Cenotes, or natural pools / sinkholes, are one of the top things to do in Tulum. There are over 6,000 of these stunning pools across the Yucatan Peninsula, which makes it difficult to pick and choose which to visit. Each cenote has its own unique cavernous characteristics while varying in shades of clear blue and green so you really can’t go wrong. BUT after doing extensive research for my trip, I shortlisted four distinct and picturesque cenotes that will leave you with a very well-rounded experience of what various types of cenotes have to offer.

#1: Cenote Dos Ojos 

Cenote Dos Ojos (Two Eyes Cenote) is a well-known cenote in Tulum because of its clear blue water and dramatic rock formations. It consists of two connected sinkholes (the “two eyes”) that are incredible for diving. The curvature of the rock formations allow for plenty of light to enter the cenote, casting a sparkly shimmer across the water on both sides of the cenote. This heavenly cenote is not only perfect for a relaxing swim but also a fun photoshoot!     

#2: Cenote Ik Kil

This cenote is two hours outside of Tulum right by Chichen Itza, but if you made it to Tulum, a day trip to Chichen Itza and Cenote Ik Kil is worth it! Chichen Itza is one of the New 7 Wonders of the World, and Cenote Ik Kil is a wonder of its own. Upon first sight, Ik Kil is something out of a fairytale – a large circular opening overflowing with greenery and hanging vines. You will take stairs descending 85 feet below ground to a giant natural pool. When you get the option for a lifejacket, take one! We made the mistake of not taking them, and as the water is incredibly deep, we spent most of our time hanging onto the buoy rope spanning the cenote. Still, we waded in the water taking in the strong sun, lush greenery, and baby rainbows. 

#3: Cenote Suytun 

Cenote Suytun is one of the most Instagram famous cenotes in the world. This extraordinary cavernous cenote is known for its stone platform that leads to the center of the shallow waters with a strong beam of sunlight coming in through a natural skylight. It is located near Valladolid, which is on the way from Tulum to Chichen Itza. Upon arriving, you descend several flights of stairs where you meet a line of people waiting by the platform at the bottom. It wasn’t too crowded as we got there around 11:30am, and no tour buses had arrived yet. The sunbeam typically shines from 12-2pm, which we were thrilled to experience. Everyone was orderly and courteous in taking turns having mini photoshoots. We got in line 2 to 3 times to make the most of our visit and capture as much good content as we could. I highly recommend this one!

#4: Cenote Calavera

Cenote Calavera (Temple of Doom) is a lesser known cenote just minutes outside Tulum city, but this was the absolutely the most fun cenote in my opinion! With one large opening and two smaller openings overseeing the dark waters, this cenote is perfect for jumping into and creating a splash again and again. Similar to Cenote Ik Kil, this cenote has deeper waters so your three options are to wade in the waters, dangle from the rope in the center, or hang on to the ladder used to climb out of the cenote. This cenote is perfect for a hot day when you want to cool off!