Have you 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 must positively check out throughout your journey.
Cenotes are largely discovered on the Yucatan peninsula within the southern a part of Mexico. The nice Mayans knew in regards to the cenotes lengthy earlier than they turned a bucket-list attraction, and so they used them as a supply of water in addition to of their non secular ceremonies.
Top Cenotes in Mexico
If you need to go to among the most superb cenotes select Valladolid cenotes or cenotes close to Tulum and Playa del Carmen. Most cenotes in Mexico are open to the general public, and plenty of supply actions like swimming, snorkelling, kayaking and scuba diving. You can both be a part of one of many cenote excursions from Tulum or different cities of Riviera Maya for those who take pleasure in a hassle-free tour or lease a automobile and go to independently.
The alternative is basically huge, as there are tons of of cenotes in Yucatan, however after studying this put up, you’ll uncover which cenotes in Mexico are actually unmissable.
What are cenotes in Mexico?
If 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 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 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 are 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 embrace Gran Cenote and Cenote Ik Kil.
We even have historic cenotes which are the oldest in Yucatan. An instance of an historic cenote is Cenote Azul or Cenote Cocalitos in Bacalar, which resemble a lagoon or a lake with each roofs and partitions eroded away.
In the Mayan tradition, cenotes performed an necessary 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 circumstances.
Today, visiting a Mexican cenote just isn’t 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 a number of kilometres away from Tulum, you will see one of the fashionable cenotes in Mexico – the Gran Cenote.
Gran Cenote is an open cenote with crystal clear emerald water, two swimming pools, and a cave. If you’re eager about diving, this can be a excellent place to do it. If you need to snorkel, which I like to recommend doing, snorkelling gear is included within the ticket value. Just be sure to deliver an ID, which is required as a deposit.
The waters of Gran Cenote are teeming with tropical fish, and you may 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 means of it, look as much as admire historic stalactites. And for those who’re fortunate, you may even spot some bats hovering by means of the intricate formations.
Getting to Gran Cenote is simple; you’ll be able to drive a automobile, or because it’s solely a 5 km journey, it’s also possible to journey a bicycle, which is a typical mode of transport in Tulum. Since the cenote is among the hottest cenotes close to Tulum, one of the best time to go to it’s within the morning, proper after it opens at 8 am.
If 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 is the right day journey.
Opening instances: 8:00 am to 4:15 pm
Entrance ticket: 500 pesos ($28)
2. Cenote Suytun
Cenote Suytun is a cave cenote which includes a round platform proper in the course of its cave. At round noon, the platform will get illuminated by a lightweight beam coming by means of 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 laborious to see why. If you need to take a photograph of the platform, put together your self to attend in a queue.
Apart from taking the Insta well-known picture, be sure to discover the cave and its hanging stalactites and stalagmites that shaped over 1000’s of years. If you need to swim, you can be required to take a bathe and put on a life jacket.
Cenote Suytun is positioned 8 km from the centre of Valladolid. If your itinerary doesn’t let you keep a few days on this space of Yucatan, you’ll be able to guide a tour beginning out of your lodge in Cancun or another Riviera Maya city. Combine a go to to Suytun with Chichen Itza and the city of Valladolid for a day filled with attention-grabbing sights.
This is an ideal cenote tour that features Valladolid and Chichen Itza as properly. Check Availability right here.
Opening instances: 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 among the high cenotes to go to in Mexico. It boasts a superbly round form, and as it’s an historic cenote, it extra resembles a lagoon or a lake than a cenote.
Cenote Azul has a darkish blue color because of its depth, which reaches an unimaginable 295 toes. Swimming on this cenote is a unprecedented expertise, and it’s very refreshing. If you’re not a robust swimmer, be certain that to lease a life jacket and revel in floating in its waters carefree. Alternatively, it’s also possible to discover this huge cenote on a kayak.
Bacalar lies in Quintana Roo, a 4-hour drive south of Cancun. You can discover Cenote Azul 4 km south of Bacalar downtown, and one of the best ways to get there’s by rental automobile. It can be potential to get to Cenote Azul by taxi, or for those who’re up for some cardio, it’s also possible to stroll or cycle. A Cenote tour can be a straightforward solution to discover these superb pure wonders. This personal tour takes you to Bacalar Lagoon.
Opening instances: 10 am to six pm
Entrance ticket: 25 pesos ($1.40)
4. Cenote Oxman
If you’re in search of a cenote the place you’ll be able to spend a enjoyable day, Oxman is ideal. It is an open cenote with lush vegetation rising on its partitions.
Cenote Oxman is thought for its Tarzan gown swing. Grab onto the handles and swing to the center of the pool to leap into the cenote. The first bounce is a bit of scary, however belief me, it would be best to do it time and again!
Also, deliver your snorkelling masks (or lease it out) to discover the underwater world of the cenote, which is inhabited by vibrant fish.
Cenote Oxman boasts incredible amenities. In addition to the cenote entrance, it’s also possible to take pleasure in their solar loungers and pool. There can be a restaurant, and for those who’re wanting to remain right here for lunch, be certain that to decide on a ticket that features their buffet lunch.
Hacienda Oxman is positioned a 6-km drive from downtown Valladolid. You can drive right here or take a taxi. It can be fashionable to cycle right here and go to two different close by cenotes alongside the way- Cenote Dzitnup and Saamal.
Opening instances: 8 am to five am
Entrance ticket: 150 pesos ($8.40)
5. Laguna de Kaan Luum Cenote
Laguna de Kaan Luum is among the distinctive locations to go to close to Tulum and a very good vacation spot for nature lovers.
There are many animals dwelling on this space, together with agoutis, jaguars, and badgers. Additionally, you’ll be able to see parrots, woodpeckers, and iguanas which are vibrant.
In the center 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 on account of its profound depth, and sadly, swimming inside it’s not allowed.
The lagoon itself gives incredible swimming circumstances in its heat, shallow waters. Don’t neglect to deliver your snorkelling masks and a rush guard to guard your physique from solar publicity, as sporting solar cream is strictly forbidden.
The finest solution to get to Laguna de Kaan Luum is to lease a automobile or scooter and make your means independently. The lagoon is positioned 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 instances: 9 am to 4 pm
Entrance ticket: 300 pesos ($16.75)
6. Cenote Ik Kil
Situated close to the New World Wonder Chichen Itza, Cenote Ik Kil is a well-liked vacationer cease but in addition one of the picturesque swimming holes in Mexico. It is an open cenote with lush vegetation and lianas rising on its partitions and cave ceilings solely 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 for those who 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 Site, most excursions cease on the cenote after a go to to the Mayan ruins. This signifies that the cenote is a bit of busy more often than not, however nonetheless, completely value it. If you want to take pleasure in it with out the crowds, select to go to within the early morning or late afternoon.
Opening instances: 9 am to five pm
Entrance ticket: 150 pesos ($8.40)
7. Cenote Zaci (Zacil-Ha)
If you’re in search of one of the best family-friendly cenotes in Mexico, Cenote Zaci, positioned close to Tulum, is ideal. It is a small, open cenote, and what makes it an excellent cenote for teenagers is that it is just 3 meters deep. The cenote Zaci additionally boasts a enjoyable zipline, which you let go of once you’re in the course of the water for an exhilarating bounce, and likewise a 3-meter excessive leaping platform.
The cenote amenities embrace solar loungers, a pool and a restaurant the place you’ll be able to seize a lightweight lunch and a chilly drink.
If you may have an area in your itinerary, mix a go to to Cenote Zaci with Gran Cenote, cenote Calavera or Car Wash Cenote, all of that are positioned shut by.
You 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 so as to name them to select you out once you’re prepared to return.
Opening instances: 9 am to five pm
Entrance ticket: 200 pesos ($11.20)
8. Cenote Cristalino
Cenote Cristalino, because the title suggests, is thought for its crystal clear water, excellent for snorkelling and scuba diving. The cenote pool is sort of a big aquarium, stuffed with tropical fish of various species and hues. There can be a cave-like tunnel which is enjoyable to swim by means of and a leaping platform for thrill-seekers.
The lush jungle surrounds the cenote, so be sure to discover the entire web site as a result of there are two extra hidden swimming pools with shallow turquoise water to be found.
Avoid 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. Also, be certain that to take a look at the neighbouring Cenote Azul, which is equally beautiful.
Cenote Cristalino is tucked between Tulum and Playa del Carmen and may be simply visited from each cities. The finest to means get to the cenote is with a rental automobile, however it is usually potential to take a neighborhood bus often called a “colectivo”. Make certain you inform the driving force the place you need to get off, as stops are on demand.
Opening instances: 8 am to six pm
Entrance ticket: 200 pesos ($11.20)
9. Cenote Calavera
Cenote Calavera is among the most unusual cenotes in Mexico. Unlike 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. Instead, you’ll both want to leap into the cenote or climb down an enormous wood ladder, which is a thrill in its personal proper!
The cenote gap with its ladder is among the most photographed locations in Tulum, and once you see it, you’ll perceive why. Inside the principle pool, there’s additionally a swing, which is also a cool picture 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 can be a snack store, and as at most cenotes – showers, bathrooms and altering rooms.
Cenote Calavera is located simply exterior Tulum downtown, off the principle highway to Coba Mayan ruins, and you may simply cycle to its entrance or seize a taxi.
Opening instances: 8:30 am to five pm
Entrance ticket: 250 pesos ($14)
10. Cenote Car Wah
Located additionally close to Tulum (within the Mayan language – Cenote Aktun-Ha), also referred to as Cenote Car Wash, is a picturesque open cenote completely value including to your itinerary.
Cenote Car Wash seems like a tranquil lake and boasts exceptionally crystal clear water, which is ideal for swimming, snorkelling and likewise diving. In the water, you’ll be able to spot a lot of vibrant fish and small, lovely turtles. For one of the best snorkelling expertise, arrive within the morning when the turtles are essentially the most energetic.
There can be a 3-meter excessive leaping platform, which isn’t too scary hight however excessive sufficient to present you a bit of thrill. The cenote additionally has some seating and picnic areas, that are nice if you wish to spend some extra time right here.
Cenote Car Wash is positioned on the principle highway to Coba, a 9-km drive from downtown Tulum. You can get right here both by taxi, rental automobile, scooter or bicycle. Make certain to additionally take a look at different incredible cenotes on this space, similar to Gran Cenote and Cenote Calavera.
Opening instances: 8 am to five pm
Entrance ticket: 300 pesos ($16.80)
11. Cenote Cocalitos
Famous 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 kinds 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 to comply with 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 beautiful 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 may simply get right here by taxi, rental automobile or scooter, or you’ll be able to simply merely stroll or cycle. Make certain you additionally take a look at Cenote Azul, which is located in the identical space of Bacalar.
Opening instances: 10 am to five pm
Entrance ticket: 50 pesos ($2.80)
12. Cenote Azul, Playa del Carmen
Another incredible cenote located between Playa del Carmen and Tulum, Cenote Azul, gives one of the pleasant swimming experiences in Yucatan.
The cenote itself is a good looking pool of turquoise, crystal-clear water surrounded by lush greenery. In addition to the principle pool, there are additionally a number of smaller swimming holes, so be sure to take time to discover the positioning totally.
Inside the water, you’ll find dozens of vibrant fish, making it a great spot for snorkelling and admiring nature in its purest kind.
This can be an excellent spot for cliff-jumping – there are a number of platforms of various heights, and the best one is 5 meters excessive. Jumping into the refreshing crystal water is a incredible expertise for those who dare to attempt it!
Cenote Azul is positioned proper by Cenote Crsiatlino, so you’ll be able to go to each of them in someday. Make certain you deliver money with you, as solely money cost (in MEX pesos) is accepted on the entrance. You can lease a automobile or take a neighborhood Colectivo bus both from Playa del Carmen or Tulum.
Opening instances: 9 am to five pm
Entrance ticket: 200 pesos ($11.20)
Tips 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.
Bring money – You will want Mexican pesos to pay for entrance on the cenotes you go to. Most cenotes are positioned remotely, with no close by ATMs, so be sure to carry sufficient money to pay for the doorway and any extras chances are you’ll need to buy, similar to snorkelling gear or lunch.
Suncream just isn’t allowed – Most cenotes forbid guests to make use of suncream and different merchandise that will contaminate the water. If you want to shield your pores and skin, go for a long-sleeved rash guard. Before coming into the cenote pool, you can be required to take a bathe to clean off deodorant, physique moisturiser and different merchandise chances are you’ll be sporting.
Wear a life jacket – The use of life jackets at some cenotes in Mexico is compulsory, whereas at others, it’s beneficial however not obligatory. If you’re not a assured swimmer, you must 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 comply with the foundations.
Don’t do something that can impression the setting, similar to bringing plastic to the cenote or leaving any litter behind. Also, deliver with you a fast-drying towel fabricated 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?
Yes, it’s secure to swim within the cenotes of Mexico. Cenotes usually have very clear water that has been filtered naturally by means of layers of rocks and limestone. But, for those who’re not a robust swimmer, you must put on a life jacket.
What is essentially the most well-known cenote in Mexico?
One of essentially the most well-known cenotes is Cenote Suytun, with its iconic round platform illuminated by a lightweight beam coming by means of its ceiling. The photographs 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 is 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 are lovely pure swimming pools with crystal clear water, surrounded by lush vegetation. In addition, many cenotes are dwelling to distinctive wildlife, similar to bats, vibrant fish and even turtles.
Visiting Cenotes in Mexico: Wrap-up
I hope you discovered this information to essentially the most epic cenotes in Mexico inspiring and helpful. Swimming in a cenote is an unforgettable expertise that you must 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 certain that to additionally take a look at different Cenotes like Cenote Dos Ojos or Cenote Manatí simply to call a number of.
Enjoy your journey!