5 Cenotes in the Yucatan Peninsula Worth Visiting

By Lianne at LAN Photography | Updated on 12/07/22

We were absolutely shocked to find out that the Yucatan Peninsula is speckled with at least 6,000 cenotes. After living in Mérida for over a year, we were able to explore some hidden gems, but we definitely didn't even scratch the surface. So the good news is, if you ever get tired of all of the tourists at the popular cenotes, there are plenty to go around. With the brutal heat of the Yucatán, cooling off at these sinkholes quickly becomes a perfect pastime. 

1. Cenote X'batun

One of my absolute favorites. Due to it's location, (about an hour south of Mérida) it's not usually inundated by visitors. The cenote itself is very easy to get to, no ladders or caves, so it's fun to explore and jump in the water. The shallow water made it easy to see the bottom and the sapphire colors were stunning. 

2. Cenote Xlacah at Dzibilchaltún

What a fun name! Basically this was a big, natural playground because you had the added bonus of an archaeological site with ruins to explore. This cenote was filled will lily pads, so it was nice to dip in... and if you're lucky some little fish will snack on your toes. You can easily grab an Uber here since it's located right on the outskirts of Mérida.   

3. Cenote Yaal Utzil

On a random weekday, I hopped on a local bus with a few girlfriends and we ended up at this cenote in the middle of nowhere. We jumped in, swam a bit, and tanned on the (very safe) platform. I was stung by a bee for the first time and then we meandered around the neighborhood in search of food. A nice family prepared (overpriced) omelettes for us and we ate besides their cats and chickens. 

My Cenote X'batun Print

The crystal clear sapphire water and mystical sprawling vines made this my favorite cenote. 

You can purchase this print in my Etsy shop.

4. Cenotes Hacienda Mucuyché

While this was more of a structured tour, it was well worth it. Some of the grounds of the hacienda have been beautifully restored. We were able to learn about the history of the plantation, swim around a huge cave and through a magical  passage-like pool. 

hello.liannew@gmail.com

@lantravelshop