Visiting a cenote when in Mexico’s Yucatán is simply a must-do. The experience is somewhere between mystical and serene – every traveler in search of natural beauty in this Mayan region will agree. For those wondering, a cenote is a natural sinkhole or pit caused by a sunken limestone cave. Many travel to this region of Mexico, Guatemala and Belize just to experience these portal-like wonders. These best cenotes in Yucatán make the Yucatán region all the more magical.
There are (literally) at least 6,000 cenotes in Yucatan alone, so you’re likely always in reach of one. To help you along with your search, we put together a list of the best cenotes in Yucatán. Prepare for your Yucatán vacation to go up a level…
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1. Cenote Oxman
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Heading to Cenote Oxman, located in the charming Valladolid, is sure to prove a treat. Since it is an open Cenote, the hot Yucatán sun warms the waters making it slightly warmer than most cave Cenotes. There is also Hacienda Oxman onsite which allows for a picturesque place to chill.
2. Cenote Ik Kil
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Jungle-like and idyllic, cenote Ik Kil is a dream. Cenote Ik Kil is distinguished by the long tendrils of vines that hang from the mouth of the cave, hovering over the turquoise shimmering waters. This cenote was considered sacred to the Mayans; it was used as a site to worship Chaac, the Rain God. Just a 5 minute drive from Chichén-Itzá, it is a glorious add-on for your day trip.
3. Cenote Dos Ojos
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“Two-eyed” cenote is truly a cenote worth adding to your list. A diver’s paradise, it attracts tourists from around the world hoping to revel in the perfectly crystal clear waters. This cenote is located in Tulum, in Quintana Roo’s section of the Yucatán peninsula.
4. Cenote Xlacah
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This cenote is a 15 minute drive north of Mérida and absolutely stunning. Whether you want to snorkel, swim with fishes or just breathe in the natural beauty, Cenote Xlacah is a wonder. There is no better way to cool off from the intense heat in the capital of Yucatán… trust us!
5. Cenote X'batún
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Yet another cenote to bring on the ethereal feels. This cenote is a Mérida favourite for many reasons but surely you can see exactly why. Take an unforgettable swim in these two underwater cave cenotes.
6. Cenote Suytun
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Surely one of the most popular Cenotes in Mexico, Cenote Suytun really is worth the hype. From the views, the mysticism within the cave and the beams of sunlight, it is a 10/10 experience. Note that time is limited to one hour in this cenote (until you make your way to another one!)
7. Cenotes Dzitnup
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Much less visited and just as impressive, we present Cenotes Dzitnup. Be prepared to be speechless, this mayan site covers two neighbouring swimming pools – Cenote Dzitnup and Cenote Samula. Being only a short drive away from Chichén-Itzá it is an ideal place to take it easy after a day trip to the Mayan templos. What more could you want from a perfect trip to the Yucatán region?
