If you are planning a trip to Mexico, surely Tulum is on your list of destinations to visit. And when you think of Tulum, what’s the first thing that comes to your mind? Beaches, ruins and of course, cenotes! Among these, the Gran Cenote in Tulum is a stop you can’t miss.
That’s why, in this guide, we will provide you with everything you need to know to make the most of your visit, from how to get there to what activities to do.
All about the Gran Cenote
1. What is the Gran Cenote?
The Gran Cenote is one of the most beautiful cenotes in the Riviera Maya, which is why it has also become one of the most popular. Since it is semi-open, it offers areas for both swimming and diving.
In fact, one of its main characteristics is that it is composed of two large wells, which in turn are connected to caves. In addition, its turquoise waters are also crystal clear, which is why it is so easy to see fish or turtles swimming.
Believe us, its beauty is incomparable. Surrounded by several wooden platforms, with shallow areas, open spaces and caves, it offers you the best of both worlds!
2. Location and how to get to the Gran Cenote in Tulum
One of the biggest advantages of this cenote is that it is also one of the most accessible in the area. Because it is located only 5 kilometers from Tulum, Quintana Roo, or 10 minutes by car.
To get there, take Highway 109 towards Cobá, and you will find it on your right. You can rent a car and take the following route, or take a cab that will take you in less than 10 minutes from Tulum.
If you are staying in Cobá, you will be only 30 minutes away. There are also organized tours that include transportation from various points in the Riviera Maya, so there is no excuse to miss it!
3. What can you do in the Gran Cenote?
As we briefly mentioned, being a semi-open cenote, the Gran Cenote in Tulum offers you all kinds of experiences. Here are some of them!
Swimming and snorkeling:
With such crystal clear waters, swimming and snorkeling is an activity not to be missed. Here you can observe turtles, fish and the beauty of its rock formations.
Diving:
For the more adventurous, diving is the perfect activity. It has a network of underwater caves and fascinating tunnels to explore.
Relax and enjoy the environment:
Thanks to its wooden platforms, lush vegetation and hammocks, resting and enjoying nature will not be a problem.
Capture incredible moments:
The natural beauty of the Gran Cenote in Tulum makes it a perfect place for photography. Whether you use a professional camera or your smartphone, you will take unforgettable memories.
Other services available
Luckily, inside the Gran Cenote you can find the perfect complements for your visit, since it offers facilities such as bathrooms, showers and even hammocks.
Also, if you need it, for an extra cost, you can rent snorkeling equipment, vests or lockers.
5. Entrance fee to Gran Cenote - 2024
For the year 2024, the entrance fee is approximately $500 MXN per person. Prices may vary, so we recommend you check before your visit.
6. Opening hours
The Gran Cenote is open daily from 8:00 AM to 4:45 PM. However, the latest access time is 4:15 pm. So, to make the most of your visit, we suggest you arrive early.
7. Recommendations for visiting cenotes in Tulum
In order to enjoy your vacation in the cenotes of Tulum to the fullest, there are several points to take into account, but the most important are the following.
- Wear comfortable clothes and shoes, as some cenotes have rocky and slippery areas. So a pair of tennis shoes or water shoes will be a great help.
- Before swimming in the cenotes, use the showers to rinse off any chemicals that may harm the environment, such as those found in repellents or sunscreen.
- Remember to bring a change of clothes for after your adventure, a backpack for your belongings and a plastic bag to store any wet items.
- Don’t forget to bring cash, just in case you want to do any activity with an extra cost. Cards are generally not accepted.
- Always stay safe, if your water skills are not so good, use life jackets at all times.
- During your visit, it is important that you respect the natural areas, so do not litter and try to keep the facilities in good condition.
8. Other tourist attractions in the area
After enjoying the Gran Cenote in Tulum, consider exploring other nearby attractions, such as the Car Wash Cenote or the Zacil Ha Cenote, both located 5 minutes away!
You can also complement your adventure by visiting the ruins of Tulum, or the archaeological site of Cobá (30 minutes from Gran Cenote), famous for housing the tallest pyramid in the Yucatán peninsula.
Indeed, the region is full of natural and historical wonders worth discovering!
Where to stay in Tulum
Now that you have all the information you need to enjoy the Gran Cenote in Tulum, you are ready to add this adventure to your itinerary.
To make the most of your trip and discover other natural wonders at your own pace, consider staying in Coba. This place offers a strategic location that will allow you to easily explore multiple cenotes and other attractions without the crowds of Tulum.
An ideal option is Aldea Coba, a boutique hotel nestled in the majestic Mayan jungle. Where in addition to enjoying the proximity to several cenotes, you will be able to live unique experiences related to the Mayan culture.
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