Welcome to Mexico!
In this blog post, we are going to spill the beans about this hidden gem in Valladolid – Cenote Oxman. From activities, accommodation, how to get there and even nearby cenotes worth checking out after your visit.
Let’s get started.
Cenote Oxman Map
Cenote Oxman is located near the city of Valladolid, in the heart of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula. Positioned approximately a 15-minute drive south of the city center, it lies nestled within the premises of Hacienda San Lorenzo Oxman, a historical estate that adds to the charm and allure of the area.
How to Get to Cenote Oxman
Reaching Cenote Oxman from Valladolid is quite straightforward.
If you are driving, head out of Valladolid on Calle 39, heading southwest. Take a right onto Calle 49, then left onto Calle 44, continuing out of the city. Follow this road for approximately 3.5 kilometers until you see a sign for Hacienda San Lorenzo Oxman. Turn right here and follow the signs to the cenote.
If you prefer to use public transportation, colectivos (shared taxis) are a good option. You can find colectivos going towards Cenote Oxman near the ADO bus station in Valladolid.
Be sure to specify your destination for the driver.
From Cancun, you will need to drive or take an ADO bus to Valladolid first, which takes about 2 hours. From there, follow the same directions as above.
From Merida, it’s a 2-hour drive via the 180 highway towards Valladolid. Once in Valladolid, follow the same local directions as above.
Renting a car is our preferred choice when we seek autonomy and flexibility in our travel plans. It grants us the freedom of personal transportation, liberating us from the constraints of public timetables. For these situations, we rely on Discover Cars for their extensive range of vehicles and competitive rates.
Things to Do in Cenote Oxman
Dive into the crystal-clear turquoise waters, an oasis of refreshment in the scorching Yucatan heat. Feel the thrill as you explore the hidden wonders beneath the surface, immersing yourself in the aquatic paradise.
For those seeking adventure, embrace the thrill of plunging into the refreshing depths below. Join the locals and fellow travelers in an exhilarating cliff-jumping experience that will leave you breathless.
Opening Hours and Entrance Fee
Cenote Oxman is open to the public seven days a week, from 8 AM to 5 PM.
As for the entrance fee, the cost is 150 Mexican pesos (around USD 3.50) for adults (only cenote).
This fee includes access to the cenote, the use of life jackets, and the privilege of using its on-site facilities, such as restrooms and changing areas.
For those interested in combining their visit with a meal at the hacienda, there are packages available that combine entrance and a meal for a total of approximately 200 Mexican pesos (around USD 10).
Once you enter the premises, there is a small gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs and other local products. There are also bathrooms and showers available for use, as well as a restaurant and bar serving up delicious traditional Mexican cuisine.
Tips for Visiting Cenote Oxman
When planning your visit to Cenote Oxman, there are several factors to consider.
The cenote tends to be less crowded during the early morning hours (8-11 AM) and later in the afternoon (3-5 PM), making these ideal times to visit if you wish to avoid large crowds.
For your comfort and safety, it is recommended that you bring along a few essentials, such as a swimsuit, towel, and biodegradable sunscreen.
Wearing biodegradable sunscreen is crucial to helping preserve the delicate ecosystem of the cenote.
As per local customs, it is respectful to acknowledge the sacredness of the cenotes to the Mayan people and treat the location with care.
Lastly, it is also common courtesy to shower off any sunscreen or insect repellent before entering the water to help maintain the pristine conditions.
Dining at Cenote Oxman
After an exciting day of exploration and swimming at Cenote Oxman, you can satiate your appetite at the on-site restaurant in Hacienda San Lorenzo Oxman.
This charming place offers authentic Mexican dishes that are as flavorful as they are visually appealing.
From zesty entrées like tacos and enchiladas to succulent mains like grilled chicken and carne asada, there is something to cater to every palate.
The restaurant also serves some local Yucatan specialties, which are worth a try if you’re interested in getting a true taste of the regional cuisine.
The tranquil setting of the restaurant, coupled with its rustic charm, makes dining here a truly enjoyable experience.
Where to stay
Luxury Option
Hotel Zentik Project: This eco-friendly hotel is known for its unique underground pool and beautiful mural art. It boasts comfortable rooms, a relaxing spa, and a restaurant serving delicious local cuisine. The hotel’s convenient location makes it an excellent choice for those visiting Cenote Oxman.
Mid-range Option
Hotel Casa Hipil: Located in the heart of Valladolid, Hotel Casa Hipil offers a stylish stay. The boutique hotel features elegant rooms, a swimming pool, an on-site restaurant, and is just a short drive to Cenote Oxman.
Budget Option
Hostel La Candelaria: This cozy hostel is perfect for budget-conscious travelers. It offers comfortable dormitory-style rooms, a communal kitchen, free WiFi, a beautiful garden, and bike rentals. Its location in the center of Valladolid makes it an ideal base for exploring Cenote Oxman and other nearby attractions.
What to pack
Below is a list of the essentials for a fun and complete visit to this cenote!
- Swimwear: Essential for enjoying the cenote’s crystal-clear waters.
- Towel: For drying off after your swim.
- Biodegradable Sunscreen: Protect your skin from the sun while preserving the cenote’s ecosystem.
- Insect Repellent: Keep those pesky bugs at bay. Remember to shower it off before entering the water.
- Comfortable Shoes: Ideal for exploring the surrounding areas.
- Hat and Sunglasses: additional protection against the Yucatan sun.
- Water Bottle: Stay hydrated throughout your visit.
- Snacks: To keep your energy levels up between meals.
- Camera: Capture the beauty of Cenote Oxman.
- Cash: For entrance fees, meals, and any souvenirs you may want to purchase.
Other Cenote’s To Visit
Cenote Zaci: Located right in the heart of Valladolid, Cenote Zaci offers a unique urban cenote experience.
Cenote Samula: Known for its stunning stalactites formations and clear, deep blue water.
Cenote Xkeken: Also known as the “Piglet Cenote”, offers a surreal, otherworldly feel with its dramatic lighting and crystal clear water.
Cenote Suytun: Famous for its iconic beam of light that pierces through the hole in the cavern roof, straight onto the water’s surface.
Cenote Ik Kil: Spectacularly beautiful and deep, it’s often a stop for tourists visiting the world-renowned Chichen Itza.
Conclusion
It’s a wrap for this blog post!
We hope you will have an AMAZING time at Cenote Oxman.
Let us know in the comments if you have any burning questions.
FAQ
Where is Cenote Oxman ?
Cenote Oxman is located in the small town of Valladolid, Yucatan, Mexico. It is approximately a 2-hour drive from Merida via the 180 highway.
How deep is Cenote Oxman ?
Cenote Oxman has a depth of approximately 27 meters (90 feet). However, the deepest section open to visitors is around 12 meters (40 feet).
How far is Cenote Oxman from Tulum ?
Cenote Oxman is approximately a 1.5-hour drive from Tulum via the 180 highway. It is also accessible by public transportation, with buses departing from Tulum to Valladolid regularly. From Valladolid, visitors can take a taxi or rent a bike to reach Cenote Oxman.
How to get to Cenote Oxman from Cancun
Cenote Oxman is approximately a 3-hour drive from Cancun via the 180 highway. Visitors can also take a bus or shuttle from Cancun to Valladolid, and then take a taxi or bike rental to reach Cenote Oxman.
