Tulum: Cenotes Dos Ojos & Gran Cenote Day Trip with Sculpture Stop

Summary

Swim Tulum’s cenotes after ancient ruins and local flavors

You’ll walk through ancient Mayan ruins with a local guide, swim in crystal-clear waters at Dos Ojos and Gran Cenote (maybe spot turtles), and grab a photo at Tulum’s famous sculpture—all with hotel pickup and a traditional lunch included. It’s one of those days you’ll remember every time you see turquoise water again.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered if the water in those cenotes is really as clear as it looks in photos? I did—until we waded into Dos Ojos outside Tulum. But first, our guide Ana (she grew up nearby) led us through the old Mayan city perched above the Caribbean. The sea breeze there has this salty-sweet smell that mixes with sunscreen and crushed grass underfoot. Ana told us how traders once watched for storms from those same cliffs—her voice got quiet for a second, like she was picturing it herself.

We stopped by that giant “Come to the Light” sculpture everyone posts on Instagram. Honestly, I thought it might feel cheesy but… standing under those wooden hands with sunlight flickering through the leaves, it felt oddly peaceful. I probably looked ridiculous trying to take a selfie while dodging a line of other travelers (one guy was wearing a flamingo hat—no idea why). After that, we headed straight for Dos Ojos park. The first dip into that cold blue water woke me up better than coffee. There’s this echo when you laugh inside the cave—it bounces back at you, softer each time.

Lunch was simple but good—grilled chicken and tortillas, nothing fancy but after swimming it tasted perfect. Ana sat with us and explained why some cenotes have turtles (Gran Cenote does), and how locals used to believe spirits lived in these pools. We finished at Gran Cenote where I floated on my back watching sunlight ripple across limestone walls. My skin smelled faintly of minerals afterward—I still think about that view sometimes when things get noisy back home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit Tulum and swim in cenotes

• Pick up guests at hotel
• Tour Tulum archaeological site
• Stop for photos at Come to the Light sculpture
• Swim and explore Dos Ojos park
• Enjoy meal with choice of dish
• Swim and relax at Gran Cenote

Top questions

How long is the day trip from Tulum to Dos Ojos & Gran Cenote?

The tour lasts a full day, including stops at Tulum ruins, Come to the Light sculpture, Dos Ojos park, lunch, and Gran Cenote.

Is hotel pickup included for this cenote tour?

Yes, private transportation with hotel pickup is included in your day trip.

Can I swim in both Dos Ojos and Gran Cenote?

Yes, swimming is included at both cenotes during the tour.

Is lunch provided on this Tulum cenotes tour?

A buffet of traditional Mexican food with non-alcoholic drinks is included after swimming at Dos Ojos.

Are entry fees covered for all attractions?

Yes, admission fees for Tulum archaeological site, Come to the Light sculpture, Dos Ojos park, and Gran Cenote are all included.

Will there be a local guide during the tour?

Yes, a knowledgeable local guide accompanies you throughout the experience.

Can I see turtles at Gran Cenote?

You may spot turtles swimming in Gran Cenote during your visit.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?

This tour requires moderate physical fitness and isn’t recommended for travelers with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health.

What’s included

Your day includes private hotel pickup and drop-off, entry fees for Tulum’s archaeological site, Come to the Light sculpture stop, swimming access at Dos Ojos park and Gran Cenote (where you might see turtles), plus a buffet-style Mexican lunch with non-alcoholic drinks before heading back in comfort.