A rental car in Mexico is one of the best ways to get to Cenote Azul since it gives you the ultimate freedom with your schedule. There are lots of small fish swimming around in the shallow turquoise waters of Cenote Azul, making it a fun place to go snorkeling. These are basic amenities, so dont set your expectations too high, but it should be more than enough to keep your basic needs covered. Visitors can take a dip in the refreshing waters, go for a swim, or even snorkel and explore the underwater life. From Playa del Carmen, take the Carretera Federal (federal highway) to Tulum and exit at the Cenote Azul sign. Do I need travel insurance in Mexico? While they might accept dollars, more often than not theyll only take Mexican pesos, so youre better off having some pesos with you. Do you need to book in advance to visit Cenote Azul? Cenotes have great cultural and religious significance to the ancient Mayans, who believed that the cenotes were passages to the underworld. Read more on my guide on Renting a car in Mexico. Two Wandering Soles Copyright 2023. Beautifulbut very crowded place to cool off. wear them after you finish swimming. There a few important rules to abide by when visiting Cenote Azul that you will see posted prominently at the cenote entrance: Here are some of the best things to do at Azul Cenote Riviera Maya: The overall vibe at Azul Cenote Playa del Carmen is more chill and relaxed, which makes it the perfect place for swimming and just hanging out in the water. In lesser tourist areas you should probably check the local news to stay up to date. There are a variety of smaller, shallow pools that make up the cenote offering a bit more solitude from the main swimming area. Both have small signs near dirt roads that lead back to the cenotes. There are also lockers for rent to safely secure your belongings while youre in the water. Book the best Cenote Azul tour byclicking here! My friends and I actually had quite a few laughs as we struggled to walk across the slippery rocks! The short answer is: depending on where you are. If youre driving from Cancun, it will take you close to 1.5 hours. Jungle Buggy Tour from Playa del Carmen Including Cenote Swim. Leave us a comment if you have any questions! Roughly 7 each person. Recommendations of transfer from zona hotelera to the Cenote Azul? The short answer is, yes it is. Enjoy time for souvenir shopping, photo ops at the sights, and swimming. I recommend Travel Insurance Master for short trips or Safety Wing for digital nomads. Unless you have something valuable that you need to keep secure, wed recommend keeping your belongings on you or leaving them in the trunk of your car (out of sight). Cold water, open air showers to rinse off before entering the cenote. Its great for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. Freshwater fish of all shapes and sizes can be spotted around the cenote. 5. There is a shop on site where you can buy fish food or rent snorkel gear to get a better look at all the different species. Here are my tips: DONT travel in the high season, which is Holy week, Christmas and winter in general, and August. Its located close to other cenotes so you can visit more than one during your trip. Weekday mornings are the least busy time to visit Cenote Azul. This open-air cenote is a great place to snorkel with small fish, go cliff jumping or relax in the shaded areas, making it good for adventure seekers as well as those simply looking for a spot to relax. Except for a small snack bar, you wont find any big touristy restaurants for example, or massage parlors like at Cenote Dos Ojos. You should also arrange for the driver to pick you up later, as it might be difficult to get a taxi from Cenote Azul when youre there. Discovering Cenote Azul: A Complete Guide - 2023 - The Tulum Bible The amenities are somewhat rustic, but this is something we rather enjoyed, better than the overdevelopment everywhere else. At Cenote Azul, there is a small stall that sells some drinks and snacks but the selection is limited. Read on for my ultimate Cenote Azul Playa del Carmen guide! Published: August 26, 2019 Mexico, North America The cenotes near Playa del Carmen are a must see, and need to be added to your Mexico itinerary. READ ALSO: 11 Best Cenotes in Playa del Carmen. Cenote Dos Ojos. As one of the regions well-known and most visited Mexican cenotes, the cenote Azul offers the perfect place where to swim in crystal clear waters of the cenotes pools, relax in a large open space with chairs and tables, or lay on the wooden decks. Go on a day trip toCancunor to the beautifulCozumel island. Once you arrive at the cenote entrance, free parking is available on-site. Visitation is also dependent on the local weather. If you are traveling to a specific destination I have got you covered as well: No, there is no vaccine requirement (of any kind) to travel to Mexico, If you are coming from the US or Europe you dont need a VISA to enter Mexico. More info in our. I can never stress enough what a lifesaver it can be in unexpected situations. By public transportation, you can also take a colectivo (shared van) to Azul Cenote from Playa del Carmen or Tulum. Start with ourMexico Travel Homepage, where youll find general info, and be sure to check out the articles below. If youre adventurous, Cenote Azul is also perfect for you! If you are an all-inclusive type of person, you will find Barcelo Hotels right in front of the Cenote Azul. Cenote Azul is in the Yucatan Peninsula, south of Puerto Aventuras and near Tulum. Tulum Full Day Tour with Taak Bi Ha Cenote and Sacred Cenote . You never know what can happen and know that no matter what, you will be covered with any expenses will give you peace of mind, and make your travel worry-free. One of our favorite and most amazing cenote in Mexico is Cenote Azul near Playa del Carmen and Tulum. The water is very clear so you can observe a variety of fish and plant life underwater. Since the cenote is rather large and open-air, there are many spots with shallow water, plenty points of interest to keep kids entertained, and areas with ample shade. CENOTE AZUL - 2023 All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go Made it super easy to get to the cenote which is right beside the main road. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. Just be sure to keep an eye on your children when they are in the water (obviously!). 100% of travelers recommend this experience. Colectivos are shared vans that run between all of Yucatans famous tourist destinations. There is an open-air shower area near the entrance where you can rinse off. Located near the playa del carmen in the middle between cancun and TaTulum, 1 hour drive from each. Make sure to pack your snorkeling gear when you visit this cenote as both kids and adults will enjoy seeing all the fish. Allison Sicking is the founder of Viva La Travelista. The colectivo from Playa del Carmen to Cenote Azul will cost you about 40 Pesos. We caught the colectivo from Chedraui which a large supermarket in playa. One of the best and most convenient ways to go to the Yucatan Peninsula is to rent a car. Therefore, if you want to avoid the crowds, make sure you visit during the week. It is located next to Cenote Cristalino and Jardin del Eden which are the next cenotes on this list of best cenotes Playa del Carmen. Here is what you can expect. Its such a chill and beautiful cenote if youre looking for an easy cenote to visit near Playa del Carmen. In fact, the use of drones is pretty restricted in Mexico, and most cenotes and other areas of interest prohibit its use. Its location between Playa del Carmen and Tulum, its turquoise blue waters, the amount of shallow areas, being an open type cenote and its facilities, make it one of the must visit cenotes. Cenote Azul is located about 13 miles (21 km) south of Playa del Carmen, with a driving time of about 25 minutes. How Much Does Visiting Playa del Carmen Cenotes Cost? The colectivo will stop right across the cenote or in front of the Barcelo Hotel resort entrance. We normally leave things of value inside the car out of side. Check out my full guides for all the details: Are you ready to visit Cenote Azul? There are no crocodiles in Cenote Azul. Once you get in you need to fill out a form that you need to keep with you until you leave. Snorkel equipment, snacks, and refreshments are also part of the package. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. The fun wears off after a while, and then you can head home, cooled down from the heat. How To Get To Cenotes Near Playa del Carmen? This pool then gets filled with rain water and with the water flowing through underground rivers, to which these sinkholes are connected to. Top ways to experience Cenote Chaak Tun and nearby attractions. Just tell the driver where to drop you off. You can also take a bus or collectivo (found on Calle 2 between 20th and 25th . We brought our daughter when she was just 5 months old and we had a great time. Water is super refreshing and enjoy the fish nibbling on your feet for free as part or the admission! The water is a gorgeous aquamarine color and it is a super pretty spot! Its not a cenote off the beaten path like Cenote Calavera can be. Simply dip your bare feet into the water and enjoy your natural fish spa! I am sure should know by now what is a cenote but for those who dont or have never seen one yet, I would like to offer a brief overview of what they are. Getting to Cenote Azul: Rent a car in Playa del Carmen . A cenote is a natural sinkhole dating back several centuries. While it is located close to two other cenotes Cenote Azul and Cenote Jardin del Eden this is a great choice for those who want some privacy as it is []. Be sure not to use any before visiting; if you do, though, you can use the showers on-site to get rid of it. Important Tip: If you are snorkeling, wed encourage you to wear a shirt as your back will be exposed to the direct sun. Its next to Cenote Cristalino and Cenote Eden. You can check out SafetyWing which I have used and find it affordable and comprehensive and also Travel Insurance Master which is great because you can insert all your information and what kind of insurance you need and their system will pull out the best insurance for your need. Restrooms, changing rooms, and showers are available towards the back of Cenote Azul. As many other natural sinkholes in this region of Mexico, it is a sacred site to the ancient Mayans, with a history that adds more mystery to an already interesting attraction. Travelista Tip: Make sure to wear water shoes to protect your feet and make it much easier to walk in the water. The bottom of the cenote has some sharp rocks, so wed recommend wearing shoes that can get wet, like Chacos. Driving your own rental car is one of the best ways to get to Cenote Azul from Playa del Carmen. Recommended Bus, taxi Take the bus from Playa del Carmen Terminal Turstica to Cancn International Airport T4 Like this Blue Cenote Playa del Carmen post? There are several different areas with various depths, so if you are not a strong swimmer you can bring a lifejacket or rent one on site for a minimal fee. Cenote Azul in the Riviera Maya | Playa Del Carmen Blog If youre also visiting other cenotes on the same day, thats how much time youll likely spend in each. We went cenote hopping and ended the trip in a Mayan village where we enjoyed a fabulous meal. Is it kid friendly? Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. An open air swimming hole near Playa del Carmen, Mexico, Cenote Azul is a popular destination for locals and travelers alike. If you want to know the exact Cenote Azul address, here below you can see it on the map: There are two options to visit Cenote Azul if you want to avoid the crowds. Be sure to wear a hat and sunglasses. Getting there is straightforward from many popular areas of the Yucatan since its right off the highway and there is a large sign at the pulloff. Content hide How are they dealing with COVID? BOOK IT HERE, READ ALSO: 30 Best Things to do in Tulum The Ultimate Guide. Cenote Azul can get quite crowded, particularly on weekends. Thankfully there are many spots in the shade! Lets travel to Mexico is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Playa del Carmen to Cenote Azul - 4 ways to travel via bus, and car Lands End to John o Groats: How to Travel the Length of the UK, Cinque Terre National Park: ULTIMATE Guide + Tips. Psst! You can basically walk there. Please be responsible! Cenote Azul is surrounded by local flora and fauna, making this place feel like a true jungle oasis. At an impressive 600-feet wide, Cenote Azul is believed to be one of the largest in all of Mexico. I asked many locals which cenote they recommended and 9/10 everyone recommended Cenote Azul. Aside from the natural fish spa, snorkeling is one of the best things to do in this cenote. The following are a few small ways in which you can make a difference in preserving our environment and having a positive impact on our beautiful planet: Keep noise levels down basically Dont be loud, Bring your trash home with you if youre not able to dispose of it in a bin, Before entering a cenote, always shower, Even if they are labeled eco-friendly, do not apply creams, protectors, orsprayson your skin because they will contaminate the water. CONTACT: isabella @ letstraveltomexico.com | Instagram | Facebook | Linkedin, How to Visit the Spectacular Cenote Azul in Playa Del Carmen: Prices & Info, What you should know about Cenote Azul, Playa del Carmen Riviera Maya, Things to do in the Cenote Azul Playa del Carmen, How to explore Cenote Azul while remaining environmentally conscious, El Dorado Seaside Palms Adults Only, All Inclusive by Karisma, Cenote Azul Playa del Carmen final thoughts, Riviera Mayas most stunningopen cenotes, Rentals of masks, snorkeling equipment, and tours, When you get out of the water, use DEET-free mosquito repellent because there might be a lot of mosquitos in the area. One of the most popular options to get around in the Yucatan Peninsula (and the cheapest one) is via a colectivo, a public shared van. You can take your snorkel gear and water shoes, but fins are not allowed. But those who wish to cool off from the sun and teeny-bikini flashiness can escape to a secret underworld of turquoise pools where Mayans communicated with the gods. When visiting Cenote Azul, there are a few items you should not forget to bring with you. The cheapest and easiest way to get to Cenote Azul is via a Colectivo (minivan) from either Tulum or Playa del Carmen. Weve been to Cenote Azul on a number of different occasions and put together this list of helpful tips from our personal experience. After moving to Playa del Carmen, Mexico in 2018, she created her travel blog to empower others to travel safely and confidently in Mexico and other Spanish-speaking countries. Cenotes are natural sinkholes that date back hundreds of years. There were a few smaller areas with water to explore along the jungle paths next to the main area. Once you pay the Cenote Azul cost for entrance, they will give you a wristband that allows you access into the cenote. Best Time to Visit Hawaii: When to Go & When to Avoid, 100 pesos ($5) for Quintana Roo residents (bring your ID), Long sleeve swim shirt or rash guard for sun protection, Start planning your trip with our bucket list of, Read this first if youre planning some travel around the, If you have some more time to explore, youll want to check out these, If youre a digital nomad, youll want to try out all the, And dont leave without spending some time exploring, If you want more freedom, you might consider. per adult. Looking for the easiest way to visit Cenote Azul? This pool is filled with rainwater and water flowing through underground rivers connected to these sinkholes. Cenote Azul (meaning blue cenote in Spanish) is an open-air cenote with several gorgeous pools of varying depths. They dont accept credit cards, so be sure you have Mexican pesos for your entrance fee and any rental equipment or snacks you will need. It is truly one of the best places to cool down on a hot Yucatan day! Thanks, I'm not aware of it. Life jackets can also be rented for $40 pesos ($2 USD). Water shoes are essential when visiting cenotes to protect your feet from the rocky surfaces and will make your experience so much more enjoyable. Getting to Gran Cenote: If traveling from Playa del Carmen- Rent a car and drive south down 307 to Tulum, upon reaching Tulum, turn right on 109 and drive 4km until you see the obvious 'Gran Cenote' sign. Nothing special, but you can change into your swimsuit here if needed. For this reason, cenotes were considered sacred. It's also popular among families for its shallow waters and easy access. Plus, its one of the closest cenotes to Playa del Carmen and is very accessible and easy to get to. The standard Cenote Azul entrance fee is $150 pesos ($7.50 USD). Our boys, aged 8 and 10, had the greatest time zip lining and cliff diving into the cenotes. But not all cenotes look the same. We went on a Saturday afternoon and it was quite full; I hear mornings are more quiet. Also, bring a hat and sunglasses, and find spots in the shade to limit your direct sun exposure. There are several options to get to Cenote Azul from Playa del Carmen, Tulum, or Cancun if you prefer visiting on your own. Discover Cars is my preferred source because its website allows you to compare multiple providers and pricing. Anything with chemicals can damage this fragile ecosystem. If you want to stay in the area, you are in luck. Cenote Azul is also suitable for snorkeling. The 17 Best Cenotes Near Playa del Carmen to Visit in 2022 Since the cenote is so large, there are many areas where you can soak in the sun or enjoy a picnic under cool shade. The clear waters are abundant with marine life and are great for snorkeling; we hear that the fishes will give your feet a good exfoliation and spa, too. If you want to snorkel, snorkeling gear can be rented for around $70 pesos per person (~$4 USD). There are several other attractions near Cenote Azul for you to enjoy, including the spectacular beaches of the Riviera Maya, Xpu-ha Beach (1.9 miles / 3.2 km), and Akumal Beach (8.6 miles / 14 km). This is one of the bigger cenotes located on the Riviera Maya and apparently one of the largest in [], Cenote Cristalino: All You Need To Know - Every Steph, [] Playa del Carmen makes a practical choice. Home QUINTANA ROO How to Visit the Spectacular Cenote Azul in Playa Del Carmen: Prices & Info. Get your adrenaline pumping by jumping off a 15-foot cliff into the turquoise blue water. There are deeper parts of the water that are perfect for those who want a challenging swim, or those who wish to dive. The Cenote Azul is easily accessible from Playa del Carmen and Tulum if you travel by Colectivo (minivans) to Cenote Azuls entrance. It's also popular among families for its shallow waters and easy access. 551. Open daily, Cenote Azul hours are from 8.30 AM to 5.00 PM. Although the tourist visa for US and European travelers used to be 6 months long which you could easily renew by leaving the country for a couple of days and going back, nowadays they have been stricter. Its the perfect day trip from Tulum or Playa del Carmen! Cenote Azul: How to Visit - Anna Everywhere They are frequent, inexpensive, and convenient. 1. But, if you want to bring your inner photographer out and take breathtaking images, then the early morning when nature is coming alive or afternoon, when the sun is not directly overhead, is ideal. Get great inclusionssight entry, buffet lunch, and cuisine demonstration. Lots of free parking. This is Isabella, the author of this blog, and a cat lover. A trip to Mexico can be expensive if you love to travel with all the comforts (like I do). This goes without saying, but absolutely no fishing! The lockers are basically next to the parking lot, so they arent very convenient if you need to access your belongings. In the area where the deeper pool is the most adventurous will enjoy diving into the cenote clear emerald waters from the jumping platform. You can bring food, but no alcohol is allowed near the cenote. Playa Del Carmen Cenotes | These Are The Best! 14 Best Playa del Carmen Cenotes - My Adventures Across The World Whether you are leaving from Tulum or Playa del Carmen, you can get to the Cenote Azul by Colectivo, a public minivan that is available 24/7 leaving from the main road in Tulum Centro (stop anywhere) or in Playa on Calle 2 between 10th and 15th av.. Tell the driver to leave you by the Cenote Azul.From the entrance, there is not much walking to do. Id of preferred a more picturesque cenote that was partly underground. It can be deceiving because the water keeps you cool, but it can lead to a nasty sunburn! Cenote Azul is fairly close to Playa del Carmen, in the direction of Tulum. Travelista Tip:Skip the overpriced fish spas on 5th Avenue in Playa del Carmen and experience an authentic one for free at a cenote! Cave Cenotes This type of cenote can be accessed via a land-level entrance. The ride is easy, and anyone who gets confused by directions will easily find their way safely! Now that you know how to get a car rental, you may be wondering how to reach Cenote Azul by car. The route to Cenote Azul is straightforward and well-signposted.
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