Cenote Xkeken Dzitnup Valladolid
A breathtaking underground cenote in Yucatan, featuring a mystical cavern, clear blue waters, and dramatic stalactites illuminated by a natural light ...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Cenote Xkeken Dzitnup Valladolid
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking underground cenote in Yucatan, featuring a mystical cavern, clear blue waters, and dramatic stalactites illuminated by a natural light opening.
"Stunning cenote, a magical underground pool with crystal-clear water and dramatic cave formations."
🎯 Go Early for Solitude
Arrive at opening for a magical, crowd-free experience and amazing photos.
🎟️ Combo Ticket Value
Your ticket usually includes access to nearby Cenote Samula.
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.5 · 3,083 reviews
Type
Tourist Attraction
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The 'Eye of Heaven' Opening
Main cavern ceiling
Sunlight streams through a natural opening, illuminating the crystal-clear water below.
Mysterious Underground Pool
Main cavern
Swim in the refreshing, clear waters of this stunning subterranean natural swimming hole.
Impressive Stalactites
Cavern walls and ceiling
Marvel at the dramatic, ancient rock formations hanging from the cavern's roof.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Magical Photos
Combo Tickets & Local Guides
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Go Early for Solitude
Arrive at opening for a magical, crowd-free experience and amazing photos.
🎟️ Combo Ticket Value
Your ticket usually includes access to nearby Cenote Samula.
💧 Life Jacket Smell
Life jackets can have an odor; consider bringing your own if sensitive.
📸 Photo Ops & Costs
Professional photos with props like macaws are expensive; negotiate or skip.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Go Early for Solitude
Arrive at opening for a magical, crowd-free experience and amazing photos.
🎟️ Combo Ticket Value
Your ticket usually includes access to nearby Cenote Samula.
💧 Life Jacket Smell
Life jackets can have an odor; consider bringing your own if sensitive.
📸 Photo Ops & Costs
Professional photos with props like macaws are expensive; negotiate or skip.
🏊♀️ Swim & Explore
The water is clear and refreshing; let your eyes adjust to the dim light.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Cenote Xkeken's stunning beauty, describing it as a magical underground pool with crystal-clear water and dramatic cave formations. The unique lighting from the opening above creates a dreamlike atmosphere. However, some find the experience can become commercialized with crowds and expensive photo opportunities.
"An overrated place. These are actually two cenotes, both beautiful, but the surrounding scams are really annoying. Everyone is asking for a tip—starting from the parking lot to the guide who's supposed to show you the cenotes. It's a shame he forgot to mention that you have to pay extra for the key to the locker at the entrance, and I had to go back, but he didn't forget to ask for a tip. On the plus side, there aren't many people, but it's clear this place's glory days are long behind it."
Artur J.
"There are no words when it comes to this place so it’s ok to leave your mouth hanging open; just don’t forget to close it when swimming lol. My group was blessed by a local shaman and then allowed to enter the sacred Cenote. I had never done something like this before, and it was awe-inspiring how majestical this wondrous place is. I hope I get to visit again one day! 🌎🤩✨ (Part of the Chichén Itzá por XCaret package)"
PDougz
"coming from cenote suytun here with zero expectation, i was blown away when i entered the cenote with the sunlight shining through the hole.. very nice and beautiful! it was a 12pm friday and not a lot of tourists here, less than 5 people for each cenote.. totally worth the experience.. my only comment is the guy who followed me kept asking for tips, i tipped him 20 pesos.."
Ryan Chu
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cenote Xkeken is conveniently located about 15 minutes from Valladolid, Yucatan. You can easily reach it by car, taxi, or colectivos (shared vans) heading towards Dzitnup. Many visitors opt for a taxi or rent a car for flexibility.
Yes, colectivos that run between Valladolid and nearby towns often pass by the entrance to Cenote Xkeken and Samula. Ask your driver for the correct stop.
From Valladolid, head south on Highway 180 towards Chetumal. Turn right at the signs for Dzitnup and follow the road to the cenote parking area.
Yes, there is a parking area available for visitors arriving by car.
Many organized tours from Cancun include Cenote Xkeken as a stop, often combined with Chichen Itza. However, for a more independent experience, consider visiting on your own.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for Cenote Xkeken and Cenote Samula is typically around 226 pesos per person. Prices can vary, so it's always good to check for the latest information.
Advance booking is generally not required for Cenote Xkeken. You can purchase tickets upon arrival.
Cenote Xkeken usually opens around 8:30 AM and closes in the late afternoon. It's best to arrive early to avoid crowds.
Tickets typically grant access to both Cenote Xkeken and Cenote Samula. Additional costs may apply for life jackets or lockers.
Yes, life jacket rentals are usually available for an additional fee. Some visitors have noted they can smell.
🎫 🏊♀️ Onsite Experience
The water at Cenote Xkeken is crystal clear and refreshingly cool, perfect for swimming and cooling off. Tiny black fish also inhabit the waters.
Absolutely! Swimming is one of the main activities. The cenote offers a unique experience swimming in a natural underground pool.
The cenote offers good facilities including showers, toilets, and dressing rooms for visitors.
Yes, children can enjoy swimming in Cenote Xkeken, especially with life jackets. The unique environment is captivating for all ages.
Bring your swimsuit, a towel, reef-safe sunscreen, and water shoes. A waterproof bag for your belongings is also recommended.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is allowed, and the cenote offers incredible photo opportunities, especially when the sunlight streams through the opening.
Yes, there are photographers who offer professional photos, sometimes with props like macaws. Be aware that these can be quite expensive.
Early morning, right at opening, is ideal for capturing the best light and avoiding crowds, leading to more dramatic and personal photos.
You can bring your own camera or phone for photos. Drones may have restrictions, so check local regulations.
Professional photo packages can be costly, with prices reported around 600 pesos, though sometimes negotiable.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit