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Cenote Calavera

Cenote Calavera, named after the Spanish word for “skull,” is a small but dramatic cenote just outside Tulum. Its unique circular entrance holes and skull-like appearance have made it famous on Instagram and among thrill-seekers. Known for its cliff-jump access and strong light beams, it’s a top pick for adventurous swimmers, freedivers, and photographers.
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    A person with dreadlocks jumps into Cenote Calavera’s deep blue water, while another stands on a wooden platform and a third swims nearby. The cenote is surrounded by rocky edges and lush greenery.

    Location

    Cenote Calavera is located just 3 km (1.9 miles) from Tulum center.

    From Tulum: 3 km (1.9 miles) – about 5 minutes by car
    From Playa del Carmen: 63 km (39 miles) – about 1 hour by car
    From Cancun: 128 km (79.5 miles) – about 1 hour 45 minutes by car

    How to Get There

    By Car:
    Drive west from Tulum on the road to Coba. Cenote Calavera is right off the road and well-marked. Free parking is available on site.

    By Taxi:
    Taxis are available from downtown Tulum. Taxis in Quintana Roo are not regulated, so prices can vary. It may also be difficult or pricey to grab a taxi from the cenote back to your accommodation.

    By Scooter:
    Scooters are a fast and flexible way to reach Cenote Calavera. The ride takes about 5 minutes from Tulum center.

    By Bicycle:
    A bike ride from Tulum center takes around 10 minutes. It’s a short and easy route on a mostly flat road.

    A black Chevrolet SUV is parked on a stone driveway before a modern glass and wood building, surrounded by greenery.

    Private Driver

    Make the most of your cenote adventure by hiring one of our private drivers for an open service—enjoy a comfortable ride while exploring multiple cenotes at your own pace.
    Book a Private Driver

    Price

    • Entrance: 250 MXN (~13 USD) per person
    • Snorkel rental: 50 MXN (~3 USD)
    • Locker rental: 50 MXN (~3 USD)
    • GoPro or action camera fee: 200 MXN (~10 USD)
    • Drone usage (requires special permit): 300 MXN (~15 USD)

    Only cash is accepted at the entrance. Credit or debit cards are not accepted.

    Opening Times

    Open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

    Contact Info

    Whatsapp: +529842164641

    A person in swimwear swings on a rope above the clear blue waters of Cenote Calavera, inside a rocky cavern with a wooden ladder leading down to the pool.

    Facilities

    • Bathrooms and changing area
    • Lockers for valuables
    • Small shaded areas to rest
    • Free parking
    Thatched-roof stage shaded by palms beside a turquoise cenote, surrounded by lush greenery and rocky edges.

    Cenote Clubs

    A cenote club is like a beach club—only better, because it’s built around a stunning cenote. Reserve a daybed, sip cocktails, enjoy delicious food, and spend the day lounging by crystal-clear freshwater in the jungle.
    Cenote Clubs

    Food Options

    There’s no on-site food service at Cenote Calavera, but you’re very close to Cardamomo Cenote Restaurant, a peaceful jungle spot offering fresh, casual dishes just a short walk from the cenote entrance.

    What the Cenote is Nice For

    While it may be smaller than others, Cenote Calavera packs a lot into its dramatic layout.

    Photography – Light beams shining into the water through the holes above make for amazing photos.
    Adventure – Jump into the water from one of the holes and climb out using a wooden ladder—pure jungle fun.

    What to Bring

    Swimsuit – Wear it in advance to save time
    Towel – Quick-dry options are best
    Water shoes – The ground can be rocky and slippery
    Snorkel gear – Some cenotes offer rentals, but bringing your own is more hygienic
    Dry bag – Keep your phone, wallet, and valuables safe from water
    Cash – Most cenotes do not accept credit or debit cards
    Reusable water bottle – Stay hydrated without adding plastic waste
    Biodegradable bug spray – Use only after you’re out of the water if needed

    Travel light but smart—being prepared makes the experience way more enjoyable.

    Help Protect the Environment

    Cenotes are part of a delicate ecosystem. To preserve its crystal-clear waters and the life within:

    • Only use biodegradable sunscreen, as regular ones can contaminate the water and harm aquatic life.
    • Shower before entering to rinse off any lotions, oils, or insect repellents.
    • Never touch or remove stalactites, stalagmites, or any rock formations—these natural structures take thousands of years to form and are protected by law. Removing them is illegal and considered an environmental crime.
    • Take all your trash with you and help keep the area clean.
    • Stay on marked paths to avoid damaging the surrounding jungle or underground cave systems.
    • Avoid loud music or shouting, as it disturbs the wildlife and the tranquil experience of other visitors.

    Do not feed animals or leave food behind, as this disrupts their natural behavior and attracts invasive species.

    Your respect helps keep this natural wonder pristine for future visitors.

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    A man jumps into the clear, turquoise waters of Cenote Cristalino, surrounded by people swimming and relaxing as others watch from a wooden platform under leafy trees on a sunny day.

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