Tucked away in the lush Mayan jungle near Cancún, Mexico, Cenote Dos Ojos is a mesmerizing natural wonder that has become one of the most popular destinations for travelers seeking a mix of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. If you’re looking for unforgettable things to see in Cancún, visiting Cenote Dos Ojos is an experience like no other.

A Glimpse into History
Cenote Dos Ojos, meaning "Two Eyes" in Spanish, was discovered in 1987 and quickly gained fame among cave divers and nature lovers. The cenote is part of one of the largest underwater cave systems in the world—the Sac Actun system—which holds deep cultural and spiritual significance to the ancient Maya civilization. For the Maya, cenotes were considered sacred gateways to the underworld and were often used for rituals and offerings. Though not man-made, this natural site holds profound historical relevance, making it a unique part of historical sites in Mexico.

Breathtaking Features and Highlights
What sets Cenote Dos Ojos tourism apart is the cenote’s dramatic geological structure. As the name implies, the cenote is split into two crystal-clear pools or “eyes,” connected by a massive underwater cavern. Snorkelers and divers are drawn to the striking visibility, surreal blue hues, and intricate limestone formations that feel otherworldly.

The area offers two main diving routes: one known as "The Barbie Line," a more open-water path for casual divers, and "The Bat Cave Line," which leads into darker, more enclosed spaces ideal for experienced cave divers. Above water, the surrounding tropical foliage, wooden walkways, and rustic facilities create a serene escape from city life.

What Makes Cenote Dos Ojos Unique
Unlike many cenotes in the Yucatán Peninsula, Cenote Dos Ojos is famous for its massive size and accessibility for both casual swimmers and certified cave divers. The unique name comes from its appearance—two adjacent sinkholes resembling a pair of eyes peeking out from the jungle canopy.

A lesser-known fact is that this cenote has been featured in documentaries and films, including IMAX’s "Journey into Amazing Caves" and segments of "The Cave", showcasing its importance in the world of cave diving. It’s also connected to an expansive subterranean system that explorers are still mapping to this day.

Visitor Experience and Travel Tips
Today, Cenote Dos Ojos is open year-round and welcomes thousands of visitors from around the globe. Whether you're interested in snorkeling, diving, or just relaxing by the cool waters, it offers a variety of experiences for every type of traveler.

Opening hours typically run from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the last entry around 4:00 PM. Entrance fees start at around MXN 350 ($20 USD) for general access, with additional charges for snorkeling gear or guided dives.

Tips for tourists:

Bring biodegradable sunscreen (regular sunscreen is not allowed to preserve water quality).

Wear water shoes for easier access over rocky areas.

Book guided tours in advance, especially if you want to dive.

Be respectful of the environment—this is a protected natural site.

Accessibility is moderate—while most visitors can enjoy swimming and walking paths, full wheelchair access is limited due to natural terrain.

Cenote Dos Ojos

Explore the breathtaking natural wonder of Cenote Dos Ojos in Cancún, Mexico. A top destination for Cenote Dos Ojos tourism, this iconic site features crystal-clear waters, cave diving adventures, and rich Mayan history—making it a must-visit among things to see in Cancún and one of the most unique historical sites in Mexico. Perfect for snorkeling, diving, and exploring, Cenote Dos Ojos offers an unforgettable glimpse into the Yucatán’s hidden world.

Brief History: Discovered in 1987, the cenote got its name due to its twin sinkholes that appear like a pair of eyes in the jungle. These interconnected pools are part of the larger Sac Actun underwater cave system, one of the longest in the world.

Notable Features: The two crystal-clear, sapphire-blue pools are surrounded by dramatic limestone formations. The visibility underwater is exceptional, often exceeding 100 feet, making it ideal for both snorkeling and diving. The rock formations and natural light create a surreal, dreamlike setting.

Fun Fact: The pools’ shape is visible from aerial views, which resemble human eyes—hence the name “Dos Ojos.” The site was also featured in the IMAX film Journey into Amazing Caves.

Current Use: Today, visitors can swim, snorkel, or dive between the two pools. The left pool is typically more open and family-friendly, while the right one leads to the darker, more enclosed Bat Cave.

The Two Eyes

Explore the iconic Two Eyes of Cenote Dos Ojos—twin pools with crystal-clear water, stunning limestone formations, and a surreal underwater experience near Cancún, Mexico.

The Two Eyes

Cancún, Mexico

Explore the iconic Two Eyes of Cenote Dos Ojos—twin pools with crystal-clear water, stunning limestone formations, and a surreal underwater experience near Cancún, Mexico.

Location