Cenotes in Belize: Discover the Hidden Blue Hole Wonders
Wondering if Belize has cenotes? The answer is yes—and they’re some of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders in Central America. While Mexico may dominate the cenote conversation, Belize has its own unique take: a mix of inland freshwater sinkholes and the world-famous offshore Great Blue Hole. If you’re a water lover, cave explorer, or curious traveler, this guide will show you where to find cenotes in Belize and how to experience them for yourself.
What Is a Cenote?
St. Herman's Blue Hole – Belize's Inland Cenote
Located just off the Hummingbird Highway near Belmopan, St. Herman’s Blue Hole National Park features a striking inland freshwater cenote nestled in lush rainforest. This cenote is a cool, sapphire-blue pool surrounded by towering broadleaf trees. It sits downstream from St. Herman’s Cave, and the crystal-clear water makes it a refreshing stop after a cave tour.
This Blue Hole is ideal for families, swimmers, and nature lovers. The cenote is estimated to be about 25–30 feet deep, with a refreshing diameter perfect for a short swim or cooling dip.
You can take a short jungle hike, explore the nearby cave system, and then cool off in the cenote—all in one visit. The park is accessible by road, and entry fees are affordable. Guided cave tubing and hiking tours are available for a deeper experience.
Entrance Fee: Nationals – BZ $2.00 | Non-nationals – BZ $8.00
Tip: Visit during the dry season (December to May) for the most vibrant water clarity and easier trail conditions.
Note: The cenote has its entrance along the Hummingbird Highway for easy access.
Safety Tip: Wear water shoes during the rainy season as trails and rocks may be slippery. Deep-tissue insect repellent is a must in jungle areas, and if you’re not swimming, long sleeves and pants are highly recommended.
The Great Blue Hole – Belize's Famous Marine Cenote
Belize’s Great Blue Hole, located 43 miles off the coast near Lighthouse Reef Atoll, is perhaps the most iconic marine cenote in the world and part of Belize’s UNESCO-listed Barrier Reef Reserve System. near Lighthouse Reef Atoll, is perhaps the most iconic cenote in the world. This massive underwater sinkhole stretches over 1,000 feet across and plunges to a depth of over 400 feet.
Formed during the last Ice Age, this cenote was once a dry cave until rising sea levels flooded it. Today, it’s a world-renowned diving site featured by Jacques Cousteau and beloved by underwater explorers. Divers can descend into its inky depths to see ancient stalactites, reef sharks, and surreal geological formations.
Not a diver? You can still appreciate the beauty of the Great Blue Hole with an aerial flyover or snorkeling near the edge of the surrounding reef. Either way, it’s a breathtaking experience.
When I was at Lighthouse Reef, I watched a domestic airline make a special effort to fly over the Great Blue Hole, circling it a few times before heading out of Belize. It warmed my heart to see a large company take a simple action that honors one of our country’s greatest natural treasures. This warms my heart, as it’s one way a large company can make an impact on Belize. This warms my heart, as it’s one way a large company can make an impact on Belize.
Important Note: The marine park fee is $40 USD per person. There is some danger involved in reaching the site by boat, especially beyond the reef. It is recommended to go with experienced island-based operators whose captains are familiar with the conditions.
Belize Aududon Society: https://belizeaudubon.org
Cara Blanca Cenotes – Hidden and Untouched
One of Belize’s best-kept secrets is the Cara Blanca Cenotes, a cluster of deep, mysterious freshwater sinkholes located in the savannahs of western Belize. These cenotes are rich in cultural and ecological value. Some are as deep as 200 feet and contain ancient Maya artifacts.
In 2013, when I was working with Pacz Tours, I had the opportunity to visit Cara Blanca during an exploratory trip. These cenotes aren’t open to the general public due to their delicate nature and ongoing research, but their existence is a reminder of Belize’s untapped subterranean wonders.
If you’re curious, I recommend watching this National Geographic documentary about the archaeological dives conducted there. It’s a window into a hidden world few people ever see.
A peaceful moment from my 2013 visit with Pacz Tours. This is one of many freshwater systems scattered across Belize’s savannah, some of which hide cenotes beneath the surface.
Cenote Comparison Table
| Cenote | Water Type | Experience | UNESCO Status | Size & Depth |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| St. Herman’s Blue Hole | Freshwater | Swimming, hiking, nearby cave tubing | Not a UNESCO site | ~25–30 ft deep, small circular pool |
| Great Blue Hole | Saltwater | Diving, snorkeling, flyovers | Part of Belize Barrier Reef (UNESCO site) | 1,000+ ft wide, 400+ ft deep |
| Cara Blanca Cenotes | Freshwater | Not open to public, archaeological dives | Not open to public; important Maya research | Up to 200 ft deep |
What Counts as a Cenote in Belize?
Not all water-filled caves are cenotes — and not all sacred Maya sites had water.
Take ATM Cave (Actun Tunichil Muknal), for example. Geologically, it’s not considered a cenote. It’s a flooded limestone cave system with underground river chambers, not an open sinkhole formed by a vertical collapse from above. Still, the experience of entering ATM feels cenote-like: wading through crystal-clear water, navigating tight limestone passages, and entering sacred chambers once used by the Maya for offerings and rituals.
“When I visited ATM Cave, the guide pointed out a chamber where the ceiling had collapsed. He said that’s where rescuers once had to enter when visitors were trapped during sudden rains. It made me realize how alive and unpredictable these places still are.”
— Alvin, local guide (not a license ATM Cave guide)
On the other hand, Che Chem Ha Cave near Benque Viejo is sometimes mislabeled a cenote, but it’s completely dry. What makes it sacred is its ceremonial use: it contains preserved pottery, elevated altars, and signs of deep Maya ritual activity. Tours are limited to guided visits to protect these archaeological treasures.
| Feature | Cenote | Flooded Cave (ATM) | Dry Ritual Cave (Che Chem Ha) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Water Source | Exposed groundwater | Underground river | Minimal or no water |
| Access | Often open to sky | Cave entrance through jungle | Narrow guided access only |
| Maya Use | Rituals, offerings, burials | Sacrificial chambers, spiritual gateways | Ceremonial vessels, fertility & underworld rites |
| Cultural Significance | Seen as entrances to Xibalba (underworld), site of purification | One of the most sacred Maya sacrifice caves | High ceremonial value, preserved altar chambers |
| Modern Activity | Swimming, diving, snorkeling | Guided cave exploration | Guided archaeological tours only |
| Example in Belize | Great Blue Hole, Inland Blue Hole | ATM Cave | Che Chem Ha |
When to Visit Belize's Cenotes
For inland cenotes like St. Herman’s Blue Hole, the dry season from March to August is ideal. You’ll enjoy clearer trails, better swimming conditions, and the jungle in full bloom. March through May offers low rainfall and better accessibility to remote areas. By June, occasional rains start to nourish the rainforest, but adventures are still possible with a good guide. Wildlife sightings also increase as the landscape transforms.
For the Great Blue Hole, calm seas are more likely from April to June, which makes this the best time for dive trips and scenic flyovers.
In ancient Maya belief, cenotes were considered portals to Xibalba—the underworld—where offerings, sacrifices, and ceremonies helped connect the living world with the spirits and gods beneath.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cenotes in Belize
A cenote is a natural sinkhole filled with water, usually formed by the collapse of limestone bedrock. Caves may or may not contain water and often extend deeper underground with chambers and passageways.
Yes, swimming is allowed at St. Herman’s Blue Hole, which is a freshwater jungle pool. However, Cara Blanca cenotes are not open to the public, and the Great Blue Hole is best suited for diving or flyovers.
It can be, but only with experienced captains. The waters beyond the reef can be dangerous. We recommend using island-based tour providers who are familiar with the conditions.
Yes. St. Herman’s Blue Hole charges BZ $2.00 for nationals and BZ $8.00 for non-nationals. The Great Blue Hole marine park has a $40 USD per person entry fee.
The dry season (March to August) is ideal, especially for inland sites. You’ll enjoy clear water, easy trail access, and lush jungle scenery. For marine cenotes like the Great Blue Hole, April to June usually offers calm seas for diving and flyovers.
Visitors can explore the short trail and swim at the Blue Hole on their own. For cave exploration, bring a reliable flashlight, wear sturdy shoes, and notify the park office. For deeper cave sections or tubing, guided tours are recommended.
Explorers have found massive underwater stalactites and a layer of toxic hydrogen sulfide around 300 feet deep. The bottom also holds geological clues to sea level changes during the Ice Age.
While the Great Blue Hole is generally considered safe for experienced divers, a few fatalities have occurred over the decades—mostly due to diving beyond recreational limits. Always dive with certified guides and follow safety protocols.
Last updated: June 2025
Ready to Explore Belize's Cenotes?
Whether you’re dipping into a jungle pool or flying over a vast marine crater, Belize’s cenotes offer a unique experience found nowhere else.
Contact Belize With Alvin to plan your personalized cenote adventure.
Let’s explore the blue holes of Belize—above and below. (In Creole: Mek wi goh si di Blue Hole)
🗣️ Cultural Note: In Belizean Creole, “Mek wi goh si di Blue Hole” means “Let’s go see the Blue Hole.” It’s a casual, friendly way locals speak to each other when planning an adventure. Creole is widely spoken across Belize and adds rhythm and personality to everyday conversations—don’t be shy to try it out during your visit!
