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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds, enjoy peace
Cenote Escondido
Best Time
Beat the crowds, enjoy peace

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.
"Definitely one of the better cenotes in the area, both in quality and in value."
🎟️ 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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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
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
Both cenotes
Unleash your adventurous side with thrilling rope swings and platforms for jumping into the cool, clear waters.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Combine Your Cenote Adventure
Respect the Sacred Waters
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ 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.
🤿 No Life Jackets Required
Enjoy swimming freely without mandatory life jackets, but be aware of depth.
🐒 Watch for Wildlife
You might spot turtles sunning on rocks or fish swimming in the clear waters.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ 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.
🤿 No Life Jackets Required
Enjoy swimming freely without mandatory life jackets, but be aware of depth.
🐒 Watch for Wildlife
You might spot turtles sunning on rocks or fish swimming in the clear waters.
💧 Respect the Water
Avoid touching relics and be mindful of the sacred nature of cenotes.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
Currently, tickets for Cenote Escondido are typically purchased on-site at the entrance booth. There isn't a widely advertised online booking system.
Yes, the combined ticket price of 300 MXN grants you access to both Cenote Cristal and Cenote Escondido.
🎫 🏊 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.
Yes, the water is very clear, making it excellent for snorkeling. You can see fish and the depths of the cenote.
Basic bathrooms and changing areas are available at both cenotes, though reviews suggest they might not be in the best condition.
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.
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.
📸 📸 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.
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.
Generally, standard photography equipment like cameras and phones are allowed. However, professional shoots or extensive equipment might require special permission.
Popular shots include underwater photos, jumping into the cenote, and capturing the lush jungle surroundings. The clear water makes for stunning reflections and visibility.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
💰 Budget Travelers
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Dual Cenote Experience: Cristal vs. Escondido
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.
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.
Understanding Cenote Etiquette and Safety
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. 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. Following these guidelines ensures a safe and respectful experience for everyone and helps preserve these natural wonders for future generations.
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