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.
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.
"We got caught in the rain that day, so it wasn't the greatest experience but we had a blast in the cenotes. It's like a total different world down there. The staff is really friendly, the only thing I can say was a bad thing, and not really bad, but hoping they can address the issue is that the life jackets we rented reak bad. Pretty cool place to spend the day with friends and family."
Agustin Gonzalez
"Cenote Xkekén was stunning—a magical underground pool with crystal-clear water and dramatic cave formations. The light filtering through the small opening above made it feel like something out of a dream. It’s refreshing, peaceful, and a perfect place to cool off. A hidden gem worth the visit!"
John Zutaut
"Wonderful surprise! We had no expectations, but we went at the opening (around 8:30am) and there was nobody, so we took amazing photos and it is possible to swim. Definitely worth it, especially because a local guide leads you to the other adjacent Cenotes like Dzinup. After my trip i would say that a visit is mandatory!!!"
Luca Dinelli
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tip: Arrive early to ensure a less crowded experience, making it easier to supervise children. The facilities like changing rooms and showers are convenient for families. Consider bringing snacks and drinks, as options inside might be limited or pricier.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Best Strategy: Visit at opening time to get unobstructed shots of the main cavern and the iconic beam of light. Be mindful of the expensive professional photo packages offered; it's often better to use your own equipment to capture personal memories.
💰 Budget Travelers
Money-Saving Tip: Pack your own water and snacks to avoid inflated prices. If you're traveling from Valladolid, using colectivos is a cost-effective way to reach the cenote compared to taxis or private tours.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mystical World of Cenotes
Cenote Xkeken, also known as Dzitnup, is a prime example of a closed cenote, meaning it's largely enclosed by a cave. This creates a unique, almost mystical atmosphere, with stalactites and stalagmites adorning the cavern. The limited opening in the ceiling allows a dramatic beam of sunlight to pierce the darkness, illuminating the clear, cool waters below.
Visiting cenotes like Xkeken offers a glimpse into both the natural wonders of the Yucatan Peninsula and the rich cultural history of the Maya civilization. It's an experience that combines adventure, natural beauty, and a touch of ancient mystery.
Experiencing Cenote Xkeken: What to Expect
As you descend into Cenote Xkeken, let your eyes adjust to the dimmer light. The main attraction is the stunning underground pool, with its clear, inviting water. You can swim freely, and many visitors find it incredibly refreshing. Life jackets are available for rent, which can be helpful for those less confident in the water.
While the cenote itself is a natural wonder, be prepared for a potentially commercialized experience, especially if you visit during peak hours or on a tour. Some visitors have noted numerous vendors and the presence of photographers offering expensive photo packages.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit