bar
There is a small snack bar with limited options available as soon as you pass the admission gate.
They were only selling sodas and chips, so you might not want to come here hungry! ⚠️ Note: You can not bring outside food and drinks in with you.
🔐 Cenote Atik Lockers
Lockers are available at Cenote Atik, but they aren’t your average storage option.
For $20 pesos (about $1 USD), Atik Cenote staff will provide you with a large leather backpack that you’ll have to carry with you during your visit.
If you have a lot of things, you might need more than one “locker” since all of your belongings might not fit in one bag.
My $0.02: Leave anything you don’t need in your rental car trunk, as it was annoying for us to lug around the bulky “locker” solution.
If you only have a few valuables you’re bringing in, this waterproof fanny pack is another great option. Not only is it cute, but it will also safely hold your phone, some money and a few more things.
🪜 Cenote Atik Entry: Staircase & Ladder
There are two entrances to swim in Cenote Atik: The staircase and the ladder.
Regardless of which you choose, be mindful that both will likely be slippery. If you have water shoes, wear them, and remember: Slow and steady wins the race.
If you’re feeling adventurous, opt for the ladder, as you’ve likely never seen a staircase ladder more beautiful than the one leading into Cenote Atik.
This ladder provides the perfect photo opportunity for Instagram lovers, though the staircase entry will also take you down to the cold waters of the cenote.
No matter how you enter, before you head down, take a moment to admire the scenery around you. The entrances provide the perfect vantage point to admire the cenote from above.
How to Get to Atik Mexico on Your Own
You can easily reach the natural park Cenote Atik is located in on your own by jumping in a rental car and driving. Or, leave the driving to a local by jumping in a Tulum taxi.
Feeling adventurous? Rent a bike and enjoy a scenic ride from Tulum to this spectacular cenote.
There are colectivos (shared vans) that take you near the entrance to Atik, but you’ll likely have to walk for a bit once you’re dropped off, which is why I don’t recommend this.
🚘 Want to rent a car in Tulum Mexico? I book all my Mexico rental cars with Discover Cars because they have free cancellation and great rates.
Can you visit Cenote Atik on your own from Tulum?
Yes — Those coming from Tulum, Mexico have the most travel options for how to get to Cenote Atik, which are all listed below.
Keep reading for the 5 best ways to get to Cenote Atik from Tulum on your own.
The one thing you won’t want to do is walk, as it’s very hot for most of the year and the roads going to the cenote aren’t very walkable because there aren’t sidewalks.
1. Drive your Tulum rental car
The best way to get to Cenote Atik is via rental car, allowing you to travel the whole Yucatan Peninsula. For more info on Mexico car rentals, head to Renting a Car in Tulum: Everything You Need to Know.
As someone who lives in Mexico and travels often, I personally use and recommend Discover Cars for all my rentals.
This company’s search feature will check prices at both local Mexico companies and large international companies so you get the best rates.
2. Cenote ATIK Bus or Colectivo
Colectivos are popular, affordable Tulum transportation options — great for getting to the top attractions in Tulum.
While it’s not usually described as comfortable, the colectivo is inexpensive, so if you’re traveling to Tulum on a budget, this is the way to go.
To use it, head to the main road in Downtown Tulum, and make sure you’re on the north side of the street.
Hop on the colectivo (shared van) heading to Coba Mayan Ruins, and as you get on, let the driver know you’re going to Cenote Atik so they can let you off there.
3. Hire a private driver or take a taxi
Hop in a taxi from your hotel or downtown, and you’re good to go. Negotiate rates beforehand — even better if you can find a driver that will wait to take you back at the end of your trip!
If you want to upgrade your experience, arrange a private driver to navigate to and from the cenote.
A private driver will not only alleviate the hassle of finding a return home but can also take you to additional local gems along the way.
4. Tulum Bike Rentals
If you’re up for an adventure, renting a bike in Tulum is an affordable and active way to reach Cenote Atik, and to get around Tulum itself.
Pedal the 7 miles from Tulum to this spectacular cenote.
It’s only a 35-minute ride, and you’ll be greeted with cool waters and Mayan jungle shade when you arrive. When you get there, you’ll find FREE bike parking.
5. Tulum Scooter Rentals & ATV Rentals
Enjoy the wind in your hair as you breeze to Atik Cenote Tulum with a scooter rental or ATV rental.
This is not only a great alternative to a car but also a unique way to explore the scenery along the way.
How to get from Cancun to Cenote Atik
Cenote Atik is located about 80 miles (130 km) from Cancun.
With a direct route by rental car, you can arrive within two hours, depending on traffic.
If you’re looking for a more luxurious experience, taxi cabs and private shuttles are available, though they tend to be a bit pricey for a ride this far.
Alternatively, buses and colectivos are much more affordable but don’t provide much comfort, so I wouldn’t recommend that option.
- Cancun to Cenote Atik Distance: 87ca miles (140 km)
- Cancun to Cenote Atik Travel Time: About 2.5 hours in normal traffic
- View route on Google Maps
How to get from Playa del Carmen to Cenote Atik
Travel from Playa del Carmen to Cenote Atik in Tulum in just an hour.
This 40 miles journey (65 km) is a breeze with a rental car, but also possible by taxi and busses.
Once you reach Tulum, you can taxi, bike, or even walk to Atik Cenote if the weather’s nice and you’re up for a short hike.
- Playa del Carmen to Cenote Atik Distance: 45 miles (74 km)
- Playa del Carmen to Cenote Atik Travel Time: About 2 hours in normal traffic
- View route on Google Maps
How to get from Valladolid to Cenote Atik
Just an hour and a half ride will get you the 62 miles (100 km) from Valladolid to Cenote Atik.
Renting a car is, unsurprisingly, the most convenient option, but you can also take a bus to Tulum.
From the ADO Tulum bus station, use any of the Tulum to Cenote Atik options listed above, including taking a taxi to Cenote Atik.
- Valladolid to Cenote Atik Distance: 56 miles (90 km)
- Valladolid to Cenote Atik Travel Time: About 1.5 hours in normal traffics
- View route on Google Maps
While a taxi may sound convenient, renting a car in Merida is the best way to go because it’s not likely you’ll find a taxi from Merida to Tulum unless you know a driver personally.
Now, this is a long trip, at 3.5-4 hours each way, but if you want to see one of the best Instagram worthy cenotes in Mexico, it’s worth it.
However, if you’re looking for cenotes near Merida, check out these 30 Best Merida Cenotes You Must Visit.
If you don’t want to deal with the hassle of driving all day, take the ADO bus from Merida to Tulum, and then take a quick taxi ride to the cenote.
- Merida to Cenote Atik Distance: 154 miles (247 km)
- Merida to Cenote Atik Travel Time: About 3 hours in normal traffic
- View route on Google Maps
What to Bring to Cenote Atik
Wondering, What do I bring to Cenote Atik?, and what to pack for Tulum cenotes in general? 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 will come in handy for other places beyond just Cenote Atik.
If you’re visiting any cenotes in Tulum (or cenotes near Tulum), like Cenote Kaan Luum, Cenote Calavera or Cenote Sac Actun (AKA Cenote Carwash), don’t forget the things below.
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, photogenic Cenote Atik Yucatan is the perfect place to put it to good use!
📸 Note: Looking for an inexpensive GoPro alternative? I recommend the Akaso Bravo.
You can get amazing shots of the sunbeam hitting the Cenote Atik platform and yourself swimming underwater at this Mexico bucket list site.
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 this cenote, or 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 Cenote Atik 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 great options, but this combo mask and snorkel is the best option for snorkeling in Cenote Atik.
4. Water Shoes
One of the best Cenote Atik 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 is it cute, but it will also hold all your valuables, not just your phone.
Save your money on a Cenote Atik locker rental, and keep all your belongings on you in a 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 Things to Do at Cenote Atik
Can you go swimming at Cenote Antik?
Yes — Cenote Atik is best for jumping and diving into crystal clear waters, but be warned that the water is cold.
While many will find it refreshing on a hot Tulum day, it’s also colder than most cenotes you might be used to.
As you swim, take in the massive cenote walls surrounding you.
If you get bored with swimming, there’s a kayak that you can use free of charge, so that you can explore the entirety of the cenote.
🛶 Note: The kayak is subject to availability.
Can you go snorkeling at Cenote Antik?
Yes — You can definitely go snorkeling, but overall, there’s not much to see beyond a few small fish and maybe a small turtle or two (🐢 though the turtles tend to hang out near the water, lounging around the edges of the cenote).
If you’re looking for the best Tulum snorkeling cenotes, head to Cenote Car Wash (AKA Cenote Aktun-Ha), Gran Cenote, Cenote Dos Ojos and Cenote Escondido (my personal favorite of all the Tulum snorkeling cenotes).
Explore the grounds at Cenote Antik Tulum
In addition to the gorgeous cenote and natural vegetation of the surrounding Mayan jungle, Tulum Atik Cenote Park has other water attractions and art installations that center around a Mayan underworld theme.
If you’re looking for the best Tulum photo spots, you’ve found one!
Cenote Atik Mexico: FAQ & Travel Guide
What’s the closest city to Cenote Atik?
The beach city of Tulum is the closest city to Atik Cenote, and in fact, Atik Cenote is located in Tulum Mexico.
How to get to Cenote Atik from Tulum is easy because the cenote is only 7-miles (11.5 km) away from Tulum Town.
Note: Tulum Town is also called Tulum Pueblo or Downtown Tulum.
While Tulum is famous for Mayan culture, the ancient Tulum Ruins, unwinding on the Tulum beaches, and the entertainment, nightlife, and party scene — don’t forget to add Cenote Atik to your Tulum itinerary.
With so many things to do in Tulum, it’s still well worth a visit.
🚗 Tulum to Cenote ATIK
- Tulum to Cenote Atik Distance: 7 miles (11.5 km)
- Tulum to Cenote Atik Travel Time: About 10-15 minutes in normal traffic
- View route on Google Maps
Is there parking at Cenote Atik?
Yes — There is a free parking lot at Cenote Atik where you can leave your rental car free of charge.
Since very few people know about this cenote, you can be sure that there will be a spot waiting for you.
Driving to Cenote Atik is a great option, as you can explore other cenotes near Tulum Town as well — like Gran Cenote Tulum, Cenote Cristal, Casa Cenote (AKA Cenote Manati), Cenote Carwash, Parque de Cenotes Yaxmuul and Cenote Zemway.
How do you get the best Cenote Atik photos?
The top of the staircase entering the cenote offers sweeping views of the limestone walls and sparkling waters below.
Take a moment to capture the perfect memory before you head down the staircase.
Don’t look down if you’re afraid of heights! Of course, you can’t miss the popular Instagram opportunity of the skull art installations lining the rock walls throughout the jungle.
And last, if you’re planning to walk through the whole park, take advantage of the reflection pools and jungle scenery that are sure to add a unique twist to your photos.
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 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.
🛑 Just want a short answer to, What is a cenote? Mexico’s cenotes are natural freshwater pools located primarily in the Yucatan Mayan jungle.
How many cenotes are there?
There are about 6,000 cenotes in the Yucatan Peninsula — the largest concentration of cenotes found anywhere on Earth.
How many cenotes are in Tulum?
Depending on who you ask, some sources say there are exactly 226 cenotes in Tulum, though others say differently.
Of the approx. 200 cenotes in Tulum, not all of them are accessible to the public, which is why it’s not easy to get an accurate number.
How do you pronounce cenote?
Cenote pronunciation is sen-no-tay, and sen-no-tays in plural.
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.
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,” as they are completely open and look like a natural swimming pool — like Cenote Azul, Cenote Zacil-Ha and 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 of it so some sunlight gets in — like Cenote Ik-Kil.
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.
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 — like Cenote Dos Ojos, Cenote El Pit and Cenote Calavera.
🤿 Note: You must be certified for cenote diving in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula.
For those who are, check out this Cenotes Scuba Diving Tulum Tour — which has great reviews on Tripadvisor.
What are the best cenotes near Cenote Atik Tulum?
There are so many beautiful Mexico cenotes near Cenote Atik, like Gran Cenote, Cenote Carwash, Cenote Zacil-Ha and Cenote Calavera.
Of course, this is just the tip of the iceberg. Many of the best cenotes in Yucatan are located in Tulum, which is one of the things that makes Tulum so famous.
Is Cenote Atik worth visiting?
Yes — But it might not be a place you want to spend the whole day.
Since there are other cenotes located nearby, you’ll want to add Cenote Atik to your Tulum itinerary, but also check out a few other cenotes too.
My Final Thoughts on Visiting Cenote Atik Tulum
In all my Mexico travels, I have never experienced anything quite like Cenote Atik. This unique cenote tucked away in the heart of the Mayan Jungle must be seen to be believed!
The one-of-a-kind oasis captures hearts and memories with its incredible art installations, high walls, and sparkling waters.
Oh, and you can’t forget about the best part — no crowds.
That’s right: Unlike the most popular cenotes in Tulum (ie. Gran Cenote, Cenote Calavera, Casa Cenote and Cenote Azul), you simply won’t find lines of people waiting to experience this true natural wonder.
While this won’t last forever, as I imagine this cenote will become much more popular in time, if you visit on weekdays or in the early-morning/late-afternoon, you should still be able to avoid the crowds at peak times.
Additional Tulum Cenote Blogs
Looking for more info on Tulum cenotes?
Smart choice, as the cenotes are some of the top sites you can’t miss when you visit Tulum. Check out these additional Tulum cenote guides: