Ruta de los Cenotes Cancún
Discover the magical cenotes of Cancun and the Riviera Maya, natural sinkholes with crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and adventure.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds
Ruta de los Cenotes Cancún
Best Time
Beat the crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the magical cenotes of Cancun and the Riviera Maya, natural sinkholes with crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and adventure.
"Experience the mystical beauty of ancient Mayan swimming holes, a refreshing escape into nature's artistry."
Wear Water Shoes! 👟
Closed-toe aqua shoes are highly recommended for better grip and safety in and around cenotes.
Eco-Friendly Swimming :sparkles:
Avoid sunscreen; opt for a rash guard to protect cenote water quality.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cenote La Noria
Puerto Morelos
A hidden oasis offering stunning natural beauty and a refreshing escape. Perfect for drone shots!

Cenote Zapote
Ruta de los Cenotes, Puerto Morelos
Experience the magic of this beautiful cenote along the famous Ruta de los Cenotes.

Cenote Xcajum
Near Cancun
A place of sounds and ancient rituals, offering a unique cultural and natural experience.

Cenote 7 Bocas
Ruta de los Cenotes, Puerto Morelos
Known for its distinct 'seven mouths' and clear waters, a favorite for its natural beauty.
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Timing is Key
Essential Gear for Your Cenote Adventure
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Water Shoes! 👟
Closed-toe aqua shoes are highly recommended for better grip and safety in and around cenotes.
Eco-Friendly Swimming :sparkles:
Avoid sunscreen; opt for a rash guard to protect cenote water quality.
Arrive Early :sunrise:
Beat the crowds by getting to popular cenotes right when they open.
Explore Off-Peak :star:
Consider visiting less-known cenotes for a more secluded experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Water Shoes! 👟
Closed-toe aqua shoes are highly recommended for better grip and safety in and around cenotes.
Eco-Friendly Swimming :sparkles:
Avoid sunscreen; opt for a rash guard to protect cenote water quality.
Arrive Early :sunrise:
Beat the crowds by getting to popular cenotes right when they open.
Explore Off-Peak :star:
Consider visiting less-known cenotes for a more secluded experience.
Respect Local Customs :pray:
Some cenotes offer welcome rituals; embrace the cultural experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking beauty and refreshing waters of the cenotes, highlighting the unique natural formations and the serene atmosphere. Many appreciate the opportunity to swim in these ancient geological wonders. However, some find certain popular cenotes can get crowded, and the cost of entry can add up if visiting multiple locations.
"Great historical visit. A guide is great for extra history lessons!"
Brian Smeltzer
"We went to Cenote Zapote. 4 total centotes. Two on-site and 2, you will have to drive 5 min. Buy tickets online"
Christian Rivera
"Just a monument. Didn’t go in to see cenote"
Patrick Assalian
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Ruta de los Cenotes is located near Puerto Morelos, about 20 miles south of Cancun. Renting a car is the easiest way to explore the cenotes as they are spread out and not easily walkable. Public transport is limited for reaching individual cenotes.
Yes, you can visit cenotes without a tour, especially those along the Ruta de los Cenotes. Renting a car provides the most flexibility. Some cenotes like 7 Bocas are easily accessible by driving in and paying the entrance fee.
From Cancun, drive south on Highway 307 to Puerto Morelos. Turn left onto the Ruta de los Cenotes and follow signs for Cenote 7 Bocas, which is about a 20-minute drive from the highway.
There are very few cenotes directly on bus routes from Cancun's Hotel Zone. The closest accessible cenotes are in Puerto Morelos along the Ruta de los Cenotes, but they require a car or taxi for efficient exploration.
In Homun, a popular way to explore multiple cenotes is by hiring a guide with a Tuc Tuc. Renting a car to reach Homun from Merida is also recommended for comfort.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entrance fees vary by cenote, typically ranging from $10 to $25 USD. Some cenotes like 7 Bocas have a straightforward entrance fee.
For most individual cenotes, advance booking isn't necessary. However, for private cenote rentals or popular adventure parks like Xplor, booking ahead is recommended.
Yes, some cenotes, like Cenote Madre in Puerto Aventuras, offer private rentals for events, accommodating up to 30 people.
Operating hours vary, but many cenotes open in the morning and close in the late afternoon. Some suggest visiting after 5 or 6 PM for a less crowded experience.
For cenotes like Casa Tortuga, access to the caves requires a guided tour fee, while open cenotes may have free access or a separate entrance fee.
🎫 🏊 Onsite Experience
Bring a towel, swimwear, water shoes, and a rash guard. Some cenotes offer locker and life jacket rentals.
Most cenotes are open for swimming and snorkeling. Some cave cenotes may require a guided tour for entry.
Some cenotes offer additional activities like zip-lining and cliff jumping, such as Cenote Verde and Cenote Azul.
The 'cenote theory' is a mysterious concept mentioned on TikTok, hinting at unique or perhaps cautionary aspects of visiting cenotes. It's advised to learn about it before entering.
Cenote Azul is often recommended for families due to its open, sunny lagoon and shallower areas. It also offers amenities like lockers and life jackets.
📸 📸 Photography
Drone usage might be restricted at some cenotes. Cenote La Noria has been featured with drone footage, but it's best to check specific rules.
Cenotes with unique rock formations, clear turquoise water, and natural light, like Cenote La Noria and open cenotes with lush surroundings, are great for photos.
Photography is generally allowed, but be mindful of lighting conditions in caves. Waterproof cameras or phone cases are recommended.
While not explicitly stated for most cenotes, large professional equipment might require special permission. Always be respectful of other visitors.
Morning light is often ideal for capturing the vibrant colors of the water and surrounding jungle.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When visiting other cenotes, consider those with easier access and less challenging terrain. Always ensure children wear life jackets if they are not strong swimmers, and keep a close eye on them, especially in deeper or cave cenotes. Packing snacks and plenty of water is also a good idea for a comfortable family outing.
💰 Budget Travelers
Utilizing public transport as much as possible to reach towns like Puerto Morelos or Homun can save on car rental costs, though getting to individual cenotes might still require a local taxi or a shared ride. Packing your own snacks and water will also help keep daily expenses down.
🌿 Nature & Adventure Lovers
If you enjoy photography, bring a waterproof camera or a good phone case to capture the stunning underwater formations and the interplay of light. For a truly immersive experience, look into cenotes that offer guided tours, which can reveal hidden geological features and local lore.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Ruta de los Cenotes
Popular cenotes along this route include Cenote 7 Bocas, known for its unique formations, and Cenote Zapote, offering a beautiful swimming experience. Many of these cenotes are open-air, allowing sunlight to illuminate the crystal-clear waters, making them perfect for swimming and photography.
When exploring the Ruta de los Cenotes, it's advisable to arrive early to avoid crowds and fully appreciate the tranquility of these natural sinkholes. Some visitors also suggest visiting later in the afternoon for a more intimate experience.
Cenote Etiquette and Conservation
Before entering any cenote, it's important to shower to remove any lotions or oils from your skin. This simple step significantly helps maintain water quality. Some cenotes also have specific theories or traditions associated with them, like the 'cenote theory' mentioned on TikTok, which encourages visitors to be mindful and respectful of the site's history and natural significance.
By adhering to these guidelines, visitors can ensure that these natural wonders remain beautiful and accessible for generations to come. Respecting the environment is part of the authentic experience of visiting these sacred Mayan sites.
Unique Cenote Experiences
For adventure seekers, parks like Xplor offer a more curated experience with activities such as zip-lining, ATV circuits, and underground river expeditions, though these come at a higher price point. If you're looking for a more exclusive setting, some cenotes, like Cenote Madre in Puerto Aventuras, can be booked for private events, offering a personalized experience for groups.
Travelers also highlight cenotes like Cenote Azul and Cenote Verde for their open-air beauty, cliff jumping opportunities, and the chance to find quieter spots away from larger groups. These varied offerings ensure there's a cenote experience for almost every type of traveler.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit