The calm and beautiful Cenote Oxman is a collapsed cave in the Yucatan Peninsula. Among the amazing Valladolid tourist attractions in the region, Oxman stands out as a low-key cenote set in an environment where tree roots and natural lights make their splash. The place is between the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico, making a significant chunk of water-logged land in the Yucatan Peninsula.
If you plan to visit this place, the magical scenery is perfect for making a dramatic and fun entrance. The primary factor that sets Cenote San Lorenzo Oxman apart is the inclusion of a rope swing, allowing visitors to launch themselves into the water. Additionally, a pool and lounge area are adjacent to an on-site restaurant. This unique cenote provides an enjoyable experience and a chance to unwind, guaranteeing a relaxing time for anyone who visits it.
What Is a Cenote?
Cenotes are natural sinkholes or pits filled with crystal clear water in the Yucatan Peninsula formed by the flop of limestone bedrock. “Cenote” comes from the Mayan word “donut,” which denotes a sacred well. The ancient Mayans thought these wells were entrances to the underworld and utilized them for sacrificial ceremonies.
Cenotes are also home to unique species of fauna and flora, making them a famous spot for eco-tourism. They offer an opening to swim in clear, refreshing water surrounded by stunning natural formations. The features and location of each cenote make them all worth a unique visit. With well over 6,000 cenotes in the Yucatan Peninsula alone, it’s no wonder they have become a phenomenal tourist attraction.
This “sacred well” is one of these several Yucatan gems waiting for you to discover it. Situated just outside Valladolid city, Cenote Oxman is an admirable stop on any Yucatan Peninsula itinerary. Since the 19th century, it has been an integral part of Hacienda San Lorenzo Oxman and a must-visit for anyone touring the peninsula.
History and Location of Cenote San Lorenzo Oxman
Cenote San Lorenzo Oxman is just 6 km from Valladolid, one of Mexico’s most colorful and charming towns. It’s only a two-hour drive from sought-after tourist spots like Playa del Carmen and Cancun. Guests can reach the place by driving or taxi from Valladolid. Even with its proximity to the bustling city, the Cenote Oxman is still considered a hidden gem. Its tranquil atmosphere allows visitors to relax and take in everything nature offers.
Hacienda San Lorenzo Oxman was established in the 17th century and passed down through several generations of the same family. It used to be a working henequen plantation, but now it is a place for tourists to explore the stunning cenote on its grounds and experience traditional Mexican hospitality. With its beautiful scenery and rich history, it’s no wonder Cenote San Lorenzo Oxman is a must-visit destination.
How to Get There
There are a few ways to get to the Oxman Cenote, depending on your mode of transportation and where you’re coming from. If driving, follow the Coba signs until reaching the hacienda. Alternatively, some tour firms in Valladolid offer day trips to numerous cenotes. Once in Valladolid, a taxi would be the best option for you to get to Cenote San Lorenzo Oxman.
Driving in Mexico is relatively affordable and accessible, making it a popular option for visitors. Guided tours are also a great choice for those looking for a more stress-free trip. You can often find these private or affordable group tours in the area. They include transportation to and from the cenote, making visiting this fabulous location a hassle-free experience.
Explore the Beauty of Hacienda Oxman
Aside from swimming in the refreshing waters of Cenote San Lorenzo Oxman, tourists can also take a tour of the beautiful hacienda surrounding it. The family-owned Hacienda San Lorenzo Oxman gives visitors a glimpse into the culture and history of this traditional Mexican property. You can explore the impressive architecture and lush gardens preserved since the days of henequen production.
The loveliness of Cenote San Lorenzo Oxman doesn’t stop at its stunning pool of water. The cenote’s location, surrounded by greenery and the hacienda’s traditional charm, makes it a perfect spot for capturing Instagram-worthy photos. You can also find lounge chairs and hammocks dispersed around the property, adding to the overall relaxing atmosphere of the place.
What Makes This Cenote Unique
Cenotes may be common in the Yucatan Peninsula, but each has features and charms that make them stand out. What sets Cenote San Lorenzo Oxman apart, for example, is its rope swing, allowing tourists to create a thrilling entrance into the water. The cenote also has a broad platform for deep sections and jumping, ideal for snorkeling and diving. Since it is not as busy or well-known as other tourist locations, guests can enjoy a more relaxing and peaceful experience.
Besides, the Cenote San Lorenzo Oxman blend of natural beauty and culture is impressive. The hacienda’s traditional architectural history adds to the cenote’s overall charm, making it more than just a place to swim but also an experience rich in Mexican culture. Most of the hacienda’s facilities, including its changing rooms and restrooms, are built with traditional Mexican techniques using natural materials.
Moreover, visitors can stay at this historic and unique property and easily access the cenote without leaving. Also, let’s not forget the attraction of the rope swing that allows guests to launch themselves into the water, which makes for an exhilarating experience. The pool area also offers lounge chairs for relaxing between dips in the cenote. The scenery provides a mix of relaxation and adventure that is hard to come by.
Activities at Cenote San Lorenzo Oxman
Aside from exploring the hacienda’s grounds and swimming, there is plenty to do at Cenote San Lorenzo Oxman. Visitors can also rent snorkeling gear and explore the underwater world, home to numerous species of plants found only in these natural pools. You can also treat yourself to a traditional Mexican meal at the on-site restaurant. Alternatively, you can also take in the beautiful surroundings and relax or challenge your family and colleagues to a game of pool.
The cenote also offers a unique experience for meditation and yoga enthusiasts, as the tranquil atmosphere makes it an ideal place to center your soul, body, and mind. It’s rare to find a cenote with diverse opportunities for activities, making Cenote San Lorenzo Oxman stand out. You can easily spend a whole day here, soaking in the beauty and relishing everything this superb place offers.
Tips for Visiting Cenote San Lorenzo Oxman
Although cenotes are natural wonders, tourists should still observe specific measures and rules to preserve their beauty. To make your visit to Cenote San Lorenzo Oxman respectful and enjoyable to the environment, keep these tips in mind:
1. Bring Biodegradable Sunscreen to Protect Yourself and Not Harm Marine Life
While swimming in the refreshing waters of the Oxman Cenote, it’s crucial to shield yourself from harmful UV rays. However, regular sunscreen contains chemicals that can damage marine life. To prevent any harm, use only biodegradable sunscreen.
Visitors can find biodegradable sunscreen at the hacienda’s gift shop, in case you forget to bring your own. You can use communal showers to rinse off any regular sunscreen before entering the cenote. Avoid wearing body products that contain harsh chemicals to lessen the impact on this natural wonder.
2. Bring a Towel and a Change of Clothes
There are plenty of shower facilities, lounge chairs, or hammocks at Cenote San Lorenzo Oxman, but visitors still need to bring their own towels. You’ll need one to dry off after swimming and changing out of your wet clothes before continuing with the rest of your day trip.
To make it easier for yourself, you could bring a change of clothes to remain dry while exploring the hacienda. The last thing anyone wants is to travel back with damp clothing. Pack a waterproof bag or separate compartment to keep your dry clothes safe and clean.
3. Wear Comfortable Sandals or Water Shoes, as the Rocks Can Be Slippery
As with any natural pool, stones and rocks can be slippery, making it vital to wear proper footwear for safety. The stones around the hacienda’s Oxman cenote can also get quite hot in the sun, so wearing sandals or water shoes will shield your feet from burning.
Since Cenote San Lorenzo Oxman’s pool floor consists of tree roots, it’s essential to wear comfortable shoes with grip to avoid injuries. Take your time and be careful while walking around the cenote to prevent accidents.
4. Apply Insect Repellent to Protect From Mosquitoes and Other Insects
Cenotes are surrounded by lush greenery, making them a natural habitat for insects, including mosquitoes. To protect yourself from itchy bites and ensure your visit is entertaining, apply insect repellent before entering the cenote. The hacienda has restrooms where visitors can store personal items, including insect repellent.
It’s always better to be safe than sorry. Packing a travel-sized insect repellent is also recommended for any outdoor activities in the Yucatan Peninsula. Also, avoid using perfumes or strongly scented products, which can attract insects.
5. You Can Pack Snacks or Lunch Since There Is Only One Restaurant
Cenote San Lorenzo Oxman has an on-site restaurant, but it may not be ideal for picky eaters or those with specific dietary restrictions. Although the food is traditional Mexican cuisine, you should consider bringing snacks or a packed lunch if you’re worried about finding something suitable. You can save time by packing your lunch to continue exploring the cenote without having to wait for a meal at the restaurant.
Having some drinks and snacks on hand is a good idea, especially if traveling with children. If bringing food from outside, please clean up and dispose of any trash properly. The cenote’s beauty is because it has been kept clean by visitors and staff alike.
6. Respect the Hacienda’s Regulations and Rules
When entering the Hacienda San Lorenzo Oxman, guests must purchase an entrance fee for maintaining both the hacienda and cenote. It also helps support the local community. Once inside, guests must follow the hacienda’s rules and regulations to preserve its rich history.
Visitors should respect the hacienda’s staff and other guests. Remember, while you’re on retreat, others are working hard to deliver a memorable experience. The payment of the entrance fee helps ensure that this site and others like it can continue to run sustainably.
7. Swim in Designated Areas Only
Cenote San Lorenzo Oxman’s waters are perfect for swimming and refreshing on a hot day. However, visitors must swim in designated areas to avoid damaging natural formations or disturbing aquatic life. Ropes define the boundaries of where swimming is permitted. Ensure to follow the directives of any staff present.
There may also be other activities taking place in certain areas, such as jumping or diving into the cenote’s deepest points. If tempted to join, ensure you have the proper safety gear and receive approval from trained staff beforehand.
8. Keep the Cenote and Its Surroundings Clean
The surrounding nature in and around Cenote San Lorenzo Oxman makes this place truly exceptional, but at the same time, it’s essential to keep it clean. Visitors are responsible for taking care of and disposing of their trash correctly. There are garbage cans around the cenote and hacienda for this purpose. Please avoid littering or damaging plants, trees, and other natural structures.
It’s essential to reduce our conservational impact as much as possible while traveling. This includes reducing waste and disposing of it properly, especially in natural areas such as cenotes. Proper garbage disposal assists in preserving the ecosystem and beauty of the hacienda’s Oxman cenote.
9. Be Respectful of Other Visitors
While at Cenote San Lorenzo Oxman, respect other visitors’ space and privacy. If taking photos or videos, try not to capture others in your shots without their permission. Be mindful of noise levels to avoid troubling other visitors trying to relax or enjoy the cenote’s tranquility.
It’s also essential to respect and appreciate different cultures, especially when visiting a place with such a rich history. Be mindful of your behavior and actions, and dress appropriately while on the hacienda’s property. These simple measures ensure that everyone can enjoy visiting this stunning location.
Planning Your Visit: Best Time to Go and Entrance Fees
The ideal time to visit Cenote San Lorenzo Oxman is during the dry season, from December to April. This period has the least rainfall in Mexico and makes for pleasant weather. However, note that this also means it can be more crowded during peak tourist season. To avoid large crowds, try to visit during the weekdays or earlier in the day.
The current entrance fee for Cenote San Lorenzo Oxman is 150 MXN per person, and it includes access to the place and a tour of the hacienda’s gardens, stables, and other areas. For an additional 50 MXN per person, visitors can also receive a voucher for use at the restaurant on-site.
Cenotes are breathtaking natural wonders that we should preserve for generations to come. By following these tips, you can ensure that your visit to Cenote San Lorenzo Oxman is enjoyable, respectful, and sustainable. Doing so will protect the beauty and serenity of this stunning location for years to come.
