Cenote Carwash Aktun-Ha - a bear walking through a forest filled with lots of trees
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Cenote Carwash Aktun-Ha

4.7
·145 reviews·Tulum, Mexico

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better visibility

CrowdLow
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Cenote Carwash Aktun-Ha - a bear walking through a forest filled with lots of trees

Cenote Carwash Aktun-Ha

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better visibility

CrowdLow
Highlights

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.

4.7
(145 reviews)

"This was our favorite cenote! Lovely people and beautiful waters make it perfect for photos."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚫 No Sunscreen/Repellent!

Protect the water: shower before entering & skip the sunscreen.

📸 Bring Waterproof Camera

Capture the stunning underwater world and light beams.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Crystal-Clear Swimming & Snorkeling

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.

Reddit
Underwater Photography Haven

Underwater Photography Haven

Throughout the cenote

Capture stunning shots of light beams, aquatic flora, and fauna. Ideal for both casual photographers and professional divers.

InstagramReddit
Cave Diving Access

Cave Diving Access

Designated diving entry points

Explore the extensive underwater cave systems connected to Sac Actun. A popular training ground for certified divers.

InstagramReddit
Jumping Platforms

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.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for the Best Experience

Visit on a weekday morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the crystal-clear waters. The cenote can get busy, especially in the afternoon, impacting visibility and the peaceful atmosphere. Arriving early ensures a more serene and photogenic experience. Reddit

Protect the Pristine Waters

As a natural wonder, it's crucial to protect Cenote Carwash. Avoid using sunscreen or insect repellent before entering the water, and shower off any residue. This helps maintain the water's clarity and the delicate ecosystem. TikTokReddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better visibility
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon (avoid peak hours)
Why
Still enjoyable, but busier
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The best tour guide #playadelcarmen #cenotes #cenotesmexico
@jannehkonneh
5.3M likes • 32.6M views

🚫 No Sunscreen/Repellent!

Protect the water: shower before entering & skip the sunscreen. TikTokReddit

📸 Bring Waterproof Camera

Capture the stunning underwater world and light beams. Reddit

Si estás en un cenote dando las 5 pm te tienes que salir ya que empiezan a aparecer los aluxes a hacer travesuras. Los aluxes son los guardianes de los lugares naturales según las leyendas mayas. También dicen que se abren portales al inframundo y es peligroso porque la corriente te puede jalar. #cenotes #aluxes #mayas #yucatan #yucatecos #lugaresmagicos #leyendas #yucatecosvirales #inframundo
@carlosyahgurrion
821K likes • 20.4M views
The proper name of Cenote Carwash is Aktun Ha which means ”Cave Water” in Mayan. There is no mystery as to how this cenote got its name…yes, it was actually used to wash cars (mainly taxis) in the past. Now it’s a popular swimming hole, cavern tour, and cave diving site! Featured heee in this video is a room called “the room of tears” #scubadiving #diving #scuba #underwaterphotography #underwater ...
marissa_eckert_
567 likes • 5.8K views

🤿 Snorkel Gear Recommended

Explore the vibrant aquatic life up close. Reddit

🚗 Rent a Car for Flexibility

Easier access to cenotes from Cancun/Tulum. TikTok

¿Ya conoces el Cenote CARWASH en TULUM?🚙🌊 Se ubica a solo 10 minutos de Tulum sobre la carretera tulum-coba, el precio de acceso general es de 300MXN ✅ El nombre real del cenote es Aktun Ha, pero en la actualidad es más conocido como CARWASH porque se dice que el cenote era utilizado por los automovilistas como lavadero de carros 🚘🌊 . . . . #cenotesmexico #cenote #cenotestulum #tulum #tulummex...
alleivatravel
481 likes • 11.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚫 No Sunscreen/Repellent!

Protect the water: shower before entering & skip the sunscreen. TikTokReddit

📸 Bring Waterproof Camera

Capture the stunning underwater world and light beams. Reddit

🤿 Snorkel Gear Recommended

Explore the vibrant aquatic life up close. Reddit

🚗 Rent a Car for Flexibility

Easier access to cenotes from Cancun/Tulum. TikTok

💰 Check for Local Discounts

Mexican residents may get a discount. Reddit

⏰ Arrive Early for Peace

Beat the crowds for a serene experience. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(145 reviews)

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

Crystal clear water
Abundant wildlife
Affordable entry fee

What People Dislike

Water clarity varies
Can get crowded

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. TikTokInstagram

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

🎫 🎫 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. InstagramReddit

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. Reddit

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. TikTok+1

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🏊 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. InstagramReddit+1

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. Reddit

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. Instagram+2

You can expect to see various fish species, and sometimes turtles and herons. The clear water makes observing the aquatic life a delightful experience. TikTokReddit

Yes, Cenote Carwash typically offers facilities such as bathrooms, showers, and lockers for visitors to use. Reddit

📸 📸 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. InstagramReddit

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. Reddit

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. InstagramReddit

Common subjects include the mesmerizing light beams, colorful fish, aquatic plants, divers exploring the caves, and the reflections on the water's surface. InstagramReddit

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. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Cenote Carwash is a great option for families. The open-air design and relatively calm waters make it accessible and enjoyable for children. There are shallow areas for younger ones to splash around, and the jumping platforms offer a bit of excitement for older kids. Remember to bring life vests for added safety. Reddit

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. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Cenote Carwash is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers. The entrance fee is relatively affordable compared to some other cenotes, and it offers a lot of value with its swimming, snorkeling, and photography opportunities. InstagramReddit

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. TikTok

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Cenote Carwash is a dream. The interplay of light and water, the vibrant marine life, and the unique historical context offer endless shooting possibilities. Focus on capturing the sunbeams piercing the water and the colorful fish darting around. InstagramReddit

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. TikTokReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Unique History of Carwash (Aktun Ha)

Cenote Carwash, whose Mayan name is Aktun Ha, translates to 'Cave Water.' Its modern moniker, 'Carwash,' stems from its past use as a washing station for taxis and other vehicles. This practical, albeit unusual, history sets it apart from many other cenotes that are primarily known for their natural or spiritual significance. Instagram+1

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. Instagram+1

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. Instagram+1

Mysteries and Legends of the Cenotes

The cenotes of the Yucatan Peninsula are steeped in Mayan mythology and local legends. Some believe that after 5 or 6 PM, spirits known as 'aluxes' (guardians of natural places) emerge, and portals to the underworld can open, making it dangerous to be in the water. TikTok+1

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. TikTok+1

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. TikTok+1

Diving and Underwater Photography at Aktun Ha

Cenote Carwash (Aktun Ha) is a prime location for underwater photography and diving. Its clear waters, often illuminated by dramatic sunbeams filtering from above, create a magical ambiance. The cenote's depth varies, with shallower areas perfect for general swimming and photography, and deeper sections leading into extensive cave systems for certified divers. Instagram+1

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. InstagramReddit

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. Instagram+2

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