Gran Cenote — Attraction in Quintana Roo

Initially had quite some doubts visiting Gran Cenote based off other reviews. Points of critique in this were the high price vs. what you get in return, the crowd that visits there, some lack in hygiene, etc. and considered alternatives such as Cenote Calavera.

We decided to risk it and went on a Friday morning where we biked from Tulum Pueblo to the cenote and arrived at approximately 9 AM. (Note: when going by bike you do have to bike on the side of the road designated for cars, but we've seen locals do the same so we were assured we weren't doing anything out of the ordinary.)

To our pleasant surprise, there was no queue and we could head inside at the cost of 500 MXN per person, with lifejacket and diving goggles included. Borrowing the goggles requires you to leave something in the form of an ID, which will be returned when you return the goggles. We left our Dutch public transport card as ID and this was accepted.

They provide lockers at the cost of 30 MXN, as well as changing rooms, toilets and you are required use the outdoor shower before going into the cenote. The toilets were reasonably clean, while the showers could've used some cleaning as it had flies on the showerhead.

As for the cenote itself; absolutely stunning. The waters had a beautiful blue color, super transparent water and there were loads of turtles and fish to admire. There were two tunnels that lead you to two other cenotes. In total we've spent around 1.5 hours here admiring the view. Luckily, it got busier at the time we left, which was around 11 AM or so. I'd highly recommend visiting as early as possible to avoid potential queues and to have a more peaceful experience here.

In conclusion - highly recommend going here. The price was rather steep in comparison to other cenotes, but it is very much worth your while. We also visited the other "recommended" Cenote Calavera but didn't find that one half as impressive as...

First off, do not use Apple maps to find this place as it will divert you to some dive shop in the middle of town. You'll need to use Google maps to get you to the exact location.

This was our very first cenote on this trip.

It's 500 pesos for adults and 250 pesos for kids that are less than 4'5" or so. Cash only. (If paying in US dollars, it's $30 US and $15 for children.) Be sure to collect your ticket.

There is free parking out front as well.

Once you go in, there are outdoor showers that you are expected to use to rinse off. No sunscreen is allowed. And before you get your Personal Flotation Device (PFD), they will check that you have showered. However, no one is actually watching you as you rinse off as some reviews have mentioned. They'll also provide a snorkeling mask too.

You'll need to walk down some stairs and there's an option to rent a locker for 30 pesos. Some people left their belongings unattended, but you'll get a key for your locker and they'll hold your ID card until you return the key.

It's a small area to snorkel around and you'll see a lot of turtles. There are some darker areas, and a waterproof flashlight would have been very useful during those parts. The water is super clear, so let's keep it that way.

There's a large grassy area to dry off and relax. I would suggest bringing some snacks if you want to relax out in the sun because it does get cold in the water after awhile. There are no in and out privileges though.

Overall, it's a nice little cenote to visit. I would recommend 1-2 hours depending on how much time you want to swim around.

Park hours: 8:10 am to 4:45 pm, last...

I visited three cenotes while in Tulum (Caleta Tankha, Gran Cenote, and Sac Actun). The first two were not guided, while Sac Actun requires a guide as you are going through the caves. I'll stop you here and say the MUST SEE cenote is Sac Actun. If you have time for more, then these three will give you a good comparison.

I visited Gran Cenote on a Tuesday midday after some rain. It was not busy at all and had plenty of space to swim around. The water is chilly, but if you keep swimming, you'll stay warm enough. Overall, I found Gran Cenote to be cool (bats, turtles, some fish), but pretty underwhelming. It took me about 30 mins to explore the entire cenote. For the price, it doesn't seem worth it. They only accept cash and up-charge if you're paying in USD ($500 pesos vs $30 USD).

The staff was not friendly either. A poor woman slipped and fell, hitting her head, and there was no reaction or assistance. Be careful as the decks are very slippery.

Other than the cenote, there is nothing much else to do there. No food or beverages. There is a lawn to hang out if you want to stay and have a picnic. Bring your own towel. Snorkel gear and life jacket is provided.

As other reviewers mention, you must shower before entering the cenote. No sunscreen, perfumes, deodorants, in order to preserve the cenote.

Rating a 3 out of 5 because there is some value in seeing Gran Cenote, but I wouldn't go back, and it didn't live up to the hype. I didn't even snap...