Discover Yucatán’s Natural Wonders: The Cenotes of Santa Bárbara

Merida, Riviera Maya & the Yucatan , Mexico

Discover Yucatán’s Natural Wonders: The Cenotes of Santa Bárbara

Active

9h - 10h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

The Santa Bárbara Cenotes are true natural wonders.
We’ll head to the town of Homún, about an hour’s drive from Mérida. Once there, you’ll choose your preferred mode of transport to reach the cenotes. Options include a bicycle, a van, or the Santa Bárbara Express—a motorized train that adds a special touch to the experience and is unique in the region (transportation not included).

We’ll explore several open and semi-open cenotes, perfect for a refreshing and relaxing day, while learning a bit about their fascinating history. Your guide will accompany you to each cenote and provide a brief explanation at every stop.

You’ll have the chance to swim, snorkel, or simply unwind in this peaceful natural setting. The tour also includes a visit to Cenote Homúnja.

At the end of the day, we’ll return to Mérida with unforgettable memories of these stunning natural treasures.

Available options

Discover Yucatán’s Natural Wonders: The Cenotes of Santa Bárbara

What's included

Regional Food.

Entrance in 3 cenotes (Pool Cocom, Xooch´, Chaksikin)

Bilingual guide.

Round Transportation.

Detailed itinerary

Let the natural beauty of Santa Bárbara’s cenotes captivate you as you plunge into their crystal-clear waters. More than just stunning natural pools, these cenotes hold profound cultural significance—acting as sacred portals to the underworld (Xibalbá), vital sources of water, and ancient sites of ritual and communion with the gods.

On this tour, you’ll explore three distinct types of cenotes, each offering a unique adventure:
Cascabel Cenote: A mysterious cave-style cenote hidden beneath the earth.
Chacsikín Cenote: A semi-open cenote where sunlight dances on the water.
Xooch’ Cenote: An open-air jewel surrounded by lush jungle.

The experience also includes a visit to the enchanting Homunja Cenote (entrance fee not included), adding another layer of wonder to your journey.

Dive into history, nature, and legend—all in one unforgettable 6-hour tour!

What's not included

Cenote Homunja Entrance is optional 7 usd

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Don't forget to bring your swim suit, towel and comfortable clothes and shoes.

Bring biodegrable insect repellent and sunscreen.

We are not responsible for forgotten or lost items on the tour, transportation, lockers, seats. Make sure you don't forget your personal belongings when getting off the transportation

This tour starts to operate booking 3 passengers or more

Keep in mind that the duration of the tour may vary, as well as the itinerary without / with prior notice, this is according to the guide's decision and due to the capacity of people in the places or the traffic that is usually changing

Official meeting point Tours Sol Turquesa C. 60, Centro, 97000 Mérida, Yuc. main entrance

In the cenote: Don’t be loud Don’t trash Don’t use any kinds of cream spray or protectors on your skin as it would contaminate the environment (even the so called – eco friendly) Always take a shower before entering in a cenote (available at the entrance)

Don’t hang on to the stalactites or stalagmites or any roots.

Just don’t do any that can damage the environment If we appreciate the environment we will learn to respect it.

Practical information Santa Bárbara Facilities Showers Toilets Life jackets are included in the price, they are mandatory Handicraft shop Restaurant Free wifi

You can explore the Santa Barbara Cenotes by truck or bike, to go one cenote to another

There is no pick up in hotels

Meeting point

We do not collect people , clients must arrive on their own to the oficial meeting point near the San Ildefonso Cathedral

Official meeting point Tours Sol Turquesa C. 60, Centro, 97000 Mérida, Yuc. main entrance

Important notes

The customer has to reach out to the supplier to confirm the exact pick up time.

This tour starts to operate booking 3 passengers or more

Keep in mind that the duration of the tour may vary, as well as the itinerary without / with prior notice, this is according to the guide's decision and due to the capacity of people in the places or the traffic that is usually changing

Swim and chill – you can just enjoy the cool and transparent waters
Try the truck Service- You have the opportunity to try this old local mean of transport
Ride a bike- It’s a great place to enjoy a bike ride in nature. It’s all flat, so minimal effort is required.

There is no pick up in hotels

About Merida, Riviera Maya & the Yucatan

Merida, Riviera Maya & the Yucatan offer a rich blend of ancient Mayan culture, stunning beaches, and vibrant colonial cities. This region is a paradise for history buffs, nature lovers, and those seeking relaxation in tropical settings.

Top Attractions

Chichen Itza

One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, this ancient Mayan city features the iconic El Castillo pyramid.

Historical Half to full day Moderate (around 500 MXN for entrance)

Uxmal

A stunning example of Puuc architecture, Uxmal is another significant Mayan archaeological site.

Historical Half day Moderate (around 350 MXN for entrance)

Celestún

A beautiful coastal village known for its flamingo-filled lagoons and pristine beaches.

Nature Full day Budget to moderate (boat tours around 500 MXN)

Riviera Maya

A stretch of Caribbean coastline known for its turquoise waters, white sand beaches, and vibrant nightlife.

Beach Overnight or multi-day trip Variable (budget to luxury options available)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Cochinita Pibil

Slow-roasted pork marinated in achiote and sour orange, wrapped in banana leaves.

Main Dish Contains pork

Panuchos

Fried tortillas filled with refried beans and topped with shredded chicken, pickled onions, and avocado.

Appetizer Vegetarian options available

Sopa de Lima

A tangy and comforting soup made with lime, chicken, and tortilla strips.

Soup Contains chicken

Popular Activities

Cenote diving Jungle trekking Zip-lining Beach lounging Spa treatments Yoga retreats Visiting archaeological sites Attending local festivals

Best Time to Visit

November to April

This is the dry season with pleasant weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring archaeological sites.

22-28°C 72-82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas)
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Mexican Peso (MXN)

Time Zone

Eastern Standard Time (EST) (UTC-5)

Electricity

127VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Merida and the Yucatan are generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates compared to other parts of Mexico. However, standard precautions should be taken to ensure a safe trip.

Important Precautions:

• Use official taxis or ride-hailing apps
• Keep valuables secure in crowded areas
• Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services

Getting there

By air

Manuel Crescencio Rejón International Airport • 10 km from Merida city center
Cancún International Airport • 300 km from Merida

By bus

Terminal de Autobuses de Mérida

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable and efficient, combís are small vans that follow fixed routes.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Didi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Centro Histórico Colonia García Ginerés Altabrisa

Day trips

Valladolid

150 km from Merida • Full day

A charming colonial town with a rich history and beautiful architecture.

Izamal

70 km from Merida • Half day

A picturesque town known for its yellow buildings and significant archaeological sites.

Cenotes Route

Varies, typically 30-60 km from Merida • Full day

A series of stunning cenotes (natural sinkholes) perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.

Festivals

Festival de la Ciudad • January Hanal Pixán • November 1-2

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals
Visit cenotes early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures
Explore the region's lesser-known archaeological sites for a more authentic experience
Try local street food for an affordable and delicious culinary adventure
Book tours and accommodations in advance during peak season (November to April)