10 Best Cenotes Near Ek Balam

The Beauty of Cenotes Near Ek Balam

When you visit Ek Balam, one of the most magical Mayan cities in Yucatán, you are stepping into a world where history and nature meet perfectly. Just a few minutes away from the ancient ruins lie dozens of cenotes — crystal-clear natural pools that were sacred to the Maya and today are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or just relaxing in pure jungle tranquility.

If you are planning your trip to Valladolid or Ek Balam, these are the 10 cenotes you must visit. Some are right next to the ruins, others a short drive away, but all offer unforgettable experiences.

1. Cenote X’Canche — The Sacred Cenote of Ek Balam

Hidden deep in the Mayan jungle of Hunukú, Yucatán, Cenote X-Canché is a true natural gem located just 1 mile (1.5 kms) from the Ek Balam archaeological site and about 2 miles (3 kms) from the nearby village. This semi-open cenote, with a 40-meter-wide pool of crystal-clear water, offers a refreshing escape surrounded by nature and culture.

You can reach the cenote by walking, renting a bike, or taking a tricycle for two passengers along a scenic 1 mile (1.5 km) trail through the forest. Once there, enjoy swimming, rappelling, or flying across the water on a zip line. For a more relaxed experience, unwind in the hammock area under a palapa, or savor authentic Yucatecan dishes prepared by local cooks at the on-site restaurant.

The X-Canché Ecotourism Cooperative, created in 2002 by local residents, has turned this sacred place into a model of sustainable tourism. They also offer camping areas, cabins, and bonfire spaces for visitors who wish to spend the night close to nature.

A visit to X-Canché perfectly complements your Ek Balam adventure, where you can explore the ancient Acropolis, ceremonial temples, and the impressive defensive walls of this Mayan city.

Distance: 1 miles (1.5 km) from Ek Balam
Type: Semi-open cenote
Entrance fee: Around 200 MXN per person.

Cenote X-Canché is more than a stop — it’s a journey into the heart of the Mayan jungle.

2. Cenote Sac-Aua — The Cenote with an Island

Located near the small village of Dzalbay, east of Valladolid, Yucatán, the Sac-Aua Cenote is one of the most unique cenotes in the region. What makes it truly special is its central island, surrounded by crystal-clear turquoise waters — a rare sight among Yucatán’s cenotes.

Visitors are welcomed by local caretakers at a cozy palapa-restaurant, where the adventure begins. From there, a scenic white dirt trail leads you through the jungle to the cenote. You can walk (about 15 minutes) or rent a bicycle for a faster ride. Along the way, you’ll notice beautifully decorated showers with paintings of cactus, snakes, and corn — a creative touch that sets this place apart.

Once you reach the edge, a large natural opening reveals the cenote below. A wooden staircase takes you down to the soft sandy island surrounded by vibrant green waters and stunning stalactite formations. The cenote measures 90 meters in diameter and 1 to 12 meters deep, perfect for swimming, relaxing, or exploring.

Activities include rappelling, kayaking, cycling, and walking tours through the surrounding nature trails. Afterward, you can enjoy local dishes at the restaurant or rest in the shaded seating areas

Facilities: Restaurant, restrooms, showers, parking, and dining area.
Distance: 5.5 miles (9 km) from Ek Balam
Type: Closed cenote with an island inside
Entrance fee: Around $100 MXN (foreign visitors) | $70 MXN (nationals), per person.

3. Cenote Palomitas — A Hidden Underground Paradise

Just 12 miles (20 kilometers) southwest of Valladolid, Yucatán, in the peaceful village of Yalcobá, lies Cenote Palomitas — one of the most beautiful and lesser-known cenotes in the region. Its name, meaning “popcorn,” comes from the fascinating stalactite and stalagmite formations that decorate its dome and walls, resembling popped corn.

This underground cenote features a wide turquoise pool about 165 ft. (50 meters) in diameter and 47 ft. (45 meters) deep. Despite being enclosed, it’s easy to access thanks to the stone staircase that leads visitors safely down to the water’s edge. Once inside, the view is breathtaking — crystal-clear water illuminated by soft natural light, surrounded by rock formations that seem to come alive.

Cenote Palomitas offers a tranquil and intimate atmosphere, far from crowded tourist spots. Visitors can swim, snorkel, or rent a kayak to explore the calm waters. The cenote is also home to colorful fish and small turtles, making it perfect for nature lovers.

Facilities include bathrooms, changing rooms, a restaurant serving traditional Yucatecan dishes, parking, and life jacket rentals. The site is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and the best time to visit is early in the morning when the sunlight gently filters through the cave, creating a magical glow.

Cenote Palomitas is a hidden gem of Yucatán — a peaceful escape into nature’s beauty and one of Valladolid’s best-kept secrets.

Distance: 16 miles (25 km) from Ek Balam
Type: Cave cenote
Entrance fee: Around 150-200 MXN per person

4. Cenote Agua Dulce — The Hidden Twin

Located near Valladolid in the village of Yalcobá, Cenote Agua Dulce is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. This closed cenote features crystal-clear turquoise waters surrounded by impressive stalactites and stalagmites, creating an enchanting underground landscape.

Access to the cenote is via a suspended spiral staircase that descends about 42 ft. (13 meters) to a floating platform in the center. The cenote is approximately 49 ft. (15 meters deep) and 262 ft. (80 meters) in diameter, with two small natural openings in the ceiling that let sunlight illuminate the water and rock formations, adding a mystical atmosphere. Artificial lighting inside highlights the stunning stalactites, making it perfect for photography.

Visitors can swim, kayak, or relax on the wooden platform while enjoying the peaceful surroundings. For the adventurous, there’s even an option to rappel into the cenote through one of the ceiling openings (extra fee applies). Life jackets and kayak rentals are available for a small fee.

Cenote Agua Dulce is a hidden gem of Yucatán — combining adrenaline, natural beauty, and serenity in one unforgettable experience.

Facilities: Restaurant, parking, showers, and changing rooms.
Entrance fee: Around 100 MXN (~5 USD) per person
Type: Underground cenote
Best Time to Visit: Between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, when sunlight filters through the ceiling openings.

5. Cenote Hubiku — The Family Favorite

Located in Temozón, between Chichén Itzá and Ek Balam, Cenote Hubiku is one of the largest and most popular cenotes near Valladolid. This semi-open cenote features emerald green water and a nearly circular shape, with a diameter of 50 meters and a depth of 27 meters. Sunlight enters through a ceiling opening, illuminating cascading tree roots and surrounding vegetation, creating a serene and magical atmosphere.

To reach the water, visitors descend 115 steps, arriving at refreshingly cool turquoise water perfect for swimming or snorkeling. Life jackets are available for rent, and the cenote is monitored by lifeguards to ensure safety.

Hubiku also offers full visitor amenities, including a Mexican buffet restaurant, bathrooms and showers, and a gift shop. On-site, you can explore the Don Tadeo Tequila Museum, taste a variety of tequilas, and learn about their production process.

The cenote is open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, early visits are recommended to enjoy the best light and fewer crowds, and midday is ideal for warmer water.

Hubiku combines natural beauty, adventure, and cultural experiences, making it a perfect destination for travelers looking to swim, relax, and enjoy authentic Yucatecan flavors in a unique and stunning setting.

Distance: 1 miles (15 kms) from Ek Balam (near Temozón)
Type: Semi-open cenote
Entrance fee: Starting at 100 pesos (~$5.25 USD) for tourists.

6. Cenote Chichikán — The Cultural Cenote Experience

Just 5 minutes from Valladolid, Chichikan Cenote offers an immersive Mayan cultural and nature experience. This open cenote stands 79 ft. (24 meters) high with 27 ft. (8 meters) of depth, featuring limestone walls, a central island, and a waterfall that creates a calming, soulful atmosphere.

Visitors can enjoy 13 different activities related to Mayan culture, including tasting Mayan chocolate, honey, and handmade tortillas, playing the traditional Mayan ball game, and learning three phrases in the Mayan language. The park also showcases traditional Mayan clothing, ceremonial practices, and bioclimatic wooden houses with palm roofs .

The cenote provides a refreshing swim in its crystal-clear waters, surrounded by lush Yucatán jungle. This experience is perfect for families, friends, or anyone looking to connect with nature while exploring the magic of Mayan heritage.

Distance: 15.5 miles (25 km) from Ek Balam (15 minutes from Valladolid).
Type: Semi-open cenote
Entrance fee: Around 790 MXN per person (includes cultural experience).
Open every day from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.

7. Cenote Samulá — The Iconic Cenote of Valladolid

Located just 0.6 miles (1 kilometer) from the village of Dzitnup, near the historic city of Valladolid, Samula Cenote is one of the most stunning underground cenotes in Yucatán. This spacious cave offers crystal-clear turquoise waters, illuminated by a natural hole in the ceiling, through which sunlight filters, highlighting stalactites and cascading tree roots that reach down into the water. The effect is both magical and serene, making it a must-visit for travelers seeking natural beauty and adventure.

Visitors begin the experience by carefully descending stone stairs to a first-level viewpoint, offering a breathtaking panorama of the cave. Continuing down wooden stairs leads to a second level, providing a unique perspective of this natural marvel. At the final level, a platform invites swimming, snorkeling, or diving in the refreshing waters, where you can admire the small fish and explore deeper areas of the cenote.

The surrounding area is well-maintained, with walkways and artisan stalls, giving visitors a chance to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere while exploring local crafts. Samula Cenote is perfect for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and photographers, offering unforgettable views and a sense of connection with the unique Yucatán environment.

Distance: 17 miles (28 km) from Ek Balam (in Dzitnup village)
Type: Cave cenote
Entrance fee: Around 150 MXN per person

8. Cenote Xkekén — The Neighbor of Samulá

In the heart of the Yucatán Peninsula, just a short drive from the charming city of Valladolid, lies X’Kekén Cenote, also known as Cenote Dzitnup. This hidden gem is one of the most beautiful cenotes in Mexico, it is a must-visit natural wonder for travelers exploring the region, offering a perfect blend of nature, history, and adventure.

X’Kekén is a covered underground cenote, with a small natural opening in its limestone ceiling that allows sunlight to stream in. The light illuminates the turquoise waters and stalactites hanging from the roof, creating a breathtaking reflection that seems almost magical. The cenote’s waters are shallow and crystal-clear, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or simply floating and admiring the unique cave formations. Small fish swim peacefully in the water, adding to the tranquil ambiance.

According to local legend, the cenote was discovered when a farmer followed his pig into the cave, giving it the name X’Kekén, which means “pig” in the Mayan language. Beyond its natural beauty, the cenote is steeped in Maya history, as cenotes were considered sacred portals to the underworld and often used for ceremonial purposes.

The cenote is part of a tourist complex that includes another spectacular cenote, Samula, allowing visitors to enjoy two stunning natural wonders in one trip. The area is equipped with parking, restrooms, changing rooms, swimming gear rentals, souvenir shops, and a small restaurant, making it easy to spend a few hours immersed in nature.

X’Kekén is open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and is accessible year-round. The best times to visit are early in the morning or later in the afternoon to enjoy the cenote with fewer crowds and softer light for photos. X’Kekén Cenote promises an unforgettable experience.

Distance: Next to Samulá (Dzitnup village)
Type: Cave cenote
Entrance fee: Around 150 MXN per person

9. Cenote Secreto Maya — The Adventure Spot

For those looking for fun and adrenaline, Cenote Secreto Maya is a perfect choice. It’s an open cenote Surrounded by lush jungle with cliff jumping platforms, zipline, and rappel activities.

It is ideal for swimming, relaxing in hammocks, or grabbing lunch at the on-site restaurant. You can rent life vests, access the pool, enjoy food and drinks, get massages, take part in a Mayan ceremony, and explore the Jaguar Cave.

It is less crowded than others, giving it a more exclusive vibe. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline, stunning photos, or a peaceful swim, Cenote Secreto Maya is the perfect mix of adventure and natural beauty.

Distance: 6 miles (10 km) from Ek Balam
Type: Open cenote
Entrance fee: Around 250 MXN per person

10. Cenote Kikil — The Nature Sanctuary

Just 10 minutes from Tizimín, Cenote Kikil is an ancient cenote named by the Maya, meaning “Place where the Kíikche tree abounds.” For centuries it remained in its natural state until recent efforts opened it for visitors to enjoy its refreshing green waters.

This open cenote has a diameter of 130 ft (40 meters), with a depth of 180 ft (55 meters), and is surrounded by stone walls and lush vegetation. Visitors descend wooden stairs to a platform that provides a stunning view of the cenote before entering its cool waters. Life vests are essential, as the exact depth is still unknown to explorers.

Cenote Kikil offers all the facilities for a full day of relaxation: parking, gardens, showers, restrooms, cabins, a pool, local crafts, and a restaurant serving traditional Yucatecan cuisine

Kikil is a peaceful, eco-friendly cenote managed by a local cooperative. It’s located in a nature reserve that’s perfect for birdwatching, photography, and quiet swimming.

The cenote is open and shallow around the edges, with clear water full of fish and aquatic plants. You can stroll through the gardens and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere far from the crowds.

Distance: 12 miles (20 km) north of Valladolid (on the road to Tizimín)
Type: Open cenote
Entrance fee: Around 100 MXN per person

How to Visit the Cenotes Near Ek Balam

• Use biodegradable sunscreen and repellent only.
• Use Bring water shoes and a towel.
• Always shower before swimming to protect the cenote’s delicate ecosystem.
• Bring cash, as most cenotes don’t take cards.

Explore Cenotes Near Ek Balam with Odigoo Travel

Visiting the stunning cenotes near Ek Balam is easier than ever with Odigoo Travel. We offer private vans and buses with professional drivers to take you safely and comfortably to each destination. Plus, we can handle hotel bookings at any property in the area, so your day exploring cenotes is stress-free and fully organized. Whether it’s a small group or a larger tour, Odigoo Travel ensures a smooth, memorable adventure.

Exploring the cenotes near Ek Balam is a journey through time — from the sacred waters of the Maya to the serene natural landscapes of today. Each cenote has its own personality:

Whether you’re coming from Cancún, Playa del Carmen, or Tulum, adding these cenotes to your itinerary will make your Yucatán trip unforgettable.