Cenote Ik Kil
A breathtaking open-air sinkhole in Yucatan, Mexico, famous for its clear turquoise waters and hanging vines.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Cenote Ik Kil
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking open-air sinkhole in Yucatan, Mexico, famous for its clear turquoise waters and hanging vines.
"This was one of the most beautiful, natural places I've been. 100% recommend."
👟 Water Shoes are a Must
Slippery surfaces abound! Water shoes provide grip and protect your feet from rough or hot ground.
📸 Waterproof Camera/Case
Don't miss capturing the magic! A waterproof camera or phone sleeve is essential for underwater shots.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Sinkhole
Main Cenote Area
Marvel at the immense open-air sinkhole, adorned with hanging vines and lush greenery. A true natural wonder.
Cliff Jumping
Designated Ledges
Take a leap of faith from the ledges into the refreshing, crystal-clear waters below. An exhilarating experience!
Underwater Views
Cenote Waters
Swim in the deep, clear turquoise waters, surrounded by the ancient Mayan energy of this sacred site.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds
Essential Gear
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Water Shoes are a Must
Slippery surfaces abound! Water shoes provide grip and protect your feet from rough or hot ground.
📸 Waterproof Camera/Case
Don't miss capturing the magic! A waterproof camera or phone sleeve is essential for underwater shots.
⏰ Arrive Early to Beat Crowds
To enjoy the cenote's beauty with fewer people, aim to arrive right at opening.
💧 Life Vest Provided
Life vests are mandatory and included with your entry, ensuring a safe swimming experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Water Shoes are a Must
Slippery surfaces abound! Water shoes provide grip and protect your feet from rough or hot ground.
📸 Waterproof Camera/Case
Don't miss capturing the magic! A waterproof camera or phone sleeve is essential for underwater shots.
⏰ Arrive Early to Beat Crowds
To enjoy the cenote's beauty with fewer people, aim to arrive right at opening.
💧 Life Vest Provided
Life vests are mandatory and included with your entry, ensuring a safe swimming experience.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Plan for at least 2 hours to account for queues for lockers, life vests, and entry.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Cenote Ik Kil is widely praised for its stunning natural beauty and unique geological formation, offering an unforgettable swimming and jumping experience. Visitors appreciate the clear waters and the dramatic scenery, though many note that it can get very crowded, impacting the overall tranquility. The facilities are generally well-organized, but the on-site food receives mixed reviews.
"Very picturesque place. Everything is well organized and very clean - changing rooms, toilets showers. access is very easy. Nice way to cool off in the hot hours of the day. Hopefully you can avoid the large groups that visit it to enjoy the natural beauty of this place."
Lyubomir Markovski
"Chichen itza + Cenote Ik Kil via Colectivo
In Valladolid we got to the Colectivo stand at approximately 8:45 am, it cost 350 pesos (cash) per person to get the “package deal” – Colectivo to Chichen itza, colectivo from Chichen itza to Cenote Ik Kil (includes entry fee, life jacket and locker rental), and colectivo from Cenote back to Valladolid. They give you all three tickets in advance and the wristband to the cenote so make sure to hold onto it. We had to wait about 30 minutes for the first colectivo in the morning, they were trying to fill it up and a few locals jumped in at the end. We got to Chichen itza around 10:15 am and there was a short line to buy tickets there. You can pay with card, and they have two separate charges for the entrance fee. There were several Tour groups around but we didn’t feel that it was too busy given how widespread the site is. We listened to a short 1 hour podcast on the history of Chichen Itza while walking around which was informative; there are also plaques in English to read. We walked around to 5 or so main spots including the main pyramid and the sacred cenote and then came back to the colectivo pick up area (same place as drop off, next to a large tree) and only had to wait about 10 minutes for the colectivo (which already had people coming from Piste on it)
The staff at the cenote are all really friendly and monitored safely in the cenote carefully. You can use the bathrooms or changing rooms for free - included with the ticket price. Staff speak good English and instruct you on how to use the lockers. They also fit you with lifejackets (mandatory).
There is a staircase that leads down to the cenote, there is a metal railing next to it but it is best to be careful when descending as the stairs are wet and slippery
We arrived at a slightly busy time, there were a couple of Tour groups there but there was only a very short line to jump into the cenote and no line for the bathroom/change room.
It was fun watching people jump or dive into the water, but much nicer and more peaceful when these groups cleared out around 2/2:30 pm when it was quiet and only a few people were left in the water relaxing
Note - you need to leave everything in the lockers including thongs/slides/towels and can only bring shoes if they are water shoes. Would recommend a water resistant pouch/phone holder to put your phone in so you can take photos while in the cenote.
The pick up location is the same as drop off and a bus comes every 30 to 40 minutes. There is also a WhatsApp number on the ticket that you could contact to check.
The colectivo back to Valladolid was overfilled but only for about two minutes before a couple of people jumped off."
Monique Fernandez
"We had a quick visit with our tour. But it was very memorable. The water was very cold, but crystal clear. The people were very nice. I cant wait to get back there so I can buy a bottle of the tequila they let us sample."
Jimmy Addington
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cenote Ik Kil is conveniently located just 10 minutes from Chichen Itza. Many tours include it as a stop. You can also hire a taxi or take a colectivo (shared van) from Valladolid or Piste.
Yes, colectivos run regularly from Valladolid to the Chichen Itza area, and you can ask the driver to drop you off near Cenote Ik Kil. Taxis are also readily available.
Rent a car for flexibility, or base yourself in Valladolid and take a taxi or colectivo. Visiting independently allows you to control your timing and avoid large tour groups.
Cenote Ik Kil is about a 2.5 to 3-hour drive from Cancun and Playa del Carmen. It's often combined with a visit to Chichen Itza as a full-day trip.
Yes, there is a parking area available for visitors who arrive by car. It's usually quite spacious, though it can fill up during peak times.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for Cenote Ik Kil is typically around 200 MXN per person. This price is comparable to other cenotes in the region.
Your entrance fee usually includes access to the cenote, a mandatory life vest, and changing rooms. Lockers are often available for an additional small fee or included.
Tickets are generally purchased on-site upon arrival. It's advisable to have cash (MXN) ready, though some places may accept cards.
Cenote Ik Kil is typically open daily from around 8 AM or 9 AM until 5 PM or 6 PM. It's best to check current hours before your visit.
While there isn't a strict time limit, it's recommended to allow at least 2 hours to fully enjoy the experience, especially considering potential queues.
🎫 🏊 Onsite Experience
The water temperature in Cenote Ik Kil is consistently refreshing, usually around 25-27°C (77-81°F), making it perfect for a swim any time of year.
Yes, there are designated ledges from which you can jump into the cenote. It's a popular and thrilling activity for many visitors.
Yes, Cenote Ik Kil has restrooms, changing rooms, and showers available for visitors to use before and after swimming.
You might spot small fish in the water and various birds, including the Yucatan Jay, in the surrounding jungle foliage.
Yes, it is very safe. Life vests are mandatory, and lifeguards are usually present. The water is clear, and the depth is well-marked.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a restaurant on-site offering a buffet. However, many visitors find the food to be mediocre and suggest eating elsewhere. +1
The closest town with more dining options is Valladolid, which offers a variety of local restaurants and cafes. Many tours also include lunch stops.
Outside food and drinks are generally not permitted inside the cenote area. It's best to consume them before or after your visit.
Reviews suggest the buffet is not the highlight of the experience, with some describing it as 'sucks' or 'mediocre.' It's often part of tour packages. +1
There might be smaller vendors selling snacks or drinks, but the main dining option is the buffet restaurant. It's wise to bring some cash for small purchases.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light and fewer people, making for more dramatic and less crowded photos.
A waterproof camera or a waterproof phone case is highly recommended to capture the underwater beauty and protect your device.
Drone usage is typically restricted at popular tourist sites like Cenote Ik Kil to ensure safety and avoid disturbing other visitors. Check local regulations.
The main sinkhole with its hanging vines, the jumping ledges, and the clear turquoise water are all incredibly photogenic.
Yes, with a waterproof camera or case, you can capture amazing shots while swimming or jumping into the cenote.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage kids to try jumping from the lower ledges if they are comfortable, which is a thrilling experience. Remember to bring waterproof gear for capturing their excitement. While the buffet is available, packing snacks or planning a meal in Valladolid might be a better option for picky eaters.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Invest in a good waterproof camera or a reliable phone case. The reflections in the water and the unique geological formations offer endless creative possibilities. Don't forget to experiment with shots from different angles, including underwater perspectives.
🚗 Independent Travelers
Be prepared for potential queues for lockers and life vests, and have cash on hand for entry fees and any small purchases. While the on-site buffet is an option, exploring Valladolid's culinary scene offers a more authentic and often better dining experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Sacred Waters of Ik Kil
+1The cenote's depth can reach up to 40 meters (130 feet), with the water itself being about 26 meters (85 feet) deep. It's a popular stop for visitors coming from the nearby Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza, offering a refreshing escape from the heat. The experience of swimming in its cool waters, surrounded by such natural beauty, is often described as magical and unforgettable.
Beyond its visual appeal, Cenote Ik Kil holds cultural significance. Cenotes were vital water sources for the ancient Maya and were often considered sacred entrances to the underworld (Xibalba). Visiting Ik Kil offers a chance to connect with this ancient history and the raw power of nature.
Navigating the Crowds and Experience
Upon arrival, visitors will find facilities like changing rooms, restrooms, and lockers. Life vests are mandatory for swimming and are provided with the entrance fee. It's also highly advised to wear water shoes due to the slippery surfaces of the cenote's edges and steps. Bringing a waterproof camera or a protective case for your phone is essential for capturing the stunning scenery, both above and below the water.
Despite the potential for crowds, the experience of swimming in the cenote, jumping from the ledges, and simply marveling at the natural architecture is widely considered worth it. The organization of the site, with clear safety measures and well-maintained facilities, contributes to a positive overall visit, even during busy periods.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit