Your Friend the Nomad
Honest Review of Dzitnup Cenotes + How to Visit
Trying to figure out whether its worth it to visit the Dzitnup Cenotes near Valladolid, Mexico?
That was me too a few months ago! I was on the search for the best cenotes on Mexico’s Yucatan peninsula and had heard some mixed reviews about Cenote Samula and Cenote Xkeken, which are both located at the Dzitnup Cenotes park. I caved in and visited both (sorry for that bad pun), along with five other cenotes in the Valladolid area.
So, are these two cenotes worth visiting? Yes and no. I’ll explain my honest thoughts about them and my overall experience at the Cenotes Dzitnup park in this article! Plus, I’m sharing everything you need to know if you do choose to visit.
Note: This article may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases through these links, at no cost to you. But don’t worry, I only share products I’d truly recommend to a friend.
My Valladolid Favorites 
Exprience Chichen Itza: Don’t miss Mexico’s most iconic ruins, they’re just 45 minutes away! Visit independently or book this Chichen Itza and Izamal day trip with a local guide.
Cenote Hopping: Valladolid is home to the most beautiful cenotes I’ve ever see! Cenote Xcanahaltun and Cenote Secreto Maya are the best, but Cenote Saamal and Dzitnup are some other great options closer to town.
Wander along Calz. de Los Frailes: Valladolid’s most picturequse street, lined with colorful buildings housing vintage shops, cafes, bars, and plenty of hidden gems.
Visit Uayma Church: This gorgeous church’s facade is like nothing else I’ve seen in this part of Mexico! It is 15 minutes outside of Valladolid and definitely worth the drive just for a look!
Convento de San Bernardino de Siena: Step inside this picturequse pink convent during opening hours and come back in the evening for a lights show about the history of Valladolid (usually at 9pm).
Where to Stay: A modern boho jungleside suite at Olbil Hotel Boutique, a mid-range room at Zentik—a hotel with an underground cave pool, or a suite with a private hot tub at centrally-located Casa Tia Micha.
Find more of my Valladolid favorites and Mexico travel tips at the bottom of this article!
Valladolid’s Dzitnup Cenotes
Located near the small town of Dzitnup, cenotes Xkeken and Samula are two gorgeous underground cenotes both located on the same property under the name of ‘Cenote Dzitnup’. It’s a bit confusing, but yes, there are two cenotes here and you can visit both with one ticket!
Cenote Dzitnup Information
Cenote Features: Cenote Xkeken (Cenote Dzitnup) has stunning stalagmite formations and stalagmites, Cenote Samula is a larger cave with some hanging stalagmites. Both feature bright blue water and a small opening that lets in natural light from above.
Cenote Type: Closed cenotes, both with a large hole above 
Entrance Fee: $226 MXN per person, pay onsite with cash or card
Included With Entry Fee: Access to both cenotes, lifejackets, access to changing rooms and showers
Extra Cost: ‘Guide’ (more on this later, not recommend!), food and souvenirs from vendors
Lockers: Cost extra
Opening Hours: 8am-5pm, open daily
Address: Dzitnup, 97795 Yuc., Mexico
Left: Cenote Xkeken; Right: Cenote Samula
My Honest Opinion: Is Dzitnup Cenote Worth Visiting?
Out of the seven cenotes I visited in Valladolid, Cenotes Dzitnup has the worst facilities, most confusing property, and several other odd (and slightly concerning) quirks.
The cenotes themselves are breathtaking, though. I was particularly charmed by Cenote Xkeken (which is also called Dzitnup Cenote sometimes and also spelled Cenote X’keken). Xkeken is smaller than Samula Cenote, but with stunning limestone formations and less people!
In all my travels I have never been to a cenote like Xkeken, and it seems quite unique compared to others in the area. Meanwhile, the sheer scale of Cenote Samula makes it intriguing, and it is more popular for swimming.
The two-for-one price makes these cenotes this the perfect opportunity or many travelers, especially families. But I will say in advance that I hope you are able to visit at least one more cenote in addition to these two. There are lots of open cenotes nearby that are even better for swimming!
If you decide to visit these cenotes, I want you to know what you’re in for and what to expect. Here is everything you should know about visiting Cenotes Dzitnup.
Travel Tips for Cenote Xkeken and Cenote Samula
Arrive early to avoid crowds: You’ll beat the crowds if you arrive early. The park opens at 8am but I visited around 10am and there were only a handful of others.
A local ‘guide’ may solicit you when you enter, but I don’t recommend hiring them: An English-speaking local may help you through the process of buying tickets (its straightforward, you shouldn’t need any help) and then offer to show you around the park for a tip. Even though the property is a little confusing (more on that later), it really isn’t worth hiring someone unless you really want to.
Expect to wear a lifejacket: Like at many other Valladolid cenotes, lifejackets are required. The lifejackets here have seen better days, especially compared to the high-quality newer life preservers at nearby Cenote Saamal.
Expect to leave an ID as collateral: When picking up a lifejacket the clerk will ask you to leave a passport or other ID until you pick up your lifejacket. I thought this was a little absurd and it is something I haven’t encountered at other cenotes. Just be aware of this and if you feel nervous about leaving your ID, bring an old expired drivers license, student ID, or other less important identity card.
You’ll have to take a shower before swimming: Not surprising, but something to keep in mind!
The cenotes are on different sides of the road and the property feels like a maze: Cenote Xkeken is located across the road from the main ticket office, and Cenote Samula is on the same side. You have to walk through a maze of vendors to get to either cenote, but the vendors are willing to direct you if you ask.
There are lots of local Mayan people selling souvenirs throughout the park: I haven’t seen this many vendors at any other cenotes that I’ve been to—I can’t imagine they’re able to sell much, but perhaps they really do cash in when the tour buses stop by! Sadly it is worth mentioning that most of the stuff sold by vendors here and in many other places in Mexico are not locally made, they’re shipping from factories in Asia.
Expect bats: yes, there are some small bats in both of these cenotes, but do not fear! They are harmless creatures.
Be prepared for cold water: As they say in Mexico, the crystal clear water in these cenotes is ‘fresh,’ in other words, cold! It’s not unbearable but just be prepared for a refreshing dip!
If swimming is your top priority, you might want to go to another cenote: Although the natural beauty of the water in these two cenotes is striking, and you can swim in both, I think most people would prefer to swim in the sunshine. Definitely get in the water if you do come here, but if you’re looking for a place to just swim, maybe these underground caves are not for you.
Love cave adventures? Add Belize’s mysterious ATM cave to your bucketlist!
Gorgeous stalactite formations at Cenote Xkeken, an underground limestone cave
How to Get to the Dzitnup Cenotes
Dzitnup Cenotes from Valladolid (10 minute drive)
Driving: From the center of Valladolid, head west on highway 180 until you’re outside of the city. You’ll pass an intersection then quickly turn left when you see the signs for Hacienda Selva Maya and Cenote Saamal. Pass Cenote Saamal and continue down the road for a few minutes until you reach Cenote Dzitnup.
Scooter: Rent a scooter for the day and explore the area’s best cenotes! This is probably the best way to do it if you want the freedom to visit several cenotes without paying for a rental car. Reserve a scooter in advance here. Then follow the driving instructions above.
Taxi: It cost me $120 pesos one way to get from Valladolid Centro to Selva Maya. Cenotes Dzitnup is only two minutes further, so expect the cost to be similar.
Tour: Hosted by my favorite local tour company, this day trip from Valladolid combines the Dzitnup cenotes with authentic experiences in nearby Mayan villages, plus a tour of the Valladolid Mercado Municipal. You’ll learn to make tortillas from scratch, learn about the Mayan Caste Warn, and of course, get to swim in both cenotes X’Kekén and Samulá! Tour details.
Bike: You can also bike! I rented a bike from this local business in Valladolid, and rode to Cenote Oxman, but didn’t make it all the way to these cenotes as it was further than expected (and so hot mid-day!) I chose to take a taxi another day instead, but biking to Cenote Samula and Cenote Xkeken is definitely possible, especially if you go in the morning. Best of all, there is a bike path along the road between the Cenote Dzitnup complex and the highway!
Related: The Perfect Valladolid, Mexico Itinerary: 1-7 Days
Dzitnup Cenotes from Cancun & Isla Mujeres (2 hour drive)
Driving (expect tolls, but this is the easiest way): Depart from Cancun Centro, and drive west on highway 180D (Kantunil – Cancun) for about 2 hours, toward Valladolid. Once you get to the city of Valladolid, follow highway 180 toward Selva Maya. Turn left when you see the signs for Selva Maya, but pass Selva Maya and continue down the road for a few minutes until you reach Cenote Dzitnup.
Tour: Sadly, I wasn’t able to find a tour from Cancun to the Dzitnup Cenotes, though there are lots of other Cancun tours that include stops at nearby cenotes.
ADO Bus: You can travel between Cancun and Valladolid via ADO Bus. Check schedules and reserve your seat with ADO online, or head to the ADO bus station in Cancun for more info. Upon arrival, get a taxi to Cenote Samula and Cenote Xkeken.
Planning tip: the Dzitnup Cenotes are in a different timezone than Cancun & Isla Mujeres.
Dzitnup Cenotes from Playa del Carmen & Cozumel (1 hour 45 minute drive)
Driving (expect tolls): Depart from Playa del Carmen downtown and drive northwest along highway 305D (Playa del Carmen – El Tinta) toward Valladolid. After about an hour and 15 minutes, you’ll get onto 180D (Kantunil – Cancun) west toward Valladolid. Once you get to Valladolid, follow highway 180 toward Selva Maya. Turn left when you see the signs for Selva Maya, but pass Selva Maya and continue down the road for a few minutes until you reach Cenote Dzitnup.
Tour: This highly-rated private day trip from Playa del Carmen includes an hour to explore both Cenote Samula and Cenote Xkeken, plus a visit to UNESCO World Heritage Site Chichen Itza, and a short stop in historical Valladolid. Tour details.
ADO Bus: You can travel between PDC and Valladolid via ADO Bus. Check schedules and reserve your seat with ADO online, or head to one of the two ADO stations in Playa del Carmen for more info. Upon arrival, get a taxi to Dzitnup Cenotes. Keep in mind that the ADO bus to Valladolid from Playa del Carmen may stop in Tulum first, which will make the journey longer.
Planning tip: the Dzitnup Cenotes are in a different timezone than Playa del Carmen & Cozumel.
Dzitnup Cenotes from Tulum (1.5 hour drive)
Driving: Depart from Tulum Centro on highway 109 north toward Coba. In Coba exit the main traffic circle onto Chemax – Cova toward Valladolid. In Chemax, turn left onto highway 180 (Carr. Costera del Golfo). In Valladolid follow highway 180 toward Selva Maya. Turn left when you see the signs for Selva Maya, but pass Selva Maya and continue down the road for a few minutes until you reach Cenote Dzitnup.
Tour: There are lots of Valladolid and Chichen Itza day trips from Riviera Maya that include a stop at Cenote Saamal. I recommend this private tour as it is hosted by a reputable local guide, and not a huge overpacked tour group.
ADO Bus: You can travel between Tulum and Valladolid via ADO Bus. Check schedules and reserve your seat with ADO online, or stop by the Tulum ADO station for more info. Upon arrival, get a taxi to Dzitnup Cenotes.
Planning tip: the Dzitnup Cenotes are in a different timezone than Tulum.
Dzitnup Cenotes from Merida (2 hour drive)
Driving (expect tolls): Follow highway 180 (Carr. Costera del Golfo) southeast all the way from Merida to Valladolid and Selva Maya. At Selva Maya, turn left and drive a few minutes down the road to Dzitnup Cenotes.
Public Transportation: You can travel between Merida and Valladolid via ADO Bus. Check schedules and reserve your seat with ADO online. Upon arrival, get a taxi to Dzitnup Cenotes.
Don’t miss swimming in the turquoise waters of Cenote Samula!
What to Bring to Cenotes Dzitnup
Bathing suit: You can swim in the natural pool at both cenotes, so definitely bring a swim suit!
Travel towel: I love this fast drying, sand resistant travel towel. I bring it everywhere!
Dry bag: A dry bag like this can be very helpful!
Travel insurance: While it is not a physical item to pack, please don’t forget to purchase travel insurance in case something happens! I always buy a policy with SafetyWing.
Camera gear (maybe?): I usually recommend my GoPro Hero11 for cenotes, but since these two are underground with limited light, taking photos can be difficult. I was able to get some long-exposure photos with my Sony Mirrorless camera, though. I use this small flexible tripod which works great for my Sony, GoPro, and phone!!
Do not bring/use sunscreen, insect repellant, etc. before swimming in any cenote.
Cenotes Dzitnup FAQs
What is a cenote?
Cenotes are natural sinkholes filled with water. They are formed as limestone bedrock collapses over time, which exposes groundwater. There are over six thousand cenotes on the Yucatan Peninsula.
There are three types of cenotes:
Open centotes: These cenotes look like small lakes or ponds because there are no rock formations covering them.
Semi-open cenotes: These cenotes are partly covered, sometimes with a small hole letting in light from above.
Underground cenotes: These cenotes are underground caves that cannot be seen from land.
Are life jackets required at the Dzitnup Cenotes in Valladolid?
Yes, all visitors are required to wear a life preserver when visiting Cenotes Dzitnup. Thankfully, life jacket rentals are included in your admission fee!
Are life jackets required at all cenotes in Valladolid?
Life jackets are required at most, but not all cenotes in Valladolid. Two cenotes I recommend that don’t require lifejackets are Cenote Xcanahaltun and Cenote Secreto Maya.
Where to Stay in Valladolid
Olbil Hotel Boutique: This luxurious boutique hotel is full of jungle charm and it is just minutes away from the historical center of Valladolid.
Zentik Project: This unique hotel features a 24-hour saltwater cave pool, plus another pool above ground, a spa, and an onsite restaurant and bar.
Casa Tia Micha: Stay in the heart of historical Valladolid at this highly-rated boutique hotel.
My Favorite Things to do in Valladolid
Exprience Chichen Itza: Don’t miss Mexico’s most iconic ruins, they’re just 45 minutes away! Visit independently or book this Chichen Itza and Izamal day trip with a local guide.
Cenote Hopping: Valladolid is home to the most beautiful cenotes I’ve ever see! Cenote Xcanahaltun and Cenote Secreto Maya are the best, but Cenote Saamal and Dzitnup are some other great options closer to town.
Wander along Calz. de Los Frailes: Valladolid’s most picturequse street, lined with colorful buildings housing vintage shops, cafes, bars, and plenty of hidden gems.
Visit Uayma Church: This gorgeous church’s facade is like nothing else I’ve seen in this part of Mexico! It is 15 minutes outside of Valladolid and definitely worth the drive just for a look!
Convento de San Bernardino de Siena: Step inside this picturequse pink convent during opening hours and come back in the evening for a lights show about the history of Valladolid (usually at 9pm).
More Yucatan & Quintana Roo Travel Guides
The Ultimate Bacalar Itinerary: 1-7 Days in the Lagoon of Seven Colors
12 Cancun Hidden Gems: Cancun Off The Beaten Path
Ultimate Guide: Muyil River Float and Mayan Ruins
The Ultimate Guide to Renting a Scooter in Cozumel
How to Visit Xcacel Beach Turtle Sanctuary Near Tulum
Final Thoughts: Visiting Cenotes Dzitnup in Valladolid, Mexico
I am so glad I ended up visiting Cenote Samula and Cenote Xkeken at Dzitnup. Even though the lifejackets had seen better days, I had to refuse locals offering guide services several times, and the layout of the property itself was a little confusing, these two cenotes were breathtaking and unique.
If you only have time to visit a few cenotes, these two are a good choice since they’re so close together, and I recommend also stopping at nearby Cenote Saamal, which is just two minutes down the road at Hacienda Selva Maya.
Enjoy the stunning natural beauty of each cenote and be sure to browse my other Mexico travel guides as you plan your trip!
This post Honest Review of Dzitnup Cenotes + How to Visit first appeared on Your Friend the Nomad.