Gran Cenote

Overview

Gran Cenote is a semi-open limestone swimming hole located 4 km from Tulum, renowned for its crystal-clear, turquoise water, resident freshwater turtles, and impressive stalactite formations. Snorkeling here feels like floating through an underground aquarium.

Highlights

• Turtle Encounters: Freshwater turtles rest on submerged logs and regularly surface near snorkelers.
• Cave Snorkeling: A partially submerged cavern connects two open pools, adorned with stalactites and underwater light beams.
• Clear Visibility: The filtered limestone water offers 30+ metre visibility.

History

Gran Cenote is part of the Sac Actun cave system — the world's longest underwater cave system at over 370 km — connected to hundreds of other cenotes beneath the Yucatán. It was first explored by cave divers in the 1980s.

Visitor Tips

• Biodegradable sunscreen only: Required to protect the delicate ecosystem.
• Combine with Tulum: A natural first stop before visiting Tulum ruins.
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours.