25 Cave Dives on the Yucatan Peninsula

The Yucatan Peninsula is a diver’s dream, featuring some of the most remarkable caves and cenotes on the planet. These underwater caverns host unique ecosystems, stunning rock formations, and crystal-clear waters. Whether you’re a novice diver or an experienced explorer, diving in these underwater wonders is an experience filled with adventure and awe.

This guide explores 25 breathtaking cave dives in the Yucatan Peninsula. We will highlight their unique features, practical tips for visits, and captivating details that will inspire your next diving adventure.

1. Dos Ojos

Situated just north of Tulum, Dos Ojos is among the most famous cenotes in the Yucatan. Known for its incredible visibility, often reaching up to 50 meters, and stunning stalactite formations, this site allows divers to explore two connected sinkholes. The name “Dos Ojos,” meaning “Two Eyes,” reflects the shape of its large openings.

This dive accommodates all skill levels, offering a chance to swim through lush underwater caves illuminated by sunlight filtering down through the water.

2. Gran Cenote

Gran Cenote, located near Tulum, is a bucket-list destination for divers and snorkelers. The clear waters provide a front-row seat to observe vibrant marine life including turtles and colorful fish. The cenote features large open areas alongside cave passages, granting ample opportunity to explore its beautiful rock formations.

Its shallow areas and easy entry points make this site particularly favorable for beginners.

3. Angelita

Angelita is renowned for its surreal underwater river appearance. At a depth of around 30 meters, divers can experience a layer of hydrogen sulfide that creates a foggy visual effect beneath the halocline. This exotic scene is mesmerizing and offers advanced divers the chance to observe the unique interplay of fresh and saltwater.

Diving here provides an otherworldly experience that you won’t forget.

4. The Pit

Located within the Dos Ojos System, The Pit is a thrilling dive for seasoned divers. This cenote features a deep, vertical shaft where sunlight beams through, creating a spectacular light show. At the depths, divers can encounter stunning rock formations that have formed over millennia.

Because of its considerable depth, this dive is designed for experienced divers with advanced certifications.

5. Cenote Taj Mahal

Cenote Taj Mahal is a tranquil spot near Tulum, often less crowded than more well-known dives. The crystal-clear waters and striking rock formations create an enchanting underwater landscape. It reaches a maximum depth of about 10 meters, making it a fantastic choice for divers of all levels.

This cenote stands out for its pristine beauty and peaceful surroundings.

6. Calavera

Known as the “skull” cenote for its unique opening, Calavera presents an exciting dive location. Divers can explore water-filled caverns with varying depths and stunning rock formations. The exceptional lighting conditions make it a favorite among underwater photographers eager to capture its beauty.

While suitable for intermediate divers, the diverse environments can challenge those with less experience.

7. Chac Mool

Chac Mool cenote is famous for its snorkeling and diving opportunities. With a spacious cavern and shallow areas, divers can explore remarkable limestone formations and archaeological artifacts while swimming amidst schools of colorful fish, including parrot fish and angelfish. The combination of natural beauty and historical significance makes this location legendary.

Every diver, beginner or experienced, will find Chac Mool captivating.

8. Cenote Xunaan-Ha

Cenote Xunaan-Ha translates to “Water of the Woman.” This serene cenote offers a calm environment perfect for novice divers looking to start their underwater exploration. The natural beauty, complemented by charming stalactite and stalagmite formations, makes it an enchanting destination for those seeking a less-trafficked spot.

9. Cenote Blue

Cenote Blue, just a short distance from Playa del Carmen, features mesmerizing azure waters, a result of the cenote’s depth. The transparent environment allows divers to closely observe unique rock formations and abundant marine life, including catfish and small crustaceans.

This dive site is ideal for divers at all experience levels, making it an excellent introduction to cave diving.

10. Cenote Verde Lucero

Cenote Verde Lucero is celebrated for its vivid green waters and striking geological formations. Perfect for both diving and snorkeling, it boasts excellent underwater visibility, where divers can appreciate colorful flora and fauna. This site is especially enjoyable for both beginners exploring shallow areas and experienced divers seeking deeper thrills.

11. Cuzama Cenotes

Cuzama Cenotes consist of a series of breathtaking cenotes accessible by horseback riding through scenic landscapes. Each cenote has its charm, with clear water and unique formations that cater to divers seeking diverse experiences. This adventurous journey to the cenotes adds an extra layer of excitement.

12. Cenote Caracol

Cenote Caracol provides an enchanting experience for divers wanting to connect with nature. Its network of tunnels and chambers offers thrilling exploration amid abundant marine life. As divers navigate through the cenote, they can encounter lively schools of fish while basking in the beauty of well-preserved rock formations.

This dive is best suited for experienced divers who are comfortable in cavernous environments.

13. Cenote Sagrado

Rich in historical significance, Cenote Sagrado was once used by ancient Mayans for ceremonial purposes. Now, it is a captivating dive site featuring serene turquoise waters perfect for exploration. Divers can enjoy the unique geological formations while feeling a connection to the past.

This site is accessible and enjoyable for divers of all skill levels.

14. Cenote Chijuan

Cenote Chijuan is a hidden gem that offers a peaceful diving experience. Surrounded by lush vegetation, the clear waters invite divers to explore thriving ecosystems featuring diverse fish and plant life. With minimal crowds, this quiet cenote feels like a sanctuary for those wanting to immerse themselves in nature.

15. Cenote Ik Kil

Cenote Ik Kil is one of the most picturesque cenotes with its circular shape, stunning vines, and waterfalls. Surrounded by lush jungle, it serves as a prime swimming location as well as a diving spot. Visitors can enjoy its beautiful atmosphere both above and below the water.

It welcomes divers of all levels, creating a great opportunity for enjoyment.

16. Cenote Xcan Che

Cenote Xcan Che provides a natural setting for divers who appreciate intimate experiences. The water is crystal clear with stable temperatures year-round. This site suits both beginners and advanced divers, allowing everyone to take their time exploring this hidden treasure.

17. Cenote Candelaria

Located near Playa del Carmen, Cenote Candelaria captivates divers with its impressive rock formations and underwater biodiversity. The stable conditions make it excellent for both snorkeling and diving. This cenote caters to all skill levels and provides an enriching experience under the surface.

18. Cenote Las Dos Hermanas

Cenote Las Dos Hermanas features two interconnected caves with stunning turquoise waters inviting exploration. This dive is designed for both beginners and more experienced divers, as it offers a variety of depths to explore while enjoying breathtaking views of the underwater environment.

19. Cenote Dos Ojos Tortuga

Cenote Dos Ojos Tortuga is an inviting site for divers looking for peace and exploration. Known for its crystal-clear waters, this cenote draws divers interested in observing unique rock formations and a variety of aquatic life.

It accommodates all skill levels, providing a great opportunity for adventure in Yucatan’s enchanting cenotes.

20. Cenote Tzakol

Cenote Tzakol remains a hidden treasure that offers an enchanting diving experience. Surrounded by vibrant plant life, this cenote features crystal-clear waters that reveal the beautiful underwater ecosystem. Divers can appreciate a variety of species while enjoying the site’s stunning geological features.

This cenote welcomes divers of all skill levels, making it a delightful escape.

21. Cenote Chayun

Cenote Chayun offers an intimate dive experience, surrounded by natural beauty. The tranquil waters and fascinating rock formations provide a picturesque backdrop as divers explore. With minimal visitors, this cenote allows for undisturbed immersion into a captivating underwater world.

Both beginners and seasoned divers can find joy in discovering its serenity.

22. Cenote Simbr

Located near Tulum, Cenote Simbr features stunning clear waters and intriguing underwater passages. Known for its peaceful atmosphere and diverse marine life, it is an exceptional choice for divers seeking a soothing experience.

This site accommodates divers at all skill levels, ensuring everyone can enjoy its charm.

23. Cenote Las Madres

Cenote Las Madres is quickly gaining popularity among diving enthusiasts. Its soft sandy floors and extensive cave systems showcase the natural beauty of the underwater world. The friendly atmosphere makes it a delightful spot for experiencing this enchanting cenote.

Divers of many skill levels can enjoy the exploration opportunities this site has to offer.

24. Cenote Las Mojarritas

Cenote Las Mojarritas is a gentle dive site known for its inviting underwater ecosystem. The calm waters combined with stunning visibility create an ideal environment for anyone wishing to dive into the beauty of the Yucatan. The unique rock formations offer exciting exploration opportunities.

This cenote caters to both beginners and experienced divers looking to enjoy a leisurely dive.

25. Cenote Hongo

Cenote Hongo is a captivating dive site enveloped by Yucatan’s lush landscape. Its clear waters, vibrant ecosystems, and exquisite rock formations create an extraordinary underwater experience. Divers can explore the intricate shapes of the underwater structures and the tranquil environment it provides.

This site is suitable for divers of all skill levels, ensuring a memorable experience in its beauty.

Discover the Depths of the Yucatan

The Yucatan Peninsula offers a stunning array of cave diving sites that entice adventurers and nature lovers alike. Each cenote, from the ethereal Dos Ojos to the historically rich Cenote Sagrado, boasts its unique charm and breathtaking underwater environments. With 25 captivating locations to explore, divers will find diverse ecosystems and awe-inspiring formations that create unforgettable experiences.

No matter your diving level, the enchanting world beneath the surface of the Yucatan awakens a sense of wonder and is bound to leave lasting memories. Your next diving adventure awaits—so gear up and explore the incredible cenotes that lie hidden beneath!