Day Trips from Tulum: Bacalar
Everything you need to know to plan a day trip from Tulum to Bacalar! Relax by the lagoon, visit the historic San Felipe Fort, and soak in the natural beauty.
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Cenote Zacil-Ha
Cenote Zacil-Ha is a charming open-air cenote located just off the Tulum–Cobá highway. Its turquoise waters, wooden decks, and small zipline make it a fun and relaxing spot for families, couples, and travelers looking for a casual swim. The cenote is relatively shallow and has a pool-like shape, making it ideal for those who prefer easy access and a laid-back atmosphere.
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Bring Cash
The entrance fee and zipline require cash payment. There are no ATMs on-site.
Location
From Tulum: Approximately 8 km (5 miles) northwest via Highway 109 toward Cobá.
From Playa del Carmen: Approximately 70 km (43 miles), about a 1-hour drive.
From Cancún: Approximately 130 km (81 miles), about a 2-hour drive.
How to Get There
By Car: Take Highway 109 from Tulum toward Cobá. Cenote Zacil-Ha is well-signposted and has free parking available.
By Taxi: Taxis are available from Tulum. 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: A convenient and quick way to get there from Tulum. The ride takes about 10–15 minutes. Exercise caution on the highway, especially with traffic.
By Bicycle: A popular option from Tulum, taking approximately 25–30 minutes. The route is straightforward along Highway 109
By Colectivo: Colectivos heading toward Cobá can drop you near the entrance. Inform the driver of your destination. A short walk leads to the cenote entrance
Price
Entrance Fee: 300 MXN (~$15 USD) per person.
Zipline: 10 MXN (~$0.50 USD) per ride
Opening Times
Open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Combine Visits
Cenote Zacil-Ha is close to other attractions like Gran Cenote and Cenote Carwash, making it easy to visit multiple sites in one day.
Contact Info
- WhatsApp: +529843163930
- Website: Cenote Zacil-Ha
Facilities
- Bathrooms and changing rooms.
- Outdoor showers.
- Shaded palapas and picnic tables.
- On-site restaurant and snack bar.
- Souvenir shop.
- Lifeguards on duty.
- Cabana rentals for day use.
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.
Food Options
Cenote Zacil-Ha has an on-site restaurant and snack bar offering local dishes, snacks, and beverages. Visitors are also allowed to bring their own food and drinks to enjoy at the picnic areas. Please remember to clean up after yourself to help preserve the natural environment.
What the Cenote is Nice For
Swimming: The cenote’s clear, cool waters provide a refreshing experience.
Snorkeling: Visibility is excellent, and the cenote is home to various fish.
Ziplining: A short zipline crosses over the cenote, allowing for a fun splash into the water.
Relaxation: Shaded areas and palapas make it easy to spend a leisurely afternoon.
Cenote Zacil-Ha is ideal for visitors seeking a family-friendly and easily accessible cenote experience near Tulum.
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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Cenote Zacil-Ha is a open-air cenote just off the Tulum–Cobá highway. Its turquoise waters, wooden decks, and small zipline make it a fun and relaxing spot.