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Cenote Cristalino

Cenote Cristalino is a stunning open-air cenote located just south of Playa del Carmen. Known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, lush jungle surroundings, and natural rock formations, it’s a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The cenote offers a serene environment perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and cliff jumping.

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    A clear, blue-green cenote surrounded by lush trees and rocky ledges, Cenote Cristalino invites visitors to swim and relax along the shore. Sunlight reflects off the water’s surface, enhancing its vivid colors.

    Location

    From Tulum: Approximately 40 km (25 miles) north, about a 40-minute drive.
    From Playa del Carmen: Approximately 20 km (12.5 miles) south, about a 20-minute drive.
    From Cancun: Approximately 90 km (56 miles) south, about a 1.5-hour drive.​

    How to Get There

    By Car: Drive along Highway 307; the cenote is well-signposted and offers free parking.

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

    By Scooter: You can get there by scooter, but since you’ll be riding along the highway, it’s not the safest option. Traveling by car is a safer and more comfortable choice.

    By Colectivo: Colectivos (shared vans) running between Playa del Carmen and Tulum can drop you off near the entrance. Just let the driver know you’re going to Cenote Cristalino. Keep in mind you’ll need to walk a short distance from the highway.

    black truck in tulum

    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 Fee: 500 MXN (~125 USD) per adult; 300 MXN (~15 USD) per child. ​
    • Snorkel & Mask Rental: 200 MXN (~1 USD).
    • Locker Rental: 100 MXN (~5 USD). ​
    • Lounge Chair Rental: 200 MXN (~10 USD).

    Opening Times

    Open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM.

    Contact Info

    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.

    Facilities

    • Bathrooms and changing areas.
    • Lockers for valuables.
    • Shaded seating areas.
    • Free parking.
    the cenote from above at vesico cenote club in tulum

    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

    While Cenote Cristalino doesn’t have a full-service restaurant, it does offer a small snack stand on-site, providing light refreshments such as chips, candy, and drinks. If you plan to spend an extended period enjoying the cenote, it’s advisable to bring your own food and non-alcoholic beverages. Just be sure to clean up after yourself and take all trash with you to help preserve the natural beauty of the area.

    What the Cenote is Nice For

    Cenote Cristalino is celebrated for its crystal-clear waters, making it ideal for:​

    • Swimming & Snorkeling: The cenote’s clarity and vibrant aquatic life offer excellent conditions for both activities. ​
    • Cliff Jumping: A designated area with a 12-foot (4-meter) high cliff provides an exhilarating experience for thrill-seekers. ​
    • Relaxation: The serene environment, surrounded by lush vegetation, is perfect for unwinding and enjoying nature
    people with flashlights in an underground cenote

    Cenote Tours

    Booking a tour is perfect for those who want to explore multiple cenotes with expert guides. Enjoy a personalized experience, visit hidden gems, and make the most of your time in Tulum.
    Book a Cenote Tour

    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.

    Reviews

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