Grand Cenote (Gran Cenote) Tours and Activities

The circular cavern, clear water, and colorful fish of the Grand Cenote (Gran Cenote) make it one of the top natural attractions in Mexico’s Riviera Maya. The natural pool is surrounded by a boardwalk where you can take photos in the light that filters from above before venturing into the water to swim, snorkel, or scuba dive.

The Basics
Just outside of Tulum, the Grand Cenote is among the most accessible of the many cenotes on the Yucatan Peninsula. You can visit from Tulum on your own or as part of a sightseeing, snorkeling, or scuba diving tour. Alternatively, make the trip from Playa Del Carmen on a tour that also includes Maya ruins and picturesque Caribbean beaches. Consider booking a cenote-hopping tour that hits other top cenotes in the area.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The Grand Cenote is a must-see for nature lovers, scuba divers, and photographers.
• You can rent snorkeling gear at the entrance or visit on a tour that provides equipment.
• If you plan to swim, bring a towel, underwater camera, and biodegradable sunscreen.
• There are changing rooms, lockers, toilets, and showers at the cenote.

How to Get There
The Grand Cenote is three miles (five kilometers) outside of Tulum en route to Coba on Highway 109. You can reach the cenote by car, bicycle, or on foot from Tulum. There are also taxis and minibuses that offer transfers to the attraction. If you are staying in Playa Del Carmen or Cancun, you can reach Tulum by bus or visit the Grand Cenote on a tour that includes round-trip transportation.

When to Get There
The Grand Cenote is open daily from morning through early evening and is typically busiest at midday, so visit in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds. The water at the cenote is around 75°F (23°C), while the air temperature typically ranges from 75–85°F (25–30°C), making it a refreshing dip regardless of season.

Highlights of the Grand Cenote
The ecosystem within the freshwater cavern is home to an array of plant and animal species, including bats, as well as geological formations such as stalactites and stalagmites. The lush foliage, vines, and colorful flowers create a cave-like tropical paradise. The crystal-clear water makes it easy to spot turtles and schools of fish, whether via snorkeling or from the boardwalk.