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 it is best to undoubtedly check out throughout your journey.
Cenotes are principally discovered on the Yucatan peninsula within the southern a part of Mexico. The good Mayans knew concerning 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 religious ceremonies.
High Cenotes in Mexico
If you wish to go to a number of 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 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 if you happen to take pleasure in a hassle-free tour or lease a automotive and go to independently.
The selection is de facto huge, as there are tons of of cenotes in Yucatan, however after studying this publish, you’ll uncover which cenotes in Mexico are really 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 type 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 programs, 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 gentle 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 gentle, and usually lined 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.
Within the Mayan tradition, cenotes performed an essential function. They had been seen because the bridge between the earthly and the divine worlds. They had been thought of sacred locations and had been used for non secular rituals, together with human choices in some instances.
In the present day, visiting a Mexican cenote is just not 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
Only a few kilometres away from Tulum, you will discover some of the widespread 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 taken with diving, this can be a great spot to do it. If you wish to snorkel, which I like to recommend doing, snorkelling gear is included within the ticket value. 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 lovely tinny turtles. Just a few-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 if you happen to’re fortunate, you would possibly even spot some bats hovering by means of the intricate formations.
Attending to Gran Cenote is simple; you’ll be able to drive a automotive, or because it’s solely a 5 km journey, you may also journey a bicycle, which is a typical mode of transport in Tulum. Because the cenote is without doubt one of 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.
In case 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 instances: 8:00 am to 4:15 pm
Entrance ticket: 500 pesos ($28)
2. Cenote Suytun
Cenote Suytun is a cave cenote which encompasses a round platform proper in the midst 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 rare 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 hanging 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 ebook a tour beginning out of your lodge 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 filled with fascinating sights.
It is a good cenote tour that features Valladolid and Chichen Itza as effectively. Verify 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 without doubt one of the high cenotes to go to in Mexico. It boasts a wonderfully 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 due to its depth, which reaches an unbelievable 295 toes. Swimming on this cenote is a rare expertise, and it’s very refreshing. In case you’re not a powerful swimmer, be sure that to lease 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. Yow will discover Cenote Azul 4 km south of Bacalar downtown, and one of the best ways to get there’s by rental automotive. It is usually doable to get to Cenote Azul by taxi, or if you happen to’re up for some cardio, you may also stroll or cycle. A Cenote tour can be a straightforward approach 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
In case you’re searching 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 leap is somewhat scary, however belief me, it would be best to do it repeatedly!
Additionally, carry your snorkelling masks (or lease it out) to discover the underwater world of the cenote, which is inhabited by vibrant fish.
Cenote Oxman boasts implausible amenities. Along with the cenote entrance, you may also take pleasure in their solar loungers and pool. There may be additionally a restaurant, and if you happen to’re wanting to remain right here for lunch, be sure that to decide on a ticket that features their buffet lunch.
Hacienda Oxman is positioned a 6-km drive from downtown Valladolid. You may drive right here or take a taxi. It is usually widespread 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 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 are vibrant.
In the course of the lagoon, there’s an 80-metre-deep cenote, which you’ll be able to 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 affords implausible swimming circumstances in its heat, shallow waters. Don’t neglect 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 lease a automotive 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
Located close to the New World Surprise Chichen Itza, Cenote Ik Kil is a well-liked vacationer cease but additionally some 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 if you happen to dare, there’s additionally a 5-meter excessive leaping platform, which is certain 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 price 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 instances: 9 am to five pm
Entrance ticket: 150 pesos ($8.40)
7. Cenote Zaci (Zacil-Ha)
In case you’re searching for one of the best family-friendly cenotes in Mexico, Cenote Zaci, positioned close to Tulum, is ideal. It’s a small, open cenote, and what makes it an awesome cenote for youths 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 midst of the water for an exciting leap, 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.
You probably have an area in your itinerary, mix a go to to Cenote Zaci with Gran Cenote, cenote Calavera or Automotive Wash Cenote, all of that are positioned 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 choose 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 identify suggests, is understood for its crystal clear water, good for snorkelling and scuba diving. The cenote pool is sort of a large aquarium, stuffed with tropical fish of various species and colors. There may be additionally a cave-like tunnel which is enjoyable to swim by means of and a leaping platform for thrill-seekers.
The luxurious jungle surrounds the cenote, so be sure 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 through the weekend, when the cenote will get actually busy with the native households flocking right here to spend their free time. Additionally, be sure 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 very best to means get to the cenote is with a rental automotive, however it’s also doable to take a neighborhood bus generally known as a “colectivo”. Be sure you inform the motive force the place you wish 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 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 an alternative, 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 once you see it, you’ll perceive why. Inside the principle 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 may be additionally a snack store, and as at most cenotes – showers, bathrooms and altering rooms.
Cenote Calavera is located simply outdoors Tulum downtown, off the principle highway to Coba Mayan ruins, and you’ll simply cycle to its entrance or seize a taxi.
Opening instances: 8:30 am to five pm
Entrance ticket: 250 pesos ($14)
10. Cenote Automotive Wah
Positioned additionally close to Tulum (within the Mayan language – Cenote Aktun-Ha), also referred to as Cenote Automotive Wash, is a picturesque open cenote completely price including to your itinerary.
Cenote Automotive Wash appears to be like 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 one of the best snorkelling expertise, arrive within the morning when the turtles are probably the most energetic.
There may be 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 Automotive Wash is positioned on the principle highway to Coba, a 9-km drive from downtown Tulum. You will get right here both by taxi, rental automotive, scooter or bicycle. Make certain to additionally try different implausible 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
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 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 comply with the principles and by no means step on them.
Upon arrival, you will discover a big swimming gap with lukewarm milky-blue water and an unbelievable view of beautiful jungle greenery. The cenote additionally options vibrant hammocks and swings within the water. The cenote is shallow, and it’s doable 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 automotive or scooter, or you’ll be able to simply merely stroll or cycle. Be sure you additionally try 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
One other implausible cenote located between Playa del Carmen and Tulum, Cenote Azul, affords some of the pleasant swimming experiences in Yucatan.
The cenote itself is a lovely 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 positioning absolutely.
Contained in the water, you could find dozens of vibrant fish, making it a perfect spot for snorkelling and admiring nature in its purest type.
That is additionally an awesome spot for cliff-jumping – there are a number of platforms of various heights, and the best one is 5 meters excessive. Leaping into the refreshing crystal water is a implausible expertise if you happen to dare to strive it!
Cenote Azul is positioned 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 cost (in MEX pesos) is accepted on the entrance. You may lease a automotive 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)
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 here are some issues to remember.
Carry money – You have to 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 you carry sufficient money to pay for the doorway and any extras it’s possible you’ll wish to buy, similar to snorkelling gear or lunch.
Suncream is just not allowed – Most cenotes forbid guests to make use of suncream and different merchandise that will contaminate the water. If you should 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 clean off deodorant, physique moisturiser and different merchandise it’s possible you’ll be carrying.
Put on a life jacket – Using life jackets at some cenotes in Mexico is compulsory, whereas at others, it’s advisable 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 an excellent enjoyable expertise!
Be respectful – Cenotes in Mexico are sacred locations, so behave accordingly, present respect and comply with the principles.
Don’t do something that can influence the atmosphere, similar to bringing plastic to the cenote or leaving any litter behind. Additionally, carry 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 protected to swim in Cave Cenotes in Mexico?
Sure, it’s protected to swim within the cenotes of Mexico. Cenotes typically have very clear water that has been filtered naturally by means of layers of rocks and limestone. However, if you happen to’re not a powerful swimmer, it is best to put on a life jacket.
What’s the most well-known cenote in Mexico?
One of the well-known cenotes is Cenote Suytun, with its iconic round platform illuminated by a lightweight beam coming by means of 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 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 probably the most epic cenotes in Mexico inspiring and helpful. Swimming in a cenote is an unforgettable expertise that it is best to undoubtedly 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 that to additionally try different Cenotes like Cenote Dos Ojos or Cenote Manatí simply to call just a few.
Get pleasure from your journey!