A Stunning Cave Wedding at Cenote Aktun Chen

Weddings in the Riviera Maya offer breathtaking backdrops, and few locations are as stunning as Cenote Aktun Chen. Nestled in the heart of the Tulum jungle, this unique location blends lush greenery with otherworldly caves—creating an unforgettable setting for couples looking for something truly special. Not many couples can say they got married at a location featured on National Geographic’s top 10 list.

The crown jewel of Aktun Chen is its main cave—a vast stone cavern filled with stalactites. There are tons of cenotes in the Riviera Maya with beautiful cave areas, but there are few that you don’t have to swim across! Over the years, I’ve photographed everything from proposals and underwater ‘trash the dress’ sessions to Mayan ceremonies at Aktun Chen. But J+A’s wedding marked my first time capturing a wedding reception inside the cenote, and the setup was absolutely magical.

Hilton Tulum, Cenote Aktun Chen Jungle and Cave

J + A’s getting ready was in the new, and beautiful Hilton Tulum, just across the road from the Cenote Aktun Chen. Their wedding ceremony was held in a clearing in the jungle that felt perfectly enclosed and private.The reception moved into the depths of the cenote’s cave, where flickering candles and warm lighting transformed the space into an intimate, dreamlike setting. It’s mind blowing to have 2 such strikingly different wedding locations, the sunlit ceremony and the moody cave, both 100% natural, a few minutes walk apart. For guests who have never visited Aktun chen, the walk down the path to ‘discover’ the main cave leads to a jaw dropping discovery – who could have imagined all the beauty that was hidden between the trees.

Cenote weddings naturally lend themselves to a cinematic aesthetic, and Aktun Chen is no exception. The interplay of shadow and light, textured rock formations, and the soft glow of candlelight all contributed to a truly unique atmosphere. A huge shoutout to the fantastic Maryta Osorio of @moweddings, who curated a spectacular day.

Why Choose a Cenote Wedding?

A wedding in a cenote offers an unparalleled level of privacy and intimacy. Surrounded by ancient rock formations and pristine jungle, couples can experience a setting steeped in both natural wonder and history. Cenotes also hold deep cultural and spiritual significance in Mayan tradition, adding a meaningful connection to the celebration.

Practical Tips for a Cenote Wedding

• Timing Matters: Late afternoon is usually the best time for weddings in the Riviera Maya—avoiding the midday heat. Since the sun gets hidden by the trees earlier than at the beach, I’d recommend scheduling your ceremony about 2-2.5 hours before sunset rather than the 1.5 hours we recommend at the beach. Each location is different so always ask you photographer 😉

• Mother Nature is Wild: there will be bugs, there will be dirt and uneven paths, it will be hot and you will sweat. Be psychologically prepared for all of the above and bring bug spray and something to dab sticky faces with! Only commit to footwear you can handle stone paths in.

• Plan Ahead: Cenotes have unique logistics—no electricity, special fees, and other considerations. It’s crucial to work with an experienced planner to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Final Thoughts

Aktun Chen is a one-of-a-kind location that offers couples a wedding experience like no other—combining natural beauty, cultural richness, and a level of privacy that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re looking for a jaw-dropping ceremony or an unforgettable reception, this cenote wedding venue is sure to exceed expectations.

Contact me if you’d like to discuss photography in a cenote for a wedding or portrait session. With over 10 years of experience I have many favorite locations and secret spots – get in touch – I’d love to hear from you!