Cenote Jardín del Eden
Riviera Maya, Mexico
With its crystal-clear waters, Cenote Jardín del Eden (Garden of Eden Cenote) is considered one of the most beautiful open cenotes in the Riviera Maya region. Surrounded by lush rainforest, it resembles a large natural swimming pool and is a great destination for snorkelers and scuba divers thanks to exceptional underwater visibility. The popular locale is also known as Cenote Ponderosa (and you may hear Cenote Eden or Eden Cenote, as well).
The basics
A convenient day trip from Playa del Carmen or Tulum, Cenote Jardín del Eden attracts adventurous travelers looking to experience this natural wonder. The water has deep sections where scuba divers can explore, as well as shallow areas that are suitable for children. Visitors can also go snorkeling or cliff jumping from a platform into the main pool. Some guided tours from Cancun include a stop here, along with visits to the Cristalino and Azul cenotes.
Things to know before you go
Since some of the areas are quite deep, wear a life jacket, especially if you’re not a good swimmer.
Bathrooms and showers are located on-site, and life jacket and snorkeling gear rentals are available.
To reach the water, you’ll need to walk down a number of steps, which may be difficult for those with mobility issues and travelers with very young children.
There is an entrance fee for both adults and kids.
How to get there
Cenote Jardín del Eden is 15.5 miles (25 kilometers) from Playa del Carmen and 25 miles (40 kilometers) from Tulum, and is close to many other attractions, including the Azul and Cristalino cenotes and Playa Xpuha. Guided tours typically provide round-trip transportation from Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and Cancun. You can also grab a taxi, but be sure to agree on the fare before departing and arrange a pick-up time from the cenote with the driver.
When to get there
Cenote Jardín del Eden is open every day except Saturdays. To avoid the crowds, especially on Sundays, try to visit in the early morning. Also, the cenote may reach maximum capacity later in the day, so keep that in mind if you’re planning to visit in the afternoon. Dives should be booked in advance. The area’s dry season, December to April, is considered the best time to visit.
Cenotes in the Riviera Maya
Cenotes, natural sinkholes that are the result of collapsed limestone bedrock, are a prime attraction in the Riviera Maya, with the majority of cenotes in Mexico located on the Yucatan Peninsula. Fully open cenotes like Jardín del Eden are the most common and most popular because they’re easy for the whole family to enjoy.
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