Cenote Dos Ojos

About Cenote Dos Ojos

Cenote Dos Ojos, or Sistema Dos Ojos, is the world’s third largest underwater cave system. First discovered in the late 1980s, 82 km (51 mi) have been surveyed so far and exploration is still ongoing. It lies on the Caribbean coast of the Yucatan Peninsula in the state of Quintana Roo in Mexico. There are 28 sinkhole entrances, known locally as cenotes. The waters in the cave system are remarkably clear as rainwater is filtered through limestone. 

Dos Ojos means ‘two eyes’, referring to the two adjacent cenotes which from the surface resemble two eyes looking onto the large cavern zone they share below. The system contains the deepest known cave passage in Quintana Roo, measured at 119.1 meters deep at ‘The Pit’ and discovered in 1996.

Climate

The water temperature is around 24°C (77°F) all year round.

Fauna and Flora

Small fish and at least two types of freshwater shrimp live in these underground caves. You can also surface into a bat cave at one point.

Tourism

The cave system is visited by around 100 visitors every day. 

Activities

Snorkeling and cavern diving are available, and the site caters for a range of ages and abilities – from family-friendly snorkeling with access from wooden decks to longer guided tours, exploring the underwater caverns, stalactites and stalagmites. Guided cavern dives are usually in small groups of four, allowing plenty of opportunity to explore without feeling too crowded – by people, at any rate. Cave diving is also available, but only suitable for advanced divers.

How to get there

Dos Ojos is between the towns of Akumal and Tulum, just off Highway 307. 

Did you know?

Cenotes in Mexico were sometimes used by the Mayan civilization for sacrificial offerings.