Best Cenotes To Visit in the Yucatan Peninsula and Riviera Maya
- Naureen Chhipa
- a few seconds ago
- 12 min read
Updated: 7 hours ago
Mexico is not just about the beaches; the best part is diving in an underground sinkhole, "cenote," and swimming in cold water after a hot day exploring ruins and hiking pyramids. We loved the experience so much that we visited over ten cenotes during our stay in the Yucatan and found each one to offer something different. In this post, I'll share my top 10, making the list of the best cenotes to visit in the Yucatan Peninsula and Riviera Maya.
Cenotes became our favorite activity in the Yucatan. These natural, crystal-clear water sinkholes are great for swimming, snorkeling, diving, relaxing, and even having "fish therapy," aka fish pedicures, while enjoying the sights of clear blue water.
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Mexico is not just about the beaches; the best part is diving in an underground sinkhole!
Best Cenotes to Visit in the Yucatan Peninsula and Riviera Maya
Table of Contents
Best Accommodations Near Cenotes | Best Hotels in Yucatan Peninsula Near Cenotes
Most Beautiful Cenotes in Yucatan to Visit
10.1. Cenote Ik Kill
10.2. Sacred Cenote (Chichen Itza)
10.3. Cenote Samula
10.4. Cenote Oxman
10.5. Cenote Suytun
10.6. Gran Cenote
10.7. Laguna Kaan Luum
10.8. Cenote Cristalino
10.9. Cenote Jardin del Eden
10.10. Cenote Azul
What Are Cenotes?
A cenote is a natural pit or sinkhole that forms when limestone bedrock collapses, revealing the groundwater beneath. Cenotes played a significant role in Mayan culture. The Mayans would bring offerings of gold and jade to cenotes and even human sacrifices to honor the god of the underworld. There are four types of cenotes: underground, semi-underground, those at ground level resembling a lake or pond, and open well cenotes.
How to Get to the Best Cenotes in Yucatan | How to Visit Cenotes
You have several options for reaching the cenotes on the Yucatan Peninsula. Our favorite mode of transportation is renting a car. We recommend renting a car and making a road trip to the Yucatan Peninsula, exploring the different cities, and adding a few cenote stops along the way; that way, you'll see the best of Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula. That's what we did, and we loved our time exploring the Riviera Maya and beyond. We used Discover Cars to find the most affordable car rental in Mexico and found a great deal for our 9-day car rental. Click here for more info and the latest car rental prices for Mexico.
If, instead, you're on a shorter trip and staying along the Riviera Maya, you can do a guided day trip where they pick you up/drop you off directly at your hotel or meeting area. We also love this option because, with a tour guide, you can learn more about Mayan history and the cenotes you're visiting. Here are a few of our favorite cenote guided tours:
From Cancun: Chichen Itza, Cenote & Valladolid Tour with Lunch
From Playa del Carmen: Chichen Itza and Ek Balam Day Trip with Cenote Stop
From Riviera Maya: Chichen Itza, Valladolid, & Cenote Swim Tour
From Merida: Uxmal, Kabah, and Cenoted Guided Tour with Lunch
Lastly, you can also use public transportation (colectivo buses, Taxis, Ubers) to reach some cenotes in Riviera Maya. You'll want to base yourself in a major city and, from there, find cenotes near Merida / cenotes near Valladolid / cenotes near Playa del Carmen, or Tulum.
What to Bring to Cenotes | What to Pack for the Yucatan Peninsula
If you're visiting the cenotes in the Yucatan Peninsula without a guide, you'll want to bring cash. The entrance fee for visiting a cenote ranges from $5 to $20 USD (or around 100 to 400 Mx Pesos). You can pay with a card at some cenotes, but the off-the-beaten ones will require payment in cash. Also, bring snorkeling gear; they'll offer some to rent there, but having your own is an excellent idea if you visit Mexican beaches, lagoons, and natural reserves. Also, bring sun protection, biodegradable sunscreen, and a waterproof go-pro/ camera to capture all your underwater adventures and the lovely sea creatures you encounter.
Here are my favorite things from Amazon to bring to cenotes in Mexico:
Looking for outfit ideas to pack for your trip to Mexico? Click here for my top outfit picks when visiting the Yucatan Peninsula,Ā going on a cruise, or traveling to any tropical/ Caribbean destination.
Where Are the Best Cenotes in Mexico | Best Cenotes Yucatan Peninsula
You'll find the best cenotes in Yucatan Peninsula (mejores cenotes Yucatan) near Tulum, Valladolid, and Chichen Itza. Those cities provided us with some of the best cenotes in Yucatan that you cannot miss when exploring cenotes in Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula.
How Many Cenotes in Yucatan | Why are there so many Cenotes in Yucatan
The YucatĆ”n Peninsula is home to over 6,000 cenotes, with new ones being discovered and formed daily. The abundance of cenotes in this region is due to the porous limestone soil. When this soil collapsesāoften caused by rain and the flow of underground riversāit creates these natural sinkholes. I've compiled a list of my favorite cenotes from all the ones we visited, categorizing them by the best activities to enjoy at each location.
Are Mexican Cenotes Safe | Are Cenotes Dangerous
We found the cenotes in Mexico to be safe. The only issue we encountered on a few occasions was some parking lot "attendants" asking for a tip to look after your car while it was parked. We found that a little weird, but we tipped a few dollars anyway, so we would not have to worry about our parked car while swimming in the cenote. It's really up to you whether you want to leave a tip. Parking is free, and all you need to pay is the entrance fee to the cenote. On other occasions, we did not tip, and our car was just fine.
You can embark on many adventures while exploring the Yucatan; I always travel prepared with travel and health insurance from Safety Wing. Safety Wing is affordable travel and health insurance tailored for travelers. Whether you're on a long travel adventure or a short one, it's always nice to know you'll be covered worldwide in case of emergencies. Before Covid, I barely considered adding health/travel insurance to my trips, but everything for me has shifted since then, including my perspective. Safety Wing covers everything you can think of: hospitalization, medical treatment, lost checked luggage, and more. The best part is you can tailor your plan to your specific needs. Click here for more travel and health insurance information and to check the latest prices.
Wildlife Inside Mexican Cenotes
Let's discuss the wildlife you might encounter while swimming or scuba diving in the beautiful cenotes of the YucatƔn Peninsula. Cenotes are natural sinkholes filled with fresh water and host various aquatic and terrestrial wildlife. When swimming in a cenote, you may encounter fish, turtles, reptiles, amphibians, and birds. Sometimes, larger mammals may roam the area and rest or drink from the refreshing crystal clear waters.
During our visits to the cenotes, the most common wildlife we observed included fish, turtles, and bats (especially in cave-closed cenotes). Although it is rare, spotting crocodiles is possible, so be sure to look for warning signs, particularly in open cenotes. Creatures like jaguars and pumas also inhabit the area, though encounters with them are uncommon.
It's important to note that once a jungle, Tulum has transformed into a trendy bohemian destination filled with luxury hotels. This change reflects its original wildlife-rich environment. While you'll unlikely see large animals, staying alert to your surroundings is wise, especially if you're visiting a less touristy, off-the-beaten-path cenote.
Best Cenote Accommodations in Riviera Maya and the Yucatan Peninsula
Here are my tops picks for hotels near some of my favorite cenotes:
The Yellow Nest | Tulum | Mid-Range
Near Cenote Dos Ojos and Cenote Nic Te Ha
Cenote Secreto Maya | Chichen Itza City Center | Mid-Range
Near Cenote Museo Zazil Tunich, Cenote Palomitas, Cenote Chukum, Cenote Hubiku
Hokhmah Heart Hotel | Puerto Morelos, Riviera Maya | Budget
Near Ruta de los Cenotes and Cenote Verde Lucero
Most Beautiful Cenotes in Yucatan to Visit | Best Cenotes in Yucatan
1. IK KILL
Cenote Ik Kill is very popular due to its proximity to Chichen Itza, so it's best to visit before 9 am for an almost crowd-free experience. Ik Kill was one of our favorite cenotes due to its fun jumping-off cliff point. *Tips for visiting cenotes in Mexico: Bring your go-pro or a phone waterproof case for incredible underwater shots!
Ik Kill has a paradise/jungle feel and is best for families and travelers with limited time. It's only a 15-minute drive from Chichen Itza, making it a convenient "on-the-way" stop. It's also ideal for cooling off on a hot day, as this cenote has a ledge midway to jump from that's very fun! Ik Kill is an excellent introduction to the world of cenotes, and if you're traveling to Chichen Itza, I highly recommend adding it to your stop. It is one of the best cenotes to visit in Yucatan and one of the most gorgeous cenotes in the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico boasting a vibrant shade of blue water.
2. Sacred Cenote
This cenote is inside Chichen Itza- one of the world's seven wonders. Sacred Cenote made my list of top cenotes in the Yucatan to visit because, despite it not being open for swimming, it was the creepiest of them all. Staring at this open well pit, also known as a sacred well or well of sacrifice, I couldn't help going back in time (mentally) to an era where human, gold, and jade sacrifices were made to honor the underworld gods. If such sacrifices took place, I, without a doubt, believe that was where it all happened-- spooky! This cenote is best for looking at while brushing up on some Mayan History, and while you're at it, join a guided tour to explore the area. Tips for visiting cenotes in Mexico: Arrive when they open to avoid long lines and tour buses that start arriving past 10 am. Click here for more information on guided tours for Chichen Itza.
3. Cenote Samula
I never thought swimming in a sinkhole surrounded by bats would be this magical
This beautiful cenote is located in Valladolid and is part of a two-cenote park. We opted to visit just one "Samula," which did not disappoint! With its ice-cold water, perfect on a hot day, and beautiful shades of blue, swimming in this underground cave cenote was a real adventure! Plus, this cenote is less touristy; it won't be as crowded as the rest, no matter the arrival time. Cenote Samula is best for couples, photography enthusiasts, and experienced swimmers, as I found it very romantic, mysterious, and adventurous with deep and shallow waters. Tips for visiting Cenotes in Mexico: Life jackets are in almost all the cenotes, so no worries if you can't swim!
4. Hacienda San Lorenzo Oxman
Our next cenote has something for everyone. Inside a hacienda, you'll find this little gem with a pool and drinks next to it for those wanting more sunshine and relaxation. This cenote's highlight is its cool rope, from which you can swing and jump into the cenote! Cenote Oxman, located in Valladolid, has a very local feel and is very welcoming. It is best for families, groups, and fun adventure seekers who can choose from chilling by the pool or jumping in a sinkhole.
5. Cenote Suytun
This place is surreal, magical, and actually real, although we felt we were on a movie set from its abnormal beauty. Hands down the most dramatic, spectacular, and photogenic cenote in the Yucatan!
This cenote is on the way from Valladolid to Tulum. If planning a visit, arrive when it opens to avoid bus tours that start coming after 10 am. This cenote is best for couples, photographers, and nature lovers.
6. Gran Cenote
This cenote is near Tulum on the way to travel to Coba. Gran Cenote is one of Mexico's most famous cenotes of the Yucatan Peninsula. It is accessible and touristy, so arrive early for a not-so-crowded experience and avoid the tour buses arriving afternoon. This cenote is one of the best cenotes in the Yucatan for families, snorkeling, swimming, diving, and turtle-watching. El Gran Cenote made the favorite cenote list due to its clear water; you can see the fish and turtles swimming without snorkeling gear! Gran Cenote is also great for divers, as the cenote goes deep in and has many tunnels to explore. Visiting with a guide for diving is highly recommended for safety as there have been some issues with divers getting lost underwater (you can find scary YouTube videos from this cenote.) Not to worry, though; it is safe for swimming :) Gran Cenote is one of the top 10 best cenotes in Yucatan Peninsula.
If you've ever wanted to learn how to dive, the Yucatan Peninsula is destination for that! Here are a few of my favorite diving and snorkeling guided experiences:
Playa del Carmen: Beginner Scuba Diving Experience
7. Laguna Kaan Luum
Tulum's best-kept secret; Kaan Luum Lagoon! Our favorite freshwater "beach" in Mexico. Only 30 min south of Tulum, you'll find this local freshwater lagoon. It's great for swimming, having a picnic, and using its sand as a natural body exfoliant. This lagoon is unique because there's a Cenote ( the darkest shade of blue in this pic ). This cenote is underwater, and you need a divers permit to get in as it's very deep. Are any divers out there up for the challenge? This freshwater lagoon can give you a small taste of what to expect if you head farther out south and visit Bacalar.
8. Cenote Cristalino
Between Tulum and Playa del Carmen, you can find three sister cenotes right next to each other. Cenote Cristalino, Cenote Jardin del Eden, and Cenote Azul are less than a 1-minute drive away from one another. Did we go to all 3? Of course, we did! Next, I'll share the highlights of each one so you can choose the one that works for you. All three are very similar ( being open), so there's no need to visit all if you only have one day in the area.
Let's start with Cenote Cristalino: This open Cenote has a lush tropical / jungle garden and feels less touristy than other cenotes nearby. It has beautiful nooks where you are surrounded by nature and secluded from the rest. It's perfect for couples and groups as there's a fun cliff to jump from and nearby fruit snacks for purchase. Out of all three, this was my favorite one. This cenote is also very calm, so it's perfect for having fish therapy. Just sit by a rock and stay still, and they'll all come swimming your way.
9. Cenote Jardin del Eden
Let's start with Cenote Cristalino: This open Cenote has a lush tropical / jungle garden and feels less touristy than other cenotes nearby. It has beautiful nooks where you are surrounded by nature and secluded from the rest. It's perfect for couples and groups as there's a fun cliff to jump from and nearby fruit snacks for purchase. Out of all three, this was my favorite one. This cenote is also very calm, so it's perfect for having fish therapy. Just sit by a rock and stay still, and they'll all come swimming your way.
10. Cenote Azul
Last, we have cenote Azul. This open cenote offers stunning views with an "oasis" feelāthe perfect spot to cool off on a hot day! It is best for families and individuals seeking a more chill vibe. The waters here can be shallow and deep depending on the area, with nearby rocks to soak the sun in and cliffs to jump in. Cenote Azul is one of the best cenotes we found in Mexico suitable for small children, along with Gran Cenote.
Add this best cenotes in Yucatan map to our 9-day Yucatan Peninsula Road Trip!
More Cenotes to Explore in the Yucatan Peninsula, Riviera Maya, and Quintana Roo
Cenotes Near Puerto Morelos (Between Cancun and Playa del Carmen)
Ruta de los Cenotes (Cenote Hopping Route)
Cenote Siete Bocas
Cenote Verde Lucero
Cenote La Noria
Cenote Kin-Ha
Cenote Zapote (Bell Cenote)
Cenote Boca del Puma
Cenote Las Mojarras
Cenotes Near Tulum:
Cenote Dos Ojos
Cenote Xcacel
Cenote Calavera
Cenote Carwash (Aktun Ha)
Cenote Nohoch Nah Chich
Cenotes Near Valladolid:
Cenote Xkeken
Cenote Zaci
Cenote Miguel Colorado
Cenote X'Canche
Cenotes Near Chichen Itza
Cenote Xcanahaltun
Thank you for taking the time to read my list of favorite cenotes in the YucatƔn. I had a fantastic time putting this list together, as I fell in love with the natural beauty of these sinkholes. There are so many cenotes in the YucatƔn! Did I miss your favorite one? Please leave a comment below; I would love to explore it one day. Till next time!
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