Cenote Zacil Ha Tulum: Ultimate Visitor’s Guide for 2024
PLANNING TO VISIT Zacil Ha Cenote Tulum?
You’re in the right place! I’ve lived in Mexico since 2018 and have visited countless cenotes in Yucatan.
One of the best cenotes in Tulum for families, I can also confidently say that Cenote Zacil Ha is one of my personal favorite cenotes in Tulum!
Experience the ultimate adventure on the outskirts of Tulum with Cenote Zacil Ha’s exclusive amenities that set it apart from the rest — like restaurants, regular swimming pools, and even cabanas if you want to spend the night.
Looking for Tulum cenotes tours? One of the best ways to explore Cenote Zacil Ha is on this 4×1 Tour of Tulum, Coba, Cenote and Playa del Carmen.
Whether you want to snorkel, zipline, or simply admire its natural beauty, Cenote Zacil Ha is sure to take your breath away.
If you’ve seen any Cenote Zacil Ha photos, you already know this is one of the most beautiful cenotes in Mexico, with a ton of great on-site amenities.
From things to do at Cenote Zacil Ha and tips on avoiding the crowds, to how much the Cenote Zacil Ha entrance fee is and how to get to Cenote Zacil Ha — all the info you need is right here. Without further ado, let’s get to it!
Cenote Zacil Ha: Complete Visitor’s Guide
Where is Cenote Zacil Ha located?
Cenote Zaci-Ha is located at Coba KM 8, México 180D, 77780 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico, in the Yucatan Peninsula.
Conveniently, this natural, open-air pool can be found just five miles (9 km) northwest of the vibrant city of Tulum. It is near Downtown Tulum (AKA Tulum Town or Tulum Pueblo), and only slightly further from Tulum Beach (AKA Tulum Playa).
📍 Cenote Zacil ha 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 Zacil-Ha and many other Mexico cenotes are located.
You can also download an offline map from Google Maps or Maps.Me before you drive to Cenote Zacil-Ha. For a Yucatan road trip, these will really come in handy.
Want to visit the Best Cenotes Near Zacil Ha Tulum?
Cenote Zacil-Ha is surrounded by a variety of other cenotes, like Gran Cenote, Cenote Calavera, Cenote Dos Ojos, Cenote Atik, and Cenote Zemway Park.
Within walking distance from Zacil Ha, you’ll find Cenote Car Wash, another stunning open-air cenote in the Yucatan. If you’re looking for great Tulum snorkeling cenotes, this one fits the bill.
These cenotes are all conveniently located along the way to the Valladolid pueblo magico (magic town). You can create an unforgettable full-day itinerary by taking a dip in the sparkling cenotes, then continuing on to the charming colonial city of Valladolid.
🤿 Looking for more cenotes near Tulum, Mexico? Check out 25 Best Tulum Cenotes + Free Cenotes in Tulum Map
Cenote Zacil Ha Mexico
What are the Cenote Zacil Ha hours?
Wondering, When is Cenote Zacil Ha open? so that you can plan your visit accordingly? Conveniently, it’s open 7 days a week and you can visit Cenote Zacil Ha daily, from 10am to 6pm.
Now, when I last visited, they opened at 9am — but this is kind of how it goes in laid back Tulum. It seems they open earlier during the Tulum high season (approx. November to March), but plan for 10am to be safe.
Cenote Zacil Ha opens a bit later than some more well-known cenotes, like Gran Cenote Tulum, which is located nearby.
The Gran Cenote hours are from 8am to 5pm, so you can visit there first, then head over to Cenote Zacil Ha at 10am.
Cenote Zacil Ha Mexico
What’s the best day to visit Cenote Zacil Ha?
Mondays to Thursdays — I’d suggest visiting Cenote Zacil Ha 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 best time to visit Cenote Zacil Ha?
Right when they open — Early risers can take advantage of the 9am opening hour, as this is the best time to visit Cenote Zacil Ha. Arriving as soon as it opens means you’re there before the crowds start to gather.
Cenote Zacil Ha Mexico
How much time do I need at Cenote Zacil Ha?
In 2-3 hours, you’ll have plenty of time to indulge in the clear waters and capture a few Instagram-worthy photos at Cenote Zacil Ha. Of course, you can spend the whole day at Cenote Zacil Ha Tulum if you want to.
Depending on how much time you want to spend there, you can snorkel, swim, sunbathe, eat, drink and dive into the cenote.
There are also lounge chairs and hammocks around the cenote and the adjacent swimming pool, which make the perfect places to relax.
If you’re a solo traveler or with a friend and just looking to jump in the sparkling water and maybe cruise down the zip-line a few times and snap some cenote photos, an hour or two should be plenty of time.
However, if you’re bringing young kids, you may want to spend some additional time there to let them swim around in the facility’s pools as well as the cenote.
With the onsite restaurants at Zacil-Ha Cenote, you can easily spend 4-5 hours here (or even stay all day).
Cenote Zacil Ha Mexico
What’s the Cenote Zacil-Ha admission cost?
The Zacil-Ha Cenote entry fee is $300 MXN pesos per person (about $17 USD). If you can, you’ll want to bring exact change because they sometimes don’t have change.
Note: That is the general admission cost to visit Cenote Zacil Ha. However, there are special rates from residents of Mexico and residents of Quintana Roo State.
Cenote Zacil Ha Tulum prices for entrance (and opening hours) may change during peak or off seasons, so I’d recommend bringing a few extra pesos along with you for last-minute Cenote Zacil-Ha entrance fee changes.
NOTE: Cenote Zacil Ha is Cash Only
From your admission cost to food and drinks costs, Cenote Zacil Ha accepts cash only — so make sure to arrive with enough pesos for the day ($1,000 per person should be more than enough).
As a reminder, the Cenote Zacil Ha price to enter is $300 pesos for foreigners.
You’ll want to bring a little more than that if you plan to take advantage of the amenities (including the zip line access) and rentals, such as towels and lockers.
Cenote Zacil Ha Layout and Structure
Are there facilities at Cenote Zacil-Ha?
Yes — You have everything at Cenote Zacil-Ha Tulum Mexico from restaurants (serving alcoholic drinks and non-alcoholic drinks), restrooms, showers, life jack rentals, a water park-style swimming pool, lounge chairs to nap in, and even cabins to spend the night.
🎟️ Cenote Zacil Ha Tickets Counter
The ticket counter is conveniently located right off of the parking lot. Once you’ve paid for your ticket (don’t forget that it’s cash only), head down the short path that will lead you to the cenote’s beautiful oasis.
If you want to rent a cabin at Cenote Zacil Ha, you can also inquire about that here.
Cabin rental prices vary from $1,500 pesos per night (about $90 USD) for a single cabin, to $4,000 pesos per night (about $235 USD) for a large cabin.
🪜Cenote Zacil Ha Staircase to Enter
There is a wooden rail around the cenote with a few staircases that will lead you into the cenote.
When you enter, there are some ropes above and below the water that you can sit on if you get tired, or use to pull yourself around the cenote.
Cenote Zacil Zip-Line
This magical cenote also offers thrill seekers a small adrenaline rush with its unique zipline (called “tirolesa” in Spanish). In fact, this is one of the few Tulum zipline cenotes.
The cost to leap into the water from the cenote zipline is only $10 MXN pesos (about 50¢) per person, per ride.
While this isn’t a huge zipline by any means, the kids will really love it. For less than $1 USD, they can soar above the cenote and plunge into the refreshing crystal clear waters from above.
🚿 Cenote Zacil Ha Showers, Changing Rooms & Restrooms
Refreshing showers, changing huts, and clean restrooms are available at Cenote Zacil Ha. But if you prefer a more private experience, you can opt to rent a charming rustic cabin available onsite.
The cabins provide all the amenities you need and more for a relaxing day in nature — and while rustic, you really can’t beat the prices, so if you’re looking for cheap Tulum hotels, the cabaña prices can’t be beat.
Cenote Zacil Ha Life Jackets
Life jackets are FREE at Cenote Zacil Ha, as they’re included in the cost of your admission ticket. While not required, life jackets are recommended, especially if you’re not a strong swimmer.
🛟 Note: The cenote and swimming pool have lifeguards. For those traveling to Tulum with kids, or visitors who aren’t confident in the water, this is a really nice perk — and not one of the common Tulum cenote amenities you’ll find everywhere.
🛍️ Cenote Zacil Shop & Convenience Store
If you forget anything, don’t fret! When I say there are a lot of amenities at Cenote Zacil Ha, it’s no exaggeration — and they even have a small store on-site that sells everything from snacks and cold drinks, to bathing suits, sun hats and Tulum souvenirs.
Cenote Zacil Ha Lockers
Locker rentals are available for $20 pesos (about $1.50 USD). If you do want to rent a locker at Cenote Zacil Ha, remember that it’s cash only.
🥤Restaurant at Cenote Zacil Ha
Wondering, Are there restaurants at Cenote Zacil-Ha? Yes — there are a few small restaurants on-site serving up drinks (alcoholic and non), small snacks and full meals.
Keep in mind that outside food and beverage aren’t allowed, so you’ll want to take some extra pesos to refuel.
As has been mentioned a few times, everything is cash only, so check menu prices before you eat to make sure you have enough to cover your meal.
🛌 Cenote Zacil Ha Cabins
Escape into nature by unwinding in one of the charming cabins on the Cenote Zacil Ha grounds. If you’re craving an escape from the bustling city, this is the getaway for you.
They offer single and double cabins with comfortable beds, private bathrooms, and hot water. Cabin rentals also come with access to the cenote and swimming pools at no additional cost.
If you want to rent a cabin at Cenote Zacil Ha, you can see what’s available when you pay your admission.
They are first come, first served, and you must rent them in person. As with everything at this cenote, cabin rentals are cash only (and you need pesos).
The cabin rental prices vary from $1,500 pesos per night (about $90 USD) for a two-person cabin, to $1,800 pesos per night (about $105 USD) for a four-person cabin, and $4,000 pesos per night (about $235 USD) for a large eight-person cabin.
🏊🏻 Cenote Zacil Ha Swimming pool for kids
One of the best things about Cenote Zacil Ha is just how many amenities it has — this place is just so visitor friendly!
In addition to the famous cenote, you can also swim in the regular swimming pool, which is one of the best things to do in Tulum for younger kids.
According to the Cenote Zacil Ha Facebook Page, the pool hours are from 11am to 5pm.
If you want to know, When is Cenote Zacil Ha open?, it’s open from 10am to 6pm (and 9am to 6pm during the Tulum high season from approx. November to March).
Cenote Zacil Ha Mexico
Best Cenote Zacil Ha Tours
If you’re planning a trip to Tulum and want to explore the surrounding areas but dread the logistics of transportation and navigating around unfamiliar cities, tours are the perfect solution.
Cenote Zacil Ha Tours are a convenient and stress-free way to explore the beautiful sights around Tulum.
Many full-day adventures offer stops at more than just Cenote Zacil Ha (because one cenote in Mexico is simply not enough).
You can choose to make pit stops at multiple cenotes — some open air, like Casa Cenote or Cenote Cristal, and some hidden in caves amidst the jungle, like Cenote Calavera or Cenote Dos Ojos.
While you’re out there, why not choose a tour that also visits the historic ruins, like Chichen Itza, Tulum Ruins, and Coba Ruins?
What better way to experience Mexico than with local guides that know Tulum and the surrounding attractions best?!
Cenote Zacil Ha Mexico
How to Get to Cenote Zacil-Ha On Your Own
Prefer exploring the Zacil Ha Mexico cenote on your own? No problem! Cenote Zacil Ha is located minutes from Tulum Town (AKA Downtown Tulum), so you have several options for getting to Cenote Zacil Ha.
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 (9 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 Zacil Ha Mexico
Can you visit Cenote Zacil Ha on your own from Tulum?
Yes — Those coming from Tulum, Mexico have the most travel options for how to get to Cenote Zacil Ha (all listed below).
Keep reading for the 5 best ways to get to Cenote Zacil Ha 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 Zacil Ha 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 Zacil Ha 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, and as you get on, let the driver know you’re going to Cenote Zacil Ha so they can let you off there.
3. Hire a private driver or take a taxi
Another option is catching a taxi or having your hotel call for a taxi. Taxis aren’t difficult to catch downtown. Plus, the cenote isn’t far from Tulum, so your ride won’t be too expensive.
While rates vary, you might expect to pay roughly $300 MXN pesos (about 17 USD) each way from downtown Tulum to Cenote Zacil Ha.
You can also take your day up a notch by hiring a private driver. To do this, you can just negotiate a day rate with your taxi driver.
The rate will depend on where you want to go, and how long you want to reserve the car for.
Not only will you be able to visit Zacil Ha Cenote, but you can also customize your day with a trip to nearby cenotes and towns.
For this, just ask the driver for Tulum cenote recommendations, and you might even get to see some hidden gems!
You can also visit the historic Coba Ruins and Tulum Ruins, or grab a Mexican lunch in Valladolid while your driver takes care of transportation and logistics.
🚙 BONUS: Hiring a driver means you don’t have to worry about finding a taxi for your trip back.
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 Zacil Ha, and to get around Tulum itself.
Being only 5 miles (9 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 Zacil-Ha should take about 20-30 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.
5. Tulum Scooter Rentals & ATV Rentals
Enjoy the wind in your hair as you breeze to Zacil-Ha 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 Zacil Ha Mexico
How to get from Cancun to Cenote Zacil Ha
Cenote Zacil Ha is located about 85 miles (137 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 Zacil Ha Distance: 85 miles (137 km)
- Cancun to Cenote Zacil Ha Travel Time: About 2.5-3 hours in normal traffic
- View route on Google Maps
Cenote Zacil Ha Mexico
How to get from Playa del Carmen to Cenote Zacil Ha
You can travel from Playa del Carmen to Cenote Zacil Ha in Tulum in just an hour, and the route is pretty straight forward.
For those who are renting a car, you’ll make the direct drive from Playa del Carmen to Cenote Zacil Ha.
There are daily ADO buses from Playa del Carmen to Tulum.
Once you reach the Tulum ADO station, you can taxi or bike — though I don’t recommend walking to Cenote Zacil Ha, as it’s about an hour walk in the hot Tulum sun.
- Playa del Carmen to Cenote Zacil Ha Distance: 45 miles (71 km)
- Playa del Carmen to Cenote Zacil Ha Travel Time: About 1 hour in normal traffic
- View route on Google Maps
Cenote Zacil Ha Mexico
How to get from Valladolid to Cenote Zacil Ha
Embark on a magical Cenote Zacil Ha Valladolid day trip, where adventure and culture combine to make the perfect day of exploration.
Since there’s no direct bus route from Valladolid to Cenote Zacil Ha, renting a car or taking the ADO bus is the easiest way to get there.
Renting a car is, unsurprisingly, the most convenient option, and the trip will take just over an hour.
From the ADO Tulum bus station, use any of the Tulum to Cenote Zacil Ha options listed above, including taking a taxi to Cenote Zacil Ha.
- Valladolid to Cenote Zacil Ha Distance: 58 miles (93 km)
- Valladolid to Cenote Zacil Ha Travel Time: About 1.5 hours in normal traffic
- View route on Google Maps
Cenote Zacil Ha Mexico
How to get from Merida to Cenote Zacil Ha
The easiest way to get from Merida to Cenote Zacil Ha 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.
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 might be 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. From there, take a quick taxi ride to the cenote, or bike to Cenote Zacil Ha on your rental bike.
- Merida to Cenote Zacil Ha Distance: 155 miles (250 km)
- Merida to Cenote Zacil Ha Travel Time: About 3.5 hours in normal traffic
- View route on Google Maps
Cenote Zacil Ha Mexico
What to Bring to Cenote Zacil Ha
Wondering, What do I bring to Cenote Zacil-Ha?, 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. If you’re visiting any cenotes in Tulum (or cenotes near Tulum), like Laguna Kaan Luum & Cenote, Gran Cenote, Cenote Azul, or Cenote Cenote Aktun Ha (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 Zacil Ha 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 Zacil Ha to see the cool rock formations underneath and the occasional little fish. However, there isn’t all that much to see here, but still, what you can see is beautiful.
⚠️ Note: If you do want to snorkel Cenote Zacil Ha, you’ll need to being your own equipment. They do not have mask and snorkel rentals at Cenote Zacil Ha.
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 Zacil Ha.
4. Water Shoes
Here’s one of the best Cenote Zacil Ha 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 locker rentals at Cenote Zacil Ha? There are Cenote Zacil Ha locker rental options, but if you prefer keeping your belongings on you at all times for safety, opt for 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.
⚠️ Note: Cenote Zacil Ha does rent towels, though you’ll probably want to bring your own.
Best Things to Do at Cenote Zacil Ha
Can you go swimming at Cenote Zacil Ha?
Yes — Cenote Zacil Ha offers a one-of-a-kind swimming experience with opportunities to use the cenote jump planform to enter the water before you swim around.
If you’re up for it, the clear waters make it perfect for exploring the fish and sea life beneath the surface.
(However, there isn’t a ton to see and this isn’t one of the best snorkeling cenotes in Tulum.)
With water up to 10 feet (3 meters) deep in some parts, you’ll want to wear a life jacket if you’re not a strong swimmer — especially if you want to jump in via the zipline! As a nice perk, 🛟 life jackets at Cenote Zacil Ha are FREE to use!
Cenote Zacil Ha Mexico
Can you go diving at Cenote Zacil Ha?
Yes — Cenote Zacil Ha diving is a must for any diving enthusiast up for the challenge. With miles of underground caverns and magnificent rock formations, this is one of the best Tulum cave dives.
You can see the opening to the Las Lágrimas Cave (meaning “the tears”) because the water immediately changes from bright turquoise to dark blue. Here, the water depth also changes as you enter the cave.
Las Lágrimas Tulum Dive Cave ranges from 26- to 115-feet-deep (8 to 35 m).
Once inside this underwater chamber, you can swim around and admire the unique stalactites and other cool rock formations.
🤿 Note: Before you pack your gear, diving at Cenote Zacil Ha requires an advanced certification and must be done with a professional guide. Luckily, dive shops all around Tulum will help you plan your dive. Trust me, it will be worth every penny.
Cenote Zacil Ha Mexico
Can you go snorkeling at Cenote Zacil Ha?
Yes — There is a small area ideal for snorkeling, but overall, there’s not a lot to see.
If you’re looking for the best Tulum snorkeling cenotes, head to Cenote Car Wash (AKA Cenote Aktun-Ha), Cenote Dos Ojos and Cenote Escondido.
Cenote Zacil Ha Tulum: FAQ & Travel Guide
What’s the closest city to Cenote Zacil Ha?
The beach city of Tulum is the closest city to Cenote Zacil Ha, and in fact, Cenote Zacil Ha is located in Tulum Mexico.
How to get to Cenote Zacil Ha from Tulum is easy because the cenote is only 2-miles (3 km) away from Tulum Town. Note: Tulum Town is also called Tulum Pueblo or Downtown Tulum.
While Tulum is a popular tourist destination and culturally rich hub with trendy street vendors, co-working hostels, beautiful beaches, Tulum ancient ruins and Instagrammable locations — don’t forget to add Cenote Zacil Ha to your Tulum itinerary.
Even with so many things to do in Tulum, Cenote Zacil Ha is still well worth a visit.
Note: You may see this cenote’s name misspelled as Cenote Zazil Ha or Cenote Zachil Ha, but the correct spelling is Cenote Zacil Ha.
🚗 Tulum to Cenote Zacil Ha
- Tulum to Cenote Zacil Ha Distance: 5 miles (9 km)
- Tulum to Cenote Zacil Ha Travel Time: About 15 minutes in normal traffic
- View route on Google Maps
Cenote Zacil Ha Mexico
Is there parking at Cenote Zacil Ha?
Yes — There are actually two parking lots at Cenote Zacil Ha where you can leave your rental car free of charge.
Usually, both have plenty of spots available for visitors to use. However, the lots may become more crowded (or even full) on the weekends, holidays and during peak afternoon hours.
Cenote Zacil Ha Mexico
What’s the best time to go to Cenote Zacil Ha ?
Weekdays at 9am — Set your alarm because the best time to visit Cenote Zacil Ha to avoid the crowds is 9am sharp, as soon as it opens!
The best time to visit Cenote Zacil Ha is early in the morning before the crowds and large groups find their way to the ticket counter.
Another pro tip to enjoy the cenote with fewer people is to visit on the weekdays instead of the weekends.
Is Cenote Cenote Zacil free?
No — Cenote Zacil Ha is not free. The entrance to Zacil Ha Cenote is $300 pesos (about $17 USD) per person.
Cenote Zacil Ha Mexico
How deep is Cenote Zacil Ha?
The water at Cenote Zacil Ha reaches 10 feet deep (3 meters) in the center. Life jackets are included in the purchase of your entrance fee, so you’ll feel safe jumping in if you’re not comfortable swimming in deep waters.
Are there lifeguards at Cenote Zacil Ha?
Yes — Cenote Zacil Ha is one of the few Tulum cenotes with lifeguards; perhaps because it’s one of the most family-friendly Tulum cenotes. Regardless, if you’re looking for the best things to do in Tulum with kids, this is one of them!
What NOT to Do: Cenote Zacil Ha Pro Tips
1. Sunscreen is not allowed at Cenote Zacil Ha
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 Zacil Ha.
As Cenote Zacil Ha is located underground in a cave, there’s no worry of getting a sunburn.
When you get out of the cenote, you’re free to apply sunscreen, and this Bullfrog anti-bug sunscreen is great for both sun and mosquito protection.
2. Don’t visit Cenote Zacil Ha on weekends (If you can help it)
There have been a few mentions throughout this article about this being one of the most Instagram-worthy cenotes in Mexico. On that note, remember the Instagram vs Reality factor when you’re planning to visit.
Those people-less Instagram photos were likely taken on a Tuesday morning at 9am-10am when there was no one else there.
Besides just photos, this is a smaller cenote, and an overall much more pleasant experience without 50-100 other people in there with you.
Cenote Zacil Ha 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.
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.
Cenote Zacil Ha 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 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 (also spelled 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 and Cenote Choo-Ha near Coba Mayan Ruins.
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!
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: Visiting Cenote Zacil Ha Tulum
Cenote Zacil Ha in Tulum Mexico provides the ultimate oasis for tourists seeking convenience, sparkling waters, and adventures close to Tulum.
After I visited, it was plain to see why this is one of the popular cenotes in Tulum.
Unlike most cenotes, including Cenote Calavera, Cenote Sac Há and Cenote Eden, Zacil Ha offers endless amenities — from food and lodging, to pools and activities (like the zip-line). It even has lifeguards, so you always feel safe when in the water.
On top of everything, this stunning getaway is affordable for all visitors, whether you want to stop by for the afternoon or stay all day.
Whatever you choose, Zacil Ha Tulum will give you an adventure you’ll never want to end.
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.