Cenote Diving Tulum FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to the most common questions about our cenote diving Tulum and what you need to know before diving with us.
What is cenote diving?
Cenote diving involves exploring unique underwater sinkholes filled with crystal clear freshwater. These natural wonders offer remarkably diverse aquatic environments for divers of all levels.
When is the best time to dive in Tulum?
Cenote diving in Tulum is excellent year-round thanks to stable conditions and clear visibility. Weather has minimal impact since cenotes are underground freshwater systems.
What should I bring for a cenote dive?
Bring a swimsuit, towel, and biodegradable sunscreen. All diving equipment is provided by us, and your guide will brief you on everything you need before the dive.
How deep are cenotes in Tulum?
Cenotes vary in depth, typically ranging from 5 to over 30 meters. Your dive depth will depend on your certification level and the specific cenote being explored.
Can beginners try scuba diving in Tulum?
Yes, beginners can learn to dive in Tulum with guided introductory courses. Cenotes offer calm, clear conditions, making them an ideal environment for a first diving experience.
What is the difference between cavern and cave diving?
Cavern diving stays within sight of natural light and is suitable for recreational divers, while cave diving goes beyond the light zone and requires specialized technical training and certification.
What equipment do I need?
We provide all necessary diving equipment, including wetsuits, tanks, and regulators. However, feel free to bring any personal gear that you prefer to use.
How much does cenote diving in Tulum cost?
Prices vary depending on the type of dive and experience level. A 2 tank dive excursion to Cenote Dos Ojos Tulum costs $170USD and includes all you need for the day. Introductory dives, guided cavern dives, and technical training each have different pricing based on time and complexity.
Are there age restrictions?
Participants must be at least 10 years old for our beginner courses. Parents should inquire about specific options for younger children.
Are there any requirements for cenote diving?
To dive the cenotes you must be Open Water certified.
You must also go with a qualified cavern guide.
What is sidemount diving and do I need it?
Sidemount diving is a configuration where tanks are worn on the sides, offering better balance and flexibility. It is commonly used in cave diving and can be learned through specialized courses.
Why choose a private dive guide in Tulum?
A private guide offers a fully personalised experience, allowing dives to be tailored to your skill level, pace, and interests while ensuring a higher level of safety and attention.
How were the cenotes of Tulum formed?
The area around Tulum is very flat. There are no hills, mountains, or even rivers. Many thousands of years ago the land where the cenotes are situated was under the sea and parts were a coral reef. Over many years the seabed rose up and the water levels dropped, leaving the coral exposed to the air, eventually turning it into limestone which you can still see today. Around 66 million years ago the Chicxulub asteroid hit a few 100km from Tulum causing cracks and sinkholes. Over many thousands of years the rain seeped through the very porous limestone into the cracks and formed caves, pushing its way into the sea. Underground rivers had been formed. Many thousands of years later the Ice Age came and the water levels in the underground rivers dropped as the water went to the North and South Pole as ice. In places the ceiling collapsed as there was no water to support it thereby making more sinkholes. During this time when the caves were dry, rainwater again passed through the limestone but now drip by drip it formed the stalactites and stalagmites. When the Ice Age finished the water levels rose again as the ice melted and the caves were flooded as they are today. The ceiling collapses are the entrances and exits. The stalactites and stalagmites are still there as are animal and human remains, trapped or left there when the caves were dry.
Is cenote diving in Tulum safe?
Yes, Cenote/Cavern Diving is a safe activity while guided by an experienced cavern guide. The cenotes where you will be diving with Green Divers Tulum are chosen specifically for you and your experience level so you can enjoy cavern diving without specialised training. In and around Tulum the caverns have been prepared and made safe for novice divers, this includes permanent guidelines so you can scuba dive in cenotes safely and comfortably. Our team will ensure that a full and accurate briefing is carried out before each dive.
Are there safety rules for cavern diving?
Cavern Diving here in the Tulum area has a very good safety record.
The guide has to be a Full Cave Diver and Dive Master/Instructor
Don't hesitate to ask to see his/her credentials.
The guide dives in full cave equipment, including 2 tanks
The maximum size of the group is 4.
You should always be following a guideline from the entrance to the exit.
Natural sunlight should always be visible.
The dives should be conducted only in areas where 2 divers can easily pass side by side.
The maximum distance to the surface should be no more than 60 linear metres.
Dives are conducted within No Decompression limits.