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The Three Cuzama Cenotes

January 21, 2014 By John Widmer 14 Comments

Visiting the Cuzama cenotes is one of our favorite day trips from Merida, Mexico. The cenotes themselves are absolutely stunning. But what makes the cenotes around Cuzama really unique is the form of transportation to get to each cenote: by horse cart!

Horse cart to Cuzama cenotes

On A Random Recommendation: Three Cenotes of Cuzama

During our first roam around the Yucatan in 2014, a local guy we had met in  Merida highly recommended for us to visit the cenotes outside the village of Cuzama. The cenotes we visited near Valladolid were such a highlight of our trip so far that we heeded his advice in order to explore more cenotes. The man in Merida told us to go to the old hacienda a few kilometers south of Cuzama. His recommendation was quite enthusiastic. So we drove around the rural Yucatan countryside in search of these Cuzama cenotes.

A Surprising Ride to the Cuzama Cenotes!

After passing several competing cenote complexes all around Cuzama, we finally arrived at the hacienda. Sure enough there was a man there asking us in Spanish if we’d like to go to the cenotes. We had no idea what we were in for.

We had figured he was going to walk us to these underground natural swimming holes. Perhaps he would simply point us into the right direction after collecting our fee. So we were a bit confused when he then directed us to two young boys (my guess of their age is 10 and 6). They were on  something that looked like a mining cart on rails that was connected to a horse .

So we hopped on the cart with the boys and were quickly whisked away on a bone-rattling ride deep into the Yucatan jungle! What a thrill! !!

A few kilometers later the niños stopped the cart and motioned for us to get out, then they led us down a path to the first Cuzama cenote. It was a beautiful underground cenote and we didn’t hesitate at the opportunity to swim around in for a while.

Visiting Each of the Three Cuzama Cenotes

The boys then walked us over to what simply looked like a small hole in the ground. I guessed they just wanted us to have a look into this cave. After peering over the edge, I noticed an old homemade wooden ladder that vertically stretched down into the pitch black, beyond what I could see. So we proceeded to climb down, found another ladder and continued climbing down into this Cuzama cenote  until we reached a pool of water for the splashdown off the ladder !

It was, in fact, the second Cuzama cenote!

The second cuzama cenote

Heather climbing down into the Cenote

There’s no place to stand . You go directly from ladder to water. To our surprise, once we got to the bottom of the ladder, the underground cenote was beautifully lit. There was a light connected to a generator, which was strung by long extension cords to the surface.

Equipped with a mask I had brought, I attempted diving down this somewhat narrow pool of water and after about only 10 feet or so it becomes eerily pitch black. It was disorienting and a bit scary to be underwater in this total darkness. Maybe stick to the surface.

This particular cenote was not as visually impressive or picturesque as the other two Cuzama cenotes we visited. But it was a very cool experience to submerge on down into this abyss!

Visiting the three Cuzama cenotes was a great experience that I’m so thankful was suggested to us. We likewise strongly recommend visiting the Cuzama cenotes if you ever find yourself in the Yucatan.

blue waters of the final cuzama cenote

If You Go to the Three Cuzama Cenotes :

What to pack for the cuzama cenotes:.

Wear a bathing suit and consider bringing a change of dry clothes to change into. There are life jackets available to rent at each of the Cuzama cenotes but no masks and snorkel.

cuzama cenote tour

Mask & Snorkel : If you go to the Cuzama cenotes, we strongly suggest packing a mask and snorkel so you can see all the rock formations lit up in this crystal clear water. There are fish swimming around to see too! And although there wasn’t much to see in the black abyss of the second Cuzama cenote we visited on this excursion, there was lots lit up in the other two. Masks were not available to rent. So be sure to pack one.  This US Divers Mask is an excellent quality mask for its inexpensive price.

cuzama cenote tour

Directions: How to Get from Merida to Cuzama Cenotes :

There are three completely separate cenote complexes around Cuzama run by three entirely different cooperatives: X’Tohil, Cuzama, and ChunkanĂĄn. It is very easy to get them confused with one another. All three Cuzama cenote cooperatives provide similar experiences with a horse-pulled cart ride, yet they simply visit different cenotes. Competition is fierce and you’ll experience people flagging you in as you approach. Since we first wrote about our Cuzama cenote experience in 2014, we’ve been back personally been back to check out another one and found experiences at both to be similarly great. (Update coming soon about the other Cuzama cenote we visited). We’ve also heard the same about the other (X’Tohil).

So which of the Cuzama cenotes to go to? That’s entirely up to you. There’s really no bad option. The cenotes at all complexes are fascinating and each have their own appeal. These recommendations may help you to decide. On a tight budget:  We recommend ChunkanĂĄn, as it is $100-pesos less than the other two. Longest horse-cart ride : We suggest Cuzama cenotes as it gives you the most time being pulled around on the carts. Coming by public transpor t: We advise X’Tohil, as it’s most convenient to reach by bus or colectivo from Merida.

The cenote complex that was described in this article is the ChunkanĂĄn cenotes of Cuzama.

Here’s exactly where each of the three Cuzama cenote complexes are located:

🚗 Self-Driving from Merida to Cuzama Cenotes : From Merida Centro it takes about an hour or so to reach Cuzama. Directions are here on Goolge Maps . Those directions take you past the X’Tohil Cenotes, to the center of Cuzama town. Make a right, to head towards ChunkanĂĄn. Within a few kilometers you’ll see a Cuzama cenote complex on your right. Another kilometer or so past that is the final Cuzama cenote complex of Chunkanan. You’ll have no problem finding any of the three sites as there are ample flaggers and even kids on bikes directing you.

🚌 Colectivo or Bus from Merida to Cuzama Cenotes : Buses to the town of Cuzama depart the Noreste terminal, located here on calle 67 and 50 . The bus to Cuzama costs $20 pesos each way and takes 1.5 hours. The Cuzama buses depart at these times: 7:45, 9:15, 10:45, 12:30 and 14:30 (at last check, times may change). Alternatively there are colectivos that depart across the street from the Noreste terminal on calle 67. If you are using public transport to reach Cuzama, you may want to ask the driver to drop you off at the X’Tohil cenotes before reaching the town of Cuzama. Otherwise, you’ll need to walk or take a motor taxi the additional 2+ km south of the town, to reach the other Cuzama cenotes.

🚕 Taxi from Merida to Cuzama Cenotes : From the taxi stand at Santa Ana in Merida, expect to pay $1,000 pesos round trip from Merida to Cuzama, including waiting time. But it may require some negotiating to reach that rate.

🚐 Day Tour of Cuzama Cenotes : You can book this well-priced  adventure tour to the Cuzama cenotes  ($55 USD) that includes hotel pick-up, guide, the horse ride, all entrances, a visit to the town of Acanceh and even lunch too!

Check pricing and availability of this Viator tour for your travel dates .

More Awesome Day Trips from Merida Mexico:

If you’re looking for day trips from Merida Mexico, be sure to check out our big travel guide that discusses the best ruins, beaches, cenotes, caves, and haciendas throughout the Yucatan.

Continue reading here: 15 Best Day Trips from Merida, Mexico

Things to do in Merida Mexico

  • We outline how to do all of those excursions from Merida and so many more here:  15 Best Yucatan Adventures
  • And if you’re staying in Merida, check out our other travel guide: Top Things to do in Merida, Mexico.

Related Posts

The 15 Best Day Trips from Merida Mexico in the Yucatan

July 9, 2018 at 1:39 AM

I will be going with my children ages 14, 11, and 8 do they have life vest for children and adults?

cuzama cenote tour

July 12, 2018 at 11:44 AM

We actually just went back to these Cuzama cenotes a few weeks ago (and will soon be updating this post w/ additional info). But when we were just there, I can confirm that they do indeed have lifejackets available, for a modest fee, of course. I’m fairly certain they have child sizes but we didn’t check that specifically.

cuzama cenote tour

February 1, 2018 at 2:35 PM

We did the 3 cenotes of Cuzama yesterday and we loved it. Thanks for the tip! We took a collectivo from Merida (price 27 pesos) and after that a motorbike/taxi to the cenotes from Cuzama center (price 20 pesos per person). The price of the cenotes trip with the horse and traincarthing was 400 for a group. So the price increased since you guys went there. But it was totally worth it!! We went to 2 big cenotes and 1 small one. We would definitely recommend it.

cuzama cenote tour

March 20, 2018 at 8:17 AM

We’re thrilled to hear that you had a wonderful time exploring the cenotes! Taking the horse cart was certainly a highlight for me. Thanks for sharing your experience and providing an update on the prices!

cuzama cenote tour

September 10, 2015 at 11:37 PM

This looks like such an amazing and unique experience! I will definitely be visiting these cenotes on my trip to Merida in two months. Is it possible to take a colectivo or bus from Merida to Cuzama, if I don’t have a car? If I do rent a car, what agency did you rent from and would you recommend them?

September 11, 2015 at 2:36 AM

It was one of our most memorable adventures in the Yucatan! You can get to Cuzama by rental car, bus/collectivo, or tour. We rented our car from Easy Way (Calle 60 484, Centro, 97000) and had no issues. You can get to Cuzama by bus or collectivos but I don’t have the exact details. Do know that they only go to Cuzama town, so you’ll need to either walk or get a bicycle taxi (cheap) from town to go the 2-3 miles to the hacienda where you connect with the horse carts to the cenotes. Lastly you can take a tour from Merida, which may run about $50 for the day. Enjoy and happy travels!

November 6, 2015 at 8:28 PM

Thank you so much for your help! I am really looking forward to visiting these cenotes this month! 🙂

cuzama cenote tour

May 31, 2015 at 11:12 PM

Hello! I’ll be in Merida in about 3 weeks and I was hoping to plan one of these excursions while I’m there. Do you have any point of reference to these kids/gentlemen who could lead me to those awesome places? Thank you!

May 31, 2015 at 11:41 PM

If you have a car, its pretty easy to get to. Drive out to Cuzama and once you get to the center of town make a right on the road to ChunkanĂĄn. Its only about another 2 miles past town and you’ll arrive at an old hacienda, where you’ll find people ready to take you on the horse cart to these cenotes. Just be sure you go all the way to the old hacienda. When we went, there were people with signs for the cenotes flagging us down and trying to stop us before the hacienda. We were warned about them and told not to stop and instead proceed all the way to the old rundown hacienda. So be sure to ignore them as well if they’re still there. I hope you make it. Its a really unique experience!

cuzama cenote tour

March 15, 2016 at 10:42 PM

We did stop at the first turn off with the guys flagging people down… It was a wonderful excursion. The most gorgeous of cenotes. The start of the tour was a bit spartan, (no hacienda) just a snack shack and the outbound tracks. The people were terrific and we had a great time until, after getting back to the start of the tour I discovered my car keys were missing. The local group went out and looked for them at all three cenotes to no avail. They then said they would go down the road to the next group and see if they were there. They came back and said that the keys were there, but the guy with the keys would not give them the our guy saying the keys may not be mine. So I got on the back of a motorcycle with my rental agreement and rode down there to see this big fat drunk with my keys. Bottom line, he wanted 200 pesos for the keys….. I said come back to the other parking lot with us and unlock the car to prove it was mine and I would give him 300 pesos. He said no and he didn’t think the keys were mine. I said ok than Policia. He started screaming in Spanish. We got the Policia and took a ride back in police truck where they had to surround this guy to get the keys back while my wife screamed at him in Spanish, she is Hispanic and also quick tempered. The police told us he was one of the people in charge of the horse carts for the Hacienda and had a gripe with the people from the other site and wanted to make an example. Anyway we all got back to the first site and had Cerveza and refrescos. Quite a story, apparently this feud is on a scale of the Hatfields and McCoys.

Still had a wonderful time….

March 18, 2016 at 1:19 PM

Oh wow! What an experience! Thanks for sharing. I’ve heard about this feud and your experience definitely confirms this “Hatfields & McCoys” dispute. I have heard (not confirmed) that the dispute involves who actually has the land rights to these cenotes and the trails leading to them. Also heard that the hacienda/horse-pulled tour of the cenotes recently lost access to one of the three cenotes and now only visits two of them (again, unconfirmed). Seems from your experience that this feud is strong and enduring!

Despite all the trouble you went through, am so glad to hear that you ultimately got your keys back and even ended with a few cold cervezas! 🙂 What a story!

cuzama cenote tour

July 16, 2019 at 2:20 PM

I just visited all three the other day with the start of it at the shack. 🙂

[…] to visit is that it’s a perfect hub for dozens of fantastic days trip just outside the city. Visit the three cenotes of Cuzuma, go see wild flamingos in Celestun or on the Rio Lagartos, tour an old hacienda outside of town, […]

[…] exploring the cenotes of Cuzuma, we were off to the small Mayan village of Santa Elena approximately a two-hour drive away. We […]

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Let's Travel To Mexico

The 3 Cuzama Cenotes, Yucatan: How to Visit Them (+Is it ethical?)

Cuzama Cenotes

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Have you heard of the Cuzama Cenotes? In this post I will tell you all about it, and why I am a bit concerned about them. Read more to learn why.

Among the 6000 Yucatan Cenotes, the ones you can visit in CuzamĂ  are among the most interesting. But is it ethical to visit them? I will tell you why I have my concerns.

on the road in yucatan

I will explain how to get there and all about it, but I will also give you a good reason why you should not go there or help create awareness among the local community on responsible tourism .

I guess you are curious to know now.

I want to tell you first and foremost  the reason why I went one time and I will never go back .

CuzamĂ   in YucatĂ n is such an attraction for most of the tourists, mainly because to reach the cenotes, you sit on a cart pulled by a horse.

Horse carts in Cuzama

Nothing wrong with that, also because the cart is on a rail and the horse doesn’t make much effort to pull it even with heavyweight, as it pretty much moves by inertia.

The main issue here is that  those horses are very badly looked after .

They are so skinny you can see the bones. The horse that was pulling my cart, just had the baby and was already “working”.

I expressed my concern to the guide but he told me that the horses are fine and well groomed.

I believe if we stopped going there, though, it wouldn’t change the animal conditions, because they will keep exploiting them and underfeeding them, especially if they have a lower budget.

However, if we go and keep denouncing the bad maintenance of the place and the horses, they will get the message eventually.

The cenotes are gorgeous, but also I believe we must go with a thoughtful mind as well.

Having said that, let me give you a brief introduction about what’s a cenote and then I will tell you how to get to Cuzama’.

WHAT IS A CENOTE?

Heritage of the Mayan culture the  cenotes of Yucatan  are deep underwater lakes or sink-holes

The entire flat and low region is made of limestone bedrocks which allow the rainwater to filtrate the soil allowing huge deposits of water and underground rivers.

The importance of the cenotes goes back to the Mayan times, the pre-Hispanic population that inhabited this area.

They used the cenotes not only as precious and unique sources of water provision but also as sacred places for their religious ceremonies.

More about the history and geology in  this post .

Cuzama Cenotes: How to visit

I have already talked about the cenotes of  Homun  and its amazing cenotes, located in the so-called Anillo de los cenotes (cenote ring).

Well, Cuzama’ is the same ring, at about 5 minute’s drive from the sister town Homun.

The difference from Homun is that the 3 cenotes that are open to the public in Cuzama, become a popular attraction because you will reach them on an old cart pulled by a horse just like in the old times.

And you cannot go on your own. That’s the only way to reach them.

Once you get to the entrance you will have to jump on a very rustic cart, made of wood and your guide will take you through the jungle to your refreshing cenotes.

There are 3 cenotes . Depending on the number of people the guide will decide where to take you first, trying to avoid the crowd.

I would suggest you avoid Tuesdays and Thursdays because those are cruise days and it will be packed.

If you must really go on those days, go very early or very late.

It’s a nice although bumpy and vibrating ride, definitely not suitable for pregnant women or those who have back issues.

The cenotes are beautiful although nothing more exciting than the ones in Homun or the  cenotes around Valladolid , so if you are so sensitive to animal exploitation you can avoid going and you can check out other options in the area.

I assure you you will find plenty of equal beauty or even better.

cuzama rail road in the jungle

3 Cuzama Cenotes, one by one

They are all cave cenotes with narrow but easy stairs to take you down into the underworld.

Not so difficult to climb if you are not particularly sensitive to narrow caves.

If you do, just hold your breath and you will reach the underneath platform in a blink of an eye.

The Cenote Bolonchojool has the longest stairs and is completely vertical but if I did it, anybody that doesn’t suffer from any physical challenge can do it.

Cenote Chan Ucil

(Mosco pequeño = small fly)

chan uchil cenote cuzama

Cenote Chacsinicche

(Hormiga roja de madera= wooden red ants)

cave cenote cuzama entrance

Cenote Bolonchojool

(9 agujeros de raton= 9 mouse holes )

last cenote in cuzama entry

Fact sheets about Cenote Cuzama

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO VISIT THE CUZAMA CENOTES?

The entrance fee has a minimum of 400MXN for 1 to 4 people.

If you are 5 you would pay 100 MXN each.

5 is the maximum number of people (of average size) that a cart can hold.

 OPENING HOURS

Cuzama opens from 8 am to 5 pm every day.

 HOW LONG THE TOUR LAST? 

You will need to consider that the farthest cenote is at a 40-minute ride and then you will have maximum leisure time for each cenote of 30 minutes.

So I would consider 3 hours and 30 minutes to be on the safe side.

How to get to Cuzama and where to take the tour

cuzama map

First thing first, you don’t have to join an organized tour to visit Cuzama’.

There are ways to get to Cuzama on your own, either by taxi, local busses, or your own car (my favorite).

Here below I will explain how to get to Cuzama by each means of transportation.

 Getting to Cuzama by car 

Arriving from Merida center will take about 1 hour. See the Google road map  here .

Arriving from Valladolid it’s about 2 hours.  Click here  for the Google road map directions.

In both cases, once you arrive in the Cuzama town, in the main plaza, where the church is, you will need to drive by the church, leaving it on your left-hand side and just keep driving straight for about 1 km.

You will find the entrance on your right and side.

Can’t miss it.

If you feel lost, once in town, you will see many kids (and adults) asking if you want to be taken to take the tour.

If you say yes, you will need to give them a tip.

People in Yucatan are nice and welcoming, but in this case, it’s basically their job.

It’s a questionable activity but that’s what it is.

So if you don’t want to feed this kind of self-employment, just say no and use Google map, just like I did.

yucatan at sunset on the road

Visiting Cuzama’ by bus from Merida

I never went by bus but I found out that there are bus departures to Cuzamå from the Noreste bus station (Calle 50 at 67, Centro) at 7:45, 9:15, and 10:45 am, or in colectivos with frequent departures. Remember to double-check with the driver the  departure schedule to get back to Merida

 Getting to Cuzama’ by taxi

That would be a little more expensive. It will cost about 1500 MXN. In this case, if the first two options are not suitable for you and you are flexible on the cenotes to visit you might want to consider joining an organized tour. See below:

 Join an organized tour to visit the cenotes in Cuzama’

Even though I personally have more fun going on my own and even more I find that organizing my trip has its charm, sometimes I prefer to just book a tour where I can just sit back and relax and enjoy the views and the place. Especially I love tours in Mexico because the guides are usually very knowledgeable and share a lot of interesting information about the area.

Here is a high-rated tour from Merida to visit the Cuzama Cenotes.

â–șâ–șâ–ș From Merida: Full-Day Cuzama Cenotes tour

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 13 Reviews

This full day tour leaves from Merida early morning and includes the following services and activities

  • An expert guide who will be with you all day and will share useful information about the area both in Spanish and English
  • Entrance fee to the cenotes
  • Flotation vest
  • Swimmig time in the three cenotes
  • Lunch in a local restaurant

What is not included:

  • Additional expenses

It’s common to leave a tip to your guide and driver in Mexico, not mandatory, but very much expected. Make sure you bring some mexican pesos, although US$ notes are accepted.

Cenotes practical tips and rules

What to bring to your cenote adventure.

Make sure you have your swimsuit, a towel, and a repellent (ecological), sunscreen that you should wear only after swimming in the cenote.

If you want to bring your mask in some cenotes it will turn out useful.

Dress light but I would recommend comfortable closed shoes to protect you from insects.

They are not dangerous but certainly annoying.

How to be a responsible cenote explorer: some cenote rules

As in every natural place I always like to recommend following some common rules to preserve the environment which I am sure you know already but a gentle reminder is never in excess.

  • don’t wear any sunscreen or repellent before bathing in the cenotes
  • don’t leave anything that doesn’t belong to the place
  • don’t hang on to stalactites or stalagmites or tree roots
  • don’t do anything that can damage the environment
  • don’t shout in the cenote. Remember it was a sacred place for the Mayan civilization but it’s still seen as a place of peace and tranquillity. Even if you don’t think so, at least respect the others’ silence.
  • I always recommend spending a moment in silence before entering a cenote and asking (in your mind) for permission to Mother Earth. It’s a common practice.

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Isabella is traveler and animal lover, a former tourism professional with an multinational background that lead her to Mexico, that she can proudly call home. After seven years in Cancun where she's still a resident, she took a bold leap, leaving her fancy job to embrace a nomadic lifestyle. She traveled all over Mexico, from Baja California to Ciudad Juarez, Oaxaca, Chiapas Hidalgo exploring and living like a local. Isabella founded Let's Travel to Mexico to help travelers plan their own trip on and off the beaten path in this beautiful land that she loves so dearly.

cuzama cenote tour

CuzamĂĄ Cenotes Tour

Quick Details

  • Globe Region: Mexico
  • Map Marker Location: MĂ©rida
  • Hour Glass Duration: 8 hours
  • Tag Tour Type: Shared Tour

Venture on a captivating journey as you delve into the enchanting world of YucatĂĄn’s most beautiful cenotes, located within the renowned Ring of Cenotes. This extraordinary semi-circular alignment of over 100 cenotes is believed to be linked to the impact of an asteroid that struck the Earth 65 million years ago, shaping the course of life on our planet and leaving behind a crater spanning 180 kilometers.

In the very place where this momentous event occurred, you will delve into the significance of cenotes in the Mayan civilization, their deep-rooted connection to the ecosystem, and the profound role they played in ancient Mayan culture. Come prepared to swim and snorkel in the crystal-clear and magical waters of these unique natural formations found nowhere else in the world. Immerse yourself in their awe-inspiring beauty and experience the serenity of their surroundings.

This tour will take you to the most famous and beautiful cenotes. First, be amazed by the Cascabel cenote. Then, feel the sacred energy of the ChaksikĂ­n cenote. After that, walk to the magical Xoch cenote. After exploring these mystical cenotes and enjoying ample time for swimming, you will indulge in a delicious lunch, savoring the flavors of the region, before returning to MĂ©rida .

With round-trip transportation from your hotel, entrance fees to the cenotes , and lunch included, this tour ensures a seamless and immersive experience. Prepare to be captivated by the wonder of YucatĂĄn’s cenotes, where natural beauty and ancient history converge to create a truly unforgettable adventure.

Highlights:

  • Discover three of YucatĂĄn’s most beautiful cenotes within the mesmerizing Ring of Cenotes
  • Learn about the fascinating origin theory behind the cenotes
  • Explore the deep connection between the ancient Mayan civilization and cenotes
  • Immerse yourself in crystal-clear waters, swim, and snorkel
  • Indulge in a delicious lunch, savoring the flavors of MĂ©rida

Inclusions:

  • Hotel pick-up and drop-off
  • Certified bilingual guide
  • Lunch (a la carte menu)
  • Entrance to cenote site

Exclusions:

  • Optional gratuities
  • Additional expenses

Don’t forget to bring a swimsuit and a towel.

Related Tours

  • Hour Glass 10 hours
  • Map Marker MĂ©rida

RĂ­o Lagartos & Las Coloradas Tour

Discover RĂ­o Lagartos and Las Coloradas, virgin beaches with beautiful landscapes and wildlife, and two of the most popular attractions in the area.

  • Hour Glass 8 hours

Uxmal & Ruta Puuc Tour

The Ruta Puuc tour in the YucatĂĄn Peninsula visits four of the most important ruins of the Maya culture that share the same ornate architectural style.

cuzama cenote tour

The Roaming Rambler

Cenote Cuzama: The Ultimate Guide to This Magical Sinkhole

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Cenote Cuzama is a stunning natural wonder located in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico. A cenote is a natural sinkhole that is created when the limestone bedrock collapses, exposing the groundwater underneath. Cenotes are unique to this region of the world and are considered sacred by the Mayan people who have lived here for thousands of years.

Sunlight filters through the lush jungle canopy, illuminating the crystal-clear waters of Cenote Cuzama. Vines drape over the rocky edges, and colorful fish swim among the submerged limestone formations

Exploring Cenote Cuzama is an adventure that takes visitors on a journey through the jungle. Visitors ride in a horse-drawn cart on an old train track. The journey takes visitors to three different cenotes, each with its own unique beauty and features. Visitors can swim in the crystal-clear waters, explore the underwater caves, or simply relax and take in the natural beauty of the surroundings.

Travel and Accessibility to Cenote Cuzama is relatively easy. Many tour operators offer guided tours from the nearby city of Merida. The journey takes approximately one hour by car, and visitors can expect to spend three to four hours exploring the cenotes. It is important to note that the cenotes are located in a natural environment, and visitors should be prepared for the elements, including heat, humidity, and insects.

Key Takeaways

  • Cenote Cuzama is a natural wonder located in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico, and is considered sacred by the Mayan people.
  • Exploring Cenote Cuzama is an adventure that takes visitors through the jungle, riding in a horse-drawn cart on an old train track.
  • Visitors can swim in the crystal-clear waters, explore the underwater caves, or relax and take in the natural beauty of the surroundings.

Exploring Cenote Cuzama

As an adventurous traveler, I highly recommend exploring the three stunning cenotes that make up Cenote Cuzama. Each cenote has its unique charm and beauty, making it a worthwhile experience.

Cenote Chelentun

Cenote Chelentun is the first cenote you’ll encounter on your adventure through Cenote Cuzama. This underground cenote features crystal-clear water, allowing you to see the beautiful stalactites and stalagmites beneath the surface. The water is also warm, making it perfect for swimming.

Cenote ChunkanĂĄn

Cenote ChunkanĂĄn is the second cenote on the route. This cenote is larger than Cenote Chelentun and features a stunning natural skylight. The skylight allows sunlight to filter through the water and illuminate the underground cave. The water is also incredibly clear, making it easy to see the various fish and plant life that call this cenote home.

Cenote X’tohil

Cenote X’tohil is the final cenote on the route. This cenote is smaller than the previous two but is still incredibly beautiful. The water is crystal-clear, and the cenote features stunning rock formations that are perfect for exploring.

Overall, exploring Cenote Cuzama is an adventure that you won’t want to miss. The underground cenotes are breathtaking, and the clear water provides an opportunity to see the stunning rock formations beneath the surface. If you’re ever in Yucatan, I highly recommend adding Cenote Cuzama to your adventure list.

Travel and Accessibility to Cenote Cuzama

Getting to Cuzama

If you are planning to visit the Cuzama Cenotes, you will likely be coming from Merida or Valladolid. The best way to get to Cuzama from Merida is by taking a bus from the Noreste Bus Station. The bus ride takes about an hour and a half and costs around 30 pesos. If you are coming from Valladolid, you can take a colectivo or taxi to Cuzama.

Once you arrive in Cuzama, you will need to make your way to the entrance of the cenotes. The entrance is located on the main road and is easy to find. From there, you have a few options for getting to the cenotes themselves.

Navigating the Cenotes

The most popular way to get to the Cuzama Cenotes is by taking a truck ride. A horse pulls the modified trucks, which fit on the narrow-gauge railway tracks. The ride is bumpy but fun, and it takes you through the jungle to the first cenote. From there, you can climb down a wooden staircase to the water.

If you are not comfortable with the truck ride, you can also take a motorcycle taxi to the cenotes. The motorcycle taxis are faster and more convenient but also more expensive. You can negotiate the price with the driver before you get on.

There is an entrance fee to the Cuzama Cenotes, currently 80 pesos per person. The cenotes are open from 9 am to 5 pm, so plan your visit accordingly.

Overall, getting to and navigating the Cuzama Cenotes is relatively straightforward. Whether you take a truck or a motorcycle taxi, you will surely have an unforgettable experience exploring these natural wonders.

Visitor Experience

Activities and Amenities

When visiting the Cenote Cuzama, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities. The cenotes are perfect for swimming and offer a refreshing escape from the heat of the Yucatan Peninsula. Visitors can also take advantage of the rope swing available at the cenote to make their experience even more exciting.

For safety reasons, life jackets are provided to all visitors. A ladder and stairs are also available to make getting in and out of the cenote easier. Visitors should bring their own towel and camera to capture the beauty of the cenote.

Local guides are available to provide information about the cenote and its history. Visitors can also rent a mask to explore the underwater world of the cenote.

Safety and Guidelines for Cenote Cuzama

It is important to follow safety guidelines when visiting the Cenote Cuzama. Visitors should wear appropriate swimwear and avoid jumping or diving into the cenote. The rope swing should only be used under the supervision of a local guide.

Visitors should be aware of the wait time to enter the cenote, as it can get crowded during peak hours. The length of the visit can vary depending on the activities chosen. Visitors should also be mindful of their belongings and avoid bringing valuables to the cenote.

Reviews on TripAdvisor suggest that visitors should bring their own food and drinks as there are limited options available at the cenote. Overall, visitors should come prepared with sunscreen, insect repellent, and plenty of water to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Conservation and Culture of Cenote Cuzama

Sunlight filters through lush jungle canopy into the crystal-clear waters of the Conservation and Culture Cenote Cuzama, illuminating the ancient rock formations and vibrant underwater flora

Environmental Significance

As a result of the unique geological formation of the YucatĂĄn Peninsula, Cenotes like Cuzama are abundant in the region. These natural sinkholes formed by the collapse of limestone bedrock reveal underground rivers and caves that are home to a diverse range of flora and fauna.

The jungle surrounding the Cenotes is an important habitat for a variety of animal species, such as monkeys, jaguars, and snakes. The tree roots that dangle into the water provide a natural filtration system, which helps to maintain the water’s clarity and purity.

Conservation efforts have been put in place to protect these fragile ecosystems. Visitors are encouraged to respect the rules and regulations put in place to help preserve the natural beauty of the Cenotes. It is important to note that sunscreen, insect repellent, and other chemicals can harm the delicate balance of the ecosystem, so it is recommended to use environmentally friendly products when visiting.

Historical Relevance

Cenotes have played an important role in the history and culture of the Mayan civilization . The ancient Mayans considered these natural wonders sacred. They believed that they were the dwelling places of the gods.

Today, the Cenotes serve as a reminder of the rich cultural heritage of the YucatĂĄn Peninsula. The Cuzama Cenotes are located just a short distance from the city of MĂ©rida . They are easily accessible for visitors interested in exploring the history and culture of the region.

In recent years, there has been an increased focus on promoting sustainable tourism in the region. Transparency reports provide visitors with information on the environmental and social impact of their visit. By supporting responsible tourism practices, visitors can help to ensure that the Cuzama Cenotes and other natural wonders of the YucatĂĄn Peninsula are preserved for future generations to enjoy.

Traveler and blogger Living in Guadalajara, Mexico

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Cuzama Cenotes: Jump In, Swim, Dive in Three Different Cenotes

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Cuzama Cenotes

There are a few cenote tours in the town of Cuzama with which you can visit some local cenotes with different characteristics. The Cuzama Cenotes tour begins at Chinkanan, a former henequen hacienda. Here you’ll board a “truck”—a small wagon on rails pulled by a horse—and tour three cenotes along five miles of wilderness.

Cuzama Cenotes: Chelentun

The entrance to the cenote is straightforward, which is not always the case. The stairs are made of concrete and have sturdy railway railings—those the “truck” rides on—as rails. What sets this cenote apart is the arch structure at the back of the cave. The water is warm at 80 °F.

As you can imagine, the underwater sights make cenotes a magnet for divers. It seems that this particular one, with its depth of 60 ft. and visibility of over 160 ft., is a great place to train. For those feeling more like Jacques Cousteau, it features two smaller caves, 100 and 130 feet deep.

Cuzama Cenotes: Chak-Zinik-Che

As you descend the 30 ft. stairway attached to the wall, try to remember the name of this cenote means “the Home of the Red Ant”.

The 130-feet-deep pool is under a stalactite-filled roof, but there’s some room to explore, as the cave is T-shaped. Though the water is a comfortable 80 °F on the surface, it’s bound to get colder the lower you go, as it can reach a whopping 250 ft. in depth in some places.

Cuzama Cenotes: Bolom-Chojol

How would you like to make your grand entrance? In this cenote, with a name that means “Nine Mice Burrows”, the choice is yours. You could just follow the stairs down. They’re metal and sturdy, with railings made from the “truck” rails. That’s all right, we won’t judge. However, you could also throw yourself off the 30-feet drop down to the water.

At 40 ft. deep and over 160 ft. visibility, this is also a good place to dive. There’s even a two-level cave that reaches 80 ft. depth on its first level, and, if you want to keep going, 130 ft. in the second.

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Top ways to experience Cenotes and nearby attractions

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Cenotes - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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  • (4.91 km) Hotel Restaurante Santa MarĂ­a HomĂșn
  • (4.21 km) Restaurante Santa Rosa

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  • About this activity

Cuzama Cenotes Day Tour with Lunch

  • Free cancellation available
  • Mobile voucher
  • Instant confirmation
  • Selective hotel pickup
  • Multiple languages
  • Explore three cenotes on the Yucatan Peninsula in one day
  • Swim deep in the belly of the caves
  • Eat a delicious Mexican lunch served at a local restaurant
  • Ride a traditional truck used to transport henequen
  • Feel the power of nature with this tour

Activity and redemption location map

Activity location

  • CuzamĂĄ, Yucatan, Mexico

Meeting/Redemption Point

  • MĂ©rida, Yucatan, Mexico
  • Wed, Mar 27 -
  • Thu, Mar 28 $142
  • Fri, Mar 29 $142
  • Sat, Mar 30 $142
  • Sun, Mar 31 $142
  • Mon, Apr 1 $142
  • Tue, Apr 2 $142
  • Wed, Apr 3 $142
  • Thu, Apr 4 $142
  • Fri, Apr 5 $142
  • Sat, Apr 6 $142
  • Sun, Apr 7 $142
  • Mon, Apr 8 $142
  • Tue, Apr 9 $142
  • Wed, Apr 10 $142

Cuzama Cenotes Tour

  • Activity duration is 8 hours 8h 8h

What's included, what's not

  • What's included What's included Round-trip in a shared transportation with hotel pick-up and drop-off
  • What's included What's included Professional bilingual guide
  • What's included What's included Live tour commentary provided in English and Spanish
  • What's included What's included Entrance to the Cenotes
  • What's included What's included Life vest for the Cenotes
  • What's included What's included Lunch in a local restaurant
  • What's excluded What's excluded Drinks
  • What's excluded What's excluded Gratuities
  • What's excluded What's excluded Additional expenses

Know before you book

  • Children 3 years old and younger are complimentary.
  • Hotel pick-up is available from most hotels in Merida downtown area. Please arrange pickup from your hotel or a nearby location when you call to confirm your reservation.
  • The tour has a duration of 8 hours approximately.
  • If you don't have a hotel reservation, please contact us to share you a meeting point options list.
  • It is mandatory to wear the life vest when diving into the Cenotes.

What you can expect

Get to know the “Cenote Ring”, an extraordinary semicircular alignment of more than one hundred cenotes that specialists relate to the theory of the impact of an asteroid against the earth, 65 million years ago.

On this tour, you will visit three cenotes, which belong to the “Cenote Ring”, each one with impressive characteristics: Cascabel, Chaksikin, and Xoch. Here you will learn about the asteroid event, the ecosystem, and the important relationship that the Mayan civilization had with cenotes. You will have to come ready to dive into the cenotes and enjoy a swim in their crystalline waters. Your adventure day trip includes transport and a professional guide. The natural beauty of this creation of nature will astonish you.

In order to reach the cenotes, you will be transferred to these spots in a traditional truck, formerly used to transport henequen. The first visit will be to Cenote Cascabel, where the greatness of its natural formations will dazzle you. Next, you will be able to enjoy Cenote Chaksikin and its deep waters. Here, as in the previous cenote, you will enjoy more of a free swim, as they’re underground cenotes. And, continuing the journey, you will visit the Cenote Xoch, where you can enjoy the nature around you. After bathing in these astonishing cenotes, you will have the opportunity to have an authentic Mexican lunch at a local restaurant before returning to MĂ©rida.

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Cenotes of Cuzama

Cenotes of Cuzama Tour in Progreso from Chunkana (Sinkholes)

  • Experience the breathtaking beauty of Cuzama's underwater sinkholes, or cenotes, the star attraction of this unique Progreso tour
  • Travel in style with horse-drawn buggies to escort you to the first cenote - a truly unforgettable and authentic journey
  • Immerse yourself in nature's best with the opportunity to swim in two out of three visited cenotes
  • Benefit from our industry-leading guarantees including a return-to-ship and satisfaction guarantee, assuring a worry-free adventure

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Cuzama Cenotes

Take a trip back in time as this Progreso tour takes you up close to the area's gorgeous natural attractions. While you explore this area, you'll come across some of nature's finest sights. Book this tour today to enjoy a Progreso cenotes tour like no other.

This Progreso sightseeing tour starts with a trip to the town of Chunkana, which is located approximately 1 hour from the cruise terminal. Once you arrive at Chunkana, you'll head over to some horse-drawn buggies that will take you to the first cenote. These cenotes, or underwater sinkholes, are truly a sight to behold.

You will visit three cenotes during this adventure, and you will have the chance to swim in two of them. Aside from the various cenotes, you'll also lay eyes on other natural formations like stalactites and stalagmites. You won't find a better tour of the area's natural wonders. Reserve your spot today!

Please Note: Each buggy (used during the cenote portion of the tour) can hold up to 4 guests.

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Cenotes of Cuzama

Cenotes of cuzama in yucatan.

cenotes de cuzama, cenotes yucatan, cenotes, chelentun, chak-zinik-che, bolom-chojol

The cenotes and caves are underground natural beauties with crystalline water, where you can explore them on foot, swim, dive and enjoy their marine fauna.

CuzamĂĄ, famous in the region for its cenotes and the peculiar way of visiting them. The tour through the different cenotes is done in "trucks", which are small carts pulled by horses through 7 km on roads full of brush, adding an incredible flavor of adventure.

The region where the municipality is located is classified as warm semi-dry with rains in summer, during which time the so-called mid-summer droughts occur. It has an annual medial temperature of 26.3 ° C.

The main cenotes in this area are: CHELENTÚN, CHAK-ZINIK-CHE and BOLOM-CHOJOL.

Cenote de Chelentun

cenotes de cuzama, cenote chelentun

Cenote considered for training by many Instructors, since it is mostly a Cavern with direct access to the surface and with a maximum depth of 18 meters (60 feet), with a temperature of 26 degrees Celsius and visibility of 50 meters, however it has Two Caves.

The First on the right side that descends to a depth of 30 meters (100 feet). The second at the bottom on the right side that begins as a minor restriction and becomes a major restriction, this has more than 100 meters of penetration and reaches a depth of 40 meters (130 feet), when entering open good visibility, but when leaving this It will be a couple of meters (modifying kick and equipment). It does NOT currently have a lifeline.

Cenote Chak-Zinik- Che

cenotes de cuzama, cenotes yucatan, cenotes, chelentun, chak-zinik-che, cenote chk zinik che

"Home of the Red Ant" is considered one of the best for Cave Diving in the state. Its Pool has an impressive view with Stalactites on the ceiling of the Cavern, in this there is a fireplace that leads to a small chamber with air and Stalactites. La Cueva is a fairly wide Circuit and only one end is a minor restriction; The depth is 40 meters (130 ft) and within the Circuit there is a "T" towards interior caves that reach a depth of 250 ft. Its temperature is 27 degrees Celsius and visibility of 50 meters. It has a life line.

Cenote Bolom- Chojol

cenotes de cuzama, cenote bolom chojol

It means Nine Holes of Mouse, near the town of Chinkila. The water mirror is found after descending 10 meters on a ladder formed by "truck" rails. The water temperature is 27 degrees Celsius and with visibility of 50 meters. The Cenote consists of a Pool of 35 meters in diameter with a maximum depth in the cave of 12 meters; At one end there is a 2-level cave entrance, the first level is over a depth of 27 meters (80 feet) and in the middle of this corridor is the entrance (major restriction) to the second level with a depth of 40 meters (130 feet). ). It has a fixed lifeline.

Hotels in Merida

cuzama cenote tour

No. 163 The 3 cenotes of CuzamĂĄ

  • Lorem, ipsum.

Recommended experience for kids:

Recommended experience to wear pets:, it is an inclusive experience:, places close to the experience where the night can spend:, days open to the public:.

Sunday, Saturday

Schedules in which you can enjoy the experience:

08:00 - 16:00

Contact number to make reservations:

Urls of the sites where reservations can be made:, important experience activities:.

  • Swimming in a cenote
  • Tour in a truck

Approximate price:

Months in which you can enjoy the experience:.

All year long

With more than 7 years of providing services, “ Los 3 cenotes de Cuzamá ” is a fascinating tourist attraction, ideal for families or groups of friends. Dare to live the adventure, starting the tour by riding a truck pulled by animal force to the inside of the Yucatecan jungle. You will be astonished by the beauty of these three cenotes, and if you are lucky during the tour, of around 4.9 miles, you may see different bird species and animals from the region.

The first cenote to visit is the one called Ucil, an underground cave-type cenote, so it is illuminated with artificial light; there, you can see impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations. The second is called Chak-Zinik-ChĂ© , a semi-closed-type cenote, with natural daylight illumination and turquoise waters. The third cenote is Bolom-Chojol , which means “Nine mouse holes” referring to the nine light entries that go through to the cenote’s interior. It has a wooden platform of approximately 114.8 ft of diameter, where you can enjoy an impressive view. The tourist look-out is in the Eastern part of the state, approximately 16.1 miles from the city of MĂ©rida. Before being a tourist area, it was an area of henequen plantations, so this fields were part of the henequen industry in YucatĂĄn. With no doubts, this experience will take you to the henequen golden times and you will learn about the natural secrets of YucatĂĄn.

It includes a tour in a truck, lifejacket, and guide.

It is recommended to wear comfortable clothing, do not use sunscreen, nor repellent, bring cash, an extra set of clothing and towel.

Actividades principales

Distance from mérida to experience:.

approximately

Duration of experience:

3 hours approximately

Suggested for:

Families, friends and couples

Distance from MĂ©rida to experience No. 163 The 3 cenotes of CuzamĂĄ

Similar experiences.

We did it our way

14 amazing cenotes in Yucatan, close to Merida, Valladolid, CuzamĂĄ & HomĂșn

Il Kil cenote in Yucatan

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The YucatĂĄn is full of amazing wonders, including Chichen Itza, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. One of the best things about visiting the state of YucatĂĄn in Mexico is that you get to explore amazing cenotes. There are said to be over 6,000 cenotes in the YucatĂĄn Peninsula. Some are even still being found after all these years because they are buried deep in a very lush jungle.

Although we would have loved to visit all these amazing cenotes, there are just too many to see in a lifetime! That’s why we asked our favorite bloggers to let us know which are the best cenotes near Merida, close to Valladolid, Chichen Itza, CuzamĂĄ and HomĂșn.

If you’re looking for other amazing cenotes, make sure you check out our article on the cenotes in Quintana Roo . These are located near Cancun , Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and Bacalar .

Diving at Il Kil cenote near chichen itza

This article may contain affiliate/compensated links. For more information, please see our disclaimer here . We take all the efforts necessary to ensure the information included in this post is accurate, correct and current, sometimes, things just change! Travel information like opening hours, business operations and prices may change. If you find anything in this post that is incorrect or outdated, please let me know in the comments so I can update it for other readers. Cheers!

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Table of Contents

Cenotes in the state of YucatĂĄn

Cenotes are absolutely amazing! They were our favorite discovery in Mexico. On hot and muggy days, they’re the perfect place to cool down, especially when you’re nowhere near the beach, like in Valladolid, Chichen Itza, HomĂșn or CuzamĂĄ.

Sure, Merida is only 30 minutes away from the beaches of Sisal and Progresso, but they do tend to get really windy. And sometimes, you just want to chill out without finding sand in every crack possible!

So we’ve broken down these cenotes in YucatĂĄn so that you know what town they’re closest to. This will help you plan your trip much more easily! Of course, there are a ton of other cenotes around. Just make sure you ask locals about where to go. They will have the best recommendations for you.

cuzama cenote tour

3 beautiful cenotes near Merida

Merida is known for so many amazing things. This colonial town is bustling with life. It’s one of the larger cities in the YucatĂĄn peninsula. And it’s well worth a visit.

If you do come to Merida, you’ll find a bunch of articles on the best things to do here. And like most cities in the state, most will tell you to go visit a cenote. So here are the best cenotes near Merida.

1. Cenote Xlacah, a YucatĂĄn cenote close to Merida

Contributed by Shelley of TravelToMerida.com

Cenote Xlacah is located on the grounds of Dzibilchaltun, one of the  best Mayan Ruins in YucatĂĄn . Entrance to the cenote is included with the cost of your admission to the ruins, so don’t forget a bathing suit when you visit. You’ll want to swim after exploring the ruins.

Dzibilchaltun (zee-bee-shall-tune) has ancient Mayan pyramids and ruins that you’re allowed to climb. There’s also the Dzibilchaltun Museum and a small sculpture garden with artifacts unearthed at excavations throughout YucatĂĄn.

Cenote Xcalcah. The best cenotes in Yucatan. Cenotes near Merida

After you get your fill of exploring Dzibilchaltun, head to the restrooms, change into your bathing suit, and enjoy a refreshing swim in Cenote Xlacah. This is a swimming pool cenote (AKA open cenote), as it looks like a beautiful natural pool.

Cenote Xlacah is shallow and has very clear water, so you can see the plants and small fish just below you. It’s the perfect cenote to bring a mask and snorkel because visibility is usually great.

Cenote Xlacah is 45 minutes from Merida, Mexico, the capital of YucatĂĄn state. You can visit from Merida by rental car or Uber, which is about $5-7 USD each way. It’s open daily from 8 am to 5 pm, and admission is $227 MXN pesos ($11 USD).

Here’s what you need to know when visiting cenote Xlacah in YucatĂĄn: – Entrance fee:  $227 pesos, including access to the ruins – Amenities:  Bathrooms, life jackets – Distance from Merida:  28 km or 17.5 miles, about 30-minutes driving – Opening hours:  8 am to 5 pm daily – Best tip:  Combine your visit to this cenote with the nearby ruins – Best cenote near Merida for:  Visiting ruins and snorkeling in a cenote, and only paying one entry fee

2. Cenote MucuychĂ©, a hidden gem of a cenote in Mexico’s YucatĂĄn State

Contributed by Ashlea of SheRoamsAbout.com

Hacienda Mucuyché is one of the best off-the-beaten-path cenotes in the Yucatån, located in the town of Abalå just 45 minutes south of Merida. Located on the grounds of a stunning and picturesque 17th-century hacienda, this is the perfect place to spend the day exploring history and adventure.

The crystalline waters and the well-maintained surroundings make for a truly magical experience. It’s easy to see why the Mayas considered these sites to be sacred!

To visit this site, you will need to reserve a guided tour in advance via WhatsApp. Entrance is $590 pesos ($30USD/$37CAD) for adults but don’t be deterred by the price tag. Entrance includes a guided tour of the hacienda, entrance to the cenotes and life vests (although their use is mandatory). It also includes access to the pool, loungers, facilities, and on-site restaurant serving up excellent Yucateca cuisine.

The easiest way to reach Hacienda MucuychĂ© is by rental car but if that’s not your thing you have options. You can take the bus from San Juan Park in Merida toward Sacalum. Tell the driver you’re going to the hacienda and you need a return service. The journey takes an hour and ride cost about $150 pesos ($7.50USD/$9.50CAD).

Alternatively, you can hire a driver to take you there and back. Expect to pay around $1,500 pesos ($77USD/$96CAD) from a local company. This is a popular spot and tour group sizes can reach up to 25 people. The site opens at 9:30 am so aim to visit mid-morning, during the week for the best experience .

Here, you’ll be able to swim in two cenotes: Carlota and Maya Azul. You have to swim in the canal to swim from one cenote to another. Carlota is a half-open cave while Maya Azul is a cave cenote. Both are wonderful to explore and swim in.

Here’s what you need to know when visiting Hacienda MucuychĂ© cenote in YucatĂĄn: – Entrance fee:  $590 pesos, includes a guided tour of the hacienda, entrance to the cenotes and life vests – Amenities:  Life vests, bathrooms, changing rooms, lockers, restaurants, pool, loungers, facilities, equipment rental. – Distance from Merida: 45 km or 28 miles, about 45 minutes driving – Opening hours:  9:30 am to 5 pm – Best tip:  Bring a waterproof camera or phone because you have to swim from cenote to cenote – Best cenote near Merida for:  Visiting an authentic hacienda as well as swimming in beautiful connected cenotes

3. Cenotes X’Batun and Dzonbakal, two beautiful cenotes near Merida

Contributed by Rebecca from Becksplore-Travel.com

If you would like to visit two cenotes that are located close to each other, head to cenote X’Batun and cenote Dzonbakal. A visit to these two cenotes makes for one of the best activities to do around MĂ©rida , as they’re located about an hour car ride away from YucatĂĄn’s biggest city. The best way to get there is by rental car .

Cenote X'Batun. The best cenotes in Yucatan. Cenotes near Merida

Even though both cenotes are located almost right next to each other, they couldn’t be more different. Whereas cenote X’Batun is bright with clear blue water, and you will find lots of water lilies, cenote Dzonbakal is more of a semi-closed cave. Both places are absolutely beautiful. It is possible to snorkel and scuba dive in both cenotes! 

Cenote Dzonbacal. The best cenotes in Yucatan. Cenotes near Merida.

The cenotes are open every day from 9:30 am to 5 pm. However, since there isn’t so much space to swim, they can get quite busy, so it is better to arrive early. There was also a time limit of staying a maximum of 45 minutes per cenote. The entry fee is $100 pesos per person, which gives you access to both cenotes.

Here’s what you need to know when visiting cenotes X’Batun and Dzonbakal near Merida: – Entrance fee:  $100 pesos for 45 minutes in each cenote. Must pay extra for professional cameras – Amenities:  Bathrooms – Distance from Merida:  51 km or 32 mils. About 1-hour drive from Merida – Opening hours:  9:30 am to 5 pm, daily – Best tip:  Arrive early to beat the crowds – Best cenote in the YucatĂĄn for:  Getting a 2-in-1 entry

5 amazing cenotes near Valladolid

Valladolid is a beautiful small colonial town in the Mexican state of YucatĂĄn. One of the best things to do from Valladolid is to visit Chichen Itza. But for those you want to experience the true charm of Valladolid, you have to check out all the cenotes near Valladolid.

In fact, there are so many beautiful cenotes that are around Valladolid, but uniquely, there is also one that is in the heart of the city. Here are the must-see cenotes around Valladolid.

1. Cenote Zaci , a beautiful cenote in the heart of Valladolid

Submitted by Shelley of TravelMexicoSolo .com

After you check out all the  best things to do in Valladolid, Mexico , head straight to Cenote Zaci for a refreshing swim. This cenote is only a 10-15 minute walk from Downtown Valladolid, an up-and-coming Mexico travel destination.

Cenote Zaci is a semi-open cenote, meaning it has large cave-like walls and an open-top. There are plenty of shaded areas to escape the direct sunlight while you’re swimming, and a few rocky cliffs where you can jump into the water.

Cenote Zaci. The best cenotes in Yucatan. Cenotes near Valladolid

It’s a deep water cenote, so it won’t have the crystal clear blue color of some others. The snorkeling visibility is pretty good, and you’re likely to see some small fish and maybe even a turtle or two.

After you swim, enjoy a traditional Yucatecan food meal at their onsite restaurant. Here, you can sample local dishes like cochinita pibil, poc chuc, sopa de lima and panuchos.

You can visit this cenote pretty much anytime, as it’s never super crowded and it’s quite big. Cenote Zaci is daily from 8 am to 5:30 pm (more or less).

Here’s what you need to know when visiting cenote Zaci in YucatĂĄn: – Entrance fee:  $30 pesos – Amenities:  Restaurant, bathrooms – Distance from Valladolid:  It’s in th heart of Valladolid – Opening hours:  8 am to 5:30 pm daily – Best tip:  If you’re eating at the restaurant, you get free admission to the cenote. If not, admission is still just $30 pesos (about $2 USD), but do make sure to sample some local YucatĂĄn food while in the YucatĂĄn! – Best cenote in Valladolid for:  exploring a cenote without leaving Valladolid

2. San Lorenzo Oxman

Contributed by Karen from OutdoorAdventureSampler.com

A visit to San Lorenzo Oxman is the best of both worlds. It’s a beautiful cenote and also a charming hacienda to enjoy. It’s located only a 10-minute drive from Valladolid. It’s a quick cab ride or you can rent a bike and cycle there.

Hacienda San Lorenzo Oxman is a historic building dating back to 1746. The yellow and red adobe walls form the entrance to the cenote property. There is also a swimming pool and a restaurant serving local food. Grab a cabana to relax by the pool with a drink and food after your cenote experience. It’s easy to spend 2-3 hours here.

Cenote San Lorenzo Oxman. The best cenotes in Yucatan. Cenotes near Valladolid.

San Lorenzo Oxman cenote in YucatĂĄn is a deep open hole with steep walls and tree roots cascading down. You descend stairs until you reach wooden platforms for jumping or diving. A popular activity is to jump or flip off the rope swinging across the water. The deep water is a brilliant aqua blue. Visiting Oxman cenote is one of the many amazing  outdoor adventures in the YucatĂĄn .

The hours for the cenote are 9 am-6 pm every day. Get there early to avoid the crowds. Basic admission to the cenote is $150 MXN. Pay $250 MXN to get a $200 MXN credit to eat and drink in the restaurant. The buffet package is $300MXN. All include a mandatory lifejacket, use of the cenote and the pool.

Here’s what you need to know when visiting cenote San Lorenzo Oxman near Valladolid: – Entrance fee:  Basic admission: $150 MXN. Pay $250 MXN to get a $200 MXN credit to eat and drink in the restaurant. The buffet package is $300 MXN. – Amenities:  Bathrooms, restaurant, pool – Distance from Valladolid:  6.4 km or 4 miles, about 10 minutes driving – Opening hours:  9 am to 6 pm, daily – Best tip:  Get the food credit with admission because the food is tasty and reasonable – Best cenote near Valladolid for:  Visiting a hacienda as well as a cenote

3. X’Can ChĂ©, a nust-see cenote near Ek Balam ruins in YucatĂĄn

Contributed by Daria from TheDiscoveryNut.com

Located near Ek Balam Mayan ruins, X’Can ChĂ© is a hidden gem cenote in Mexico’s YucatĂĄn Peninsula. Many travelers who visit Ek Balam miss out on X’Can ChĂ©, as it’s located just over a mile away from the entrance to the archaeological site.

To get to X’Can ChĂ©, you can take a walk or rent a bike for about $100 pesos. The entrance to Cenote X’Can ChĂ© is $70 pesos. You could also enjoy fun activities like zip-lining over this cenote at an additional cost. 

There are also showers where you should take a quick wash before entering (like around other cenotes around YucatĂĄn), as well as changing rooms and lockers where you can store your belongings.

Cenote X'Can Ché. The best cenotes in Yucatan. Cenotes near Merida

To get to this cenote in YucatĂĄn, walk down a set of steep wooden stairs. If you come here early morning or late in the afternoon, you might even have this cenote all to yourself, as there are generally few people here.

This YucatĂĄn cenote is a big open sinkhole that is perfect for taking a swim after enjoying the educational tour of Ek Balam Mayan ruins. Like many archaeological areas around YucatĂĄn, Ek Balam is located in the jungle and a stop at this cenote is a great way to cool down after spending time in the humid jungle.

Here’s what you need to know when visiting X’canche cenote near Valladolid: – Entrance fee:  $70 pesos – Amenities:  Showers, bathrooms, changing rooms, lockers, zipline – Distance from Valladolid:  28 km or 17 miles, about 30 minutes driving – Opening hours:  8 am to 5 pm, daily – Best tip:  Combine it with a visit to Ek Balam archaeological site – Best cenote near Valladolid for:  Ziplining and cooling down after visiting the nearby ruins

4. Suytun, the most famous cenote in Mexico

Contributed by yours truly from wediditourway.com

If you mention the words ‘cenote in Mexico’ to anyone, chances are really high that they will tell you about this amazing cenote they’ve seen on the internet, with a platform and a magical ray of light. Chances are, they’re talking about Cenote Suytun. This is the world’s most famous and most photographed cenote… well, we think so!

Cenote Suytun is located just outside of Valladolid. It’s a fairly easy and straightforward route to get to it. And once you’re close, you’ll see a ton of signs for it. You can even choose to stay on the premises if you’d like, as they have 18 cabins for rent.

Suytun is a mystical place. At the right time, around noon (sometimes just before, sometimes, just after, depending on the time of year), the light beams in from the opening in the cave and creates an epic ambiance.

cuzama cenote tour

Of course, most people come to take their pictures at Suytun and then leave, but the truth is, it’s a fabulous place to swim as well! Not many people take the time to jump in. Yet, a life jacket is included with your entry ticket.

You also have access to another cenote, Suytun Kaa Pe, which is located on the same premises as the main attraction. The great news about this cenote is that it is also quite beautiful, it’s a half-open cave, but you have to go in through a tunnel and stairs. And no one comes to visit this cenote. So make sure you take the time and go. While we visited, it was not possible to swim in this cenote.

Entry to Suytun will set you back $150 pesos per person (or $130 if you buy your ticket online ). It includes a life jacket. You also have access to bathrooms, showers and changing rooms. There is also a restaurant, a bar and a gift shop on the premises.

Here’s what you need to know when visiting cenote Suytun in YucatĂĄn: – Entrance fee:  $150 pesos in person, or $130 online (life jacket included) – Amenities:  Bar, restaurant, bathrooms, changing rooms, lockers, accommodations – Distance from Valladolid:  8 km or 5 miles, about 15 minutes by car or scooter – Opening hours:  9 am to 5 pm daily, last admission at 4 pm – Best tip:  Arrive at opening. Crowds start to fill in around 11-11:30 am. If you want to be alone, head to the cenote next to it: Suytun Kaa Pe. – Best cenote near Valladolid for:  Getting your most Instafamous shot

5. Xlakaj, a very local YucatĂĄn cenote to visit near Valladolid

Xlakaj is a beautiful open cenote near Valladolid. This cenote is a hidden gem for locals. In fact, when we went, we were the only foreign tourists around… mind you, there were less than 10 people there!

Cenote Xlajac. Cenote near Valladolid. Cenote in Yucatan Mexico

Xlakaj cenote is located in a biopark about 15 minutes outside of Valladolid. Entrance will cost $50 for foreigners, but $25 for locals. A life vest is not included in the price, but you can rent one. However, the cost of the rental is unclear.

When we visited, the man who rented life vests was not around, so we took 2 of them and made our way down to the cenote. The sign said $25 per hour for the jackets, and we figured we would pay that on our way out when the guy was back. However, when we returned them, he proceeded to tell us that the cost was actually in USD, not in pesos. We didn’t buy this. He tried to argue with us and asked that instead, we give him $150 pesos. We refused – this was clearly a scam. We gave him $50 pesos, which is what it probably cost anyway, and left. Make sure you don’t fall for this scam. Costs are rarely written in USD, especially in such a local spot.

Cenote Xlajac. Cenote near Valladolid. Cenote in Yucatan Mexico

Anyway, the cenote itself is quite beautiful. It’s in this deep pit you need to take stairs down to access. It’s also surrounded by lush YucatĂĄn jungle. You can see trees and plants growing all around it. And there are a ton of birds that call this place home.

The cenote is a deep dark blue, so if you want to see what lies below, make sure you bring some snorkeling equipment.

The biopark also has accommodations to rent, if you’d like to stay here longer.

Here’s what you need to know when visiting cenote Xlakaj in YucatĂĄn: – Entrance fee:  $50 pesos – Amenities:  Bathrooms, changing rooms, life jackets for rent, accommodations – Distance from Valladolid:  9 km or 6 miles, about 15 minutes drive – Opening hours:  8 am to 5 pm daily – Best tip:  Don’t pay $25 USD for a lifejacket! – Best cenote near Valladolid for:  chilling with locals, swimming around without crowds

The must-see cenote near Chichen Itza

Chichen Itza is an attraction all to itself! But for those who want to make their trip even more special, make sure you check out this amazing cenote that is a short drive from the Mayan Ruins.

1. Ik Kil, Chichen Itza’s impressive cenote

Cenote Ik Kil is located about a 10-minute drive away from Chichen Itza. This cenote is also one of Mexico’s most famous ones. In fact, in 2014, it was home to the Red Bull cliff diving competition. In fact, they have a small platform you can also jump in from.

If not, Il Kil cenote is known for being a dramatic semi-open cenote with lush gardens around it, in fact, looking up, you see a ton of trees roots, vines and plants hanging down. The cenote is about 60 meters in diameter and about 50 meters deep.

Il Kil cenote in Yucatan

Entrance to Ik Kil will cost you either $150 per person and includes a life jacket and a locker. If not, you can choose to pay $350 and it will give you access to the life jacket, locker, a buffet meal and a drink. On-site, you will find restrooms, a snack bar (the buffet is only for those who buy the ticket), changing rooms, accommodations and even a Mayan Ruin.

Although Il Kil is quite popular, it’s still worth a stop. We combined it with an early morning visit to Chichen Itza. In fact, most tours will bring you to both these sites, but it’s easy to do them without a tour. Just take a colectivo from Chichen Itza – about $20 pesos a person. Since tours show up to the Ruins around 10 am, expect them to come to the cenote around 12-1 pm.

Il Kil cenote in Yucatan

Even if Ik Kil cenote near Chichen Itza is busy, you don’t really feel like it’s overcrowded. You still have the ability to swim around and enjoy the view. This cenote is even more impressive because it’s about 26 meters below ground level. You have to take a carved stairway down (about 100 steps) to get to it.

Here’s what you need to know when visiting cenote Ik Kil near Chichen Itza in the state of YucatĂĄn: – Entrance fee:  $150 pesos – Amenities:  Changing rooms, lockers, life jackets, showers, restaurants, accommodations – Distance from Chichen Itza:  6 km or 4 miles, about an 8 minute colectivo ride – Opening hours:  9 am to 5 pm daily – Best tip:  Combine this visit with a trip to Chichen Itza – Best cenote near Chichen Itza for:  being close to Chichen Itza, getting increadible views of a beautiful cenote

5 cenotes in the Ring of Cenotes near HomĂșn & CuzamĂĄ

HomĂșn and CuzamĂĄ are home to a ton of cenotes. In fact, here, you’ll find their own respective rings of cenotes where you have a high concentration of cenotes all within a short drive of each other.

If you’re looking to do a day of cenote-hopping, this is the place to be! You can rent a car from Merida and drive out here on a day trip. From here, you can visit some of the best cenotes in the YucatĂĄn.

Here are the ones our favorite bloggers recommended.

1. Cenotes Santa Barbara, three must-see cenotes in HomĂșn

Contributed by Brodi from OurOffbeatLife.com

The Santa Barbara Cenotes are a collection of three separate cenotes located within the same complex. It’s a one-hour  day trip from Merida , so the best way to get there is either by private car or by hiring a guided tour.

On arrival, you either ride bicycles or on a horse-drawn cart to access the first cenote from the entrance. The ride is hilly, so the cart is popular with most visitors. Life jackets are available to all swimmers, both adults and kids.

The first cenote is fully underground, so visitors must access it by wooden stairs. The second and third cenote are walkable from the first. The second is semi-enclosed while the third is mostly open to the sky. However, it is still accessible only by stairs leading down to the water’s surface.

Cenote Santa Barbara. The best cenotes in Yucatan. Cenotes near Homun

There is a restaurant on-site as well as lockers at the front entrance. If you choose to take your belongings with you to the cenotes, there is nowhere at each cenote to securely store them. 

The Santa Barbara Cenotes get a little busier in the afternoons, so it’s best to go shortly after the open at 8 am. Alternately, you can go a few hours before they close at 5 pm. However, if you do that you may not have all the time you like to actually swim there. 

Because there are three cenotes on-site, it’s best to plan at least three and a half hours at Santa Barbara. That allows for one hour at each cenote as well as some travel time between them. The price is $350 pesos per person. Kids are discounted. 

Here’s what you need to know when visiting cenote Santa Barbara in YucatĂĄn: – Entrance fee:  $350 pesos for the three cenotes – Amenities:  Lockers, restaurant, life vests – Opening hours:  8 am to 5 pm – Best tip:  If you want to stay here for a long time, arrive early, at opening – Best cenote near HomĂșn for:  visiting 3 cenotes all in the same spot

2. Cenote Tres Oches, a must-see in the heart of the HomĂșn ring of cenotes

Contributed by Sally of SallySees.com

Cenote Tres Oches is located in the small town of HomĂșn, around one hour from Merida. One of the least developed cenotes in the area, it has a very natural and untouched feel. A steep ladder-style staircase leads you down into the small semi-open cenote, with lush greenery growing all around you. The water here is electric blue, and you can see meters down to the bottom so bring snorkeling gear, if you have it.

The best way to reach the cenote is via a rental car from Merida. There are many cenotes in the HomĂșn area, and having your own wheels gives you the flexibility to visit multiple in one day. However, it is possible to reach Tres Oches via public transport. From Merida, catch a colectivo to HomĂșn from Terminal Noreste on Calle 67. The colectivo will drop you off in the square in the center of HomĂșn town. From here, it’s under 2 km to the cenote. You can choose to walk or take one of the many moto-taxis.

Cenote Tres Oches. The best cenotes in Yucatan. Cenotes near Homun

There are barely any facilities at Cenote Tres Oches, which is part of the appeal. You enter along a very bumpy dirt road, and once you arrive you will find a small palapa where you pay your entrance fee, a bathroom and that’s it! The hero here is the cenote itself, and besides the wooden staircase and platform to access the pool, it has been left in its natural state.

The entrance fee is $50 pesos per person, and life jackets are not mandatory. They are available to rent for an extra fee if you require them. The cenote opens from 9 am – 5 pm but be warned that opening hours have loose enforcement in Mexico!

This cenote is not as popular as others in the areas, so you have the chance to have it to yourself no matter what time of the day you visit. But first thing in the morning is always best to beat the crowds.

Here’s what you need to know when visiting cenote Tres Oches in YucatĂĄn: – Entrance fee:  $50 pesos – Amenities:  bathrooms, life jackets, that’s it! – Opening hours:  9 am to 5 pm – Best tip:  Come prepared as there are no amenities here. – Best cenote in HomĂșn for:  avoiding crowds and being in a natural cenote

3. Cenote Mani Chan, a hidden cenote in the CuzamĂĄ Ring of Cenotes

Mani Chan is a small family-owned cenote near CuzamĂĄ. It’s located in the famous ring of cenotes. However, if you don’t type it in as a destination in your Google Maps, there are no signs around to point you to the right direction.

However, Mani Chan is an amazing cave cenote to visit. Since it’s off the beaten path, not many people come here. What we loved about it was that we had the cenote to ourselves for a good 2 hours. Also, we adored the fact that you didn’t need to take a horse and buggy to get to the cenote, as you have to do with most other cenotes in the area. We also loved the low $50 pesos entrance fee (compared to $300+ for some)

cuzama cenote tour

To access Mani Chan, you have to drive down a dirt road for a good 10 minutes. Then you’ll arrive at this little area that the owners have started to decorate with picnic tables, arches of flowers, landscaping and more. The owner will greet you, then take you down the cenote where he’ll give you the background story of cenotes in general, and this one specifically.

You have to walk down a cavern path to get to this cenote, but the walk down is awesome! Cenote Mani Chan’s water is crystal clear, it’s filtered through the soil and rock. In fact, you can even see water dripping down. You can hang on a rope in the cenote in the deeper part. However, there is also a shallower part where you can walk around.

cuzama cenote tour

Overall, this cenote is really lovely, especially for the price, which includes a life jacket. On site, you can find bathrooms (though they are in need of repair) and a snack shop.

Here’s what you need to know when visiting cenote Mani Chan in YucatĂĄn: – Entrance fee:  $50 pesos – Amenities:  bathrooms, snacks, life jacket – Opening hours:  9 am to 5 pm – Best tip:  Combine it with a visit to the next cenote – Best cenote in CuzamĂĄ for:  avoiding crowds and supporting a local family

4. Clotilde cenote, a hidden cenote in CuzamĂĄ

Clotilde cenote in YucatĂĄn state is a hidden gem. It’s not indicated on any maps and there are no signs pointing to it. The only way to access it is by going to Mani Chan cenote first. In fact, for $100 pesos, you can gain access to both cenotes.

Clotilde is a closed cenote that only has a small opening to go down into it. Like other cenotes with a big hole opening in the cave, there are many roots and vines that almost reach the ground. This gives the cenote an eery, cool and very Indiana Jones feel to it.

Cenote Clotilde. Cenote near Merida. Cenote in Yucatan Mexico

Going up and down the stairs, you have to be careful not to bump your head (Yes, Derek totally bumped his!). You also can’t be scared of bees. Truth is, when we got down there, there was a swarm of bees. But if you stay cool and let them be, they won’t do anything.

Cenote Clotilde has crystal clear water and the view with the light and the hanging roots is really something spectacular! We had this cenote all to ourselves. It was such a fun experience.

Cenote Clotilde. Cenote near Merida. Cenote in Yucatan Mexico

Make sure you visit this YucatĂĄn cenote along with Mani Chan and a few of the other cenotes on the Cenote Route of CuzamĂĄ and HomĂșn.

Here’s what you need to know when visiting cenote Clotilde in YucatĂĄn: – Entrance fee:  $50 pesos – Amenities:  Changing rooms (maybe bathrooms though we didn’t see any) – Opening hours:  9 am to 5 pm daily – Best tip:  Don’t pay attention to the bees, just enjoy it – Best cenote in CuzamĂĄ for:  Incredible views and having a cenote to yourself.

5. Chunkuy cenote, a relaxing cenote in CuzamĂĄ

Cenote Chunkuy is a beautiful cave cenote in CuzamĂĄ. To access it, you need to walk down a few steps. Then, you’ll enter into this really large cave with crystal clear water and small black catfish swimming in it.

Entrance to Chunkuy cenote will cost you $50 pesos. You can also combine your visit with a stop to Cenote Yaxbacaltun, and they will give you a 20% discount on the entry price. They even have a package that includes a meal. Your entrance fee also gives you access to a lifejacket, as well as to the hammocks that are hanging outside the cenote. This is the perfect place to hang and dry off before heading on your way to explore more cenotes in HomĂșn or CuzamĂĄ.

cuzama cenote tour

Although Chunkuy cenote is artificially lit, it’s still a very cool cenote to swim around in. The sheer size of it makes it super impressive to explore. Plus, the lighting lets you see details you wouldn’t normally see.

We visited this cenote in the afternoon and there were not that many people. It seems like this is not a super popular cenote, so you can visit anytime!

Here’s what you need to know when visiting cenote Chunkuy in YucatĂĄn: – Entrance fee:  $50 pesos – Amenities:  Bathrooms, hammocks, life vests – Distance from Valladolid:   – Opening hours:  9 am to 6 pm – Best tip:  Combine your visit here with a stop at Cenote Yaxbacaltun – Best cenote in CuzamĂĄ for:  Relaxing on hammocks and swimming in a huge cave cenote

How to get to the best cenotes in YucatĂĄn

There are many different ways you can reach the best cenotes in the YucatĂĄn. It will all depend on your budget, the time you have available and what you want to do during your day.

Renting a car to visit cenotes in HomĂșn or CuzamĂĄ

If you plan on visiting many cenotes in a day and exploring places where they are concentrated like the ring of cenotes in HomĂșn or CuzamĂĄ, your best option is to rent a car . This will give you the flexibility and freedom to explore at your own rhythm.

Car rental in Mexico is fairly inexpensive and driving around in the YucatĂĄn is very safe. In fact, we not only rented a car while we were here, but we also rented a scooter. Both times, we had no problems, either with law enforcement or with locals.

If you are planning on renting a car, we recommend doing it in Merida. It’s the closest city to HomĂșn or CuzamĂĄ. Since they are a good hour away from the city, a scooter might end up being a pain in the butt! (Literally). This will also allow you to visit some of the cenotes near Merida. There is not much to do in HomĂșn or CuzamĂĄ so we won’t recommend staying in those towns.

Plus, if you end up being a group or meeting people on your trip, you can band together and reduce the cost of the rental.

Car rental to get to the best cenotes in Yucatan

Renting a scooter to explore cenotes near Valladolid

We absolutely loved staying in Valladolid and highly recommend it. It’s a small and cute colonial town that is beautiful to explore.

While you’re here, you don’t need a car as most of the cenotes near Valladolid are about 15-20 minutes away. This is why we recommend renting a scooter in Valladolid.

The cost of the scooter rental will be about $500 pesos for 24 hours. This will allow you to visit quite a few nearby Valladolid cenotes without having to worry too much about gas prices or parking.

Taking a colectivo to YucatĂĄn cenotes

Another option is taking colectivos to the many cenotes in YucatĂĄn. Although they are quite cheap, colectivos are not always the best way to get around in terms of flexibility or comfort.

Note that most colectivos don’t have air conditioning. Plus, they are often filled to capacity, which can make for a sticky ride. And, they only run when they are full, so you may sometimes have to wait to get a ride… or to find one if you are not leaving from the main destination.

This said, colectivos are still a great option to get to certain places. For example, we took a colectivo to get to Chichen Itza, and to Ik Kil cenote from there. This was a very cheap and convenient way to get there from Valladolid. It’s a also a great way to meet locals (it’s a plus if you can speak Spanish)!

Taking a moto-taxi to get around the cenotes in CuzamĂĄ and HomĂșn

Once you get to CuzamĂĄ and HomĂșn, you will notice a bunch of moto-taxis. This is a fun way to get around the different cenotes.

The ride will cost you about $25 pesos per person. however, you can try and negotiate a better rate or a daily rate if you plan on using the same person. You can also ask them for personalized recommendations.

However, know that often, these moto-taxis have partnerships with cenotes. They get a small cut by bringing people to certain places.

Going on a cenote tour in YucatĂĄn

Another way to visit many cenotes (and other sites), is to join a tour . This is a great option for those who are either solo travelers or for those who want to make the best of their short time in the YucatĂĄn Peninsula. It’s also perfect for people who want to get more information on the places they are going.

There are so many tours available that leave from Merida , Valladolid , or even Cancun , and that go to the cenotes in the area.

Avoid riding the horse and buggy to the cenotes in CuzamĂĄ and HomĂșn

One of the most popular ways we saw to get to the cenotes in CuzamĂĄ and HomĂșn was to take a horse or donkey-led buggy to the cenote. Many owners will tout this as an extra attraction. However, we urge you not to visit cenotes that have these horses and buggies.

You’ll notice as soon as you see these animals that they are malnourished and poorly treated. Visiting these cenotes only contributes to the cycle of animal abuse.

And while we understand that this is a way for owners to make money, and that even they have a hard time making ends meet, this is not a solution.

Zacil ha cenote in Tulum

5 important things to know before visiting cenotes in YucatĂĄn

Here are some basic eco-friendly rules to follow to make sure you respect the delicate balance and ecosystem of the cenotes.

  • Shower.  Before entering any cenote, it’s highly recommended that you take a quick shower. Most cenotes will have a shower available for you and will ask you to shower before going in. Yes, they even have staff making sure you do it. Cenotes are their own little eco-systems, so showering before entering is meant to keep them as it is, and not introduce anything new into them.
  • Don’t wear sunscreen or bug spray. Even if it’s reef-safe or environmentally friendly, it’s highly discouraged to wear sunscreen or bug spray in cenotes. The chemicals will unbalance the environment and cause long-lasting harm. That’s why it’s more recommended to wear long sleeves to protect your skin from the sun and mosquitoes or flies.
  • Don’t wear creams, perfumes or hair products. As we mentioned, chemicals of any kind will cause irreparable damage to cenotes and their fragile environments. They also pollute the waterways of the local people. If you plan on going to a cenote, make sure you don’t wear any chemical products on your skin or in your hair.
  • Don’t litter. These places are beautiful and need to be preserved for future generations and local populations, so please don’t litter if you visit a cenote, please don’t litter. And if you can, bring your trash home with you. Often, clean-up efforts are scarce in certain remote locations, so if you can, bring your trash home with you. Even if you throw it in a trash bin nearby, animals can rummage through it and spread the trash around. Also, pick up any litter you see, at cenotes or anywhere else in nature.
  • Don’t stand on the rocks or touch the formations.  As we mentioned, the ecosystem in cenotes is fragile, so please don’t stand on the rock formations in the water. For example, in  Bacalar , the stromatolites are living ecosystems that can be damaged when you touch them. The same goes for the different formations you see in the water or in the caves. Plus, the more you touch them, the more they are prone to erosion and damage.

These are some basic tips to follow to make sure we keep the cenotes clean and ready for others to enjoy. If you want a few more tips to be more of an eco-friendly traveler,  here are some tips you can follow .

Want to visit other cenotes? Check out our article on the best cenotes in Quinatana Roo . These are the best sinkholes near Cancun , Tulum, Playa del Carmen and Bacalar .

Cenote in Mexico

Top 14 YucatĂĄn cenotes to visit

There you have it! The top 14 cenotes in the state of YucatĂĄn that you need to add to your list! Of course, there are a ton of other cenotes all around the state and in the YucatĂĄn Peninsula, but if you want to make the best of your time here, we recommend checking these out. They are the top cenotes we have visited, along with the best ones our favorite travel bloggers recommend.

  • Santa Barbara
  • San Lorenzo Oxman
  • X’Batun & Dzonbakal

Let us know in the comments which cenote you’re most excited to visit. Is there any other information you’d like about these cenotes? Are there any others we should be adding to the list?

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We’re Carine and Derek, two Canadians in love with each other, the environment and this world. We left our old routines behind to discover all the wonders our planet has to offer. We want to inspire everyone to chase their dreams and leave a positive impact on Earth.

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IMAGES

  1. Cuzama Cenotes from Chunkana Day Trip in Progreso

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  2. Descubre los cenotes de CuzamĂĄ en YucatĂĄn

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  3. CuzamĂĄ tiene los tres cenotes mĂĄs hermosos de todo MĂ©rida

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  4. Descubre los cenotes de CuzamĂĄ en YucatĂĄn

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  5. Full-Day Cuzama Cenote Tour from MĂ©rida

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  6. 365 DĂ­as en YucatĂĄn

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COMMENTS

  1. Visiting the Cuzama Cenotes: An Awesome Adventure from Merida!

    🚐 Day Tour of Cuzama Cenotes: You can book this well-priced adventure tour to the Cuzama cenotes ($55 USD) that includes hotel pick-up, guide, the horse ride, all entrances, a visit to the town of Acanceh and even lunch too! Check pricing and availability of this Viator tour for your travel dates. More Awesome Day Trips from Merida Mexico:

  2. Cenotes

    Chunkanan Hacienda 3km from the town of Cuzama. These three cenotes are beautiful and rustic. The water is very very clear. The cenote "tour" via a horse- drawn carriage they call "truck" was just the beginning of the fun. You reach the start of this tour from the Chunkanan Village.

  3. The 3 Cuzama Cenotes, Yucatan: How To Visit Them + Tips

    Especially I love tours in Mexico because the guides are usually very knowledgeable and share a lot of interesting information about the area. Here is a high-rated tour from Merida to visit the Cuzama Cenotes. From Merida: Full-Day Cuzama Cenotes tour. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 13 Reviews

  4. Cuzama Cenotes Tour from Merida

    Duration: 8 hours. Tag. Tour Type: Shared Tour. Venture on a captivating journey as you delve into the enchanting world of YucatĂĄn's most beautiful cenotes, located within the renowned Ring of Cenotes. This extraordinary semi-circular alignment of over 100 cenotes is believed to be linked to the impact of an asteroid that struck the Earth 65 ...

  5. Cuzama Cenotes Adventure Day Trip

    Coloradas Adventure and Cancunito Beach Tour from Merida. 0. 12 hours 30 minutes. From. $129.00. Private Tour Cenotes of Mucuyche & Santa Barbara in one day. 48. 8 hours.

  6. 2024 Cuzama Cenotes Adventure Day Trip

    Private Tour Cenotes of Mucuyche & Santa Barbara in one day. 43. Full-day Tours. from. $305.99. per adult (price varies by group size) Santa Barbara Cenotes 1 Day Tour. 2. Full-day Tours.

  7. From Merida: Full-Day Cuzama Cenotes Tour

    Embark on an exhilarating full-day Cuzama Cenotes Tour packed with adventure and discovery. This Cuzama adventure promises to unveil the natural wonders of the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico.. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, participants can reserve now and pay later for flexibility.

  8. Acanceh Ruins and Cuzama Cenotes Tour from Merida

    Begin your spectacular cenote tour by travelling to the traditional town of Cuzama in a comfortable minivan, stopping along the way to visit the archeological treasures of Acanceh. Marvel at the ancient site founded between 200 and 300 AD, admiring several restored buildings.

  9. From Merida: Full-Day Cuzama Cenotes tour

    Swim deep in the belly of the caves. Full description. In this tour, you will visit three of the most beautiful cenotes in Yucatan: Cascabel, Chaksikin and Pool Cocom. You will arrive at the cenotes on board a truck that is typically used to transport agave leaves. The three cenotes are part of the "Ring of Cenotes," a network of more than 100 ...

  10. Cenote Cuzama: The Ultimate Guide to This Magical Sinkhole

    Travel and Accessibility to Cenote Cuzama is relatively easy. Many tour operators offer guided tours from the nearby city of Merida. The journey takes approximately one hour by car, and visitors can expect to spend three to four hours exploring the cenotes. It is important to note that the cenotes are located in a natural environment, and ...

  11. Cuzama Cenotes Adventure Day Trip

    The Cuzama Cenotes Adventure Day Trip is a full-day tour from Merida that visits three cenotes: Cascabel, Chaksikin, and Xoch. The tour includes round-trip transportation from Merida accommodations, allowing for convenient and hassle-free travel.

  12. Cuzama Cenotes: Jump In, Swim, Dive in Three Different Cenotes

    The Cuzama Cenotes tour begins at Chinkanan, a former henequen hacienda. Here you'll board a "truck"—a small wagon on rails pulled by a horse—and tour three cenotes along five miles of wilderness. Cuzama Cenotes: Chelentun. The entrance to the cenote is straightforward, which is not always the case. The stairs are made of concrete and ...

  13. Cenotes (Cuzama): All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

    The Cenotes in Cuzama are organised by the community ("cooperativa") who are local people of Maya origin. ... We recommend booking Cenotes tours ahead of time to secure your spot. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a full refund.

  14. From Merida: Full-Day Cuzama Cenotes tour

    Travel to the Ring of Cenotes, specifically visiting Cascabel, Chaksikin, and Xoch Cenotes on this full-day tour by truck or bicycle. Enjoy a swim at each stop and end with a tasty lunch.

  15. Merida to Cuzama Adventure Tour with Underground Cenotes 2024

    Cuzama Adventure Tour with 3 Underground Rivers from Merida. 14 Reviews. MĂ©rida, Mexico. 7 hours (approx.) Pickup offered. Mobile ticket. Offered in: English. and 1 more.

  16. Cuzama Cenotes Day Tour with Lunch

    Explore three cenotes on the Yucatan Peninsula in one day. Swim deep in the belly of the caves. Eat a delicious Mexican lunch served at a local restaurant. Ride a traditional truck used to transport henequen. Feel the power of nature with this tour. Show more. View in a map.

  17. Cuzama Cenotes from Chunkana Day Trip in Progreso

    Experience the breathtaking beauty of Cuzama's underwater sinkholes, or cenotes, the star attraction of this unique Progreso tour. Travel in style with horse-drawn buggies to escort you to the first cenote - a truly unforgettable and authentic journey. Immerse yourself in nature's best with the opportunity to swim in two out of three visited ...

  18. Visit the Cenotes of Cuzama

    It is the classic route of the 3 Cenotes of Cuzama, called Cenote CheletĂșn, Cenote Chak Zinik Che and Cenote Bolom Chojol, the tour is done by truck. San JosĂ© Eknakan. San JosĂ© Eknakan is a former hacienda that was founded in the 18th century as a cattle station under the jurisdiction of the town of HomĂșn. In 1790 its owner was Don Gregorio ...

  19. X'tohil: A Guide to the Cenotes in Cuzama, Yucatan

    X'tohil versus the other Cuzama CENOTES. I had planned this Merida day trip with every intention of going to visit the 3 cenotes at Cuzama, largely inspired by Roaming the World's experience.We would have taken the colectivo all the way to Cuzama and then a short trip on a motorbike but ended up getting off at the wrong stop. I'm a firm believer in "what's meant to be will be" and I like to ...

  20. Cenotes of Cuzama, Tour to the Cenotes of Cuzama

    The tour through the different cenotes is done in "trucks", which are small carts pulled by horses through 7 km on roads full of brush, adding an incredible flavor of adventure. The region where the municipality is located is classified as warm semi-dry with rains in summer, during which time the so-called mid-summer droughts occur.

  21. 365 Days in YucatĂĄn

    With more than 7 years of providing services, "Los 3 cenotes de CuzamĂĄ" is a fascinating tourist attraction, ideal for families or groups of friends.Dare to live the adventure, starting the tour by riding a truck pulled by animal force to the inside of the Yucatecan jungle.

  22. Ride in a Horse-Drawn Cart to Cenotes Cuzama

    The current charge is $400 pesos ($20 USD) per cart, up to 4 people. This gets you a small little mining cart made of wood and metal, plus a friendly guide and a horse to pull the cart to all three cenotes. Don't forget your swim shorts, a towel, sandals, and perhaps some food or drinks.

  23. 14 amazing cenotes in Yucatan, close to Merida, Valladolid, CuzamĂĄ & HomĂșn

    It's open daily from 8 am to 5 pm, and admission is $227 MXN pesos ($11 USD). Here's what you need to know when visiting cenote Xlacah in YucatĂĄn: - Entrance fee: $227 pesos, including access to the ruins. - Amenities: Bathrooms, life jackets. - Distance from Merida: 28 km or 17.5 miles, about 30-minutes driving.