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’s best 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 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 non secular ceremonies.
Prime 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 lots of supply actions like swimming, snorkelling, kayaking and scuba diving. You’ll be able to both be a 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 automotive and go to independently.
The selection is absolutely huge, as there are a whole lot 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 kind when porous limestone bedrock collapses, and since there may be loads of limestone in Yucatan, there are a lot of cenotes there. Some cenotes are a part of giant 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 very distinctive expertise. An instance of a cave cenote is Cenote Suytun.
Open cenotes are a lot older, with their roof eroded away over time. 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 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 non secular rituals, together with human choices in some instances.
Right this moment, visiting a Mexican cenote isn’t solely a enjoyable exercise but in addition one of many some ways you may discover and perceive the traditional Mayan civilisation.
1. Gran Cenote
Only a few kilometres away from Tulum, you can find one of the vital 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 concerned with diving, this can be a good 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 convey 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 lovable tinny turtles. A couple of-meters lengthy cave connects the 2 swimming pools of the cenote, and as you swim by way of it, look as much as admire historical stalactites. And when you’re fortunate, you may even spot some bats hovering by way of the intricate formations.
Attending to Gran Cenote is straightforward; you may drive a automotive, 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. For the reason that cenote is among 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 non-public Cenote Tour takes you to three totally different cenotes in a day together with the Gran Cenote. It’s the excellent 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 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 way 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 exhausting to see why. If you wish to take a photograph of the platform, put together your self to attend in a queue.
Aside from taking the Insta well-known picture, be sure you discover the cave and its placing stalactites and stalagmites that fashioned over 1000’s of years. If you wish to swim, you may 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 may ebook 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 filled with attention-grabbing sights.
It is a excellent cenote tour that features Valladolid and Chichen Itza as properly. 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 among the high 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 unbelievable 295 ft. Swimming on this cenote is a unprecedented expertise, and it’s very refreshing. In case you’re not a robust swimmer, be certain that to hire 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. Yow will discover Cenote Azul 4 km south of Bacalar downtown, and one of the best ways to get there may be by rental automotive. Additionally it is doable to get to Cenote Azul by taxi, or when you’re up for some cardio, it’s also possible to stroll or cycle. A Cenote tour can also be a simple strategy to discover these superb pure wonders. This non-public 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 in search of a cenote the place you may 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 somewhat scary, however belief me, it would be best 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 amenities. Along with the cenote entrance, it’s also possible to 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 that to decide on a ticket that features their buffet lunch.
Hacienda Oxman is positioned a 6-km drive from downtown Valladolid. You’ll be able to 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 among the distinctive locations to go to close to Tulum and a very good vacation spot for nature lovers.
There are a lot of animals residing on this space, together with agoutis, jaguars, and badgers. Moreover, you may 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 be able to 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 isn’t allowed.
The lagoon itself provides incredible swimming circumstances in its heat, shallow waters. Don’t neglect to convey your snorkelling masks and a rush guard to guard your physique from solar publicity, as sporting solar cream is strictly forbidden.
One of the simplest ways to get to Laguna de Kaan Luum is to hire 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 is able to 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 Surprise Chichen Itza, Cenote Ik Kil is a well-liked vacationer cease but in addition one of the vital 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 underneath the blazing Mexican solar. The cenote has a most depth of 150 ft, 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 certain to offer you an exhilarating adrenaline rush.
Since Ik Kil is positioned close to the Chichen Itza Archaeological Website, most excursions cease on the cenote after a go to to the Mayan ruins. Which means the cenote is somewhat busy more often than not, however nonetheless, completely value it. In case 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)
In case you’re in search of 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 awesome 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 midst of the water for an exciting soar, and likewise a 3-meter excessive leaping platform.
The cenote amenities embody solar loungers, a pool and a restaurant the place you may seize a lightweight 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’ll be able to 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 to be able to name them to select 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 understood for its crystal clear water, excellent 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 way of 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 that 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 automotive, however additionally it is doable to take an area bus referred to 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 among the most unusual cenotes in Mexico. Not like 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 among the most photographed locations in Tulum, and if you see it, you’ll perceive why. Inside the principle pool, there may be additionally a swing, which is also a cool picture spot.
The cenote is surrounded by greenery and vibrant solar loungers the place you may 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 outdoors Tulum downtown, off the principle highway to Coba Mayan ruins, and you may 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
Positioned additionally close to Tulum (within the Mayan language – Cenote Aktun-Ha), also called Cenote Automobile Wash, is a picturesque open cenote completely value including to your itinerary.
Cenote Automobile 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 may spot a number of vibrant fish and small, lovable turtles. For the perfect snorkelling expertise, arrive within the morning when the turtles are essentially the most lively.
There’s additionally a 3-meter excessive leaping platform, which isn’t too scary hight however excessive sufficient to offer 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 principle highway to Coba, a 9-km drive from downtown Tulum. You may get right here both by taxi, rental automotive, scooter or bicycle. Be sure to additionally try different incredible cenotes on this space, reminiscent of 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 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 be sure you observe the principles and by no means step on them.
Upon arrival, you can find 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 may simply get right here by taxi, rental automotive or scooter, or you may 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 vital pleasant swimming experiences in Yucatan.
The cenote itself is a fantastic 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 absolutely.
Contained in the water, yow will discover dozens of vibrant fish, making it a really perfect spot for snorkelling and admiring nature in its purest kind.
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 incredible expertise when you dare to attempt it!
Cenote Azul is positioned proper by Cenote Crsiatlino, so you may go to each of them in at some point. Ensure you convey money with you, as solely money fee (in MEX pesos) is accepted on the entrance. You’ll be able to hire a automotive 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 bear in mind.
Carry money – You’ll need 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 chances are you’ll wish to buy, reminiscent of snorkelling gear or lunch.
Suncream isn’t allowed – Most cenotes forbid guests to make use of suncream and different merchandise which will contaminate the water. If it is advisable to shield 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 chances are you’ll be sporting.
Put on a life jacket – The usage of life jackets at some cenotes in Mexico is compulsory, whereas at others, it’s really helpful however not necessary. In case you’re not a assured swimmer, it’s 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 atmosphere, reminiscent of bringing plastic to the cenote or leaving any litter behind. Additionally, convey with you a fast-drying towel product of 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 way of layers of rocks and limestone. However, when you’re not a robust swimmer, it’s 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 lightweight beam coming by way 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’s so particular about cenotes?
Swimming in cenotes is a really distinctive expertise as you may solely discover them within the Yucatan Peninsula. They’re lovely pure swimming pools with crystal clear water, surrounded by lush vegetation. As well as, many cenotes are residence to distinctive wildlife, reminiscent of 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 it’s 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 certain that to additionally try different Cenotes like Cenote Dos Ojos or Cenote Manatí simply to call a number of.
Take pleasure in your journey!
