The seven best cenotes in Yucatan

The natural wonders of the state of Yucatán are countless and some of the most important and unusual are the cenotes or sink holes. In the Yucatan there are over 6000 cenotes, with only 2400 actually studied and registered.

Ik-Kil

Located less than 2 miles from Chichén Itzá. 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.

Cuzamá 

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 Cuzamá, 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. Stalactite and stalagmite formations add to its unique beauty.

Zaci
Located in the center of Valladolid, 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 stalactites and stalagmites and there is a walkway around the entire cenote. There is also a great restaurant on the property, serving many Yucatecan specialties.

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.

Xlacah

Located at the Mayan site of Dzibichaltún, just north of Mérida, this is the closest cenote to Mérida. 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!

Dzitnup 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 Yucatán. The waters are deep and crystal clear. There is lighting and a guide rope to make it easier to enter.

Kankirixche 

At Kankirixche (tree with yellow fruit)  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 stalactites and tree roots in impressive formations from the ceiling to the water. TOUR REQUIRED TO SEE THIS CENOTE. CONTACT www.mayanecotours.com

Related articles:
- Cenotes, Underwater sinkholes
- Cenote Kankixche
- Cenotes at Cuzama
- Cenote Peba
- Cenote Yokdzonot

Maps:
- Map of the Yucatan Peninsula

Tours to cenotes:

Balamkaan Tours
Tel: (999) 195 0906
Cel: (999) 103 5750
Email: ventas@balamkaan.com
Website: balamkaan.com

LAWSON’S ORIGINAL YUCATÁN EXCURSIONS
Cel. (999) 947 7599
Email: lawsonsyucatan@gmail.com
Website: http://lawsonsdriving.blogspot.com/

Mayan Ecotours
Tel: (999) 987 3710
Mobile: (999) 243 1489
Email: info@mayanecotours.com
Website: www.mayanecotours.com