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.
Plans 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.
"This was one of the most beautiful, natural places I've been. 100% recommend.
Pro tips - Don't get the buffet. It sucks. Get some water shoes to wear because it's slippery and the ground is either course or 1,000° burning your feet.
Take either a waterproof camera or sleeve for your phone. I didn't do this and regret it.
Jump off the ledge and enjoy."
John Austin
"Awesome experience. It was an amazing sight. A huge clear water well. They take utmost caution on the visitors. Very neat and clean. Even the dress changing rooms kept neat and tidy. They provide lockers. Life jacket. And we loved it. Couldn't come out of it easily. Must visit place."
Ganesh Krishnamurthy
"Really beautiful Cenote, one of the best of the area after visiting some others. It's well organized with lockers, they give you the mandatory life vest. The only bad thing is that it's crowded, it's suggested to go in the early morning but don't miss it even for a photo.
The price is similar to the other Cenotes"
Luca Dinelli
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.
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.
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
The 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