Cenote Choo Ha Near Tulum

Cenote Choo Ha is a natural underground pool found near the ancient Mayan ruins at Coba. A cenote is a pool that forms in a sinkhole created by a collapsing limestone cave, and there are thousands of these found across the Yucatan Peninsula. With its dripping stalactites and stalagmites, crystal-clear water, and hideaway subterranean location, Cenote Choo Ha is a tranquil and photogenic sight.

Visitors to Cenote Choo Ha can enjoy a refreshing swim or snorkel session. Those planning a day of sightseeing at the Coba ruins could easily include a stop at the nearby Cenote Tamcach Ha and Cenote Multum Ha, all found within a 10-minute drive.

Though navigating the steep staircase down to Cenote Choo Ha is a little tricky, its shallow waters and fascinating cave system make it a good spot for families.

Cenote Choo Ha Near Tulum - one of the highlights of 10 Best Things to Do in Tulum and 10 Best Swimming Holes and Cenotes Near Tulum (Read all about Tulum here)

사진 제공: Luis Miguel Bugallo Sánchez (CC BY-SA 3.0) 수정됨

What are the highlights of Cenote Choo Ha near Tulum?

Choo Ha means “dripping water” in the Mayan language, and the name becomes clear when you see the glistening cave formations surrounding the pool. These dripping stalactites, together with the clear emerald water, give Choo Ha the aura of a mysterious underground Eden. As the cenote is quite remotely located, it's not usually busy. If you go in the morning, there’s a chance your group will have the place all to yourselves.

Expect to spend an hour or so at Choo Ha, whether you do some snorkelling, take photos, or just float in blissful serenity in the magical surroundings. Those wanting a bit more action could walk over to Cenote Tamcach Ha, another underground pool with 5- and 10-metre-high platforms for jumping into its deeper waters.

사진 제공: Luis Miguel Bugallo Sánchez (CC BY-SA 3.0) 수정됨

Swimming and snorkelling at Cenote Choo Ha

Cenote Choo Ha’s clear waters are inviting for swimmers and snorkellers, though it might be a bit bracing when you first wade in. You can come to swim any time of the year since its underground location keeps it sheltered from the elements.

To keep the water in pristine condition, sunblock and mosquito repellents are banned. All visitors must take a shower before entering the cave. Alcohol isn't permitted in the cenote. With rocks in the pool, it’s recommended to wear water shoes to prevent injury.

There’s a small fee to enter Cenote Choo Ha. You can pay in cash at the small ticket booth at the entrance. Onsite showers and changing rooms, as well as life jackets, are available. However, you’ll need to bring your own snorkelling gear.

사진 제공: Luis Miguel Bugallo Sánchez (CC BY-SA 3.0) 수정됨

How to get to Cenote Choo Ha from Tulum?

Cenote Choo Ha is about 50 km northwest of Tulum, and 6 km west of the Coba archaeological site. The easiest way to get there is to hire a rental car – the roads are in good condition and traffic is usually light. Parking is available at the cenote entrance.

You could also take a local bus from the ADO bus station in central Tulum, which takes about an hour to reach the Coba ruins. From there, catch a taxi or hire a bicycle for the 6-km-long trip to Cenote Choo Ha.

You can join a tour of Cenote Choo Ha from Tulum or Cancun. It might include stops at Coba, Playa del Carmen, and other cenotes. Cenote Tamcach Ha is a short walk further down a dirt track if you want to see more cenotes in the area.