The Yucatan Peninsula is home to thousands of cenotes, sinkholes filled with clear, fresh water. You can swim, snorkel, and even scuba dive in many of them. But which one to choose?
Perhaps the most beautiful (and my favorite) is Casa Tortuga, where you can swim in four different cenotes. Two are open air and two are caves and they are all amazing.
But there’s more to Casa Tortuga than just swimming. You can zipline, kayak, scuba dive, ride ATVs, and eat fantastic food in a beautiful setting.
I’ve prepared a full Casa Tortuga Tulum review so you can decide if it’s right for you. Plus, I’ve compiled some tips to help you make the most of your visit.
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Overview of Casa Tortuga Tulum
Just a short drive from Tulum, Casa Tortuga is a cenote park that offers a mix of adventure and relaxation with access to four different cenotes in one location.
Each cenote has its own unique charm. Two of them, Cenote Campana
and Wisho Cenote, are semi-underground caves (my favorite).
The other two are open to the air. Dorca Cenote feels more like a swimming hole. Tres Zapotes Cenote feels like a lazy river. They are all beautiful and worth visiting.
You’ll find useful amenities, including lockers for rent (currently 100 pesos), well-maintained restrooms, and life jackets included with admission.
There are five restaurants on site, serving a range of food from snacks to full meals. More on food options later.
Location and Accessibility
Casa Tortuga is right off the main highway near Tulum. It’s very easy to get there from Tulum and Playa del Carmen. It’s also close enough to Cozumel to pop over for a day trip, which is what I did.
You can get there by colectivo (shared minivan) for just a few dollars. Just tell the driver you’re heading to Casa Tortuga, and they’ll drop you at the entrance. If you’re coming by taxi, expect to pay around 200-300 pesos one way.
While walking from the highway is possible, it’s a bit of a trek in the heat. Many people opt to rent a car, which gives you the freedom to come and go as you please. The cenotes have a decent-sized parking lot, and parking is free with admission.
For those with mobility issues, the main pathways are mostly flat. The two open-air cenotes have sturdy handrails and wide steps. The cave cenotes require more careful walking. The staff helps out when needed, but you will need to be able to do a bit of walking.
Cenote Tour Experience
The Casa Tortuga tour takes you through all four cenotes with a knowledgeable local guide.
Each cenote has its own charm. The order you visit them will depend on the crowds. The guides space the people out so you don’t have a big rush on one cenote.
Cenote Campana
Casa Campana is a semi-open cavern. You’ll see beautiful rock formations, stalactites, and stalagmites.
Wisho Cenote
In Wishoe Cenote, you can see various fossils and, if you’re lucky, some bats sleeping on the ceiling. Don’t worry, they aren’t aggressive. Bats are nocturnal, so it’s unlikely they’ll be flying around when you’re there.
Dorca Cenote
Dorca Cenote is one of the open-air ones. It’s like a beautiful tropical swimming hole. There’s a platform you can jump off, or just swim around and enjoy the water.
Tres Zapotes Cenote
Tres Zapotes is a lot like a lazy river. It’s 100 meters long and in some places is 8 meters deep.
At the end, there’s a stone staircase where people were sitting, letting the fish nibble on their feet, just like those fish spas, only free.
After you’re done with the tour, you can return to Tres Zapotes for as long as you like. Just be sure to keep your wristband on.
Other Activities
Beyond exploring the four cenotes, Casa Tortuga offers a variety of activities to enhance your visit:
Zip-Lining: For thrill-seekers, zip-lining is available, allowing you to soar above the jungle. This is the highest zipline in Tulum. I didn’t try it, but it looked like a lot of fun.
Kayaking: Kayaks are available if you prefer to paddle through the cenotes’ tranquil waters. It will give you a unique perspective of the surroundings.
ATV Quad Bike Tours: Adventure enthusiasts can take ATV quad bike tours that navigate through the Mayan jungle, ending with a refreshing swim in a private cenote.
Scuba Diving: Experienced guides will take you diving in one of the open cenotes. It’s great for beginner divers. If you’re looking for a more advanced cave-diving experience, you’re better off visiting other, deeper cenotes .
Dining Options
Casa Tortuga has five different places to eat:
Mami Bonita Cafeteria: Located right by the entrance. It’s a great place for breakfast or coffee if you arrive early. They also serve burgers and sandwiches.
Open from 08:30 am to 04:00 pm
Carey Restaurant: This is the main restaurant located in Plaza Toh. Here you can also purchase a taco bar buffet, or order from the menu. They also have a full bar. You can see their menu here . Prices are surprisingly good for a tourist attraction.
Open from 12:00 to 05:00 pm
Alebrije Cafeteria : This little bar has drinks and light snacks.
Open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Caguama Bar : Located next to the Dorca Cenote and a good spot to grab a cold drink or snack in the middle of the tour. Be sure to bring some money with you.
Open from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Turtle Pizza : Don’t worry, the pizza doesn’t contain any turtles! But they do have delicious artisan pizza.
Open from 1:00 to 05:00 pm
Ticket Options
Casa Tortuga offers different ticket options:
Basic Package:
- Guided tour of 4 cenotes
- Life jacket
- Kayak (subject to availability)
Silver Package 1:
- Guided tour of 4 cenotes
- Life jacket
- Zipline
- Kayak (subject to availability)
Silver Package 2:
- Guided tour of 4 cenotes
- Life jacket
- Kayak (subject to availability)
- Taco bar
Golden Package:
- Guided tour of 4 cenotes
- Life jacket
- Kayak (subject to availability)
- Zipline
- Taco bar
Best Times to Visit
Mornings at Casa Tortuga are perfect. I suggest getting there right when they open at 9 AM to beat the tour buses.
The cenotes stay quiet until about 11 AM, giving you plenty of space to swim and take photos without crowds.
However, if you are going to visit the Tulum ruins on the same day, it’s better to go there first and then cool off in the cenotes afterward. That’s what I did, and it worked great.
Casa Tortuga is big enough and spread out, so even though there were a lot of people when I visited, it never seemed overly crowded.
If you’re visiting from December to April, weekdays tend to be less busy than weekends.
During the summer months (May to September), afternoon rain showers are common, but they usually pass quickly. The water stays a pleasant temperature year-round, making any season good for a dip.
The last entry is at 4:30 PM, and crowds thin out again after 3 PM. Going late can mean shorter swimming time, but you’ll get more peaceful cenotes to yourself.
What to Bring and Wear
You’ll need your swimsuit, water shoes, and a towel. Bring a waterproof bag for your phone and money. While they have lockers, it’s handy to keep essentials with you.
Skip the regular sunscreen and opt for biodegradable versions to protect the cenotes.
Pack water and snacks if you’re watching your budget, though they sell both on-site and prices are pretty good.
A hat and sunglasses help between dips, and a change of clothes keeps you comfy for traveling back.
Cash in small bills comes in handy for locker rental and tips.
Photography Opportunities and Restrictions
Casa Tortuga lets you capture photos of limestone formations and crystal-clear waters, but they have some rules to follow.
You can use your phone or regular camera around the open cenotes, but flash photography isn’t allowed in the cave areas to protect the natural features.
For the best shots, head to the platforms overlooking the open cenotes early morning when sunlight hits the water just right.
If you want pro-quality photos, they offer a photo package with a waterproof camera for around 400 pesos. I didn’t buy the photo package, so I can’t say for sure how great the photos are. I have read from others that it’s worth the money.
Frequently Asked Questions: Casa Tortuga Tulum
What is Casa Tortuga Tulum?
Casa Tortuga Tulum is a natural park featuring cenotes (natural freshwater pools) located near Tulum, Mexico. Visitors can explore these unique geological formations, swim, and enjoy the surrounding natural beauty.
What are cenotes?
Cenotes are natural sinkholes resulting from collapsed limestone bedrock, exposing groundwater underneath. They are prevalent in the Yucatán Peninsula and offer clear, cool water for swimming and snorkeling.
How many cenotes are at Casa Tortuga Tulum?
The park offers four cenotes, two of which are semi-enclosed, and two are open-air.
What activities are available at Casa Tortuga Tulum?
Activities available at Casa Tortuga include swimming, diving, ziplining, ATV tours, and kayaking.
What should I bring for my visit?
It’s recommended to bring swimwear, a towel, biodegradable sunscreen, water shoes, and a change of clothes. Remember to respect the natural environment by using eco-friendly products.
Are there restroom facilities at Casa Tortuga?
Yes, there are restrooms available.
Does Casa Tortuga have lockers?
Yes, you can rent a locker for 100 pesos. Be sure to bring cash.
Wrap-Up: Casa Tortuga Tulum Review & Tips
After visiting countless different cenotes, I’m amazed by how Casa Tortuga manages to deliver such a complete cenote experience without losing its authentic charm.
I love that you get to swim in four cenotes. They have great prices and nice amenities. It’s the best cenote experience I’ve had so far.
Related Posts
- How to Get From Cancun to Tulum
- 25 Amazing Cenotes for Mexico Cave Diving
- Adventurous Things to Do in Cancun
- Best Time to Visit Xcaret in Mexico
- Cozumel vs Tulum: Which is Better?
- Cozumel vs. Playa del Carmen: Which is Better?
- How to Get From Tulum to Playa del Carmen
Pro Tips for Your Mexico Trips
Do I need travel insurance?
YES . No matter when you visit Mexico, don’t forget to buy travel insurance. It’s a small price to pay for peace of mind. If you need it once it will pay for itself many times over. I highly recommend Safety Wing . They have a proven track record for customer satisfaction and a variety of coverage levels.
Is it safe to rent a car in Mexico?
YES. Renting a car in Mexico is not only safe, but it’s a great way to explore. Discover Cars is hands down the best rental car company . They check international and local companies to get you the best rates.
Will my phone work in Mexico?
Maybe — It depends on your company, so check with your provider. If you don’t have free service in Mexico, the least expensive option is to buy a Telcel SIM card . As Mexico’s largest carrier, Telcel has the best coverage of any Mexico SIM Cards. I have one and it’s been a lifesaver.
You can also get an eSIM. Airalo has coverage in over 200 countries/regions, including Mexico.
What’s the best way to book my Mexico accommodations?
For Mexico hotels, Booking.com is the best site , but for hostels, check out Hostel World . If you’re considering a Mexico Airbnb, don’t forget to check VRBO , which is often cheaper with more options.
What do I pack for Mexico?
My Mexico packing list has all the info you need on packing for your trip to Mexico.
What’s the best site for great deals on flights to Mexico?
For finding cheap Mexico flights, I recommend using Skyscanner .
Do I need a visa for Mexico?
Probably Not . U.S., Canadian, and most European passport holders don’t need a visa for Mexico. To verify if you’ll need a Mexico travel visa check the Mexican Consulate’s website.
For assistance with all your worldwide visa questions, check out iVisa .
The post Why This Tulum Cenote Park Should Be On Your Bucket List appeared first on Digital Nomad and a Dog .
