If you’re looking for cenotes in Tulum, one of the most beautiful, unusual, and little-known is Cenote Carwash. Located just 10 minutes from Tulum, on the road to Cobá, it’s an open cenote surrounded by jungle, resembling a small, sun-drenched oasis. Although its official name is Cenote Aktun Ha, which means “water cave” in Mayan, most people know it as “Carwash” for a rather peculiar reason: years ago, taxi drivers used to stop here to wash their cars before continuing on their way. Today, that past is long gone, and the place has been transformed into a natural paradise perfect for those looking to swim in crystal-clear waters, explore aquatic life, and escape Tulum’s more well-trodden routes.
The Crystal-Clear Waters of Cenote Carwash
But beyond its unique history, Cenote Carwash enchants with the freshness and clarity of its waters, so clear that from the surface you can observe an entire underwater world. This open cenote is more like a lagoon due to its spaciousness. The open part is about 5 to 6 meters deep, perfect for floating in the sun. But it also has a deeper cavern area of up to 15 meters, ideal for those who enjoy diving or snorkeling. Beneath the surface, lush aquatic flora unfolds, with water lilies, colorful fish, freshwater turtles, and even unique rock formations. If you dare to explore its cavern, you’ll discover stalactites, stalagmites, columns, and fallen trees that have been dyed black by the tannins in the vegetation. A truly magical landscape, as it is connected to the underground system of Cenote Sac Actun.
Snorkeling, diving, and caves: what you can do at Cenote Carwash
Once you arrive, it will be hard to get out of the water. In the open part of the cenote, you can spend hours swimming, snorkeling, or diving from the designated areas. Carwash Cenote is also known for its tranquility, making it ideal for floating and relaxing. If adventure is your thing, cavern diving is also a popular option here. Due to its easy access and the fascinating formations within the cave system, many certified divers choose to dive here. But if you dare to do so, be sure to go with specialized personnel and have prior experience. And if you enjoy underwater photography, this cenote is a paradise. Between the rays of light that penetrate the water, the vegetation, and the fauna, it’s almost impossible not to get a good photo.
Hours, prices, and recommendations for your visit to this Tulum cenote
Besides enjoying the water, at Carwash you can also relax on dry land. You are allowed to bring your own food, and the place has tables for a picnic surrounded by nature. Basic services include parking, restrooms, and changing rooms, and if you don’t know how to swim or simply want to be more comfortable, you can rent life jackets or snorkeling equipment directly from the attendants. Admission costs $150 pesos for national visitors and $200 for foreigners. To help preserve this paradise, showering is mandatory before entering the cenote, and using biodegradable sunscreen is recommended, or at least avoiding it. And of course, don’t forget to take all your trash with you. The cenote is open every day from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., so now you know: if you’re visiting Tulum and want to discover its best-kept treasures, Cenote Carwash is the place to be.
Source: foodandpleasure
