Have you ever ever swam in a crystal-clear sinkhole amidst a lush jungle? Swimming in a cenote is a singular expertise, solely present in Mexico and one of many issues you need to positively check out throughout your journey.

Cenotes are principally discovered on the Yucatan peninsula within the southern a part of Mexico. The good Mayans knew in regards to the cenotes lengthy earlier than they turned a bucket-list attraction, they usually used them as a supply of water in addition to of their religious ceremonies.

High Cenotes in Mexico

If you wish to go to a few 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 may both be part of one of many cenote excursions from Tulum or different cities of Riviera Maya when you get pleasure from a hassle-free tour or hire a automobile and go to independently.

The selection is basically huge, as there are tons of of cenotes in Yucatan, however after studying this submit, you’ll uncover which cenotes in Mexico are really unmissable.

What are cenotes in Mexico?

Should you haven’t been to Mexico but, you’re most likely questioning, what’s a cenote?

Cenotes are swimming pools of water that type when porous limestone bedrock collapses, and since there may be loads of limestone in Yucatan, there are lots of cenotes there. Some cenotes are a part of giant underground river techniques, and others are linked 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 really 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 vital position. 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 just isn’t solely a enjoyable exercise but additionally 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 probably the most well-liked cenotes in Mexico – the Gran Cenote.

Gran Cenote is an open cenote with crystal clear emerald water, two swimming pools, and a cave. Should you’re enthusiastic about diving, it is a great spot to do it. If you wish to snorkel, which I like to recommend doing, snorkelling gear is included within the ticket worth. Simply be sure you carry 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 cute tinny turtles. Just a few-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 when you’re fortunate, you would possibly even spot some bats hovering by the intricate formations.

Attending to Gran Cenote is straightforward; you’ll be able to drive a automobile, or because it’s solely a 5 km journey, you too can experience a bicycle, which is a typical mode of transport in Tulum. For the reason that cenote is likely one of the hottest cenotes close to Tulum, the most effective time to go to it’s within the morning, proper after it opens at 8 am.

Should you would like to leap on a tour this personal Cenote Tour takes you to three totally 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 incorporates a round platform proper in the midst 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 onerous 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, be sure you discover the cave and its placing stalactites and stalagmites that shaped over hundreds of years. If you wish to swim, you may be required to take a bathe and put on a life jacket.

Cenote Suytun is situated 8 km from the centre of Valladolid. In case your itinerary doesn’t will let you 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 some other Riviera Maya city.  Mix a go to to Suytun with Chichen Itza and the city of Valladolid for a day full of attention-grabbing sights. 

This can be a good cenote tour that features Valladolid and Chichen Itza as nicely. Test Availability right here.

Opening occasions: 9 am to five pm

Entrance ticket: 150 pesos ($8.40)

3. Cenote Azul, Bacalar

Being one of many high points of interest of Bacalar Lagoon, Cenote Azul is likely one of the high cenotes to go to in Mexico. It boasts a wonderfully 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. Should you’re not a powerful swimmer, be certain to hire a life jacket and revel in floating in its waters carefree. Alternatively, you too can discover this massive cenote on a kayak.

Bacalar lies in Quintana Roo, a 4-hour drive south of Cancun. You will discover Cenote Azul 4 km south of Bacalar downtown, and one of the simplest ways to get there may be by rental automobile. Additionally it is potential to get to Cenote Azul by taxi, or when you’re up for some cardio, you too can stroll or cycle. A Cenote tour can also 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

Should 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 understood for its Tarzan gown swing. Seize onto the handles and swing to the center of the pool to leap into the cenote. The primary soar is a bit scary, however belief me, it would be best to do it time and again!

Additionally, carry your snorkelling masks (or hire it out) to discover the underwater world of the cenote, which is inhabited by vibrant fish.

Cenote Oxman boasts unbelievable amenities. Along with the cenote entrance, you too can get pleasure from their solar loungers and pool. There’s additionally a restaurant, and when you’re wanting to remain right here for lunch, be certain to decide on a ticket that features their buffet lunch.

Hacienda Oxman is situated a 6-km drive from downtown Valladolid. You may drive right here or take a taxi. Additionally it is well-liked 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 likely one of the distinctive locations to go to close to Tulum and a very good vacation spot for nature lovers.

There are numerous animals residing 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 course of the lagoon, there may be 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 isn’t allowed.

The lagoon itself affords unbelievable swimming circumstances in its heat, shallow waters. Don’t overlook to carry your snorkelling masks and a rush guard to guard your physique from solar publicity, as carrying solar cream is strictly forbidden.

The easiest way to get to Laguna de Kaan Luum is to hire a automobile or scooter and make your means independently. The lagoon is situated a brief drive away from downtown Tulum, however since it’s tucked away from the principle highway, deep within the jungle, it’s best to keep away from taking taxis or public buses, which can drop you off on the principle 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 additionally probably the most 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 when you dare, there may be additionally a 5-meter excessive leaping platform, which is bound to offer you an exhilarating adrenaline rush.

Since Ik Kil is situated close to the Chichen Itza Archaeological Web site, most excursions cease on the cenote after a go to to the Mayan ruins. Which means the cenote is a bit busy more often than not, however nonetheless, completely value it. Should you want to get pleasure from 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)

Should you’re on the lookout for the most effective family-friendly cenotes in Mexico, Cenote Zaci, situated close to Tulum, is ideal. It’s a small, open cenote, and what makes it an incredible cenote for youths is that it’s only 3 meters deep. The cenote Zaci additionally boasts a enjoyable zipline, which you let go of once you’re in the midst of the water for an exhilarating soar, and likewise a 3-meter excessive leaping platform.

The cenote amenities embody solar loungers, a pool and a restaurant the place you’ll be able to seize a light-weight lunch and a chilly drink.

If in case you have 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 situated shut by.

You may 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 as a way to name them to select you out once 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 understood for its crystal clear water, good for snorkelling and scuba diving. The cenote pool is sort of a large aquarium, filled with tropical fish of various species and colors. There’s additionally a cave-like tunnel which is enjoyable to swim by and a leaping platform for thrill-seekers.

The plush jungle surrounds the cenote, so be sure you discover the entire web site as a result of there are two extra hidden swimming pools with shallow turquoise water to be found.

Keep away from visiting the cenote through the weekend, when the cenote will get actually busy with the native households flocking right here to spend their free time. Additionally, be certain 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 means get to the cenote is with a rental automobile, however additionally it is potential to take an area bus often known as a “colectivo”. Be sure you inform the driving 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 likely one of the most unusual cenotes in Mexico. Not like different cenotes that usually characteristic 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 likely one of the most photographed locations in Tulum, and once you see it, you’ll perceive why. Inside the principle pool, there may be 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, bogs and altering rooms.

Cenote Calavera is located simply exterior Tulum downtown, off the principle 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 to be 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 numerous vibrant fish and small, cute turtles. For the most effective snorkelling expertise, arrive within the morning when the turtles are probably the most lively.

There’s additionally a 3-meter excessive leaping platform, which isn’t too scary hight however excessive sufficient to offer you a bit 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 situated on the principle highway to Coba, a 9-km drive from downtown Tulum. You will get right here both by taxi, rental automobile, scooter or bicycle. Ensure that to additionally take a look at different unbelievable cenotes on this space, akin 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 giant 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 types on Earth and the primary organisms that produced oxygen.

At Cocalitos, you should have a singular alternative to get to those fascinating organisms shut, however be sure you observe the foundations 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 potential 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. Be sure you additionally take a look at 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 unbelievable cenote located between Playa del Carmen and Tulum, Cenote Azul, affords probably the most pleasant swimming experiences in Yucatan.

The cenote itself is a wonderful pool of turquoise, crystal-clear water surrounded by lush greenery. Along with the principle pool, there are additionally a number of smaller swimming holes, so be sure you take time to discover the location totally.

Contained in the water, you will discover dozens of vibrant fish, making it a perfect spot for snorkelling and admiring nature in its purest type.

That is additionally an incredible 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 unbelievable expertise when you dare to attempt it!

Cenote Azul is situated proper by Cenote Crsiatlino, so you’ll be able to go to each of them in sooner or later. Be sure you carry money with you, as solely money fee (in MEX pesos) is accepted on the entrance. You may 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)

Ideas 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 here are some issues to remember.

Carry money – You will have Mexican pesos to pay for entrance on the cenotes you go to. Most cenotes are situated remotely, with no close by ATMs, so be sure you carry sufficient money to pay for the doorway and any extras it’s possible you’ll wish to buy, akin to snorkelling gear or lunch.

Suncream just isn’t allowed – Most cenotes forbid guests to make use of suncream and different merchandise which will contaminate the water. If you have to defend your pores and skin, go for a long-sleeved rash guard. Earlier than coming into the cenote pool, you may 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 advisable however not necessary. Should you’re not a assured swimmer, you need 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 foundations. 

Don’t do something that may influence the atmosphere, akin to bringing plastic to the cenote or leaving any litter behind. Additionally, carry with you a fast-drying towel manufactured 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, when you’re not a powerful swimmer, you need to put on a life jacket.

What’s the most well-known cenote in Mexico?

One of the crucial well-known cenotes is Cenote Suytun, with its iconic round platform illuminated by a light-weight beam coming by its ceiling. The images 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 residence to distinctive wildlife, akin 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 you need 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. In case you are actually into exploring Tulum cenotes in Mexico be certain to additionally take a look at different Cenotes like Cenote Dos Ojos or Cenote Manatí simply to call just a few.

Get pleasure from your journey!