12 Finest Cenotes In Mexico To Go to in 2023
Have you ever ever swam in a crystal-clear sinkhole amidst a lush jungle? Swimming in a cenote is a novel expertise, solely present in Mexico and one of many issues it is best to positively check out throughout your journey.
Cenotes are principally discovered on the Yucatan peninsula within the southern a part of Mexico. The nice Mayans knew concerning the cenotes lengthy earlier than they grew to become a bucket-list attraction, and so they used them as a supply of water in addition to of their non secular ceremonies.
High Cenotes in Mexico
If you wish to go to a number of the most wonderful cenotes select Valladolid cenotes or cenotes close to Tulum and Playa del Carmen. Most cenotes in Mexico are open to the general public, and lots of provide actions like swimming, snorkelling, kayaking and scuba diving. You possibly can both be a part of one of many cenote tours from Tulum or different cities of Riviera Maya in the event you take pleasure in a hassle-free tour or hire a automobile and go to independently.
The selection is admittedly huge, as there are lots of of cenotes in Yucatan, however after studying this publish, you’ll uncover which cenotes in Mexico are actually unmissable.
What are cenotes in Mexico?
In case you haven’t been to Mexico but, you’re most likely questioning, what’s a cenote?
Cenotes are swimming pools of water that kind when porous limestone bedrock collapses, and since there’s loads of limestone in Yucatan, there are a lot of cenotes there. Some cenotes are a part of massive underground river methods, and others are related to the ocean.
Cavern cenotes are the youngest cenotes the place the limestone roof hasn’t eroded but. These sinkholes are closed and resemble a cave. They obtain minimal pure mild and are darkish and mysterious, so swimming in one of many shut cenotes is a very distinctive expertise. An instance of a cave cenote is Cenote Suytun.
Open cenotes are a lot older, with their roof eroded away through the years. They’re open to the exterior world, lit with pure mild, and usually coated with lush vegetation. Most cenotes in Yucatan are open cenotes, they’re enjoyable to go to and nice for swimming. Examples of open cenotes embody Gran Cenote and Cenote Ik Kil.
We even have historical cenotes which might be the oldest in Yucatan. An instance of an historical cenote is Cenote Azul or Cenote Cocalitos in Bacalar, which resemble a lagoon or a lake with each roofs and partitions eroded away.
Within the Mayan tradition, cenotes performed an essential function. They have been seen because the bridge between the earthly and the divine worlds. They have been thought of sacred locations and have been used for spiritual rituals, together with human choices in some instances.
At this time, visiting a Mexican cenote is just not solely a enjoyable exercise but in addition one of many some ways you’ll be able to discover and perceive the traditional Mayan civilisation.
1. Gran Cenote
Just some kilometres away from Tulum, you will see one of the standard cenotes in Mexico – the Gran Cenote.
Gran Cenote is an open cenote with crystal clear emerald water, two swimming pools, and a cave. In case you’re serious about diving, it is a excellent place to do it. If you wish to snorkel, which I like to recommend doing, snorkelling gear is included within the ticket worth. Simply ensure you convey an ID, which is required as a deposit.
The waters of Gran Cenote are teeming with tropical fish, and you’ll even spot right here lovely tinny turtles. A number of-meters lengthy cave connects the 2 swimming pools of the cenote, and as you swim by it, look as much as admire historical stalactites. And in the event you’re fortunate, you may even spot some bats hovering by the intricate formations.
Attending to Gran Cenote is simple; you’ll be able to drive a automobile, or because it’s solely a 5 km journey, you may also experience a bicycle, which is a typical mode of transport in Tulum. For the reason that cenote is without doubt one of the hottest cenotes close to Tulum, the perfect time to go to it’s within the morning, proper after it opens at 8 am.
In case you would like to leap on a tour this personal Cenote Tour takes you to three completely different cenotes in a day together with the Gran Cenote. It’s the good day journey.
Opening occasions: 8:00 am to 4:15 pm
Entrance ticket: 500 pesos ($28)
2. Cenote Suytun
Cenote Suytun is a cave cenote which contains a round platform proper in the course of its cave. At round noon, the platform will get illuminated by a light-weight beam coming by a small opening within the cave ceiling, creating a unprecedented sight!
This picturesque cave cenote has captured the hearts of Instagrammers worldwide, and it’s not arduous to see why. If you wish to take a photograph of the platform, put together your self to attend in a queue.
Other than taking the Insta well-known photograph, ensure you discover the cave and its placing stalactites and stalagmites that shaped over hundreds of years. If you wish to swim, you’ll be required to take a bathe and put on a life jacket.
Cenote Suytun is positioned 8 km from the centre of Valladolid. In case your itinerary doesn’t assist you to keep a few days on this space of Yucatan, you’ll be able to e book a tour beginning out of your resort in Cancun or another Riviera Maya city. Mix a go to to Suytun with Chichen Itza and the city of Valladolid for a day full of fascinating sights.
It is a good cenote tour that features Valladolid and Chichen Itza as properly. Verify Availability right here.
Opening occasions: 9 am to five pm
Entrance ticket: 150 pesos ($8.40)
3. Cenote Azul, Bacalar
Being one of many prime sights of Bacalar Lagoon, Cenote Azul is without doubt one of the prime cenotes to go to in Mexico. It boasts a superbly round form, and as it’s an historical cenote, it extra resembles a lagoon or a lake than a cenote.
Cenote Azul has a darkish blue color due to its depth, which reaches an unimaginable 295 toes. Swimming on this cenote is a unprecedented expertise, and it’s very refreshing. In case you’re not a robust swimmer, be sure to hire a life jacket and luxuriate in floating in its waters carefree. Alternatively, you may also discover this massive cenote on a kayak.
Bacalar lies in Quintana Roo, a 4-hour drive south of Cancun. You could find Cenote Azul 4 km south of Bacalar downtown, and one of the simplest ways to get there’s by rental automobile. Additionally it is attainable to get to Cenote Azul by taxi, or in the event you’re up for some cardio, you may also stroll or cycle. A Cenote tour can be a straightforward approach to discover these wonderful pure wonders. This personal tour takes you to Bacalar Lagoon.
Opening occasions: 10 am to six pm
Entrance ticket: 25 pesos ($1.40)
4. Cenote Oxman
In case you’re on the lookout for a cenote the place you’ll be able to spend a enjoyable day, Oxman is ideal. It’s an open cenote with lush vegetation rising on its partitions.
Cenote Oxman is thought for its Tarzan gown swing. Seize onto the handles and swing to the center of the pool to leap into the cenote. The primary leap is somewhat scary, however belief me, you’ll want to do it time and again!
Additionally, convey your snorkelling masks (or hire it out) to discover the underwater world of the cenote, which is inhabited by vibrant fish.
Cenote Oxman boasts incredible services. Along with the cenote entrance, you may also take pleasure in their solar loungers and pool. There’s additionally a restaurant, and in the event you’re wanting to remain right here for lunch, be sure to decide on a ticket that features their buffet lunch.
Hacienda Oxman is positioned a 6-km drive from downtown Valladolid. You possibly can drive right here or take a taxi. Additionally it is standard to cycle right here and go to two different close by cenotes alongside the way- Cenote Dzitnup and Saamal.
Opening occasions: 8 am to five am
Entrance ticket: 150 pesos ($8.40)
5. Laguna de Kaan Luum Cenote
Laguna de Kaan Luum is without doubt one of the distinctive locations to go to close to Tulum and a very good vacation spot for nature lovers.
There are various animals dwelling on this space, together with agoutis, jaguars, and badgers. Moreover, you’ll be able to see parrots, woodpeckers, and iguanas which might be vibrant.
In the midst of the lagoon, there’s an 80-metre-deep cenote, which you’ll spot from a raised viewing platform. The water within the cenote has an intense blue color resulting from its profound depth, and sadly, swimming inside it’s not allowed.
The lagoon itself provides incredible swimming circumstances in its heat, shallow waters. Don’t overlook to convey your snorkelling masks and a rush guard to guard your physique from solar publicity, as carrying solar cream is strictly forbidden.
One of the best ways to get to Laguna de Kaan Luum is to hire a automobile or scooter and make your approach independently. The lagoon is positioned a brief drive away from downtown Tulum, however since it’s tucked away from the primary highway, deep within the jungle, it’s best to keep away from taking taxis or public buses, which is able to drop you off on the primary highway.
Opening occasions: 9 am to 4 pm
Entrance ticket: 300 pesos ($16.75)
6. Cenote Ik Kil
Located close to the New World Marvel Chichen Itza, Cenote Ik Kil is a well-liked vacationer cease but in addition one of the picturesque swimming holes in Mexico. It’s an open cenote with lush vegetation and lianas rising on its partitions and cave ceilings fully eroded away.
Taking a refreshing dip within the cenote’s cool water is an actual deal with after touring Chichen Itza beneath the blazing Mexican solar. The cenote has a most depth of 150 toes, and life jackets are obligatory if you wish to swim. And in the event you dare, there’s additionally a 5-meter excessive leaping platform, which is bound to present you an exhilarating adrenaline rush.
Since Ik Kil is positioned close to the Chichen Itza Archaeological Web site, most excursions cease on the cenote after a go to to the Mayan ruins. Which means that the cenote is somewhat busy more often than not, however nonetheless, completely value it. In case you want to take pleasure in it with out the crowds, select to go to within the early morning or late afternoon.
Opening occasions: 9 am to five pm
Entrance ticket: 150 pesos ($8.40)
7. Cenote Zaci (Zacil-Ha)
In case you’re on the lookout for the perfect family-friendly cenotes in Mexico, Cenote Zaci, positioned close to Tulum, is ideal. It’s a small, open cenote, and what makes it an important cenote for teenagers is that it is just 3 meters deep. The cenote Zaci additionally boasts a enjoyable zipline, which you let go of if you’re in the course of the water for an exciting leap, and likewise a 3-meter excessive leaping platform.
The cenote services embody solar loungers, a pool and a restaurant the place you’ll be able to seize a light-weight lunch and a chilly drink.
When you’ve got an area in your itinerary, mix a go to to Cenote Zaci with Gran Cenote, cenote Calavera or Automobile Wash Cenote, all of that are positioned shut by.
You possibly can drive to this cenote independently or, because it’s solely 8 km away, get right here by taxi. Get the variety of the taxi driver in an effort to name them to choose you out if you’re prepared to return.
Opening occasions: 9 am to five pm
Entrance ticket: 200 pesos ($11.20)
8. Cenote Cristalino
Cenote Cristalino, because the identify suggests, is thought for its crystal clear water, good for snorkelling and scuba diving. The cenote pool is sort of a big aquarium, filled with tropical fish of various species and hues. There’s additionally a cave-like tunnel which is enjoyable to swim by and a leaping platform for thrill-seekers.
The luxurious jungle surrounds the cenote, so ensure you discover the entire website as a result of there are two extra hidden swimming pools with shallow turquoise water to be found.
Keep away from visiting the cenote throughout the weekend, when the cenote will get actually busy with the native households flocking right here to spend their free time. Additionally, be sure to take a look at the neighbouring Cenote Azul, which is equally gorgeous.
Cenote Cristalino is tucked between Tulum and Playa del Carmen and will be simply visited from each cities. The most effective to approach get to the cenote is with a rental automobile, however it’s also attainable to take an area bus often known as a “colectivo”. Ensure you inform the motive force the place you wish to get off, as stops are on demand.
Opening occasions: 8 am to six pm
Entrance ticket: 200 pesos ($11.20)
9. Cenote Calavera
Cenote Calavera is without doubt one of the most original cenotes in Mexico. In contrast to different cenotes that usually function a big swimming gap, Calavera consists of some smaller holes and doesn’t have a staircase to entry its cave. As a substitute, you’ll both want to leap into the cenote or climb down an enormous picket ladder, which is a thrill in its personal proper!
The cenote gap with its ladder is without doubt one of the most photographed locations in Tulum, and if you see it, you’ll perceive why. Inside the primary pool, there’s additionally a swing, which is also a cool photograph spot.
The cenote is surrounded by greenery and vibrant solar loungers the place you’ll be able to dry off and catch some solar. There’s additionally a snack store, and as at most cenotes – showers, bathrooms and altering rooms.
Cenote Calavera is located simply exterior Tulum downtown, off the primary highway to Coba Mayan ruins, and you’ll simply cycle to its entrance or seize a taxi.
Opening occasions: 8:30 am to five pm
Entrance ticket: 250 pesos ($14)
10. Cenote Automobile Wah
Situated additionally close to Tulum (within the Mayan language – Cenote Aktun-Ha), also referred to as Cenote Automobile Wash, is a picturesque open cenote completely value including to your itinerary.
Cenote Automobile Wash seems like a tranquil lake and boasts exceptionally crystal clear water, which is ideal for swimming, snorkelling and likewise diving. Within the water, you’ll be able to spot a number of vibrant fish and small, lovely turtles. For the perfect snorkelling expertise, arrive within the morning when the turtles are probably the most energetic.
There’s additionally a 3-meter excessive leaping platform, which isn’t too scary hight however excessive sufficient to present you somewhat thrill. The cenote additionally has some seating and picnic areas, that are nice if you wish to spend some extra time right here.
Cenote Automobile Wash is positioned on the primary highway to Coba, a 9-km drive from downtown Tulum. You will get right here both by taxi, rental automobile, scooter or bicycle. Be certain that to additionally try different incredible cenotes on this space, corresponding to Gran Cenote and Cenote Calavera.
Opening occasions: 8 am to five pm
Entrance ticket: 300 pesos ($16.80)
11. Cenote Cocalitos
Well-known for its massive stromatolites colony, Cenote Cocalitos is a must-visit cenote when travelling to Bacalar Lagoon. Stromatolites are billions-year-old fossils that are thought of to be the oldest life kinds on Earth and the primary organisms that produced oxygen.
At Cocalitos, you should have a novel alternative to get to those fascinating organisms shut, however ensure you observe the principles and by no means step on them.
Upon arrival, you will see a big swimming gap with lukewarm milky-blue water and an unimaginable view of attractive jungle greenery. The cenote additionally options vibrant hammocks and swings within the water. The cenote is shallow, and it’s attainable to stroll round to discover all its corners.
Cenote Cocalitos lies 4 km away from Bacalar metropolis centre, and you’ll simply get right here by taxi, rental automobile or scooter, or you’ll be able to simply merely stroll or cycle. Ensure you additionally try Cenote Azul, which is located in the identical space of Bacalar.
Opening occasions: 10 am to five pm
Entrance ticket: 50 pesos ($2.80)
12. Cenote Azul, Playa del Carmen
One other incredible cenote located between Playa del Carmen and Tulum, Cenote Azul, provides one of the pleasant swimming experiences in Yucatan.
The cenote itself is a fantastic pool of turquoise, crystal-clear water surrounded by lush greenery. Along with the primary pool, there are additionally a number of smaller swimming holes, so ensure you take time to discover the location totally.
Contained in the water, yow will discover dozens of vibrant fish, making it a super spot for snorkelling and admiring nature in its purest kind.
That is additionally an important spot for cliff-jumping – there are a number of platforms of various heights, and the very best one is 5 meters excessive. Leaping into the refreshing crystal water is a incredible expertise in the event you dare to attempt it!
Cenote Azul is positioned proper by Cenote Crsiatlino, so you’ll be able to go to each of them in at some point. Ensure you convey money with you, as solely money cost (in MEX pesos) is accepted on the entrance. You possibly can hire a automobile or take an area Colectivo bus both from Playa del Carmen or Tulum.
Opening occasions: 9 am to five pm
Entrance ticket: 200 pesos ($11.20)
Suggestions for visiting cenotes in Mexico
Visiting Mexican cenotes is as soon as in a lifetime expertise, and if you wish to take advantage of out of your go to, listed below are some issues to remember.
Deliver money – You will have Mexican pesos to pay for entrance on the cenotes you go to. Most cenotes are positioned remotely, with no close by ATMs, so ensure you carry sufficient money to pay for the doorway and any extras it’s possible you’ll wish to buy, corresponding to snorkelling tools or lunch.
Suncream is just not allowed – Most cenotes forbid guests to make use of suncream and different merchandise which will contaminate the water. If you might want to defend your pores and skin, go for a long-sleeved rash guard. Earlier than getting into the cenote pool, you’ll be required to take a bathe to scrub off deodorant, physique moisturiser and different merchandise it’s possible you’ll be carrying.
Put on a life jacket – The usage of life jackets at some cenotes in Mexico is compulsory, whereas at others, it’s beneficial however not necessary. In case you’re not a assured swimmer, it is best to get one, even when it’s not required. Floating in a life jacket is definitely a brilliant enjoyable expertise!
Be respectful – Cenotes in Mexico are sacred locations, so behave accordingly, present respect and observe the principles.
Don’t do something that may influence the surroundings, corresponding to bringing plastic to the cenote or leaving any litter behind. Additionally, convey with you a fast-drying towel made from microfibre materials, a pair of flip-flops, a snug swimsuit and loads of water.
Cenotes in Mexico: FAQ
Is it secure to swim in Cave Cenotes in Mexico?
Sure, it’s secure to swim within the cenotes of Mexico. Cenotes usually have very clear water that has been filtered naturally by layers of rocks and limestone. However, in the event you’re not a robust swimmer, it is best to put on a life jacket.
What’s the most well-known cenote in Mexico?
Some of the well-known cenotes is Cenote Suytun, with its iconic round platform illuminated by a light-weight beam coming by its ceiling. The pictures of Cenote Suytun have gone viral on social media, and taking a photograph in its cave is a bucket-list expertise for a lot of avid Instagrammers.
What’s so particular about cenotes?
Swimming in cenotes is a really distinctive expertise as you’ll be able to solely discover them within the Yucatan Peninsula. They’re stunning pure swimming pools with crystal clear water, surrounded by lush vegetation. As well as, many cenotes are house to distinctive wildlife, corresponding to bats, vibrant fish and even turtles.
Visiting Cenotes in Mexico: Wrap-up
I hope you discovered this information to probably the most epic cenotes in Mexico inspiring and helpful. Swimming in a cenote is an unforgettable expertise that it is best to positively add to your Mexico itinerary. From Cenote Suytun’s iconic round platform to the distinctive wildlife discovered at Laguna Kaan Luum and Gran Cenote, every Mexican cenote has one thing particular to supply. If you’re actually into exploring Tulum cenotes in Mexico be sure to additionally try different Cenotes like Cenote Dos Ojos or Cenote Manatí simply to call a couple of.
Get pleasure from your journey!
