As one of the most popular attractions in the Yucatan Peninsula, the Ik Kil Cenote continues to attract visitors from all over the world. Although this sinkhole is quite large at 200 feet wide and over 150 feet deep, it’s Ik Kil’s lush, tropical setting that makes it one of the most stunning places to visit.
The perfectly round opening is overflowing with lush vines and plants, many of which are long enough to touch the surface of the turquoise blue waters.
Not only is Ik Kil a beautiful place to swim and cliff dive but it’s also believed to be one of the most sacred cenotes in Mexico. Historians believe that the Mayans would come to the sinkhole to make human sacrifices to Chaac, the rain god.
During the cenote’s discovery, historical artifacts and human remains were found at the bottom of the cenote by archeologists. Although everything has already been excavated, it’s still worth taking a dip in this cenote.
Below is our guide to making the most of your visit to this amazing cenote.
Best Ik Kil Cenote Tour – We recommend this one
Planning your visit to Ik Kil Cenote
Ik Kil is one of Mexico’s most beautiful cenotes but also one of the most popular. Ik Kil is often paired with a trip to the Chichen Itza Ruins since there is only a short distance apart.
Most tours will take you to the Mayan Ruins in the morning and then cool off in the cenote in the afternoon. While this is a good order to do things – if you want fewer crowds, try visiting this cenote earlier in the day.
Il Kil Cenote Hours & Entrance Fees
- Hours: Daily 9 am – 5 pm
- Entrance Fee: 100 Pesos (adults), 40 Pesos (children)
- Get Directions
Snorkeling in Ik Kil Cenote
Compared to other places in Mexico, the Ik Kil Cenote isn’t overflowing with tropical fish or colorful corals. Although there’s not much to see, it’s still possible to snorkel in Ik Kil.
The water is extremely deep, so you will only be able to see a few feet below you. If you’re lucky, you might be able to see some black catfish swimming around. However, don’t expect to see a huge variety of fish in Ik Kil.
The facilities at Ik Kil Cenote do not rent snorkel equipment, so you should bring your own if you want to explore the depths. A snorkel mask also makes it easier to stay afloat since you don’t have to tread water the entire time.
Whatever you do, don’t drop the mask, as it will probably sink to the bottom of the 150-foot sinkhole, never to be found again.
Cliff Jumping in Ik Kil Cenote
Cliff jiving into the Ik Kil Cenote is by far the most popular activity for visitors. There is a carved stairway that leads up to several diving platforms. The lowest platform is nine feet high, which is a relatively easy jump for first-time divers.
You can head up to the higher 18-foot platform for something more thrilling. Don’t worry if the height makes you feel intimidated; there is a lifeguard on duty at all times in case something goes wrong.
Equipment Rental Prices at Ik Kil Cenote
Ik Kil has fully equipped facilities to make your trip more enjoyable. You’ll find a desk near the changing rooms that rents out lifejackets for 30 Pesos.
Since the sinkhole is over 150 feet deep, many people feel more comfortable swimming with a bit of extra protection. If you choose to swim without a lifejacket, be prepared to tread water since there are limited places to stand while in the cenote.
Cenote Tours to Ik Kil
- Chichen Itza, Ik Kil Cenote, and Valladolid Tour – Book Now
- Complete list of available tours that include a visit to Ik Kil Cenote
Reasons to Visit Ik Kil Cenote
1. The breathtaking scenery
Draped in lush vines and green leaves, Ik Kil Cenote is a spectacular sight to behold. The steep surrounding walls extend 90 feet into the air and add a dramatic look to the already stunning sinkhole. You’ll even find a few cascading waterfalls along the sides of the cenote walls.
Make sure not to pull, hang, or swing from the vines. This is strictly prohibited and will get you kicked out of the Ik Kil Cenote.
2. Easy to reach from Chichen Itza
Ik Kil Cenote is located in proximity to Chichen Itza, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. It’s the perfect place to relax and cool off after a long day of sightseeing and walking around the Mayan ruins.
Most tours to Ik Kil are combined with a day trip to Chichen Itza so that you can tick both destinations off your bucket list.
3. Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series
If Ik Kil’s tropical setting looks familiar, it’s because it was the setting for the Red Bull Cliff Diving competition, where professional athletes would jump down almost 100 feet off the edges of the cenote’s opening.
Ik Kil hosted the event in 2010, 2011, and, most recently, 2014. Although you are not allowed to jump from the opening of the cenote, there are still several diving platforms below where you can experience the thrill for yourself.
4. Excellent facilities
Despite its off-the-beaten-path location, Ik Kil has top-notch facilities to make your visit more comfortable. There are two on-site restaurants, a locker (30 pesos), changing rooms, and even a souvenir shop.
You can also rent lifejackets if you want assistance staying afloat while you’re swimming in the cenote. If you’re interested in spending a few days near Ik Kil, you can also rent a bungalow at the nearby hotel.
5. Several diving platforms
Although many people come to Ik Kil to swim, diving from one of the two diving platforms is possible. Although you may not be able to experience the thrill of diving from the cenote opening, you can still make a splash by jumping several feet down into the cool, refreshing waters.
If you’re looking for a thrilling adventure, make sure to take a dive off these heart-stopping cliffs!
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