How to Visit Laguna Kaan Luum, Tulum in 2023

Do you want to visit Laguna Kaan Luum in Tulum, Mexico? You’ve found the right spot!

In this blog, I’ll share all you need to know concerning the Kaan Luum Lagoon, including how to reach it, opening hours and entrance cost, what to expect, what to do, and the best suggestions to visit nearby.

Read on for my ultimate Laguna Kaan Luum Tulum Mexico guide.

What is Kaan Luum Lagoon?

The name of Yellow Earth in the Mayan language, Laguna Kaan Luum Lagoon (Muiná Kaan Luum in Spanish), reads like a swimming hole hidden in the jungle. From Playa del Carmen, Tulum, or the Riviera Maya, is a great place to visit for a fun trip.

The most remarkable feature of the lagoon is the extremely deep and open cenote in the middle. This cenote’s height and depth of the water vary greatly, leaving the water level and the light around it distinctly different.

Visitors can lounge on a wooden board at the lake, swim in the shallows, or engage in more adventurous activities like kayaking or paddleboarding.

Why Visit Kaan Luum Lagoon Tulum?

Kaan Luum Lagoon is a hidden gem in Tulum, Mexico. This lagoon is one of the most beautiful and secluded places in Tulum. Visitors can find peace and tranquility while swimming in the lagoon’s clear blue waters.

Lagoon kaan luum is also a great place to snorkel and explore the lagoon’s many fish and coral reefs. The lagoon is home to a variety of colorful fish, including parrotfish, angelfish, and triggerfish. Visitors can also see stingrays, turtles, and eels while snorkeling in the lagoon.

Kaan Luum Lagoon is a must-visit for anyone searching for a tranquil oasis in Tulum. With its clear blue waters and abundance of marine life, the lagoon offers visitors a unique and memorable experience.

What is Kaan Luum Lagoon Like?

Laguna Kaan Luum is a sizeable natural pit, almost perfectly circular, with a dark center and a diverse range of shades. The color of the water can range from emerald green to dark cyan.

As you make your way to the narrow wooden dock protruding from the trail’s entrance, on one end will be a cenote, which you won’t be able to overlook. The deep cenote will be all you can contemplate as you look up.

Tourists can stay at the river’s edge, sunbathe, or swim in the pools, all while enjoying the scenery and eco-friendly waters of the lagoon. Shaded by some trees, there are also tables and shaded palapas for the comfort of visitors.

Where is Kaan Luum Lagoon?

Kaan Luum Lagoon is located in the town of Tulum, about 307 kilometers (191 miles) from downtown Cancun. It is one of the many cenotes near Tulum or natural swimming holes found in the Yucatan Peninsula. Kaan Luum Lagoon is about 15 minutes south of Tulum, Mexico, or takes about 1 hour by car south of Playa del Carmen. Your lagoon is located off highway 307, off the main thoroughfare of Sian Ka’an, and adjacent to the Caribbean coast.

Driving times from Laguna nearby destinations are as follows:

• Tulum to Lagoon: about 15 minutes
• Playa del Carmen to Lagoon: about 1 hour and 15 minutes
• Cancun to Lagoon: about 2 hours and 15 minutes

How to Get to Laguna Kaan Luum Tulum

You can choose from a few different paths to get to the Lagoon based on your vehicle’s characteristics and where you are coming from.

Drive to Lagoon

Traveling by car is probably the simplest way to get to Kaan Luum lagoon.

Driving from Playa del Carmen

To get to Playa del Carmen, take the main road 307 straight south from Playa del Carmen for about an hour.

Be alert for signs that indicate the main entry point on the left of the road. It’s difficult to miss; therefore, it’s best to keep track of your position using a GPS device on your phone when you can.

After turning off your highway, you need to travel on an uneven road for a short time before you reach the entry point.

Directions for driving from Tulum

From Tulum, follow the highway that runs south for around 6 miles. After that, make an immediate left towards the Kaan Luum Lagoon and find the kaan luum sign of entry.

Kaan Luum Lagoon Parking

After you arrive, you will find the parking area outside the cenote entrance, which you can park for no cost.

Take a Taxi to Kaan Luum Lagoon

Alternatively, you can take a taxi ride to Kaan Luum, but it’ll cost more, mainly when arriving from Playa del Carmen.

The price will likely be around 700 pesos (USD 35 per one-way) in Playa del Carmen. From Tulum, It would be about 100 pesos (USD 5).

However, finding an Uber for your return journey will be more difficult. Therefore, making arrangements in advance with the taxi driver who dropped you off is recommended.

Take Public Transportation To Kaan Luum Lagoon

However, if you don’t own an automobile, you can still travel there to Kaan Luum Lagoon by taking the colectivo (shared van) from Playa del Carmen or Tulum. This isn’t as easy, but it can be accomplished.

Colectivo from Playa del Carmen

The central colectivo stop connecting to Tulum will be located in the centre of Playa del Carmen near Highway 307 and the Chedraui grocery store (behind McDonald’s), where you’ll notice those white vehicles lined up.

You can take the Colectivo from Playa del Carmen to Tulum for about $50 (USD 2.50). The price you pay when you exit is approximately $50

Once you arrive in Tulum, you need to transfer to a Colectivo that takes you south from Tulum towards Felipe Carrillo. These Colectivos don’t often run, so it may take time for one to pass you. It will also be slower on the return trip.

You will need to walk approximately 10 minutes from the highway entrance before you reach the lagoon.

Colectivo from Tulum

You will need to take a Colectivo south of Tulum to Felipe Carillo.

You can tell the driver that you are going to Kaan Luum Lagoon, and they will drop you off on the side road. The lagoon entrance is about 10 minutes walk away.

Book a Tour to Kaan Luum Lagoon

You don’t have to drive or rent a car. The easiest way to visit Kaan Luum Lagoon without hassle is to book a tour. These tours are usually all-inclusive and include hotel pickup, lunch and additional activities.

The Lagoon Explorer tour with Aloha Paddle Club is my top recommendation for a Kaan Luum Lagoon tour. It will provide you with an exclusive standup paddleboarding experience at the lagoon.

Kaan Luum Lagoon, situated in the lagoon’s calm waters, is the ideal place for standup paddleboarding. You can also explore the lagoon with your boards.

Kaan Luum Lagoon Hours

Kaan Luum Lagoon opens daily between 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM. To beat the crowds, it’s best to get there early in the morning.

Kaan Luum Lagoon Entrance Fee

The Laguna Kaan Luum entrance fee for foreigners is 300 pesos ($15 US) per person. For Mexicans, the Kaan Luum Lagoon cost is 200 pesos.

Here is a breakdown of Kaan Luum Lagoon’s prices:

• Standard Entrance Fee: 300 pesos (15 USD)
• Mexican Nationals: 200 pesos (10 USD)
• Local Quintana Roo Residents: 150 pesos (7.50 USD)

Best Time to Visit Lagoon Kaan Luum

Kaan Luum Lagoon can be very crowded on weekends, so it is best to visit on a weekday. You’ll have to fight for a spot if you visit on weekends.

Kaan Luum Lagoon Amenities

Kaan Luum lagoon has minimal amenities, so it is essential to have everything you need to know.

Restrooms

There are restrooms on-site at Laguna Kaan Luum.

Showers

Lagoons have showers available. It is advised to shower before entering to get rid of any sunscreen residue or other harmful substances.

Food and Drink

Kaan Luum lagoon does not sell food or drink. A few drinks can be purchased, but it is best to bring snacks and beverages for the pier or under the shaded Palapas.

Rules for Visiting Kaan Luum Lagoon

The local conservators protect Kaan Luum Lagoon, which is essential to know. They work hard to protect and preserve the lagoon’s delicate ecosystem and natural environment.

Take care when you visit and follow these rules.

• No sunscreen, even biodegradable
• Swimming in the centre is prohibited
• No speakers
• No alcohol
• No smoking
• No littering

Things to do at Kaan Luum Lagoon

These are the top things to do in Laguna.

1. Sunbathe at the pier

Laguna Kaan Luum’s only structure is a narrow wooden platform, often crowded with people. This is a beautiful spot to sunbathe or sit and enjoy the view while your feet are in the water.

Kaan Luum does not have a beach, so bring your towel and other belongings to the pier. It can get very crowded.

2. Swimming in shallow water

The water depth around the pier is approximately waist-deep. This makes it easy to swim freely and enjoy the calm lagoon waters.

This is ideal for cooling off and enjoying an outdoor swimming pool. The centre prohibits swimming, and some warning signs and ropes mark the area.

3. You can snorkel around the lagoon

There are not many things to see underwater, aside from a few fish. However, the water at Kaan Leum Lagoon is usually shallow and clear. If you wish to snorkel around the lagoon’s edges and explore the surrounding area, then this is the place to do it.

You can snorkel if you want, but it is best to bring your own snorkel set. Rental gear is not available at the site.

4. Get a clay mask for yourself

Kaan Luum Lagoon has layers of soft sand. There are also areas around the lagoon that have soft brown clay. You can use them as a natural clay mask for your skin and face.

5. Take photos of the wooden swings

You can also find wooden hammocks and overwater swings nearby the lagoon, where you can enjoy photo opportunities while swimming and splashing in the water.

Getting good photos of the swings and hammocks might be challenging.

6. Paddleboarding and kayaking are great options

Paddleboarding and kayaking are two other options for adventure at Kaan Luum Laguna. Book a tour to get the best experience. The tour operator will provide all equipment and be your guide.

Paddleboarding at Kaan Luum lagoon has the advantage of being able to venture further away from the crowds and into areas that are usually closed to the public.

The calm waters of Kaan Luum make it a great place to learn kayaking. You can rent kayaks for an additional charge.

7. Scuba Diving is a great option

Kaan Luum, with its cenote at 80m (262ft) depth, is a popular spot to scuba dive and free dive.

You can book a dive with a certified instructor if you are a certified diver who wants to dive in the Kaan-Lum cenote. This is recommended for advanced divers.

8. Enjoy the breathtaking view from the top

A scenic viewpoint constructed near the lagoon’s edge with a Mexican flag can be climbed to gain a better view.

It’s a temporary wooden structure with steps only a few stories high. However, it’s an excellent spot for photos!

How long do you need to spend at Kaan Luum lagoon?

You can expect to spend approximately 1-3 hours exploring Kaan Loom Lagoon.

Laguna Kaan Luum: What should you bring?

These are some items that I recommend you bring to Kaan Luum lagoon.

• Rashguard: Sunscreen at Kaan Luum lagoon is strictly prohibited (even biodegradable). If you require sun protection, you will need to bring a rashguard. There is no shade once you are on the pier.
• Sun Hat To provide extra protection from the sun while swimming, you can use a sunhat.
• Beach Towel – After swimming in the lagoon, don’t forget to take a towel.
• GoPro or waterproof camera: Take some photos in the water with a GoPro or any other waterproof camera.

Tips for Visiting Kaan Luum Lagoon

These are some tips to maximize your Kaan Luum Lagoon experience

• Be there before the crowds: You will have the lagoon to yourself and be able to observe it unassisted.
• Wear a rashguard: Sunscreen at Kaan Luum lagoon is strictly prohibited, so bring a rashguard to prevent sunburns. Once you are in the water, there isn’t much shade!
• Bring snacks or drinks: The lagoon does not sell food and beverages, so it is a good idea to bring snacks, drinks and a cooler for the pier. Remember that alcohol is strictly prohibited.

FAQs About Kaan Luum Lagoon

These are some frequently asked questions about Kaan Luum lagoon.

How deep is Kaan Luum Lagoon?

Kaan Luum Lagoon measures 80m (262ft) deepest.

Are you required to make a reservation in advance for Laguna Kaan Luum?

You don’t need to make a reservation in advance to visit Kaan Luum Lagoon. You can just show up at the gate and pay the entry fee to gain access to the lagoon.

Can you swim in Laguna Kaan Luum?

You can swim in Kaan Leum Lagoon’s shallow waters but not in the cenote’s deep waters.

How can I get from Tulum, Mexico, to Laguna Kaan Luum?

Driving, renting a car or taking a taxi is the easiest way to travel from Tulum to Kaan Luum Lagoon.

Final Thoughts about Visiting Kaan Luum Lagoon

Are you ready to visit Kaan Luum Lagoon?! This guide should have helped you plan your trip.

The Tulum Kaan Luum Lagoon experience offers very few amenities and activities. It is a peaceful and straightforward retreat that allows you to enjoy the area’s natural beauty.

It was one of my favourite trips to Riviera Maya. Don’t miss it if you’re looking for a hidden gem!