Cenote Ik Kil: A Wonder Of Nature

Very close to the famous modern wonder of the world, the Mayan City of Chichen Itza, you can find one of the most impressive cenotes in Mexico: Ik Kil.

Cenote IK Kil, also known as "The Sacred Blue Cenote" is located in a place that only Mayan royalty could access back in ancient times.

The cenote was called after the mayan words for "place of the winds"; and considering that it is only 2 miles (3 kilometers) from Chichen Itza, it makes sense that the magical atmosphere of this place lingers to this day. More than one visitor will claim that the cool crystalline waters of this cenote are a true medicine for the body.

After exploring the ruins of Chichen Itza and being exposed to the hot weather of the region, just the sight of this natural wonder is a treat for the soul.

Nature lovers also have a place here. This park is full of exotic plants that create the perfect habitat for hundreds of wild birds such as toucans, parrots, cardinals, etc. But this cenote is not only a home for birds, sometimes, it is possible to see small catfishes swimming along with visitors in the cool waters of Ik Kil.

One of the main characteristics of cenote Ik Kil is the way the sunlight sneaks from from the upper opening through the water below.It makes quite a show making the beautiful waterfalls sparkle.

Vegetation hangs from the edges of Cenote ik kil like a curtain framing the beauty of the blue waters below. Perhaps it is because of this ethereal quality that it has been one of the most popular spots for divers, having been chosen to host the Red Bull Diving World Championships in 2010, 2011, and 2014.

But this place is not only for professionals. Even though it has an approximate depth of 143 feet (43 meters), it is also suitable for all types of swimmers due to the 91-step tunnel (the same number of steps as the temple of Kukulkan in Chichen Itza) that leads to the water. Floating vests and other equipment is available for rent too.

The place has facilities for visitors such as dressing rooms, parking, and showers. It is mandatory for everyone who wants to swim to shower since wearing sunscreen or other ointments could alter the delicate ecosystem of the water and the surrounding vegetation.

In this regard, you will also find bungalows to stay in, a craft store, and restaurants within the complex to complement your visit and enjoy more time of the beauty that surrounds Cenote ik kil.

The cenote is open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. every day of the year.

To get there, you can take a bus or a van from the town of Piste, in case you want to use public transportation. You can aslo take a bus from Cancun or even Playa del Carmen, and it is also possible to take a cab from the ruins of Chichen Itza.

So this is your chance to immerse yourself in a magical place that continues to enchant visitors.