Cancun is home to a series of underground cenotes that offer unique diving and adventure experiences. So discover the best of them here by reading our article.
1. Cenote Dos Ojos: located approximately 45 minutes by car from the center of Cancun, Cenote Dos Ojos is a natural wonder made up of two cenotes connected by a series of underwater passages. Known for its crystal-clear waters and impressive caves, this cenote offers incredible opportunities for snorkeling and scuba diving.
2. Cenote Ik Kil: approximately a 2-hour drive from Cancun, Cenote Ik Kil is a hidden gem with a natural pool of deep blue water surrounded by lush vegetation. As well as being a popular spot for swimming and diving, this cenote also has historical significance, as it was a place of worship for the ancient Maya.
- Important tip: to make the most of your trip to Cancun, staying in the best regions is essential. So, if you want, check out our article explaining the main areas and how you can save a lot on accommodation.
3. Cenote Azul: about 2.5 hours’ drive from the center of Cancun, Cenote Azul in Tulum is a large cave flooded with crystal-clear blue water. With its impressive depth, this cenote is an ideal destination for certified divers who want to explore its underwater passages. It also offers shallow areas for beginner swimmers to enjoy a refreshing dip.
4. Cenote Sac Actun: located approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes by car from Cancun, Cenote Sac Actun is the second largest underwater cave system in the world. Offering an unparalleled diving experience, this cenote allows visitors to explore an intricate network of tunnels and caves adorned with impressive rock formations.
5. Cenote Kin Ha: located approximately 40 minutes by car from the center of Cancun, Cenote Kin Ha is a true hidden gem. With crystal-clear waters surrounded by lush tropical vegetation, this cenote offers a serene and relaxing atmosphere. Ideal for those looking for a quiet refuge away from the crowds, Kin Ha is perfect for swimming, snorkeling and simply contemplating the natural beauty around you.
6. Cenote Siete Bocas: approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes by car from Cancun, Cenote Siete Bocas is a unique experience, known for its seven entrances leading to natural pools and underground waterfalls.
This cenote offers a multi-level adventure, where visitors can explore different areas and enjoy refreshing dips in its crystal-clear waters. It is an excellent option for those looking for an unusual cenote experience.
7. Cenote Choj Ha: located about 2 hours’ drive from the center of Cancun, Cenote Choj Ha is an underground sanctuary filled with impressive stalactites and stalagmites. As visitors descend the wooden stairs into the underground cave, they are greeted by turquoise waters that reflect the surrounding rock formations. It’s a truly magical experience for lovers of nature and geology.
8. Cenote Hubiku: approximately 2.5 hours by car from the center of Cancun, Cenote Hubiku offers a unique experience that combines natural beauty and cultural history.
In addition to its crystal-clear waters and impressive rock formations, this cenote is located in an area that is also home to a Mayan archaeological site. Visitors can dive into the cenote’s refreshing waters and explore the remains of the ancient Mayan civilization in the same visit.
- Important tip: Cancun is a city with many beautiful neighborhoods and tourist attractions, such as day trips and tours. That’s why our tip is to always buy your tickets in advance. We buy everything on this website that has the best price.
9. Cenote Xcajum: about an hour and 30 minutes’ drive from the center of Cancun, Cenote Xcajum is a true refuge untouched by modern civilization.
Surrounded by lush vegetation and accessed by a meandering trail, this cenote offers an atmosphere of peace and serenity. Visitors can swim in its crystal-clear waters and admire the surrounding natural beauty in a tranquil and unspoiled environment.
10. Cenote Zaci: located approximately 2 hours by car from the center of Cancun, Cenote Zaci is in the town of Valladolid, close to Cancun. It is centrally located and easily accessible, with a semi-covered opening allowing sunlight to penetrate the crystal-clear waters.
In addition to its natural beauty, Cenote Zaci also has cultural and historical significance for the local community. Visitors have the opportunity to learn about the importance of cenotes in Mayan culture and their relevance in the daily lives of the people who inhabited the region centuries ago.
There are rest areas, changing rooms and swimming equipment rental services, as well as food and drink options available nearby so you can have a snack after your aquatic adventure.
Tips for visiting Cancun’s Cenotes:
Allow enough time: dedicate at least half a day to each cenote to make the most of your visit.
Bring equipment or rent it: don’t forget to bring a diving mask, snorkel, sunscreen and water shoes for your adventure in the cenotes.
Respect the environment: keep the cenotes clean and respect local rules to preserve these precious ecosystems.
Stock up on water and food: many of the cenotes have no food options nearby. Be prepared and be sure to bring water.
Where to reliably buy tickets for tours in Cancun?
To save time and money, buying travel tickets online is always the best option, in our opinion. And we’ve traveled the world a lot and, after doing a lot of research, testing and getting to know people, we discovered the company that offers the best tours in Cancun, at very good prices.
We use this Cancun tours website in excursions to secure our tickets, as they always get very cheap discounts on various tours around the world, which helped us to visit more sights during our trip. It’s always worth taking a look at their tours when traveling.
Buying on their website helps you save time that would otherwise be wasted queuing at the ticket offices, not to mention the risk of running into sold-out tickets. They also allow each traveler to rate the tours they have already taken so that you can see their real opinions. This way, you can be sure that you’re getting quality and safe tours.
Save money on your trip to Cancun:
Car: if you are thinking about renting one this is the best website. It compares the price at all rental companies and finds unbeatable prices. You can save up to 30%!
Mobile chip: we always use this chip. It’s electronic (eSIM), you install it instantly and you can use your cell phone’s Internet anywhere in the world.
Travel insurance: medical care in another country is very expensive and it is extremely important to take out travel insurance for any trip abroad. This is the website we always take out our insurance on. Reliable and at a good price.
Transfer: do you need one from the airport to the hotel? Find out here how to book and for the lowest price!
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