Safety · Destination Guide
Cenote light shows, shallow reef drifts, and biosphere adventures
Updated Oct 30, 2025 • 17 sources
Tulum’s cenotes are safe when led by certified cavern guides under strict protocols. The ocean is shallow and forgiving but can be choppy under trade winds. Choose licensed operators who brief park rules and wildlife etiquette.
Cavern dives follow a maximum 4 divers per guide, single file, stay within the daylight zone, and respect gold guideline circuits. Many operators follow the rule of thirds for gas and require primary plus backup light. On reefs, carry an SMB and maintain close boat contact. Hydrate well in heat and avoid alcohol before diving.
Hyperbaric facilities operate in Playa del Carmen and Cozumel, with 24-hour emergency coordination. Divers Alert Network maintains a global emergency hotline and can advise on local medical resources.
Overhead Environment
Cenote caverns are overhead. Dive with certified cavern guides, stay within daylight zones, and respect the 4 to 1 diver to guide ratio.
Halocline Disorientation
Mixing salt and fresh layers can blur vision. Slow finning and single-file spacing keep silt to a minimum.
Hurricane Season
Aug to Oct can bring tropical systems. Keep itineraries flexible and watch official advisories.
Boat Traffic
Use an SMB on reef dives and follow captain drop-off instructions precisely.
Use reef-safe sunscreen only. Do not touch formations in caverns or corals on the reef. In turtle areas, keep distance, stay horizontal over seagrass, and never block a turtle’s path to air. Pack out all trash and respect speed limits in biosphere waterways.
Do Not Do This
Avoid entering when overhead environment. Confirm local briefings before committing.
| Contact | Role | Phone | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Emergency Services | Police, Fire, Ambulance | 911 | 24/7 |
| DAN World Emergency Hotline | Dive medicine and evacuation coordination | +1-919-684-9111 | 24/7 |
| SSS Recompression Chamber Cozumel | Hyperbaric facility | +52 987 103 5524 | 24/7 |