Welcome to TULUM in Mexico!
Let’s take you to another AMAZING CENOTE, you shouldn’t miss when you are in Mexico.
In this blog post, we will spill ALL the beans about Cenote Escondido, from how to get there to amenities and accommodations options in the area.
Let’s get started!
Location
Cenote Escondido, also known as the “Hidden Cenote” is nestled in the lush greenery of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, just south of the bustling town of Tulum.
You can access this hidden gem by heading south from Tulum on Highway 307.
A direct colectivo (public van) from Tulum will drop you right at the entrance. However, no clear signposts mark the entrance to Cenote Escondido, living up to its clandestine name.
It’s recommended to use GPS or a reliable map, and be on the lookout for a small wooden sign for “Cenote Escondido” on the left of the road.
The cenote itself is a short walk from the main road, offering an exciting adventure amidst Mexico’s natural magnificence.
What is a Cenote?
But before you set off on this adventure, it’s important to know what a cenote actually is.
A cenote is a natural sinkhole filled with crystal-clear water that’s formed due to the collapse of limestone bedrock.
It is a unique geological phenomenon that’s found mainly in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico.
These cenotes were considered sacred by the ancient Mayan civilization and were often used for sacrificial rituals.
How to get there
There are several ways to reach Cenote Escondido, depending on your preference and budget. Here are the most common transport options:
Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Tulum and can take you directly to the Cenote. It’s usually a quick and convenient option. Make sure to negotiate the fare before starting your journey to avoid any misunderstandings.
Colectivo
Colectivos are public vans that run frequently between Tulum and the Cenote. They are a popular and inexpensive option. To catch a colectivo, head to the main road (Highway 307) and wait for a van with a ‘Cenote Escondido’ sign.
On Foot
If you’re staying nearby and prefer a bit of exercise, walking to the Cenote is also an option.
Keep in mind, though, that it’s about a 4 km walk from Tulum, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring a bottle of water.
Renting a Car
Renting a car gives you the most freedom to explore at your own pace.
The drive to Cenote Escondido is straightforward. Just head south on Highway 307 and follow your GPS.
Plus, having a car allows you to visit other nearby attractions without relying on public transit or taxis!
We choose to use Rentalcars.com for our travels due to its wide range of options, great prices, and exceptional customer service. It provides us the FLEXIBILITY to choose from a diverse selection of vehicles from leading car rental companies, ensuring that we always find a car that fits our needs.
Setting our pick-up location at the airport is a strategic decision. It saves us the hassle of arranging transportation from the airport to the car rental location and allows us to start our journey immediately upon arrival. This convenience makes our travels more enjoyable and STRESS-FREE.
Check it out for yourself below:
Book A Tour with a Local
Why should you consider booking a tour with a local when visiting Cenote Escondido?
Well, let’s think about this.
First of all, locals KNOW THE AREA better than anyone. They’ve been navigating the streets, the local customs, and the region’s nature for years. So, who better to guide you to the best spots and share insider knowledge about this natural wonder?
And that’s not all.
By booking a local tour, you get a curated experience tailored to your interests. You’re not just getting a one-size-fits-all tour. Instead, you get an adventure that’s been crafted specifically for you.
But wait, there’s more.
Local tour guides often have strong relationships with other locals. This means you might gain access to exclusive experiences, off-the-beaten-path locations, and even local cuisine that you wouldn’t be able to find on your own.
In short, booking a tour with a local is an incredible way to make the most out of your visit to Cenote Escondido. It’s an opportunity to see the cenote through the eyes of someone who knows it best, while also supporting the local economy. It’s a win-win situation.
Didn’t have time to book a tour?
Don’t worry Get Your Guide is a GREAT alternative for last minute bookings.
Get Your Guide is a platform where you can find all kinds of tours in the area, book the tour safely directly online and you can see for yourself the customer reviews to know if its worth booking.
Things To Do
Scuba diving and Snorkeling
Cenote Escondido is a popular spot for scuba diving and snorkeling due to its crystal-clear waters. Its unique geological formations, including underwater caves and tunnels, make it an exciting destination for divers of all levels.
You can bring your own equipment or rent from the nearby dive shops. Just make sure to follow proper safety protocols and never dive alone.
Swimming and Relaxing
If you’re not into diving or snorkeling, don’t worry! Cenote Escondido also offers a peaceful environment for swimming and relaxing. The cool, refreshing water is perfect for escaping the heat of the Mexican sun.
You can also just sit back and marvel at the natural beauty surrounding you. The lush greenery and tranquil atmosphere make it a perfect spot for meditation or simply taking in the scenery.
Cliff Jumping
For the thrill-seekers, Cenote Escondido has a spot for cliff jumping. Test your bravery by jumping off a 10-meter platform into the crystal-clear water below.
Just remember to always check the depth of the water before jumping and make sure to follow any posted safety guidelines.
Facilities for Visitors
Cenote Escondido offers a range of facilities to ensure the comfort and convenience of its visitors.
At the entrance, there’s a ticket booth where you can purchase your entry ticket.
The site has well-maintained restrooms, changing rooms, and shower facilities for you to freshen up before and after swimming.
There are also lockers available to securely store your belongings while you explore.
A small snack bar offers refreshments and light bites, perfect for a quick recharge between activities.
Wooden walkways and stairs provide safe access to the cenote.
For those wanting to indulge in water activities, snorkeling gear and life jackets can be rented onsite.
Please note that while there are many facilities, it is still a natural site so amenities like Wi-Fi or an ATM may not be available.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Cenote Escondido is open to visitors seven days a week, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. It’s advised to arrive early in the morning, as the site tends to get crowded later in the day.
Entrance Fee
The entrance fee to the cenote is 150 Mexican Pesos for adults and 100 Pesos for children. This cost includes access to the cenote and use of the onsite facilities.
Safety Guidelines
Visitors are advised to follow safety guidelines at all times. This includes not touching or damaging the cenote’s natural formations, not diving or jumping without checking water depth first, and not swimming without a life jacket if you’re not a strong swimmer.
Environmentally Friendly Practices
Cenote Escondido is a natural site of ecological importance. Visitors are encouraged to respect the environment by refraining from littering, not using sunblock or insect repellent in the water, and avoiding any behavior that might harm the local flora and fauna.
What to bring
To make the most of your visit to Cenote Escondido, here are some essential items you should consider bringing:
- Swimwear: for swimming and snorkeling.
- Towel: to dry off after your swim.
- Sunscreen: if you’re planning on spending a lot of time outdoors.
- Insect repellent: to protect yourself from pesky bugs.
- Water shoes: to protect your feet while exploring the cenote.
- Cash: for purchasing tickets and renting equipment.
- Camera: to capture the stunning scenery!
To ensure you have a seamless and stress-free travel experience, we have compiled a list of essential travel accessories in our latest blog post.
Are drones and cameras allowed?
While cameras are allowed and encouraged, drones ARE NOT permitted at Cenote Escondido. This is to protect the privacy of visitors and maintain the peaceful atmosphere of the site.
Best Time To Visit
The best time to visit Cenote Escondido is in the early morning hours, right when it opens at 9:00 AM.
During this time, the cenote is generally less crowded, providing a serene environment for you to enjoy its natural beauty.
Plus, the morning light gives the water a mesmerizing glow that makes for excellent photos. Try to avoid the afternoon hours when the site tends to get busy and the sun is at its peak.
The best time to visit Cenote Escondido is during the dry season, from November to April. The weather is typically sunny and dry during this time, making it perfect for outdoor activities like swimming and diving.
Nearby Attractions
If you’re planning to spend a whole day at Cenote Escondido, here are some nearby attractions you can also visit:
- Tulum: a picturesque coastal town known for its beautiful beaches and Mayan ruins.
- Xel-Há Park: an eco-park with snorkeling and water activities.
- Coba Ruins: ancient Mayan ruins surrounded by lush jungle.
Nearby Cenotes
If you’re a fan of cenotes and are planning to explore more in the surrounding area, here are some you might want to add to your itinerary:
- Grand Cenote: Known for its vibrant turquoise waters and the turtles that inhabit it, it’s a great spot for snorkeling and swimming.
- Cenote Dos Ojos: This cenote is famous for its stunning underwater caves, making it a popular destination for scuba divers.
- Cenote Calavera: Also known as ‘Temple of Doom,’ this cenote is perfect for thrill-seekers who enjoy cliff jumping.
- Cenote Sac Actun: It’s the longest submerged cave system in the world, providing an adventurous experience for cave divers.
- Cenote Casa Tortuga: A cluster of four cenotes with diverse features, offering activities like snorkeling, swimming, and cave diving.
- Cenote Zacil-Ha: Known for its crystal-clear, cool waters, it’s a wonderful spot for a refreshing swim on a hot day.
Should I visit Cenote cristal?
Definitely! If you’re in the Tulum area, a visit to Cenote Cristal is highly recommended. Known for its stunningly clear waters and beautiful surroundings, Cenote Cristal offers an equally enchanting experience.
It’s a FANTASTIC spot for swimming, snorkeling, and even diving. The cenote also features a spacious outdoor area perfect for picnics, as well as basic amenities like restrooms and changing facilities.
However, Cenote Cristal is less commercialized than some of the other cenotes, so it might be a good idea to bring your own snacks, drinks, and equipment as this might be limited.
Where To Stay
Luxury
Hidden Treehouse Tulum Eco-Hotel: For those seeking a luxurious, eco-conscious retreat, this hotel is the perfect choice. Nestled amidst the lush greenery of Tulum, the Hidden Treehouse offers a unique blend of exclusivity and environmental sustainability. Each treehouse is meticulously designed with a range of luxurious amenities, while still maintaining a close connection to nature.
Mid-range
Maka Hotel Boutique: Centrally located in Tulum, this hotel offers modern, spacious rooms with tropical-inspired decor, reflecting the natural beauty of the region. It also provides a range of amenities including a rooftop pool, in-house restaurant, and bicycle rental, making your stay convenient and enjoyable. With its warm hospitality and serene ambiance, the Maka Hotel Boutique ensures a memorable stay for its guests.
Budget
Selina Tulum Downtown: This vibrant, community-focused hostel offers a mix of private rooms and dormitories, making it ideal for solo travellers, couples, and groups alike. The property features a communal kitchen, a co-working space, and a lively bar, fostering an environment of social interaction and cultural exchange. In addition, its central location makes it a convenient base for exploring Tulum and its surrounding attractions.
Conclusion
It’s a wrap!
We hope this was an insightful blog post. You are now able to organize the best visit to Cenote Escondido.
Let us know in the comments below about your experience.
FAQ
What is the history of Cenote Escondido?
Cenote Escondido has a rich history dating back to the Mayan civilization. It was considered a sacred site by the ancient Mayans, who used it for both rituals and as a water source. Today, visitors can still see remnants of this history in the form of pottery and other artifacts found at the bottom of the cenote.
How much does it cost to go to Cenote Escondido?
The entrance fee for Cenote Escondido is 100 pesos for adults and 50 pesos for children. Additional fees may apply if you want to rent equipment or hire a guide.
How do I get from Tulum to Cenote Escondido?
The most convenient way to reach Cenote Escondido from Tulum is by taxi or private car. It takes around 25 minutes and costs approximately 300 pesos. You can also take a colectivo (shared van) from Tulum towards Playa del Carmen and ask the driver to drop you off at Cenote Escondido.
How deep is the water at Cenote Escondido?
The water depth at Cenote Escondido varies, with some areas reaching up to 30 meters deep. However, the average depth is around 10-15 meters.
What wildlife can be found around Cenote Escondido?
Cenote Escondido is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including fish, turtles, and various bird species. You may also spot some iguanas sunbathing on the rocks surrounding the cenote.
What is the best way to explore Cenote Escondido?
The best way to explore Cenote Escondido is by swimming, snorkeling, or diving. You can also walk around the perimeter of the cenote and take in its beauty from different angles.
What safety precautions should be taken when visiting Cenote Escondido?
When visiting any cenote, it’s important to follow safety precautions such as not diving headfirst into the water, wearing life jackets if needed, and staying within designated swimming areas. It’s also a good idea to have someone with you or inform others about your plans in case of an emergency. Overall, Cenote Escondido is a beautiful and unique natural
