The 7 best cenotes
in the Yucatan

The natural wonders of the state of Yucatan are countless and some of the most important and unusual are the cenotes (say-NOH-tays) or sink holes. In the Yucatan there are over 3000 cenotes, with only 1400 actually studied and registered.

Ik-Kil
Located less than 2 miles from Chichen Itza. Called the "Sacred Blue Cenote," it is a perfectly round well-type cenote with magnificent hanging vines and waterfalls. This is an ideal place for cooling off after visiting the ruins!. The open cenote sits about 85 feet from the surface, and a grand stairway leads you down the steps into the water. Access is safe and easy.

Ik-Kil

Cuzama
The town of Cuzamá is known for the large number of cenotes found there. Especially unique is a tour that you can do in this area where you will visit three cenotes. If you go to the hacienda in Cuzama, you can hire a guide who will put you on a platform buggy pulled by horses along interesting paths through the surrounding countryside. The main cenotes are: Chelentun (laying down rock), Chansinic'che (tree with small ants) and Bolonchoojol (nine drops of water). The Chelentun Cenote has incredibly blue and clear water, with excellent visibility. Stalagtite and stalagmite formations add to its unique beauty. For more information, check out our Cuzama daytrip.

Cuzama

Zaci
Located in the center of Vallodolid, this is a popular cenote for swimming in the refreshing turquoise waters. You will see a rare species of eyeless black fish known as "lub." A third of the cenote is covered with stalagtites and stalagmites and there is a walkway around the entire cenote. There is also a great restaurant on the property, serving many Yucatecan specialities.

Zaci

Cenotillo
This village gets its name from the large number of cenotes located within the town and the outskirts - more than 150, according to the locals. Ask around for a guide to take you to some of them.

Xcalah
Located at the Mayan site of Dzibichaltun, just north of Merida, this is the closest cenote to Merida. Meaning "old village," it is an open ground level cenote, great for swimming. It is more than 140 feet deep at one end. Another great place to cool off after climbing pyramids!

Xcalah

Dzinup or Keken
Located about 4 miles southeast of Valladolid, this cenote is underground with a hole in the ceiling. It is probably one of the most photographed cenotes in the Yucatan. The waters are deep and crystal clear. There is lighting and a guide rope to make it easier to enter.

Dzitnup

Kankirixche
(tree with yellow fruit) At Kankirixche Cenote, you will find a large, spectacular sub-aquatic cavern with crystal clear water that allows fantastic visibility for snorkeling or scuba. You will also find stalagtites and tree roots in impressive formations from the ceiling to the water.

Cenote Kankirixche

For first hand accounts of adventures in these cenotes, check out our Day Trips page.

More interesting articles
 Cenotes of the Yucatan
 Cenote Yokdzonot
 The sacred Mayan Caves
 Day Trips
 Transportation in the Yucatan
 Travel Agencies
 Tours in the Yucatan
 Car Rentals

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