Cenote Escondido is Tulum’s stunning hidden pool you need to explore. Here’s what you need to know before you go.
Tulum has snorkeling and diving opportunities aplenty but, if you ask us, none are as impressive as the experiences available at Cenote Escondido. Situated amidst Tulum’s lush jungle, those looking to take part in water activities or even just chill out in the cerulean waters will enjoy this picture-perfect cenote.
Directly translating to the “hidden cenote”, this natural freshwater pool is one of the best places to visit in Tulum.
Don’t believe us? Take a look for yourself.
Why Visit Cenote Escondido?
If the sparkling blue waters and verdant greenery surrounding the cenote aren’t enough to entice you, these things certainly should…
Scuba Diving
If you’re interested in scuba diving in Tulum – and you most definitely should be – there’s nowhere better to flex your skills (or learn some new tricks) than at the Escondido cenote.
If you want to visit Escondido to go scuba diving specifically, the entry ticket costs 300 MXN – you can either opt for a tour or, if you’re an experienced diver, rent equipment from somewhere in town (we recommend the Tulum Diving Center) and explore by yourself.
Oh, and there’s no requirement to wear a lifejacket here like there is at Dos Ojos (though, for legal reasons, we would like to say we recommend wearing one), so you can free-dive down. This, of course, is only viable for strong swimmers. Be safe out there.
If you’re not quite ready to dive down, then near the entrance of Cenote Escondido you’ll be able to spot a rope swing, which makes for an epic cliff-jumping spot. The water depth here is around 20 feet, so go crazy and live out your wildest rope-swinging, cliff-diving dreams.
Cenote Cristal
Another of the main reasons you definitely should visit Cenote Escondido is that just across the road is Cenote Cristal – so you’re really getting a 2-for-1 kind of deal.
In fact, you’ll need to buy your ticket at Cenote Cristal anyway, so it would be criminal not to pop in and enjoy the tranquility on offer at Cenote Cristal.
You might be wondering whether visiting both is vital – we certainly think so. In particular, Cenote Cristal is stunning; one of our favorite cenotes in Tulum (a bold claim, as there are hundreds nearby).
As the name suggests, expect crystal clear waters, towering trees, and three epic jumping platforms surrounding this huge natural swimming pool. These platforms sit at varying heights so the whole family can enjoy the cenote. And, if you’re feeling brave, divers can jump from the 12-foot platform.
Read Next: The Best Cenotes in Tulum
Cameras and Drones
Unlike most of Tulum’s cenotes, Escondido and Cristal allow cameras and drones for free. Well, kinda.
Obviously, your mobile phone is A-Ok. And you can bring a drone or a Go Pro with you to capture some cool images. If, however, you want to bring in a fancy camera, you’ll need to pay a special fee.
We’ll be honest, unless you’re a photographer or you have a good reason to need a high-tech DSLR, the cenote is so gorgeous that your mobile phone will be able to capture excellent footage.
Planning Your Visit to the Escondido Cenote
Cenote Escondido Address
Cenote Escondido, Mayan Blue Rd, 77765 Q.R., Mexico
Cenote Escondido Opening Times
Cenote Escondido – and Cristal, for that matter – are both open daily from 10am to 5pm. However, we think that the best time to visit is in the morning around 11am, before the crowds build and the afternoon heat ramps up.
Visiting Cenote Escondido Independently
Getting to Cenote Escondido independently couldn’t be easier – it’s a 30-minute drive from the Tulum Archeological Site and just 15 minutes from Tulum Beach.
Note that you will need to pay a small entrance fee to access Cenote Escondido (though, it includes access to Cenote Cristal, too). This is $200 MXN – around 10 US dollars.
We’ll warn you: Cenote Escondido, just like its name, is really hidden. In order to spot this secret haven, you’ll need to keep your eyes peeled on the right side of the road for the far-less-inconspicuous Cenote Cristal sign, and then head across the road to the magical Escondido.
On a Tour
While visiting Cenote Escondido independently is rather simple, sometimes it’s nice to have all the stress taken care of by a professional guide, right? We think so too.
That’s where a handy tour comes in – this one in particular is excellent. It combines the very best of Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve and Cenote Escondido in one brilliant day trip.
Better yet, book this tour and all entrance fees, transportation, equipment, and snacks are all covered. All you need to remember is your swimming costume and plenty of sunblock – trust us, you’ll need it.
Book the Sian Ka’an and Cenote Escondido Guided Tour Here
Where to Stay for Cenote Escondido
Looking for the perfect hotel for your Tulum trip? Situated just around the corner from Cenote Escondido is the Naajal Boutique Hotel. Rooms are simple yet stylish, and plenty spacious enough for a couple or a small family.
With an outdoor pool, lush jungle garden, and a BBQ right on your doorstep, you’ve got everything you need for a (more than) comfortable stay at your fingertips.
Or, if you’re not totally sold on this hotel, check out our guide to the best resorts in Tulum.