Cenote Corazon del Paraiso Tulum: Ultimate Guide for 2024
Want TO VISIT THE MOST ROMANTIC AND PHOTOGENIC MEXICO CENOTE?
Why is Corazon del Paraiso the most romantic cenote in Mexico? Meaning ❤️ “Heart of Paradise” in English, this magical oasis is shaped like a heart, creating a head-over-heels-worthy experience at one of the best Tulum cenotes.
As I’ve been living in Mexico since 2018, you can imagine that I’ve explored countless cenotes — but none quite like this.
The Tulum Corazon Cenote is such a chill and special place with a few amenities, but all the amenities you need for a great day.
Tucked away in a jungle on the outskirts of Tulum, the enchanting atmosphere of Corazón del Paraiso will make you feel like you’re in your own personal paradise.
This lesser-known cenote is filled with a vibrant and thriving ecosystem, plus remarkable visibility for exploration. With a diving certification and guide, you can even dive your way through the winding caves beneath the surface.
Ready to immerse yourself in one of the most euphoric cenotes in Mexico? Then let’s get to this Ultimate Guide to Cenote Corazon del Paraiso Tulum, so that you visit like a pro.
Cenote Corazon del Paraiso: Complete Visitor’s Guide
Where is Cenote Corazon del Paraiso located?
Cenote Corazon de Paraiso is located at Carretera A Tulum Carrillo Puerto KM 200, Tulum, Q.R., México.
Conveniently, it’s only about five miles (8 km) from Downtown Tulum (AKA Tulum Town or Tulum Pueblo).
Cenote Corazon is surrounded by a variety of other cenotes as well, like Cenote Escondido, Kaan Luum Lagoon & Cenote, Cenote Cristal (not to be confused with Cenote Cristalino near Playa del Carmen) and Cenote Naharon.
📍 Cenote Corazon del Paraiso 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 Corazon is.
You can also download an offline map from Google Maps or Maps.Me before you drive to Cenote Corazon.
🤿 Looking for more cenotes near Tulum, Mexico? Check out 35 Best Tulum Cenotes + Free Cenotes in Tulum Map
Cenote Corazon del Paraiso Mexico
What are the Cenote Corazon hours?
Wondering, When is Cenote Corazon open? so that you can plan your visit accordingly? Conveniently, it’s open 7 days a week and you can visit Cenote Corazon daily, from 9am to 5pm.
What’s the best time to visit Cenote Corazon?
Weekdays, when they open — The best time to visit is early in the morning before the crowds hit. Weekdays are the optimal time to experience the charm of this cenote, when you can avoid the crowds and chaos of weekend travelers.
Cenote Corazon del Paraiso mexico
What’s the best day to visit Cenote Corazon?
Mondays to Thursdays — I’d suggest visiting Cenote Corazon 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.
What’s the Cenote Corazon admission cost?
The Tulum Corazon Cenote entry fee is $150 MXN pesos per person (about $9 USD). If you can, you’ll want to bring exact change because they sometimes don’t have change.
Residents of Mexico get to take advantage of an admission discount, so don’t forget your INE card if you have one because you won’t get discounted admission without it.
Cenote Corazon del Paraiso mexico
NOTE: Cenote Corazon is Cash Only
Don’t forget to bring cash, as Cenote Corazon del Paraiso is cash only (the same as most cenotes around Tulum). You’ll want to bring pesos, though they sometimes accept U.S. dollars, but at a low exchange rate.
For example, the Cenote Corazon price to enter is $150 pesos, which is about $9 USD.
However, if you pay in dollars, you’ll end up paying closer $15 USD because the staff has to take your dollars to a currency exchange so they can get pesos — and you’ll pay that cost.
💡 Note: For more cenotes facts and information, see the Cenote Corazon Mexico FAQs at the end of this article.
Cenote Corazon del Paraiso mexico
How much time do I need at Cenote Corazon?
1-3 hours — A few hours is the perfect amount of time to experience everything this small oasis has to offer. Of course, you can also spend much more time there and make it a whole Tulum day trip.
Depending on how much time you want to spend there, you can snorkel, swim, even dive with a guide if you’re certified, or simply soak up the sun while sipping on a cold drink.
There are also wooden decks and chairs all around the cenote, which make the perfect places to relax, lay around and sunbathe.
Cenote Corazon Layout and Structure
Are there facilities at Cenote Corazon?
Yes — There are a few amenities at Cenote Corazon del Paraiso Tulum Mexico including restrooms, showers, life jack rentals, a diving platform, and wooden decks to lay on or sunbathe.
🚿 Cenote Corazon Showers & Restrooms
Complimentary showers and bathrooms are available onsite. Remember that before entering the cenote, you’ll be required to shower as a measure to help preserve the natural beauty of the cenote.
🧴Note: If you were planning to wear any sunscreen, insect repellent or lotion, don’t bother because it will just rinse off.
🔐 Cenote Corazon Lockers
Corazon del Paraiso does not offer lockers for storing belongings. I recommend bringing a bag to keep your things secure during your visit.
You might also consider this waterproof fanny pack so you keep your valuables on you at all times.
🎟️ Cenote Corazon Tickets Counter
Right before you park, you’ll drive through the counter to purchase your entry tickets.
After paying (don’t forget your cash), you’ll pack and make the short walk to the Cenote Corazon entrance.
Just past the counter, you’ll find a small hut where you can rent snorkel gear if you’re up for an underwater adventure, and life jackets if you need a little assistance in the deeper parts of the cenote.
🦺 Cenote Corazon Life Jacket rentals
Life jackets are available for rent at $30 MXN (about $2 USD) and are highly recommended for those who are not strong swimmers. Some areas of the cenote can get quite deep, and some parts are only suitable for divers.
🤿 Cenote Corazon Snorkel rentals
You can rent a snorkel and mask at Cenote Corazon for $50 MXN (about $4 USD).
However, for sanitary reasons, it’s better to bring your own mask and snorkel — and if you’re visiting several cenotes, this will come in handy more than once.
🛋️ Cenote Corazon sitting areas
Located around the Corazon Cenote, you’ll find tables and chairs, wooden benches and wooden decks you can lay on. If you want to make sure you get a prime spot or your own table and chairs, arrive early.
🪜 Cenote Corazon del Paraiso Platforms & Staircases
You can easily enter the water with one of the five wooden platforms surrounding the cenote. These wooden decks make for the best place to lounge around near the water.
Risk takers can enjoy diving and flipping off the tall jumping platform to make a splash entrance.
For a quick cool down, check out one of the platforms with steps leading into the water. The steps also make a nice place to sit and relax after swimming for a while.
Cenote Corazon del Paraiso mexico
Are there restaurants at Cenote Corazon?
No — There’s no Cenote Corazon restaurants, but sometimes snacks and cold drinks are available at the snack bar. Sometimes (usually weekends only) there’s a small stand serving up delicious tacos and drinks for your convenience.
Even when open, there’s always limited options for food, so opt for the restaurants near Cenote Corazon like Pepe’s Burgers and Vesica Tulum for a full meal.
Another option is a picnic to share with friends and family! Bringing your own food and drinks is allowed at Cenote Corazon del Paraiso, so if you want to have a picnic just plan ahead.
Cenote Corazon del Paraiso mexico
How deep is Cenote Corazon?
Up to 30-feet-deep (9 m) — Cenote Corazon del Paraiso has swimming and snorkeling areas where you can see the bottom, but is also so deep that it leads to an underground cave that only certified divers can explore.
While this may sound deep, this Tulum Mexico cenote isn’t even close to some of the deepest cenotes in the Yucatan — though it is still quite deep, and has miles of underwater caves beneath it to explore.
Because of this, and its impressive depth, Cenote Corazon is known as one of the best diving cenotes in Tulum.
Cenote Corazon del Paraiso mexico
How to Get to Cenote Corazon On Your Own
Prefer exploring the Corazon Mexico cenote on your own? No problem! Cenote Corazon is located minutes from Tulum Town (AKA Downtown Tulum), so you have several options for getting to Cenote Corazon.
Depending on your departure city, you can rent a car and head there on your own time, catch a ride with a taxi, or rent a bike and pedal your way there.
On the way, you’ll enjoy the scenery as you make your way about 5 miles (8 km) through the Yucatan jungle.
🚘 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.
Cenote Corazon del Paraiso mexico
Can you visit Cenote Corazon on your own from Tulum?
Yes — Those coming from Tulum, Mexico have the most travel options for how to get to Cenote Corazon (all listed below).
Keep reading for the 5 best ways to get to Cenote Corazon 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 Corazon 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 Corazon 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 towards Laguna Kaan Luum and/or Muyil Ruins. As you get on, let the driver know you’re going to Cenote Corazón del Paraíso so they can let you off there.
From the main road, it’s about a half-mile walk (1 km) to the cenote itself.
💧 Cenote Corazon Pro Tips: Walking to the cenote and swimming in the sun all day can take a lot out of you; avoid dehydration and bring plenty of water for the journey.
3. Hire a private driver or take a taxi
If you’re not renting a car, taking a taxi or hiring a private taxi driver is the next best option. Expect to pay roughly $200-300 MXN pesos (about $12-17 USD) each way from downtown Tulum to Cenote Corazon.
🚙 Cenote Corazon Pro Tip: This cenote in Tulum is located just off a major road; it’s not quite a highway, but is a busy street where cars often go much faster than they should! For safety, plan your return trip home to avoid waiting for a taxi on this busy roadway.
If you’re hiring a private driver, they’ll wait for you at the cenote. If you’re taking a taxi, see if you can work out a deal where they wait for you, or try to schedule a pickup ahead of time.
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 Corazon, and to get around Tulum itself.
Being only five miles (8 km) from Downtown Tulum, it’s close enough to reach rather quickly by bike.
⚠️ Note: Use some caution with this option as it requires biking on a highway, but if you’re looking to stay active, it might be worth a try.
The bike ride from Tulum to Cenote Corazon should take about 35-45 minutes, and you can celebrate at the end by jumping into the cenote’s refreshing waters.
When you get there, you’ll find FREE bike parking in the main parking lot.
5. Tulum Scooter Rentals & ATV Rentals
Enjoy the wind in your hair as you breeze to Corazon Cenote Tulum with a scooter rental or ATV rental.
Not only is it a fun alternative to renting a car or taking a taxi, but it’s also a bit safer than walking or biking on the highway.
Cenote Corazon del Paraiso mexico
How to get from Cancun to Cenote Corazon
Cenote Corazon is located about 85 miles (138 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 Corazon Distance: 85 miles (138 km)
- Cancun to Cenote Corazon Travel Time: About 2 hours in normal traffic
- View route on Google Maps
Cenote Corazon del Paraiso mexico
How to get from Playa del Carmen to Cenote Corazon
Travel from Playa del Carmen to Cenote Corazon in Tulum in just an hour. Like many off-the-beaten-path cenotes, there are no direct bus routes from Playa del Carmen to Cenote Corazon del Paraiso.
This 45 miles journey (72 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 Corazon Cenote if the weather’s nice and you’re up for a short hike.
- Playa del Carmen to Cenote Corazon Distance: 45 miles (72 km)
- Playa del Carmen to Cenote Corazon Travel Time: About 1 hour in normal traffic
- View route on Google Maps
Cenote Corazon del Paraiso mexico
How to get from Valladolid to Cenote Corazon
Just an hour and a half ride will get you the 68 miles (110 km) from Valladolid to Cenote Corazon. Renting a car is, unsurprisingly, the most convenient option.
You can also take a bus to Tulum. From the ADO Tulum bus station, use any of the Tulum to Cenote Corazon options listed above, including taking a taxi to Cenote Corazon, which is a short trip.
- Valladolid to Cenote Corazon Distance: 68 miles (110 km)
- Valladolid to Cenote Corazon Travel Time: About 1.5 hours in normal traffic
- View route on Google Maps
Cenote Corazon del Paraiso mexico
How to get from Merida to Cenote Corazon
The easiest way to get from Merida to Cenote Corazon is by rental car.
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. However, if you want to see one of the best Instagram worthy cenotes in Mexico that also offers diving, it would be well worth the trip.
Now, if you’re actually 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 Corazon Distance: 165 miles (266 km)
- Merida to Cenote Corazon Travel Time: About 3.5-4 hours in normal traffic
- View route on Google Maps
Cenote Corazon del Paraiso mexico
What to Bring to Cenote Corazon
Wondering, What do I bring to Cenote Corazon?, 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 too, beyond just Cenote Corazon. If you’re visiting any cenotes in Tulum (or cenotes near Tulum), like Laguna Kaan Luum & Cenote, Gran Cenote, Cenote Sac Actun, 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 Corazon Yucatan is the perfect place to put it 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 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 Corazon 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 Cenote Corazon.
4. Water Shoes
Here’s one of the best Cenote Corazon 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 Cenote Corazon? Sadly, there are no Cenote Corazon locker rental options, 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 Things to Do at Cenote Corazon
Can you go swimming at Cenote Corazon?
Yes — Cenote Corazon offers a unique swimming experience with opportunities to jump off the dive platform, and then snorkel and swim around once you enter the water.
In my opinion, this is not only one of the best swimming cenotes in Tulum, but also one of the best snorkeling cenotes in Tulum, and also one of the best dive cenotes in Tulum — so you get the best of all worlds.
From the moment you arrive, you’ll want to run and jump right into the refreshingly cool waters and immerse yourself in a perfect cenote swimming experience!
Once you’re in, you can splash around, float, swim and snorkel through the clear waters to see the little fish.
Cenote Corazon del Paraiso mexico
Can you go snorkeling at Cenote Corazon?
Yes — This is one of the best Tulum snorkeling cenotes, so there are plenty of opportunities for snorkeling in Cenote Corazon del Paraiso.
Whether you want to admire the sea floor vegetation and flora, or hunt for schools of fish, this open-air cenote offers plenty to explore under the surface.
As a lover of Mexican cenotes, I recommend bringing your own snorkel gear — but no worries if you don’t. There is snorkeling gear available to rent on-site on a first come, first served basis.
Cenote Corazon del Paraiso mexico
Can you go diving at Cenote Corazon?
Yes — You can go diving at Cenote Corazon del Paraiso, and in fact, it is an absolute must for any diving enthusiast. With miles of underground caverns and magnificent rock formations, this is one of the best Tulum cave dives.
Beneath the surface of this stunning cenote, there is a cave waiting to be explored. The dive requires you to be already certified, and you must have a guide with you.
⚠️ Note: Before you pack your gear, diving at Cenote Corazon requires an advanced certification and must be done with a professional guide.
This isn’t something you can plan on site, so be sure to find a guide before diving into this cenote if it’s on your bucket list.
Now, if you’re a certified diver and have a guide with you, an underground cave exploration like no other awaits you.
Cenote Corazon Tulum: FAQ & Travel Guide
What’s the closest city to Cenote Corazon?
The beach city of Tulum is the closest city to Corazon Cenote, and in fact, Corazon Cenote is located in Tulum Mexico.
How to get to Cenote Corazon from Tulum is easy because the cenote is only 5-miles (8 km) away from Tulum Town. Note: Tulum Town is also called Tulum Pueblo or Downtown Tulum.
🚗 Tulum to Cenote Corazon
- Tulum to Cenote Corazon Distance: 5 miles (8 km)
- Tulum to Cenote Corazon Travel Time: About 15 minutes in normal traffic
- View route on Google Maps
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 Corazon to your Tulum itinerary.
With so many things to do in Tulum, it’s still well worth a visit.
Cenote Corazon del Paraiso mexico
Is there parking at Cenote Corazon?
Yes — There’s a FREE parking lot with ample spaces available to leave your rental car. From the parking lot, the entrance to the cenote is a short walk away.
While you usually won’t have any issues, be sure to plan accordingly, as the parking lot can fill up quickly during peak times such as weekend afternoons.
Cenote Corazon del Paraiso mexico
What’s the best time to go to Cenote Corazon?
Weekdays at 9am — Set your alarm because the best time to visit Cenote Corazon to avoid the crowds is 9am sharp, as soon as it opens!
By noon, especially on the weekends, the masses will have arrived, and this quiet cenote turns into a bustling attraction.
If you’re able to visit on a weekday, you’ll have much more space to yourself at Corazon Cenote. This is a small cenote, and a very popular one, so it does get very crowded.
What NOT to Do: 3 Cenote Corazon Pro Tips
1. Sunscreen is not allowed at Cenote Corazon
The oils and chemicals in lotion and sunscreen (even eco-friendly sunscreens) will harm the cenote.
Please do your part to practice sustainable tourism in Mexico by not applying lotion, insect spray and/or sunscreen on the day you plan to visit Cenote Corazon.
When you are out of the lagoon, then you’re free to apply sunscreen, and this Bullfrog Anti-Bug SPF 50 Sunscreen is great for both sun protection and mosquito protection.
2. Don’t visit Cenote Corazon on weekends (If you can help it)
There have been a few mentions in this article about this being one of those Instagram-worthy cenotes in Mexico you won’t want to miss.
On that note, remember the Instagram vs. Reality factor when you’re planning to visit.
If you want those people-less Instagram photos, try to visit Cenote Corazon on a Tuesday morning at 9am when they open because there will likely be no one else there.
⚠️ If you visit during peak times, expect large crowds at this small cenote.
3. Bring Your Own Food to Cenote Corazon
Unlike other Tulum Mexico cenotes, Corazon Cenote is the perfect place for a picnic!
You can pack your own snacks, food, and drinks to enjoy on the hammocks and chairs scattered around the jungle.
Remember to stay hydrated by packing plenty of water, especially on hot afternoons in any of the cenotes Tulum Mexico you visit.
No worries if you don’t want to haul anything to the cenote, though! As Cenote Corazon grows in popularity, there are now sometimes (usually weekends only) a few small food stands with vendors offering food and drinks for guests to enjoy.
Cenote Corazon del Paraiso mexico
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 do you pronounce cenote?
Cenote pronunciation is sen-no-tay, and sen-no-tays in plural.
Cenote Corazon del Paraiso mexico
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.
Cenote Corazon del Paraiso mexico
Is Cenote Corazon worth visiting?
Yes — This semi-off the beaten path Tulum cenote is a great place to spend a few hours or a whole day.
If you’re only planning to check it out for an hour or two, I’d recommend adding a few other cenotes to your Tulum itinerary.
There are some great cenotes near Cenote Corazon, like Cenote Cristal, Cenote Escondido, which is a personal favorite of mine, and Cenote Kaan Luum Lagoon.
Cenote Corazon del Paraiso mexico
What are the best cenotes near Cenote Corazon Tulum?
Many of the best cenotes in Yucatan are located in Tulum, which is one of the things that makes Tulum so famous. There are several beautiful Mexico cenotes near Cenote Corazon, like Cenote Escondido and Cenote Cristal (AKA Cenote Naharon).
Laguna Kaan Luum
The hidden gem of Kaan Luum Lagoon is no ordinary cenote.
Located in the middle of a lagoon surrounded by mangroves, this stunning, open cenote escape is just a stone’s throw away from Tulum Town and Cenote Corazon del Paraiso.
Whether you want to kayak, paddleboard, or simply relax on a hammock, Laguna Kaan Luum is the perfect place to spend a day.
Don’t forget your camera, as the views here are breathtaking — so if you love nature and the outdoors, don’t miss the Laguna Kaan Luum.
🤿 Best Laguna Kaan Luum Tour: Underworld Maya Cenote & Lagoon Experience
Cenote Corazon del Paraiso mexico
What are the best sights near Cenote Corazon del Paraiso?
There are so many great things to do near Cenote Corazon like swimming at Kaan Luum Lagoon and exploring the Muyil Mayan Ruins located within the Sian Ka’an Biosphere, where you can enjoy a boat tour or float tour.
Muyil Ruins in Sian Ka’an Biosphere
Discover the magic of Mayan civilizations by visiting the Muyil Archeological Site located within the mangroves of Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
As one of the earliest Mayan sites in the Yucatan, Muyil Ruins offer fascinating insights into the lives of the ancient culture.
Venture beyond the popular tourist sites and immerse yourself in the rich history of Mexico.
🗿 Best Muyil Ruins Tour: Sian Ka’an & Muyil Archaeological Site Tour from Tulum
Cenote Corazon del Paraiso mexico
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.
🛑 Just want a short answer to, What is a cenote? Mexico’s cenotes are natural freshwater pools located primarily in the Yucatan Mayan jungle.
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).
Cenote Corazon del Paraiso mexico
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 El 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 Yucatan Mexico!
For those who are, check out these tours: Cenotes Scuba Diving Tulum Tour and Go Dive Cenotes in Tulum Tour — both of which have great reviews on Tripadvisor.
Final Thoughts: Cenote Corazon Tulum
There you have it! This post has everything you need to know about visiting Cenote Corazón del Paraiso. It’s a great family friendly destination in the Mexican Riviera Maya, as well as a romantic afternoon for honeymooners.
This stunning open-air cenote may provide swoon-worthy photos from above, but even more treasure awaits underneath.
Whether you just want to relax and float around, or if you’re ready to snorkel through the fish and flora, or prepared to dive deep down into the caves, Cenote Corazon del Paraiso will provide the getaway of your dreams.
Before you go, I’d suggest checking their Facebook page, as they will update it in case of unexpected closures due to weather or maintenance.
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:
The Best Cenotes Near Tulum Mexico
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.