Cenote Suytun: Is It Worth Visiting? An Honest Review
Cenote Suytun, a stunning subterranean cave nestled in the limestone bedrock of the Yucatan Peninsula, is one of the most Instagrammed cenotes of Mexico.
And yet, it’s one of our least favorite cenotes of the peninsula. We have included it on our site for the sake of information and because it’s one of the most visited and, therefore, crowded. (Very crowded, Mind that!)
In this post, you will learn everything about this cenote, including practical tips, entry fees, things to do, and insider tips on how to make the most of your visit.
Yes, ok, we will also tell you why we don’t like it so much. Keep reading to find out. 🧐
Disclaimer: This page may contain affiliate links. If you purchase using one of those links, I may earn a commission at zero cost for you. Please see my privacy policy here.
Cenote Suytun: An Overview
Located just a short drive from the colonial town of Valladolid in southeastern Mexico, this natural sinkhole is known for its spectacular rock formation and a central platform, which, at a particular time of the day, is lit by a beam of light like a natural spotlight.
Standing on the viewing platform at the center of Cenote Suytun, you are surrounded by its beautiful landscape. A beam of light often comes through the top of the cavern, shining on the turquoise waters and creating an impressive sight.
Also, you will be surrounded by hundreds of visitors in line waiting impatiently in the humidity of the cave, for their turn to take the “infamous” picture. So you must make sure you know already how to pose and instruct your photographer ahead of time (tip #1).
On the bright side, it is indeed an amazing view.
Unfortunately, though, it’s one of the few cenotes where the water is low, and although you can swim, it’s not as enjoyable and refreshing. Also, the space is not that big, especially for the number of people visiting every day.
Where is Cenote Suytun Located?
Suytun Cenote is just 8 kilometers east of Valladolid. It’s easily reachable by car, taxi, or colectivo—a local shared transportation.
How to Get to Cenote Suytun
To visit the serene waters of Cenote Suytun in the Yucatan Peninsula, you have various travel options.
Getting to Cenote Suytun From Valladolid:
- By Car: Cenote Suytun is a mere 15-minute drive from the colonial town of Valladolid. You can rent a car and navigate using GPS or road signs towards the cenote. There is free parking available on-site.
- By Taxi: Taxis are readily available in Valladolid and can take you directly to the cenote.
Getting to Cenote Suytun From Valladolid From Tulum:
- By Car: Renting a car is your best bet for flexibility and convenience. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. Travel along the jungle-lined road to Coba, which is free of toll fees.
- By Public Transport: Public transport options like colectivos (shared vans) might be available but will have varying schedules and stops.
➣ When renting a car in Mexico we recommend Discover Cars because on their website you can compare different companies and their prices and you can choose between their car insurance or the ones offered by the car rental directly, or both.
INSIDER TIPS ON TRANSPORTATION IN MEXICO
- Cash: Carry cash in Mexican pesos for any transport fares and the entrance fee.
- Timing: Set off early in the morning if you prefer a quieter experience. Cenote Suytun opens at 9 AM. Try to get there by 8.30, and you will be able to get in. If the cenote is close, drive around to the hotel and ask at the reception. They will let you in. You have a max time of 2 hours to enjoy the cenote.
Things to do in Cenote Suytun
Photography
It is indeed a photogenic cenote and the best way to photograph it is early morning when the big buses full of tourists haven’t arrived yet. They have capped the number of people to 150 ( which is still a lot in our opinion) And you can stay in the cenote for a maximum of 2 hours (which was 1 before)
Swimming
As mentioned before, swimming is an option, but it’s not very appealing because of the shallow water and the small space. However, the lifejackets are included in the price.
Another option is to stay in the cabanas available on-site. They are rustic but decent and affordable. This way, you will have access to the cenote at any time.
Visit the other Cenote, Suytun kaapeh
This type of semi-open cenote is formed by an opening at the top. Its diameter increases considerably in the internal part towards the surface of the water until reaching the bottom. Once inside, there is still visibility since this cavern and the water surface are close enough to sunlight. This cenote is accessible through a tunnel with stairs.
Inside you will find a kukulkan sculpture hand-carved by artisans from the region.
Take a night tour
They have a package that includes a night tour of the Cenote after it’s closed to the public, a small ceremony, and a dinner. The cost is 799 MXN per adult and 599 f or kids 5-11. Check the Suytun website to book.
Photography Tips cenote Suytun
When visiting Cenote Suytun, capturing the perfect photograph is likely high on your agenda. Here are our tips:
Timing Your Visit for the Perfect Light:
To capture the much-desired beam of light as it pierces the cenote’s opening, plan your visit between 11 AM and 1 PM. This is when the sun is ideally positioned to create a striking ray of light
Position for the Iconic Shot
The central platform provides a quintessential view of the cenote, ideal for that signature shot. For an unobstructed photo, aim to arrive right at the opening time, or consider visiting on a weekday to reduce the chances of crowds.
Technical Settings for Clarity
Use a lower ISO setting to minimize grain in the low-light environment. However, a tripod will be necessary as you can compensate for the low ISO with a long exposure in a dark environment. HDR photos would be ideal.
Preserving the Natural Beauty
While editing your photos, maintain the natural colors and elements. Over-saturation or dramatic filters can detract from the cenote’s authentic beauty.
Remember to be respectful of the location and other visitors while setting up to capture your perfect shot at Cenote Suytun.
How to be a respectful visitor: Conservation Efforts
We would like the cenote (and nature in general) to stay as beautiful as it is. The good part is that it’s not that difficult. We have put together some simple rules to follow in order to inflict as little damage as possible to the environment.
- Don’t be loud
- Don’t litter
- 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 foolishness that can damage the environment
If we appreciate the environment we will learn to respect it.
Practical Tips
Opening hours:
- Open daily from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Admission Fees:
- Adults: $200 MXN
- Children (5-11 years): $150 MXN
Additional packages, including meals, are available at Suytun’s buffet restaurant, complementing your visit with local cuisine. If you book on their website in advance, you can get a discount. (website is in Spanish)
INSIDER TIPS: To ensure a better experience, consider arriving early to avoid the crowds, as Suytun Cenote is a sought-after destination for its otherworldly beauty and serene atmosphere.
YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT CENOTE SUYTUN:
They have capped the number of people to 150 ( which is still a lot in our opinion), And you can stay in the cenote for a maximum of 2 hours (which was 1 before)
Best Time to Visit
To fully enjoy the beauty of Cenote Suytun, aim to visit between 12 and 2 pm when the sunlight permeates the cave, creating a mesmerizing light show. However, if you’re looking to avoid crowds, an early morning visit is advisable.
Facilities and Amenities
Cenote Suytun offers a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable visit.
Parking is available on-site and is complimentary.
There is a restaurant on site and cabañas for rent. Also, a very well-stocked souvenir shop is available for guests to browse or shop.
Remember to carry cash in Mexican pesos, as this is the preferred method of payment for entrance fees and other on-site transactions.
What We Don’t Like About Cenote Suytun
And finally, as we promised, here are the reasons why Cenote Suytun is not one of our favorite:
- Crowds: Cenote Suytun has gained considerable popularity, and with this fame comes the crowds. You may find the tranquility disrupted by the presence of numerous visitors, especially during peak hours.
- Photographic Limitations: To capture the perfect shot without others in the frame can be a challenge due to the number of people. Additionally, you may have to wait to access the famous stone platform for your turn to take photos, which is annoying.
- Price Increase: The ticket prices have risen over time, making a visit to Cenote Suytun a more considerable expense especially if you’re traveling with a group or on a budget.
- You cannot really swim: One of the things we love about cenotes is the refreshing experience they provide. Cenote Suytun has very shallow water, and although you can swim, it is not as appealing as many others in the vicinity.
What We Liked About Cenote Suytun
The rock formations surrounding the central platform make it a spectacular and surreal landscape especially when the sunbeam is pointing exactly in that direction. It’s no surprise that it has gained such popularity on Instagram.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the historical significance of Cenote Suytun?
Cenote Suytun holds cultural importance as part of the Mayan heritage in the Yucatan Peninsula. Historically, cenotes were a water source and also played a role in Mayan rituals.
How can one capture the best photos at Cenote Suytun?
The best photos often come from visiting during the midday hours when a beam of light illuminates the platform. Use a wide-angle lens to capture the vastness of the cenote, and a tripod might help in the lower light conditions inside the cave.
What are the entry fees and timings for visiting Cenote Suytun?
As of the latest information, Cenote Suytun has an entry fee of 250 Mexican pesos. The cenote is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM.
Is swimming allowed in Cenote Suytun, and what are the conditions?
Yes, swimming is allowed in Cenote Suytun however the water is very shallow which doesn’t make it as attractive as many other cenotes.
Category – family and people who want to have an iconic photo of Yucatan.
Rating – ⭐⭐⭐ 3/5
What to see nearby
- Ek Balam Arqueological site – 25 km / 15 mi
- Cenote Zaci – Valladolid – 15 km / 9 mi
- Cenote Xkeken – 15 km /9 mi
- Chichen Itza – 45 km / 27 mi
- Cenote X’ux Ha – 15 km / 9 mi
