If you’re planning a trip to the Yucatan Peninsula and craving a refreshing escape into nature, a private excursion to Cenote Santa Barbara in Homun could be just what you need. For $110 per person, this 7-hour tour offers a chance to visit three different cenotes—Cascabel, Xooch’, and Pool Cocom—while enjoying the comfort of private transportation and personalized guidance. Whether you’re traveling with family or friends, this experience is designed to combine adventure, relaxation, and authentic local vibes.
What immediately appeals to us is how the tour balances fun with safety and convenience. We love that transportation is included—making the journey hassle-free—and that you get to choose between cycling and van rides within the cenote area. The opportunity to swim in crystal-clear waters, use life jackets (included), and explore multiple cenotes makes this a versatile outing. The other standout? The tour guide, Franklin Gonzalez Solis, who aims to make you feel at home and safe—an essential factor when venturing into a natural setting.
A potential consideration is the limited return options once you’ve entered the cenote circle. Once you’re in, there’s no re-entry, so it’s best to plan your time wisely. Also, remember to bring cash in Mexican pesos or a card if you’d like to buy food or souvenirs onsite. This tour suits travelers who value authentic, off-the-beaten-path adventures and are comfortable with a bit of physical activity, like cycling, or simply relaxing in nature.
- Private, personalized experience with knowledgeable guides.
- All-inclusive transportation simplifies logistics, with options to bike or ride.
- Visit three distinct cenotes, each offering unique scenery and swimming opportunities.
- Includes amenities like restrooms, showers, Wi-Fi, and a splash pad for kids.
- Limited re-entry policy means careful planning for your time in the cenotes.
- Best suited for travelers seeking authentic natural beauty in a safe, guided setting.
Starting Point and Transportation
Your adventure kicks off either from Progreso (ideal if you’re arriving via cruise) or Merida (if you’re based in the city), with a drive lasting about an hour and a half. Franklin, your guide, will be easy to spot in his green shirt with “VISIT TO COZUMEL” on the back, ready to ensure your comfort and safety. The ride itself offers a chance to get familiar with the local scenery—think lush greenery and small villages—that are part of the charm of this region.
You can check availability for your dates here:Arrival at Santa Barbara Cenote
Once you arrive at the Santa Barbara Cenote facilities in Homun, you’ll be greeted and given an overview of the site. The facilities are well-maintained, boasting essentials such as restrooms, showers, changing rooms, and even Wi-Fi—a rare treat in natural settings. Here, you’ll also have the option to rent a bicycle (included in the tour) or hop on the van to reach the cenote circle.
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Visiting the Three Cenotes
The core of the experience revolves around exploring three different cenotes: Cascabel, Xooch’, and Pool Cocom. Each offers a slightly different visual and swimming experience.
- Cascabel is often praised for its clear waters and interesting rock formations, perfect for floating and cooling off.
- Xooch’ tends to be more secluded, with lush surroundings that make you feel like you’ve discovered a secret paradise.
- Pool Cocom is typically the most popular for swimming, with calm waters and shaded areas for relaxing after a dip.
We loved the flexibility of swimming at your own pace, with life jackets provided—a thoughtful touch for safety and comfort. It’s worth noting that once you step into the cenote circle, there’s no going back, so plan to spend your time wisely.
Additional Amenities and Rest Breaks
After swimming, you can visit the splash pad, take in the viewpoints, or relax in designated rest areas. The tour also includes access to common areas, so you can take a break, snap photos, or even enjoy some snacks (though food and drinks are not included). Restrooms, showers, and Wi-Fi make the visit more comfortable, especially for those traveling with kids or seeking a bit of modern convenience amid nature.
Photo Stops and Final Moments
Following the cenote visit, there’s a photo stop in Homun itself, where you’ll have about 40 minutes to stroll around, take photos, and soak in local scenery—perfect for capturing memories of your trip.
More Great Tours NearbyReturn Journey
The tour wraps up with a return trip to your starting point, typically around the same time you arrived, ensuring a full but manageable day of adventure.
One of the main advantages of booking this specific tour is the personalized attention. You’re not part of a large group, which means your guide can tailor the experience and answer questions along the way. The included amenities—such as restrooms, showers, and Wi-Fi—add comfort that you might not find on more generic excursions. Plus, the cost-per-person seems reasonable considering all the inclusions, especially given the private transportation and guided service.
You’ll benefit most if you value authentic experiences outside the typical tourist trail, enjoy swimming in natural waters, or simply want a safe, guided way to explore the cenotes without the hassle of planning logistics yourself. It’s particularly good for families, couples, or small groups looking for a more intimate, relaxed outing.
Itinerary Breakdown
The structured yet flexible itinerary provides a good balance of activity and downtime. Starting in either Progreso or Merida gives travelers flexibility depending on their accommodation. The one and a half hours drive is a manageable distance that leaves plenty of time for fun at the cenotes.
Visiting three different cenotes means you see a variety of natural formations and water qualities, making each stop a distinct experience. This variety keeps the day interesting and helps justify the price—you’re not just visiting one spot but exploring multiple environments.
Accessibility and Comfort
The inclusion of restrooms, showers, Wi-Fi, and changing rooms means you won’t feel stranded or uncomfortable, especially after swimming or cycling. These amenities are often overlooked but are crucial for a smooth travel experience.
The option to bike or ride within the cenote area allows flexibility for different energy levels. Cycling can add a fun, active element, while the van offers a more relaxed option—making the tour inclusive for most fitness levels.
Safety and Guide Expertise
The emphasis Franklin places on making guests feel at home and safe is evident in the reviews. Travelers appreciate guides who are knowledgeable and attentive, especially when it comes to safety rules like life jacket use. The guides’ language skills—Spanish and English—are also a plus, making the tour accessible to a broad audience.
Cost and Value
While $110 per person might seem steep for some, it covers transportation, guide, entrance fees, and amenities. When you compare this to other similar experiences in the region, the value becomes clear, especially with the personalized touch and convenience.
Authenticity and Local Experience
This tour offers more than just a quick swim; it’s an opportunity to experience local Yucatecan natural beauty in an environment that’s less commercialized than some larger cenote parks. The relaxed vibe and the chance to explore three distinct cenotes make this a memorable outing.
The main thing to keep in mind is the no re-entry policy—once you leave the cenote area, you cannot go back. This means you’ll want to plan your time carefully to avoid missing out on your favorite cenote.
Another point is cash or card—while the tour provides amenities, eating or purchasing souvenirs onsite will require cash in Mexican pesos or a card, which could be an inconvenience if you forget.
Lastly, the duration (7 hours) makes it more suitable for travelers with full days available. If you’re short on time or prefer a less active day, this might feel a bit packed.
This experience is perfect for adventurous travelers who want to see multiple cenotes without the hassle of planning logistics. It’s especially suitable for families with kids, thanks to the amenities and safety measures, and for couples or friends seeking a relaxed, authentic outdoor activity. If you’re curious about the natural beauty of Yucatan’s cenotes and value guided, private service, this tour offers an excellent balance of comfort and adventure.
If your idea of a perfect day involves cool waters, natural beauty, and a relaxed pace, then this private cenote tour hits the mark. The personalized guidance, inclusion of transportation, and access to multiple cenotes make it a practical choice for those wanting to avoid the complications of public transport or large group tours.
What we find particularly appealing is how this tour combines the authentic charm of Homun’s cenotes with modern amenities, ensuring comfort without sacrificing the natural, untouched feel. Whether you’re a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or simply looking to cool off in a stunning environment, this experience offers great value and genuine memories.
For travelers seeking a more intimate, flexible, and well-organized day trip that balances fun, safety, and authenticity, this tour is definitely worth considering. Just remember to plan your timing carefully and bring some cash—then sit back, relax, and enjoy the magic of Cenote Santa Barbara.
What is included in the tour?
The tour includes transportation from Progreso or Merida, a guide, entrance to Santa Barbara Cenote, use of life jackets, access to common areas and amenities, and showers and restrooms.
How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 7 hours, typically offered in the morning, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the cenotes and surrounding sights.
Can I swim in the cenotes?
Yes, swimming is the main activity at each cenote. You can swim freely and use the provided life jackets, with plenty of time allocated for swimming.
Are food and drinks included?
No, food and beverages are not included. You may want to bring snacks or plan to purchase onsite, using cash or a card.
What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, biodegradable sunscreen, lightweight clothes suitable for swimming, beachwear, cash or cards, and biodegradable insect repellent.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can enjoy the experience, especially with amenities like the splash pad and shallow cenotes. Just keep in mind that safety rules are in place, and children should be supervised.
What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.
Is the tour private?
Yes, it is designed for private groups, allowing for a more personalized and flexible experience.
Whether you’re seeking a refreshing dip in natural waters or an authentic peek into Yucatan’s cenotes, this guided tour offers both convenience and genuine adventure. It’s a well-balanced way to explore the region’s natural treasures while enjoying the comfort of private transportation and knowledgeable guidance.
You can check availability for your dates here: