Cenote Dive Experience – Hell Bells & Maravilla
Dive into the Most Mysterious and Rare Cenotes of the Yucatán Peninsula
This one-of-a-kind cenote diving tour takes you to two of the most extraordinary and visually surreal cavern dive sites in the Riviera Maya: Cenote Hell Bells and Cenote Maravilla. These sites are not only geologically rare, but they’re also physically stunning — ideal for certified divers who are looking for something truly different from standard ocean dives.
What Makes These Dives Special?
Cenote Hell Bells
is famous for its eerie yet majestic formations known as “hell’s bells.” These are rare, bell-shaped speleothems that hang from the ceiling of an air-filled chamber within the cenote — believed to be created by microbial action and not found anywhere else on Earth in this density and form. The dive here is both a scientific wonder and a visual feast. The cenote has a mystical, dark blue hue and a halocline layer that creates surreal visual effects. This dive is calm but deeply impactful — a true hidden gem.
Cenote Maravilla
in contrast, is a wide, open cylinder with breathtaking sunbeams that penetrate the water from the surface, creating a cathedral-like light show inside the cavern. It’s known for its almost vertical shaft, excellent visibility, and deep drop-off, making it both visually dramatic and peaceful. It’s a favorite among underwater photographers for the cinematic effect of the light rays dancing through the water.
Both cenotes are part of the Riviera Maya’s extensive underground freshwater system and are only suitable for certified divers due to the overhead environment, depth, and specialized entry techniques. However, these are cavern dives, not full cave dives, and you’ll always be accompanied by experienced cavern-certified guides.
Dynamic – Itinerary
🕕 6:45 AM – Pickup at your hotel in Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Puerto Morelos or Tulum
🕗 8:00 AM – Arrival at the dive center to pick up gear and select tanks (Nitrox or 100cu ft available upon request)
🕣 8:15 AM – Arrival at Cenote Hell Bells (Zapote) for first dive
🕙 10:30 AM – Arrival at Cenote Maravilla for second dive
🕛 1:00 PM – Light lunch and return transport back to your hotel
What’s Included
✔ Full-Day Trip – 2 Cavern Dives
✔ Minimum 1 Certified Diver Required
✔ Small Groups – Max 4 divers per guide
✔ Round-Trip Transportation from Cancun, Playa del Carmen, or Riviera Maya
✔ Entrance Fees to Both Cenotes
✔ Full Equipment (BCD, regulator, wetsuit, mask, fins, tanks, weights)
✔ Flashlights for both dives
✔ Professional PADI or cavern-certified guide
✔ Light lunch (baguette or sandwich), bottled water, and snacks
Not Included
• Wetsuit rental – $300 MXN
• Gratuities
• Photos & videos (ask your instructor at check-in)
• GoPro rental – $65 USD
What to Bring
✔ Towel & change of clothes
✔ Swimsuit, flip-flops or water shoes
✔ Biodegradable sunscreen (apply at hotel)
✔ Valid photo ID
✔ Cash for tips and souvenirs
✔ Extra t-shirt or long-sleeve shirt for sun protection
How to Book
You can book directly via WhatsApp or click the Book Now button on our website. We’ll ask for:
✔ Number of divers
✔ Preferred date(s)
✔ Hotel name or meeting point
✔ Dietary restrictions (vegetarian, vegan, etc.)
✔ Equipment sizes if using rental gear
We’ll email or WhatsApp you a confirmation with the full itinerary and instructions.
FAQs – Cenote Diving (Hell Bells & Maravilla)
Do I need to be cave certified to dive these cenotes?
No. These are cavern dives, not full cave dives. Open Water Certification is required, and all dives are led by certified guides trained in cavern diving.
Are these cenotes suitable for beginner divers?
These dives are best suited for experienced divers with good buoyancy control due to the depth and halocline conditions.
How deep are the dives?
Hell Bells reaches around 100 ft, and Maravilla goes up to 90 ft depending on the plan.
What is the visibility like?
Usually 100–150 ft. Maravilla is known for incredible visibility, especially in the morning.
What is a halocline and will I experience it?
Yes. A halocline is where fresh and saltwater meet, creating shimmering visual distortions — unique to cenote diving.
What formations will I see?
Hell Bells features rare microbial bell-shaped formations. Maravilla offers dramatic stalactites and sunbeam effects.
Are photos/videos allowed?
Yes. Bring your GoPro or rent one from us ($65 USD). Pro media services available upon request.
How many divers per group?
Maximum of 4 divers per guide for safety and personalized attention.
Can I snorkel instead?
No. These cenotes are deep and for divers only. Snorkelers may accompany you on the trip, but cannot enter the water.
Is lunch included?
Yes. A light baguette or sandwich, snacks, and bottled water are provided.
Is Nitrox available?
Yes. Must be requested in advance. Nitrox certification required.
Do I need a flashlight?
No. We provide high-powered underwater lights.
Can I bring a non-diver?
They may join you on the trip but cannot access or swim in these cenotes due to safety policies.
What if weather is bad?
Cenotes aren’t affected by ocean conditions. Rarely canceled. If needed, we’ll reschedule or refund
Is transport included from Playa or Tulum?
Yes. Round-trip transport is included. For distant zones, a small fee may apply.
What’s the water temperature?
Averages 71°F (21°C) year-round. Wetsuits are recommended.
Can I use my own gear?
Yes. Let us know in advance — we’ll adjust your package.
Do cenotes have bathrooms?
Yes, both locations have basic restrooms and changing facilities.
Do you offer private tours?
Yes. We offer custom private cenote tours — perfect for couples, friends, or photo shoots.
How long is each dive?
Each dive is 40–50 minutes depending on depth, consumption, and comfort.
Why Choose Us for Cenote Diving?
• 15+ years guiding cenote and cavern dives
• All guides are cavern-certified and passionate about exploration
• No rushed tours – we prioritize comfort and safety
• Small groups and direct cenote partnerships
• Transparent pricing – no middlemen or hidden fees
• Eco-conscious and conservation-focused
• Top reviews from divers around the world
• Free dive lights, optional Nitrox, private tours available
• Always fast, friendly support via WhatsApp
Requirements & Restrictions
🚫 No recent surgeries or chronic conditions (e.g., asthma, diabetes, hypertension, ear/sinus issues)
🛫 No flying for at least 16 hours after diving
📃 Medical clearance may be required for certain conditions
📅 Minimum age: 15 years