A Cenote is a natural sinkhole caused by limestone collapsing. The collapse exposes groundwater beneath making them the perfect place to swim, snorkel or scuba-dive. Most Cenotes are small with tiny openings but other Cenotes are so huge you can actually swim and dive in them. If you are visiting Mexico then visiting a Cenote is a must do activity!

Cenote Ik Kil, Chichen Itza

This is one of the most famous cenotes in the area as it is very close to the amazing ruins of Chichen Itza. Cenote Ik II is a huge natural pool, with a depth that goes down to 130ft. There's changing rooms, restaurants and toilets at this cenote which is a real rarity as most smaller cenotes have no such facilities.

Cenote Dos Ojos, Tulum

Cenote Dos Ojos near Tulum are two connected Cenotes (Dos Ojos, is two eyes in Spanish) popular with scuba divers and snorkelers, but you can swim here too. The actual cave system is 51 miles long that encompasses 28 cenotes. Maybe it should be called 28 eyes but that doesn’t have the same ring to it! The water here is crystal clear and maintains a constant temperature of 77 degrees. This is a popular Cenote so the earlier you arrive the better.

Cenote Jardin del Eden, Puerto Aventuras

This beautiful Cenote is surrounded by lush vegetation and wildlife as it is located in the jungle. Make sure you bring your own food and drinks as there is no restaurant here. If you like jumping into cool clear water then Cenote Jardin del Eden is the cenote for you. Don’t be surprised to see local kids climbing up the trees to jump into the cenote. Fish, eels and even turtles have been spotted in the depths here. 

Cenote X'Canche Valladolid

Cenote X’Canche (which is just outside the Riviera Maya) is a cenote for the adventurous types. Located in a dense jungle close to the Ek Balam archaeological site this cenote requires you to descend down a vertical wooden staircase! (it is not as bad as it sounds if we can do it, you can). You will be rewarded with an underground haven. This cenote is a popular add on to people visiting Ek Balam so again the earlier you visit the better.

Gran Cenote, Tulum

This cenote is one of the most popular in the Riviera Maya, the water is so clear you can see fish swimming without even entering the water. Just off from the water are caverns with stalagmites and stalactites. There are changing facilities, toilets and a restaurant on site. Gran Cenote is also a great place to dive and snorkel. 

Cenote Chakk Tun, Playa del Carmen

If you are visiting the wonderful town of Playa del Carmen then a trip out to Cenote Chaak Tun is a must. Be warned, this cenote is not for the fainthearted. These cenotes are almost completely covered (one has a slight opening) so don’t be surprised to be sharing them with bats. With the admission price, you will receive a safety helmet and life-jacket. Despite its adventurous nature, Cenote Chaak Tun is still very popular. Try to visit after 13:00 when most of the tour groups have left.