Cenote Carwash Aktun-Ha
Aktun Ha, known as Cenote Carwash, offers clear waters for swimming, snorkeling, and diving, with a unique history and vibrant aquatic life.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better visibility
Cenote Carwash Aktun-Ha
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better visibility

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Aktun Ha, known as Cenote Carwash, offers clear waters for swimming, snorkeling, and diving, with a unique history and vibrant aquatic life.
"This was our favorite cenote! Lovely people and beautiful waters make it perfect for photos."
🚫 No Sunscreen/Repellent!
Protect the water: shower before entering & skip the sunscreen.
📸 Bring Waterproof Camera
Capture the stunning underwater world and light beams.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Crystal-Clear Swimming & Snorkeling
Main open-air area
Dive into refreshing, transparent waters teeming with fish and occasional turtles. Perfect for a relaxing swim or exploring underwater life.

Underwater Photography Haven
Throughout the cenote
Capture stunning shots of light beams, aquatic flora, and fauna. Ideal for both casual photographers and professional divers.

Cave Diving Access
Designated diving entry points
Explore the extensive underwater cave systems connected to Sac Actun. A popular training ground for certified divers.

Jumping Platforms
Various points around the edge
Enjoy a fun thrill by jumping from platforms into the cool, inviting water. A favorite for many visitors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the Best Experience
Protect the Pristine Waters
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚫 No Sunscreen/Repellent!
Protect the water: shower before entering & skip the sunscreen.
📸 Bring Waterproof Camera
Capture the stunning underwater world and light beams.
🤿 Snorkel Gear Recommended
Explore the vibrant aquatic life up close.
🚗 Rent a Car for Flexibility
Easier access to cenotes from Cancun/Tulum.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚫 No Sunscreen/Repellent!
Protect the water: shower before entering & skip the sunscreen.
📸 Bring Waterproof Camera
Capture the stunning underwater world and light beams.
🤿 Snorkel Gear Recommended
Explore the vibrant aquatic life up close.
🚗 Rent a Car for Flexibility
Easier access to cenotes from Cancun/Tulum.
💰 Check for Local Discounts
Mexican residents may get a discount.
⏰ Arrive Early for Peace
Beat the crowds for a serene experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Cenote Carwash (Aktun Ha) is praised for its clear waters, abundant wildlife, and affordability, making it a favorite for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. While some visitors found the water clarity inconsistent after rain, most highlight its mesmerizing beauty and peaceful atmosphere, especially on weekdays. The historical aspect and accessibility add to its charm.
"Beautiful cenote on the road connecting Tulum to Coba, it is a delightful area perfect both for diving due to the presence of underwater caves, or simply for bathing and snorkeling. The price is cheap, 300 Mexican pesos plus 20 pesos for the locker, but the spot is so mesmerizing, with clear water and plenty of wildlife (sea turtles, herons, fish). Calm and peaceful, highly recommended on a week day when it is not crowded!"
Tiziana
"We visited Aktun Ha aka the Car Wash cenote today. Unfortunately, the water wasn’t very clear. We snorkeled around the cenote’s perimeter, which had the best views, but still only saw a few fish. There were some turtles resting outside the water near the far end of the cenote, but we never saw any while snorkeling. There are two jumping platforms and a few areas to sit or place your things. Overall, we felt the cenote was on the smaller side, probably handling 30-40 people comfortably.
We also have been living in Mexico for a year and a half, and we have residency cards. There are discounts for Mexican residents, Yucatecan locals, etc. My husband didn’t see the pricing board as he was buying tickets. The transaction wasn’t complete when I mentioned the discounts. Since the employee had already put the band on him, she said it was too late. Again, the transaction wasn’t complete. We gave cash but hadn’t received change back. She did process my entry as a resident. But, those types of incidents are just a little frustrating.
Wish it hd been a better experience for us."
Chris Samples
"Great swimming hole with a platform about 10 feet high to jump off of. Showers, bathrooms, lockers and life vests if you need them. Kind of low key and not to crowded. We practically had the place to ourselves."
Nicholas Mastrogiorgio
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cenote Carwash (Aktun Ha) is conveniently located about 10 minutes from Tulum on the Tulum-Coba highway. Renting a car is highly recommended for easy access and flexibility to visit other cenotes. Taxis are also an option, but can be more expensive.
Yes, driving to Cenote Carwash is straightforward. The roads are generally well-maintained, and it's a popular route for tourists exploring the Riviera Maya.
For visiting multiple cenotes like Carwash, Angelita, and others in the area, renting a car offers the most freedom. This allows you to set your own schedule and avoid waiting for tours or taxis.
While direct public transport might be limited, you can explore options like colectivos (shared vans) that run along the main highway between Tulum and Coba, and then potentially take a short taxi ride to the cenote entrance.
Cenote Carwash is approximately a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Cancun, depending on traffic. Renting a car is the most efficient way to make this journey.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for Cenote Carwash (Aktun Ha) is typically around 300 Mexican pesos per person, with an additional small fee for lockers. Prices can vary, so it's always good to check for the latest information.
Yes, discounts are often available for Mexican residents and locals from Yucatan. It's advisable to inquire about these discounts at the ticket counter and have your identification ready.
Cenote Carwash is generally open year-round, with typical operating hours from morning until late afternoon. Some sources suggest avoiding entry after 5 or 6 PM due to local legends.
Advance booking is usually not required for Cenote Carwash, as it's a more open access cenote. However, arriving early on weekdays is recommended to avoid crowds.
The entrance fee typically grants access to swim and snorkel in the cenote. Life vests are usually available for rent or included. Lockers are available for an additional fee.
🎫 🏊 Onsite Experience
You can swim, snorkel, and dive at Cenote Carwash. It's also a popular spot for underwater photography due to its clear water and light beams. There are also jumping platforms for added fun.
Yes, Cenote Carwash is excellent for snorkeling. The water is clear, and you can see various fish and sometimes even turtles. Bring your own mask and snorkel for the best experience.
Absolutely! Cenote Carwash (Aktun Ha) is a popular site for both recreational and technical diving, offering access to extensive underwater cave systems. It's a training ground for many divers.
You can expect to see various fish species, and sometimes turtles and herons. The clear water makes observing the aquatic life a delightful experience.
Yes, Cenote Carwash typically offers facilities such as bathrooms, showers, and lockers for visitors to use.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The best time for photography is during the day when sunlight filters through the openings, creating dramatic light beams. Early mornings or late afternoons can offer softer light and fewer crowds.
A waterproof camera or a camera in a waterproof housing is ideal for capturing the underwater beauty. Even a good smartphone with a waterproof case can yield great results.
The 'Room of Tears' is a notable spot for photographers. Anywhere with clear water and good light penetration offers excellent opportunities. The jumping platforms also make for dynamic shots.
Common subjects include the mesmerizing light beams, colorful fish, aquatic plants, divers exploring the caves, and the reflections on the water's surface.
Flash photography is generally discouraged or prohibited in many cenotes, including Carwash, to protect the delicate ecosystem and avoid disturbing wildlife. Always check for signage or ask staff.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the deeper parts are for experienced swimmers and divers, the main area provides plenty of space for family fun. The presence of fish and occasional turtles can also be a fascinating educational experience for children. Arriving early on a weekday is highly recommended to ensure a less crowded and more relaxed experience for the whole family.
💰 Budget Travelers
To maximize savings, consider renting a car with a group to split costs, or look into local colectivos for transport. Bringing your own snorkel gear can also save on rental fees. Remember to pack snacks and water, as on-site options might be limited or pricier.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Bring your best waterproof camera or action camera. Consider visiting during the golden hours (early morning or late afternoon) for softer light. Be mindful of other visitors and the environment, and always check if flash photography is permitted.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique History of Carwash (Aktun Ha)
This open-air cenote features a large swimming area surrounded by lush vegetation. While it might not have the dramatic stalactites and stalagmites of some cave cenotes, its charm lies in its accessibility and the vibrant life within its waters. It's a popular spot for both casual swimmers and experienced divers alike, offering a unique blend of history and natural beauty.
Beyond its historical context, Aktun Ha is also a gateway to a larger underwater cave system, making it a significant site for cave diving training and exploration. Divers can access passages connected to the famous Sac Actun system, exploring a world beneath the surface that few get to witness.
Mysteries and Legends of the Cenotes
There are also tales of faces appearing in the water when it's still, adding a layer of mystery and intrigue to these natural wonders. While these stories add to the allure, they also serve as a reminder of the respect these sacred sites command.
These legends, whether taken literally or as folklore, contribute to the unique atmosphere of visiting a cenote. They encourage a sense of wonder and a deeper appreciation for the natural and cultural heritage of the region.
Diving and Underwater Photography at Aktun Ha
Photographers are drawn to the vibrant aquatic life, including colorful fish and occasional turtles, as well as the unique geological formations. The 'Room of Tears' is a particularly photogenic spot. Capturing these moments often requires a waterproof camera or housing to fully immerse in the underwater spectacle.
For divers, Aktun Ha is a crucial training site, offering access to the Sac Actun cave system, one of the longest in the world. The changing conditions and the presence of organic material near the surface contribute to a unique visual experience, making each dive potentially unrepeatable.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit