Valladolid is, without exaggeration, the best base for exploring cenotes in the entire Yucatan Peninsula. Within a 30-minute radius you have access to more than 15 cenotes, from underground caves with light beams to open pools surrounded by jungle. Here we share the 10 that are truly worth visiting, with updated prices and tips that only a local can give you.
1. Cenote Suytun — The Most Photogenic
Distance: 7 km (10 min by car)
Price: $200 MXN | Hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
A cave cenote with a circular stone platform in the center of the water where a natural beam of light falls from the vault. It is the iconic image of Yucatecan cenotes. Arrive at 8 AM for an almost empty venue and the best light.
2. Cenote Oxman — The Most Fun
Distance: 4 km (8 min by car)
Price: $200 MXN (includes lounge chairs) | Hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Inside Hacienda San Lorenzo Oxman. It has a rope swing to jump into the water from several meters high. The hacienda restaurant serves excellent cochinita pibil. Ideal for spending half a day.
3. Cenote Samula — The Underground Cathedral
Distance: 7 km (12 min by car)
Price: $150 MXN (combo with Xkeken) | Hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
An enormous underground cavern where the roots of a poplar tree descend from the surface to touch the turquoise water. The acoustics inside are incredible. Visited together with Xkeken, which is right next door.
4. Cenote Xkeken (Dzitnup) — The Classic
Distance: 7 km (12 min by car)
Price: Included with Samula | Hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
An enclosed cenote where an opening in the vault lets in a sunbeam that illuminates the crystal-clear water. Stalactites hang from the ceiling creating an otherworldly landscape. The most visited in the area, and for good reason.
5. Cenote Zaci — The Urban Cenote
Distance: In downtown Valladolid (5 min walk)
Price: $50 MXN | Hours: 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM
The only cenote inside the city. Semi-open, enormous, with a small waterfall and tropical vegetation around it. Perfect if you have limited time or want a quick dip without leaving the center.
6. Cenote Hubiku — Light and Roots
Distance: 25 km (25 min by car)
Price: $120 MXN | Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
A partially collapsed vault cenote where light enters spectacularly. Less visited than the others, making it more peaceful for swimming.
7. Cenote Saamal — Hacienda Setting
Distance: 6 km (10 min by car)
Price: $100 MXN | Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
An open cenote within a historic hacienda. It has platforms for jumping into the water and shaded rest areas. Ideal for families with children.
8. Cenote Yokdzonot — Community Tourism
Distance: 20 km (20 min by car)
Price: $80 MXN | Hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Managed by the Yokdzonot Maya community. An open cenote surrounded by vegetation where your entrance fee directly supports the local community. They offer rappelling and zip-lining over the cenote.
9. Cenote Palomitas — The Best-Kept Secret
Distance: 22 km (25 min by car)
Price: $150 MXN | Hours: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
A set of connected cenotes linked by underground passages. The stalactite formations look like popcorn, hence the name. Little known to tourists, it is a unique experience.
10. Cenote Tsukan — Pure Adventure
Distance: 15 km (18 min by car)
Price: $100 MXN | Hours: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
A completely enclosed cave cenote accessed by stairs. The water is crystal clear and the sensation of being underground is unforgettable. For the more adventurous.
Tips for Visiting Cenotes
- Biodegradable sunscreen: many cenotes require it and it is the right thing to protect these ecosystems
- Bring cash: most only accept cash in Mexican pesos
- Go early: between 8 and 9 AM cenotes are nearly empty
- Life vest rental: available at most ($50 MXN extra)
- Recommended day route: Suytun → Samula + Xkeken → Oxman (lunch at the hacienda)
Where to Stay for Cenote Exploration?
From Casa Xu'unan in the Sisal neighborhood, all cenotes are less than 30 minutes away. Have breakfast with us in the morning, head out to explore cenotes and come back to cool off in our pool. Dona Susi knows each cenote personally and will give you the best recommendations.
