Sacred Cenote
Chichen Itza, Mexico, 97751
Located near El Castillo at Chichen Itza, the Sacred Cenote is a natural sinkhole that held immense religious significance for the Maya, who used it for rituals and offerings to their gods. It is a must-see part of any Chichen Itza tour, and visitors are drawn to its historical importance, stunning natural beauty, and connection to Maya spirituality.
The basics
Many guided tours of Chichen Itza include a stop at the Sacred Cenote, while self-guided visits are possible if traveling by car or bus. The cenote is not suitable for swimming due to the amount of underwater vegetation and stagnant water, but you can connect with Maya spirituality and admire the cenote’s serene beauty. It makes for a fitting end following a tour of the archaeological site.
Things to know before you go
The walk to the Sacred Cenote involves uneven paths, so wear sturdy footwear.
A visit to nearby Cenote Ik Kil—where you swim—is sometimes included in guided tours of Chichen Itza.
Artifacts found at the cenote, including human remains and jade from archaeological investigations, are displayed at The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York.
How to get there
The Sacred Cenote is a short walk along a marked path near El Castillo at the Chichen Itza archaeological site. Guided tours of Chichen Itza often include cenote visits on their itineraries. You can also reach the site by car or bus; local buses travel to Chichen Itza from nearby cities, although they don’t run frequently.
When to get there
The best time to visit Chichen Itza and the Sacred Cenote is generally during the dry season from November to April, when the weather is cooler and less rainy. Also, consider visiting in the early morning when there are fewer crowds, and you can avoid the midday heat. Sunrise tours are also available for an atmospheric experience.
Cenotes in Yucatán Peninsula
The cenotes in Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula are natural sinkholes formed by collapsed limestone bedrock, revealing the groundwater underneath. Revered by the ancient Maya as sacred, these unique formations are popular for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. You can visit Cenote Azul, Cenote Ik Kil, and Gran Cenote.
Travel Like an Expert with AAA and Trip Canvas
Get Ideas from the Pros
As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.
Build and Research Your Options
Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.
Book Everything in One Place
From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!