Cenote Saamal Hacienda Selva Maya
Discover Cenote Saamal, a stunning natural sinkhole within Hacienda Selva Maya near Valladolid, offering emerald waters, cliff jumping, and a refreshi...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Cenote Saamal Hacienda Selva Maya
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Cenote Saamal, a stunning natural sinkhole within Hacienda Selva Maya near Valladolid, offering emerald waters, cliff jumping, and a refreshing escape.
"The moment you walk down into the cenote, the view takes your breath away—crystal-clear water, vines hanging down."
🎯 Arrive Early for Peace
Get there right at 9 AM on a weekday to avoid crowds and enjoy a more serene experience.
💰 Buffet Value
The buffet lunch is often included or available for an extra fee and is considered a good value.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Emerald Waters & Natural Beauty
Main Cenote Pool
Dive into crystal-clear, emerald waters surrounded by lush greenery and dramatic rock formations. A true natural wonder.
Cliff Jumping Thrills
Designated Jumping Platforms
Experience an adrenaline rush by jumping from the platforms into the refreshing cenote waters. Fun for adventurers!
Hacienda Selva Maya Experience
Hacienda Grounds
Explore the historic hacienda grounds, enjoy the buffet, and browse local crafts. A complete Yucatan experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for a Serene Dip
Valladolid Basecamp & Combo Tours
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Peace
Get there right at 9 AM on a weekday to avoid crowds and enjoy a more serene experience.
💰 Buffet Value
The buffet lunch is often included or available for an extra fee and is considered a good value.
🩱 Life Jackets Provided
Life jackets are available, making it safe for all swimming abilities.
💧 Bring Your Own Towel
While facilities are good, bringing your own towel is always a good idea.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Peace
Get there right at 9 AM on a weekday to avoid crowds and enjoy a more serene experience.
💰 Buffet Value
The buffet lunch is often included or available for an extra fee and is considered a good value.
🩱 Life Jackets Provided
Life jackets are available, making it safe for all swimming abilities.
💧 Bring Your Own Towel
While facilities are good, bringing your own towel is always a good idea.
📸 Capture the Magic
The natural light filtering through the opening creates stunning photo opportunities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Cenote Saamal for its breathtaking natural beauty and refreshing emerald waters, often calling it a highlight of their trip. The opportunity for cliff jumping and the convenience of the on-site buffet are frequently mentioned positives. Some reviewers note that it can get very busy with tour groups, which can detract from the serene experience.
"Breathtaking sight. It is my first cenote. From the entrance to clear emerald water. You can jump, swim or just sit there and enjoy the fish spa in the nature, do then all. It was amazing! 😍 So beautiful?"
Anne H
"Beauty of nature! While appreciating the nature, you can have some fun by jumping into the water and swim! We had so much fun! Lastly, their lunch was also very nice."
Jeong Ho Kim
"Breathtaking Beauty and an Unforgettable Experience at Cenote Saamal!
Cenote Saamal was one of the highlights of our trip! Tucked away in the lush Yucatán landscape, this cenote feels like a hidden paradise. The moment you walk down into the cenote, the view takes your breath away—crystal-clear water, vines hanging down from the opening above, and the sound of rushing water echoing around you. It’s like stepping into another world.
Swimming in the cool, refreshing water was such a thrill—especially jumping off the platform! It was both peaceful and exhilarating. The facilities were clean and well-maintained, and there are lockers, life jackets, and changing areas, which made everything super convenient.
We loved how well-organized everything was, and the fact that it wasn’t overcrowded made the experience even more magical. Whether you’re an adventurer or just want to soak in the natural beauty, Cenote Saamal is an absolute must-see.
Highly recommend adding this to your itinerary—you won’t regret it!"
Balwant Bisht
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cenote Saamal is located just 4 km from Valladolid, making it easily accessible. You can take a taxi, rent a car, or join a tour that includes transportation from Valladolid or nearby areas. It's situated on Carretera Libre Mérida - Valladolid, Km 3.5.
Yes, many tours from Cancun and Riviera Maya include Cenote Saamal as part of a longer itinerary, often combined with Chichen Itza and Valladolid. This can be a convenient option if you're staying further afield.
The cenote is well-marked and located within Hacienda Selva Maya, making it relatively easy to find, especially if you're following GPS or tour directions.
From Valladolid, head west on the free Mérida-Valladolid highway. Cenote Saamal is located at Km 3.5 on the right side.
While direct public buses might be limited, you can often find local colectivos (shared vans) heading towards Mérida from Valladolid that pass by the area, or arrange a taxi for a more direct route.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee can vary, but it's often around $200-$450 MXN per person, which may include access to the cenote, a life jacket, and sometimes a buffet lunch. It's best to check current pricing upon arrival or on their official social media.
Cenote Saamal is typically open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but it's always a good idea to confirm these hours before your visit, especially during holidays.
Advance booking is generally not required for individual visitors. You can usually purchase tickets upon arrival. However, for special events like evening dinners, booking might be necessary.
Some tours offer combo tickets that include entrance to Cenote Saamal along with other attractions like Chichen Itza or Valladolid. The hacienda itself may also offer packages that include the cenote and buffet.
Life jackets are usually included in the entrance fee. Lockers might incur an additional cost, so it's advisable to clarify this at the ticket counter.
🎫 🏊 Onsite Experience
You can swim in the clear emerald waters, jump off designated platforms for an adrenaline rush, enjoy the natural beauty, and even experience a fish spa. The hacienda also offers a buffet and sometimes ziplining.
Yes, Cenote Saamal is generally family-friendly. The water is refreshing, and life jackets are available. Children can enjoy swimming and the unique environment.
The cenote is quite deep, with depths reportedly exceeding 50 meters in some areas. The swimming areas are generally safe, especially with life jackets.
Yes, there are designated platforms for jumping into the cenote, which is a popular activity for visitors seeking a bit of adventure.
Facilities typically include changing rooms, showers, restrooms, lockers (sometimes for an extra fee), and a restaurant offering a buffet.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Hacienda Selva Maya, where Cenote Saamal is located, offers a buffet lunch. It's often included in certain ticket packages or available for purchase separately. +1
The buffet typically features a variety of local Yucatecan dishes, offering a taste of regional cuisine.
In the evenings, Cenote Saamal can sometimes be booked for special dinners, offering a unique dining experience in a magical setting.
While specific options can vary, Yucatecan cuisine often includes vegetable-based dishes. It's advisable to inquire about options upon arrival if you have dietary restrictions.
Yes, drinks are usually available for purchase at the restaurant or bar area, though they may not always be included in the buffet price.
📸 📸 Photography
The opening of the cenote with sunlight filtering through, the vines hanging down, and the emerald water create stunning photographic opportunities. The jumping platforms also make for dynamic shots.
Drone usage policies can vary and may be restricted to protect the natural environment and other visitors' experiences. It's best to check with the management upon arrival.
Yes, you can take photos while swimming, but be mindful of other visitors and ensure your equipment is waterproof or protected.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or videography might require special permits.
Mid-morning to early afternoon often provides the best natural light as the sun is higher, illuminating the cenote's depths.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The option of a buffet lunch means you won't have to worry about finding food for picky eaters, and the natural beauty of the cenote provides an exciting and educational experience for kids. Arriving early on a weekday is highly recommended to avoid overwhelming crowds and allow children to explore more freely. 💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Aim for mid-morning to early afternoon for the best natural light filtering through the sinkhole. Be patient to capture shots without too many people, especially if you arrive early. Remember to protect your gear from water splashes. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Cenotes in Yucatan
Visiting a cenote like Saamal offers a glimpse into this geological and cultural marvel. The clear, cool waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling, providing a refreshing escape from the tropical heat. Many cenotes are open-air, allowing sunlight to filter through, creating an ethereal atmosphere, while others are semi-open or fully underground, adding to their mystique.
Exploring cenotes is a quintessential Yucatan experience. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a connection to ancient history, these natural wonders offer something for everyone. Each cenote has its own charm, from the vast open pools to the more intimate, cave-like formations.
Hacienda Selva Maya: More Than Just a Cenote
+1Beyond the cenote, the hacienda provides amenities such as a restaurant serving a buffet of local Yucatecan cuisine, shops selling handicrafts, and sometimes even ziplining activities. This makes it a comprehensive destination where you can spend a good portion of your day enjoying nature, culture, and food.
The integration of the cenote within the hacienda setting creates a unique experience. It allows visitors to combine the natural beauty of the cenote with the historical ambiance of the hacienda, offering a well-rounded day trip that appeals to various interests.
Tips for Visiting Cenotes Responsibly
Respect the natural formations and avoid touching stalactites or stalagmites if present. Also, be aware of your surroundings and follow any posted rules or guidelines from the cenote staff. This ensures the preservation of these natural wonders for future generations.
Many cenotes, including Saamal, are managed by local communities. Supporting these establishments through your visit contributes to their economy and helps maintain these beautiful sites. Always dispose of your trash properly and leave the cenote as pristine as you found it.
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