Amongst the many things the Riviera Maya is known for, there is the beautiful cenotes. Thought to had once been used by the Mayans as a ceremonial sinkhole to connect with the underworld with their gods, these natural wonders are sight not to be missed. You can find cenotes across the whole Yucatan Peninsula. In fact, there are many popular ones that stand out, while some more virgin ones keep their natural beauty, as well. While many cenotes charge an entrance fee, it is completely worthwhile to pay and get to see these amazing natural phenomena. If you’ve seen the picturesque cenotes popping up around the Internet, chances are you’ve wanted to jump into one right away. Here are our favorites.
Cenote Ik Kil
This cenote is found in the Tinum Municipality in Yucatan. That is the northern center of the Yucatan Peninsula and is part of the Ik Kil Archeological Park near Chichen Itza. Ik Kil is perhaps one of the most photographed cenotes in the Mexico and the world. The vines going through into the water in the deep swimming hole give it a magical and magnificent vibe. The entrance fee is usually around $10 USD per person but may vary depending on the season. If you book a trip to Chichen Itza with almost any tour operator, you will most likely visit this cenote. Because of its growing popularity, it can become very populated during the high season. So, if you’re visiting on your own, we recommend you get there early.
Cenote Azul
Cenote Azul is located 15 minutes south of Playa del Carmen. It offers plenty of space for swimming so it never feels too crowded. This open cenote is surrounded by lush jungle offering plenty of shade to hide from the intense sun of the Riviera Maya. This is a great spot for snorkeling, so don’t forget to bring your gear. There are plenty of interesting things below the surface.
Cenote Jardin del Eden
Jardin del Eden is considered to be one of the most stunning and picturesque cenotes in close proximity to Playa del Carmen. You can hang out on a terrace above the cenote, which is a great place to get pictures. The cenote is swarmed with cute fish that offer free spa treatment for anyone swimming around. Don’t worry, they don’t bite nor are they scary. It helps you cleanse your feet!
Cenote Cristalino
Cenote Cristalino is one of the best cenotes for jumping into the water from high ground. It has a wooden platform about 6 meters (19 ft) high to jump into the water from. This cenote is hit or miss when it comes to how busy it can get. The best time to visit is during low season because you will have the place practically to yourself. The place is great for snorkeling and even scuba diving if you have a certification. It has a lot of shade, which is great to keep cool from the sun. But, be warned, the water stays really cold throughout the year.
Cenote Cristal
Cenote Cristal, not to be confused with the aforementioned Cenote Cristalino, is great due to its greenery and scenery. In comparison to other cenotes, this one is quite small and off the beaten path. That makes it a great choice to spend the afternoon. It is also a great place to have a nice picnic with your friends and family.
Cenote Escondido
Cenote Escondido, meaning hidden in English, does great honor to its name. It is close to Tulum and the entry is free when you visit Cenote Cristal, as well. This cenote also offers great snorkeling and there is a neat swing to jump into the water. Because of its hidden nature, it tends to be less busy than the others. Fair warning, during the summer mosquitoes are rather vicious, especially here since it is so lush with jungle.
Cenote Dos Ojos
Cenote Dos Ojos is one of the largest and most popular cenotes in the whole region. It is a 15-minute drive north of Tulum. It is called Dos Ojos due to the fact that it is made up of two cenotes, forming two eyes. Both are half-open, and the rest is covered in caves. Snorkeling here in the afternoon creates beautiful optical illusions with the sunlight underwater. For expert divers, it is one of the most amazing dives as you can enter one cenote and dive through its many underground tunnels to come out in the other cenote.
Without a doubt, the Riviera Maya is a wonder for natural happenings. Whether it’s the shiny white-sand beaches, its archeological footprints or these beautiful cenotes, there is no shortage of things to see and do. And if you’re so in love with these cenotes that you need to have one at home, check out this amazing penthouse in Playacar with its own private cenote!
And remember, at Top Mexico Real Estate…we make it happen!