Cenote Packing List
Packing for a Cenotes' trip?
Keep it to the minimum!
Cenotes vary dramatically in terms of what facilities they have. Some will have lockers available (normally at extra cost), but many will not; so unless you're taking your own car with secure trunk, then you'll want to take as little as possible along.
No time to read now, then scroll to the bottom for the summary.
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First Tip - leave most of your gadgets behind at your accommodation. The jungle is not a friend to electronics!
With that being said, you are going to want some sort of camera with you to save those cenote memories, though unless you are a professional photographer, you’ll find that your smartphone will likely take photos of sufficient quality. Plus, despite many cenotes now charging for camera use, phones are normally a fee-free option.
So for swimmers/snorkelers, you’ll want a waterproof pouch which is also useful to keep any cash in while you’re swimming. Almost all cenotes require cash and don’t accept credit/debit cards.
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For divers, obviously you may want a waterproof camera as you’ll be heading away from the surface, and now that the GoPro 9 & 10 are available, the Hero 8 has come down to a fair price and it truly is a fantastic camera for capturing underwater action.
If you’re going deeper than 10m/33ft, then you should add on a waterproof case which extends your range to 60m.
While the Hero8 is an exceptional camera for the price, there are still more budget friendly options available (this one regularly has coupons and discounts on Amazon and it's way under $100 (although the quality of sound and performance in low light is not as good as with the premium GoPros).
Note: If you’re a professional photographer or instagrammer be aware that many cenotes will charge a premium for, or sometimes not even permit, the use of larger professional camera setups or drones onsite.
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Yes I know I said leave electronics at home, but you’ll kick yourself if your phone runs out of battery and since you’re unlikely to find a socket for charging at most cenotes, grab one of these super useful power banks to avoid being caught out whenever you’re out on day trips. Always remember to charge your power bank overnight if you’ve used it.
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This is an adventure in the jungle, but do you know what else loves jungle territory? Yup, mosquitoes! This biodegradable mosquito balm is not only super-effective, it is all natural.
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I’m sure I don’t need to explain the benefits of using sun protection, but this eco-friendly, reef safe sunscreen will also go a long way further than a spray bottle or cream.
I ALWAYS forget about my lips! Don’t forget your SPF lip balm too.
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You only use sun protection after you get out of the cenote (yes, even eco-creams/sprays will pollute these fragile environments), so alternative UV protection can be essential to keep those harmful rays from damaging your skin.
A long-sleeve UV-blocking shirt or swimsuit will not only protect your skin whilst your sunscreen-free at the cenotes, but it will save you loads of time reapplying on any days when you’re at sea; a boating trip, kite-surfing, reef snorkelling, or whatever else you have planned.
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Water Shoes are so underrated and will make such a difference to your holiday time, that I should have put them first on the list. These ones are unisex, come in loads of colors and are often discounted.
Put them on when you get up in the morning and leave them on at the cenote to avoid any ‘stepping-on-lego’ type incidents! You’ll feel much more comfortable on the paths and be safer if climbing around on slippy/sharp rocks by the cenotes.
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Get a huge towel that folds small (in case you need to change under it at those cenotes with less facilities). You can use it on the beach too obviously, so it’s a great investment. Also, I’ve used it for extra cushioning with travel yoga mats that can be a little thin.
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Some cenotes won’t have drinks available, and at those that do, you can avoid the inflated prices and help protect the environment by bringing your own refillable water bottle. I like these insulated bottles, because they have the straw top option for easy one-handed drinking (useful when you’re cycling), plus I hate drinking warm water (unless it’s in my coffee!) and these keep it ice-cold all day.
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This foldable straw hat was a fantastic discovery; stylish yet won’t get destroyed while you’re traveling. However a simple baseball cap will do the trick too and this one is quick dry, so you can wear it happily in the cenote.
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For sunglasses I’d recommend the wooden variety, as they will hold up better than those with metal frames around or in the water. These unisex bamboo framed glasses are polarised, offer UV protection and are great value, so you’ll look great for your insta shots, but won’t cry if you damage/lose them!
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As a person who loves being around, in, and under the water, I travel with (at least!) two masks in case one breaks.
The best option is to visit a local dive store to get a mask that perfectly fits your face, however I personally own two Cressi masks and have found that they fit most face shapes due to being frameless.
For this quality, it is a great value mask, plus it’s low-profile so good for apnea diving too. They also make clear and pink versions.
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Grab either a simple dry-bag or an ultralight daypack. Amazon also offers a good price on buying a pair on this one, one each for you and your partner and it comes with an insulated pocket and a hydration bladder, so that would also save you carrying a drink bottle separately.
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Lastly, we personally use SafetyWing for insurance. Don't get caught out when you most need support. It still includes Covid quarantine cover, along with good coverage for most other eventualities, including personal accident insurance on scooters.
Plus, if you've already started your travels, you can still apply, which is a huge benefit if you're a digital nomad.
And the best part? It doesn’t take up any room in your dry bag!
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Finally, and while it seems obvious to say bring a swimsuit, it’s also worth a mention that you'll want to bring a change of clothes with you too, so that you don’t get your car/colectivo wet.
Keep it simple, with something light to wear over your swimsuit for the journey, such as a sarong or romper.
That's it! The list is complete!
But here is an additional Tip: The best cenote experience is 'unplugged', however if you feel that you must bring other items along (such as headphones for the day trip), then we recommend having them hidden out of sight before entering any cenote premises.
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TLDR - Here is the summary of our list of items we think you should definitely take*.
• Waterproof Phone Pouch or Underwater Camera
• UV Shirt
• Hat
• Shewee
* Full disclosure: We may earn a small commision (at no extra cost to you) if you purchase these items, however we do use and personally vouch each of them.