Last Updated on January 21, 2026 by Sam
Gran Cenote is one of Mexico’s most impressive cenotes. Known for its shimmering turquoise waters reminiscent of Bacalar Lagoon, it’s made up of two sinkholes joined by an underwater cave. Also called Grand Cenote, it’s one of Tulum’s must-visit spots and sits just five kilometres from the town centre. A scenic swim here will undoubtedly be a highlight of your trip, offering the perfect way to cool off from the intense Mexican heat. Find out how to get there, ticket prices, and more in this guide to visiting Gran Cenote, Tulum.
Gran Cenote Information
Gran Cenote Opening Hours: 8:00 AM–4:45 PM. Last entry at 4:15 PM.
Gran Cenote Entrance Fee 2025: 500 MXN.
Gran Cenote Location: 77796 Quintana Roo, Mexico.
How To Get To Gran Cenote From Tulum
Taxi
Taxis are an easy way to reach Gran Cenote from Tulum and should cost approximately 200–300 MXN one-way. There are normally taxis available to take you back into town when you’re ready, but it’s a good idea to get your driver’s number so you can call or text them to pick you up if one isn’t available.
Car
If you’re happy to drive, renting a car in Tulum can be surprisingly affordable. Having a car means you can do things at your own pace, and gives you the freedom to explore other cenotes in the area, such as Cenote Calavera and Cenote Dos Ojos.
It’s just a 10-minute drive to Gran Cenote from central Tulum, and there’s a free car park by the entrance.
Click here to find the best car rental deals for your trip!
Gran Cenote Tours
If you don’t want to deal with the hassle of arranging your own transport, you can book Gran Cenote tours online through Viator or through your accommodation in Tulum. These trips are a great way to meet other travellers, and typically include entry fees, snorkel gear, lunch, and a local guide.
Click here to find the best tours on the Viator website!
Bike
Some hostels and hotels in Tulum offer free bike rentals, making this an easy way to reach the cenote. Even if you don’t have access to a free bike, renting one should only cost around 150–250 pesos per day. Cycling from Tulum to Gran Cenote takes around 15-20 minutes.
Collectivo
The cheapest way (other than walking, which is far from ideal due to the heat) to get to Gran Cenote is by collectivo. These shared vans or minibuses run from Tulum to near the cenote and can be flagged down on Highway 109 near the large Super Aki supermarket.
A collectivo to Gran Cenote should cost around 30–50 pesos, and you’ll need to pay in cash. They don’t run on a set schedule, so be prepared for a bit of a wait, or take a taxi instead.
Best Time To Visit Gran Cenote, Tulum
The best time to visit Gran Cenote is from late November until April, as there is less rainfall and the daytime temperatures in Tulum are warm but not too humid.
Although there’s more rainfall between May and October, it shouldn’t affect your trip too much if you do choose to visit during these months. Storms normally only last about an hour or two, after which it generally isn’t too long until sunny skies return.
To avoid the crowds at Gran Cenote, visit between May and October. These months are generally quieter in Tulum as the weather isn’t as good. The cenote is at its busiest during Tulum’s peak tourist season, which runs from late December to March.
Other Cenotes in Tulum
Although Gran Cenote is the most famous cenote in Tulum, there are plenty of other spectacular cenotes nearby. If you want to visit multiple cenotes, it’s best to either rent a car and drive yourself or book an organised tour.
Other cenotes worth visiting near Tulum include Cenote Dos Ojos, Cenote Mariposa, and the lesser-visited Cenote Chen-Ha. There are plenty of tours to these spots, so we recommend checking out Get Your Guide for some great options.
Click here to browse Get Your Guide’s top tours!
Tips for Visiting Gran Cenote, Tulum
Second pool: There’s a second pool at Gran Cenote that can be accessed by swimming through the cave. Alternatively, you can walk back up the stairs, go slightly to the left, and then down those stairs.
This little pool is the most photogenic spot at the cenote, so it’s well worth going to. Not everyone who visits knows about this spot, so it’s normally a bit quieter and is better for taking photos.
Turtles: Gran Cenote is home to a number of small turtles. Although they can sometimes be seen from the surface, it’s well worth bringing a snorkel, as there are lots more to be seen underwater. Maintain a safe distance when snorkelling with turtles to avoid intimidating or scaring them.
If you don’t have your own snorkel, you can rent one for around 80 pesos at Gran Cenote. Alternatively, most tours to the cenote include snorkelling equipment.
Lockers: Lockers are available to rent at Gran Cenote for 30 pesos each, but you need a valid ID to use as a deposit. Alternatively, you can just leave your things on the ground near the cenote for free, but they might get a little wet.
Life vests: Life vests are mandatory for swimming at Gran Cenote and are included in the price of entry.
Arrive early: For the best experience, we recommend visiting Gran Cenote at opening time. It doesn’t take long before the cenote gets crowded, so if you’re one of the first for the day, it’s normally a lot less busy. It’s also quieter later in the afternoon, as the majority of people have left, but you’ll have limited time to swim before the cenote closes for the day.
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