The 5 cenotes in tulum that you have to explore

There are thousands of cenotes in Quintana Roo, many of them can be visited and many others are hidden and sheltered under the protection of the Mayan jungle. In Tulum and its surroundings you can find a great number of them, which are very accessible and not to be missed during your visit to this incredible destination. Discover 5 of the best cenotes in Tulum and get ready to live an incredible experience with Hertz Mexico.

About cenotes in Tulum

Cenotes are unique geological formations characteristic of the Yucatan Peninsula. They are formed when the roof of a subway cave collapses, exposing a well or fresh water reservoir. They can be completely open, semi-open or completely closed and are often connected to subway river systems. Cenotes are considered sacred by the ancient Maya, who used them as sources of drinking water, places for religious rituals and to make offerings to the gods. Today, cenotes are popular destinations for tourism, where you can swim, snorkel and explore the natural beauty of these subway wonders. To visit them, rent a car with Hertz Mexico and discover these unmissable attractions of nature.

Gran Cenote

If you like swimming and you like turtles, you will definitely love this cenote. About 5 km from Tulum is Gran Cenote, one of the most known and visited by travelers.
Here you will find restrooms, showers, gardens where you can sunbathe and a large parking lot where you can leave your rental car. There are two large stairways through which you can access the Gran Cenote. The place is surrounded by lots of vegetation, with plants and roots hanging everywhere. Also, as you swim through the cenote, you will encounter a large number of turtles that will accompany you, making this a unique experience. This cenote is semi-open and has several very interesting caves that you can explore, ideally with snorkeling equipment to appreciate the rock formations, multiple caverns and underwater colors of the place. As if that were not enough, the sun's rays that pass through the water form flashes of light that collide with the rocks of the cave, creating a spectacle not to be missed.

Cenote Atik Tulum

This is an open cenote that offers a unique experience for visitors. It is located about 15 minutes from Tulum and the ideal is the car rental to get there. Its name means “crystalline water” in Mayan and impresses with its turquoise waters and natural beauty. This cenote is not so well known, so you won't find many people. At Atik Tulum you can dive into its refreshing waters, swim and take a kayak ride. In addition, you can take amazing pictures from its giant staircase, with the cenote in the background. On the other hand, before entering the cenote you can see a work of art made with replicas of hundreds of small monkey skulls, based on those found in this place. The calm and serene environment of Cenote Atik, surrounded by lush tropical vegetation, creates a perfect environment for relaxation and contemplation. Undoubtedly, this cenote reflects the beauty and mystique of Tulum.

Cenote Escondido

To get to this wonderful place, you must head south on highway 307 until you reach km 223.8, where you will find the entrance to Cenote Escondido. You can get there by car to a parking lot and then on foot through a path that opens in the middle of the jungle. This cenote captivates with its crystal clear waters and untouched natural environment, surrounded by lush tropical vegetation and tall trees. Cenote Escondido is open, quite wide and deep, so if you do not know how to swim, it is recommended that you wear a life jacket. It is a unique place, like a huge pool of crystal clear water, surrounded by majestic jungle vegetation. The serenity and tranquility of Cenote Escondido make it a perfect refuge for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and connect with nature in its purest form.

Cenote Santa Cruz

Located in Rancho Santa Cruz, about 10 minutes drive from Tulum. The place has parking, restrooms, showers and shaded areas with tables and chairs. It is an open cenote with deep and shallow parts, making it an ideal place to enjoy with the family, even with small children. Besides swimming and refreshing yourself in its crystalline waters, the cenote is home to a large number of fish, so don't forget to bring your binoculars to appreciate them to the fullest. Cenote Santa Cruz is a must-see destination for those looking to connect with nature and enjoy the best company.

Cenote Azul

This cenote is one of the most famous and recommended. Although it is located in Playa del Carmen, it is an excellent alternative close to Tulum. You can get there by car and drive about 40 km along highway 307, up to kilometer 266, where you will find the entrance to Cenote Azul. This is an ideal place to go with the family, since it has shallow spaces where children can have fun safely. However, if you like adrenaline, you can jump from 2 and a half meters into the beautiful crystalline waters. Also, you can bring your snorkel gear or rent it right there and enjoy the different colorful fish. Also, before entering the main cenote, you can walk around the site and take the trails that will take you to other smaller cenotes where you can take a dip and cool off. Bathing in the waters of a cenote is an experience that you must live at least once in your life. Go ahead, take advantage of Tulum car rental with Hertz Mexico and explore the incredible cenotes in the area.