Cenote Escondido - Trees are visible at a park or forest.
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Cenote Escondido

4.4
·818 reviews·Tulum, Mexico

Discover the hidden jungle charm of Cenote Escondido, a natural wonder offering clear waters, jumping spots, and a serene escape near Tulum.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Morning

Beat the crowds, enjoy peace

CrowdLow
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Cenote Escondido - Trees are visible at a park or forest.

Cenote Escondido

Best Time

Morning

Beat the crowds, enjoy peace

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover the hidden jungle charm of Cenote Escondido, a natural wonder offering clear waters, jumping spots, and a serene escape near Tulum.

4.4
(818 reviews)

"Definitely one of the better cenotes in the area, both in quality and in value."

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TIP

🎟️ Combined Ticket Value

Get access to both Cenote Cristal & Escondido for 300 MXN. No single entry option available.

🚗 Drive Between Cenotes

While walkable, driving between Cristal and Escondido is recommended due to distance.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Cenote Escondido's Jungle Charm

Cenote Escondido's Jungle Charm

Across the highway from Cenote Cristal

Experience a more secluded, jungle-like atmosphere with clear, deep waters perfect for swimming and diving.

Cenote Cristal's Open Beauty

Cenote Cristal's Open Beauty

Near the entrance

Enjoy a circular, open-air cenote with a platform for jumping and a refreshing, clear swimming area.

Rope Swings and Jumping Platforms

Rope Swings and Jumping Platforms

Both cenotes

Unleash your adventurous side with thrilling rope swings and platforms for jumping into the cool, clear waters.

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Planning Your Visit

Combine Your Cenote Adventure

Get the most value by purchasing a combined ticket for both Cenote Cristal and Cenote Escondido. This grants access to both natural wonders for a single price, saving you money and time. Plan to spend a few hours exploring each.

Respect the Sacred Waters

Remember that cenotes are sacred to the Maya. Avoid touching any relics and be mindful of the environment. Some believe there are spirits in the cenotes, so a respectful approach is advised.

Best Times

When
Morning
Why
Beat the crowds, enjoy peace
Crowd
Low
When
Late Afternoon (before 5 PM)
Why
Fewer people, magical light
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Antes de entrar a un cenote maya no olvides antes estos pasos
@ultimomaya7
750K likes • 9.1M views

🎟️ Combined Ticket Value

Get access to both Cenote Cristal & Escondido for 300 MXN. No single entry option available. Reddit

🚗 Drive Between Cenotes

While walkable, driving between Cristal and Escondido is recommended due to distance. Reddit

cosas que tienes que hacer antes de meterte a un cenote 🐟🧍🏼‍♀️ quien mas conoce la teoría del cenote? #cenote #cenotesmexico #teoria #suspenso #misterio #tulum #foryouu #cub0sdehielo
@cub0sdehielo
392.3K likes • 5.5M views
🌴✨ Day trips around Tulum you can’t miss ✨🌴 sound on for tips and ratings! 1. Cenote Escondido – hidden jungle vibes 2. Cenote Cristal – (150–200 MXN) - I preferred Cenote Escondido to this one! The waters were not as clear and this one charged entry fee 3. Laguna Kaan Luum – dreamy turquoise lagoon (300 MXN) 4. Akumal Bay – snorkel with turtles (prices vary by package) Tips: Bring cash (most s...
little_woman_eats_
66 likes • 1.7K views

🤿 No Life Jackets Required

Enjoy swimming freely without mandatory life jackets, but be aware of depth. Reddit

🐒 Watch for Wildlife

You might spot turtles sunning on rocks or fish swimming in the clear waters. Reddit

I absolutely fell in love with this hidden gem of a Mexican cenote! 🐢 Save the location for your Mexican trip: Cenote Cristal y Escondido 📍🇲🇽 #mexico #tulum #cenote #solofemaletraveler
shandonbell
0 likes • 1.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Combined Ticket Value

Get access to both Cenote Cristal & Escondido for 300 MXN. No single entry option available. Reddit

🚗 Drive Between Cenotes

While walkable, driving between Cristal and Escondido is recommended due to distance. Reddit

🤿 No Life Jackets Required

Enjoy swimming freely without mandatory life jackets, but be aware of depth. Reddit

🐒 Watch for Wildlife

You might spot turtles sunning on rocks or fish swimming in the clear waters. Reddit

💧 Respect the Water

Avoid touching relics and be mindful of the sacred nature of cenotes. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.4
(818 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors generally praise Cenote Escondido and Cristal for their natural beauty and value, offering a combined experience for a reasonable price. While some note basic amenities and occasional environmental disregard from other visitors, the clear waters, jumping opportunities, and jungle ambiance make them a worthwhile stop for a refreshing swim.

"AtlasAdventured recommends visiting this cenote!

Definitely one of the better cenotes in the area, both in quality and in value. You get two cenotes for the price of 1 and they didn't charge us for our 5 year old daughter. It's 300 pesos per person (about $15 USD) and gives you access to both. You can't buy single cenote access for a cheaper price. The ticket counter lady said we could walk to the other cenote across the main highway but recommended we drive. That was good advice because its across the street and down the road quite a bit. Probably a 30 min walk if you decide to go that route.

The first cenote we swam in is the one right by the ticket counter, Cenote Cristal. It's a large circular swimming area with steps to get in, a small rope swing and a large platform to jump off. There are many different seating areas along the edge of the Cenote and lots of shade from the trees. You will see many fish swimming around and someone said they saw a turtle but we didn't see it. Water is cool but refreshing on a hot day.

Cenote Escondido is long and has lots of seating along the ledge and at either end of the cenote . There's a rope swing and multiple spots to jump off. It's deceptively deep since the water is so clear and it looks shallower than it actually is. There were scuba divers at the bottom doing a training course or something and there was still enough depth to jump off the ledges. There was a large family and another small group of people there during our hour or two there so it wasn't too crowded. We had one end of the cenote, the large family had the middle area and the small group was at the other end. Make sure you are aware of those around you. Unfortunately we had a slight incident where my daughter and I were snorkeling in the very end of the cenote where nobody was jumping but apparently one of the dad's from the other group decided to run and jump off by us and landed right on my head while I was snorkeling. Luckily he didn't land on my daughter because I was in a lot of pain for the next couple of weeks unable to move my neck much. That cut our visit to this cenote short.

Besides that mishap, we had a great time and really enjoyed these cenotes. A great option during sargassum season to beat the heat and swim in some clear, refreshing water."

Atlas Adventured

"Calm, peaceful, not overrun. Has good bathrooms and seating under the shade of trees. Not too busy, doesn't seem like the big tour groups make stops here. There is a 2m platform for jumping at cenote cristal, while there is a small rope swing at cenote escondido."

Todd Noel

"I visited Cenote Cristal & Cenote Escondido, which require a combined entrance fee of $300 MXN per person. You pay on the north side of the road, and the ticket is valid for both cenotes—no option to pay for just one, which felt a bit pricey considering there aren’t many amenities included.

Cenote Cristal is just 100 meters from the entrance. It’s smaller, surrounded by birds, and has a natural circular shape with a rock platform to jump from. There are wooden stairs, a few hammocks, and some picnic tables. Bathrooms are available, though not in the best condition.

Cenote Escondido is across the road and about 500 meters in. You can walk, bike, or drive. It’s larger, with wooden stairs on both ends and a rope for jumping. There are more fish and turtles here, but no hammocks. Like Cristal, the restrooms are poorly maintained.

Neither site seems to enforce basic rules (like no smoking or littering), and unfortunately, not all visitors are respectful of the environment. Still, the natural beauty of both cenotes makes them worth a visit—just go with the right expectations."

Eric Tenllado Ortega

What People Like

Combined ticket value
Clear, refreshing water
Jungle atmosphere

What People Dislike

Basic amenities
Can get crowded
Environmental concerns

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Cenote Escondido is located near Tulum. You can reach it by taxi, rental car, or colectivo. If you're coming from Tulum town, it's a short drive south on Highway 307. Many visitors opt to rent a car for flexibility, especially to visit both Cenote Cristal and Escondido. Instagram

Yes, the cenotes are relatively close. Cenote Cristal is near the entrance, while Cenote Escondido is across the highway and a bit further down. While walkable, it's recommended to drive or take a short taxi ride between them to save time and energy. Reddit

Yes, colectivos (shared vans) that run along the Tulum-Coba highway often pass by the turn-off for Cenote Escondido. You'll need to tell the driver your destination and be prepared for a short walk or a quick taxi ride from the highway. Instagram

Taxis are readily available in Tulum and can take you directly to the cenotes. Negotiate the price beforehand. For more adventurous travelers, renting a bicycle can be a fun way to explore the area between the cenotes. Instagram

Yes, both Cenote Cristal and Cenote Escondido have parking areas available for visitors who arrive by car. The parking is usually free or included in the entrance fee. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The entrance fee for Cenote Escondido is typically combined with Cenote Cristal, costing around 300 MXN per person. There isn't an option to pay for just one cenote. Reddit

Some reviews mention that children may enter for free or at a reduced rate, but this can vary. It's always a good idea to confirm pricing upon arrival. Reddit

Cenote Escondido generally opens in the morning and closes around 5 PM or 6 PM. It's advisable to check the most current hours before your visit, as they can change seasonally. TikTok

Currently, tickets for Cenote Escondido are typically purchased on-site at the entrance booth. There isn't a widely advertised online booking system. Reddit

Yes, the combined ticket price of 300 MXN grants you access to both Cenote Cristal and Cenote Escondido. Reddit

🎫 🏊 Onsite Experience

At Cenote Escondido, you can swim, snorkel, and enjoy the clear waters. There are also rope swings and platforms for jumping into the cenote, offering a bit of adventure. Reddit

Yes, the water is very clear, making it excellent for snorkeling. You can see fish and the depths of the cenote. Reddit

Basic bathrooms and changing areas are available at both cenotes, though reviews suggest they might not be in the best condition. Reddit

Cenote Escondido has ledges and platforms for jumping, as well as a rope swing. It's not as extreme as some other cenotes, making it suitable for a more relaxed experience. Reddit

While swimming is the primary activity, non-swimmers can still enjoy the surroundings and relax by the water. The clear water allows for visibility even from the edges. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography Tips

Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the serene beauty of the cenote. The jungle setting provides a lush backdrop. Instagram

Drone usage policies can vary and may be restricted. It's best to check with the management on-site before flying a drone to avoid any issues. TikTok

Generally, standard photography equipment like cameras and phones are allowed. However, professional shoots or extensive equipment might require special permission. Instagram

Popular shots include underwater photos, jumping into the cenote, and capturing the lush jungle surroundings. The clear water makes for stunning reflections and visibility. Instagram

Try capturing the interplay of light filtering through the jungle canopy or focus on the unique rock formations. Visiting during off-peak hours can also lead to more intimate and unique shots. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Cenote Escondido and Cristal offer a great family-friendly outing. The combined ticket provides good value, and kids often enjoy the rope swings and jumping platforms. Reddit Cenote Cristal's open design and shallower areas can be more comfortable for younger children, while older kids might prefer the jumping spots at Escondido. Remember to bring snacks and drinks, as amenities are basic. Reddit

Keep a close eye on children, especially near the water's edge and jumping areas. While life jackets aren't mandatory, consider bringing them for younger or less confident swimmers. The clear water allows for easy supervision. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

The combined ticket for Cenote Escondido and Cristal at 300 MXN per person is considered affordable for the experience offered, especially when compared to some other more developed cenotes. Reddit This price grants access to two distinct natural attractions, making it a good value. Pack your own snacks and water to save on potential on-site purchases. Reddit

Consider using colectivos for transportation to keep costs down. While taxis are convenient, they can add up. Renting a bicycle for the day can also be an economical and enjoyable way to reach the cenotes if you're staying nearby. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Dual Cenote Experience: Cristal vs. Escondido

Cenote Escondido and Cenote Cristal are often visited together due to their combined ticket offering. While both are beautiful, they offer distinct experiences. Cenote Cristal, located closer to the entrance, is a more open, circular cenote. It features a natural rock platform for jumping and is surrounded by lush greenery, creating a serene atmosphere. Visitors often describe it as having a more relaxed vibe, perfect for a gentle swim. Reddit

Cenote Escondido, on the other hand, is a longer, more enclosed cenote nestled deeper within the jungle. Its secluded feel and deeper waters make it ideal for those seeking a bit more adventure. It boasts rope swings and multiple jumping spots, appealing to thrill-seekers. The clear, deep water here is also excellent for snorkeling and observing the underwater world. InstagramReddit

While both cenotes offer refreshing swims, the choice between them or the decision to visit both depends on your preference for openness versus seclusion, and a relaxed dip versus a more active experience. The combined ticket makes experiencing both a convenient and cost-effective option. Reddit

Understanding Cenote Etiquette and Safety

Visiting cenotes involves a certain level of etiquette and safety awareness. Before entering any cenote, it's crucial to rinse off any sunscreen or insect repellent to protect the delicate ecosystem. TikTok Many cenotes, including Escondido, do not require life jackets, but it's essential to be a confident swimmer or to stay in designated shallow areas. The water in Cenote Escondido can be deceptively deep, so always be aware of your surroundings. Reddit

Respect for the natural and cultural significance of cenotes is paramount. These are sacred sites for the Maya, and touching ancient relics or disturbing the environment is strictly prohibited. TikTok Some visitors have reported incidents, like being accidentally hit while snorkeling due to others jumping nearby, highlighting the importance of being mindful of other visitors and designated swimming/jumping zones. Reddit Following these guidelines ensures a safe and respectful experience for everyone and helps preserve these natural wonders for future generations. TikTok

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