The 7 best cenotes near Chichén Itzá
All of these cenotes are within 40 minutes of the Chichén Itzá archaeological zone. We've ranked them by a combination of beauty, swimming quality, facilities, and crowd levels.
1. Cenote Ik Kil: The iconic cenote
Distance from Chichén Itzá: 3 km (5 min)
The most famous cenote in Mexico, and for good reason. Cenote Ik Kil is a massive open-air sinkhole, 25 meters deep, with hanging roots and vines cascading down the limestone walls. The turquoise water is breathtaking from the viewing platform above, and swimming in it is unforgettable.
Entry: $150 MXN (~$9 USD). Has: lockers, changing rooms, restaurant, life jackets (required). Gets busy after 11 AM, visit early or on a cenote combo tour that arrives before the crowds.
2. Cenote Suytun: Best for photos
Distance: 30 km (30 min)
An underground cave cenote with a stone platform extending into the water and a natural beam of light from above. Suytun is stunningly photogenic, the kind of cenote you see on Instagram. Swimming is possible but the main draw is the visual experience.
Entry: $200 MXN (~$12 USD). Gets crowded midday, morning is best for the light beam effect.
3. Cenote Hubiku: Best hidden gem
Distance: 33 km (25 min)
A deep underground cenote that feels like entering a cathedral. The ceiling is high, the water is crystal-clear, and there are far fewer visitors than Ik Kil or Suytun. The descent is by stairway carved into the rock.
Entry: $120 MXN (~$7 USD). Has: changing rooms, small restaurant. Rarely crowded.
4. Cenote Yokdzonot: Best community cenote
Distance: 20 km (20 min)
Run by the local Maya community, this open-air cenote is less developed but more authentic. The entry fee goes directly to the village. Good swimming, peaceful atmosphere, and local guides available.
Entry: $100 MXN (~$6 USD). Basic facilities.
5. Cenote Samulá: Best underground swim
Distance: 40 km (35 min, near Valladolid)
A fully enclosed underground cenote with a single hole in the ceiling letting in a shaft of light. Tree roots hang down through the opening, reaching all the way to the water. Spectacular.
Entry: $125 MXN (~$7 USD). Usually paired with its neighbor Cenote Xkekén (separate entry).
6. Cenote Xkekén (Dzitnup): Most atmospheric
Distance: 40 km (35 min, near Valladolid)
Right next to Samulá, this cave cenote has dramatic stalactites and a small opening that creates beautiful light effects. The access is via a narrow, steep stairway, not ideal for those with mobility issues.
Entry: $125 MXN (~$7 USD).
7. Cenote Oxman: Best for jumping
Distance: 42 km (35 min)
Located at a hacienda near Valladolid, Cenote Oxman is popular for its rope swing and jumping platform. The cenote is semi-open with lush vegetation overhead. Good restaurant on-site.
Entry: $200 MXN (~$12 USD, includes drink credit).
Which cenote should you visit?
On a tour? You'll likely visit Ik Kil or Suytun, both are excellent. Driving yourself? Visit Hubiku for a quieter experience, or head to Valladolid to combine Samulá and Xkekén in one stop. Want the full experience? Book a cenote combo tour that visits 2–3 cenotes in one day.
Visit Chichén Itzá + cenotes in one trip
Browse combo tours that include the ruins and your choice of cenote.
Questions fréquentes
Cenote Ik Kil is the closest major cenote to Chichén Itzá, located just 3 km (5 minutes) from the ruins. It's an open-air sinkhole with vines, turquoise water, and full facilities.
Yes, if you have a rental car, you can visit cenotes independently. Cenote Ik Kil, Suytun, Hubiku, and Yokdzonot are all within 30 minutes of the ruins and charge $100–200 MXN (~$6–12 USD) entry.
Yes, all the cenotes listed here are well-maintained with lifeguards, life jackets (usually required), and safe access stairs or platforms. The water is clean, fresh, and a constant 24–25°C.