By Morgan Bogs
These beautiful, water-filled sinkholes are best associated with the Yucatán Peninsula of Mexico. Perfect for curious travelers who are eager for a different adventure, we recommend that you put swimming in a cenote on your list. Here are a few of our favorite cenotes to visit in Mexico.
Ik Kil
Ik Kil is a cenote just south of Pisté in the Tinúm Municipality, Yucatán, Mexico. It is located south on the freeway from the Chichen Itza archeological site, which is a famous destination for Mayan ruins. Ik Kil is open to the public for swimming and has a restaurant onsite, and includes cottages nearby so visitors can spend a few days here. The gorgeous plants overflowing the blue water is an amazing sight to see. Ik Kil is arguably the most beautiful cenote in Mexico, and with this title comes plenty of visitors. How to get there linked here.
Zaci
Cenote Zací is located in the middle of the small city of Valladolid, Mexico. More open than other cenotes, this cave-like swimming hole will feel less claustrophobic. Zací has a path surrounding the sides of the water and can be used by visitors for jumping purposes. It is an easily accessible cenote and perfect for a quick swim. There’s life jacket rentals available and a restaurant nearby with views of the cenote. How to get there linked here.
Gran Cenote
Gran Cenote is located a few miles north of Tulum, Quintana Roo, Mexico. Through lush trees and green plants, the stairway to the visible swimming hole appears. The crystal blue water makes it quite easy to spot underwater life and maybe see a turtle! This cenote has cave-like features that are accessible without snorkeling but they do offer snorkeling for the more curious. This is another hot tourist spot, and lockers and bathrooms are nearby. How to get there linked here.
Cenote La Noria
Cenote La Noria is one of the best places to get a cool cave experience. Located inland from Puerto Morelos, Quintana Roo, Mexico, the deep enticing blue water makes for a great picture. There are ropes, swings and floating platform features to make you feel like you are in another world. This destination brings together the deep divers and the curious swimmers. It is a little frightening at first, and there are bats all around the cave, but this cold adventure is a must-see. How to get there linked here.