Mexico's MOST Coolest Swimming Hole: Cenote Ik Kil Near Mayan Ruins
Cenote Ik Kil (Sacred Blue Sinkhole) is located a few miles from Chichen Itza, just outside Piste. Both are in the Yucatan area, an area frequently traversed by tourists. Cenote ik Kil is a beautiful swimming hole with numerous waterfalls made in limestone and caused by erosion. After exploring the Mayan temples, one is ready to dive or jump into the fresh, clear waters for 60 ($5) pesos per person to get in. The cenote’s (sinkhole) water is 60 ft. deep so you can’t see the bottom. It is very clear for snorkeling and you can see many fish. There is also a spot to dive into the water that is a 90 ft. free-fall plunge that take the diver to 40 mph before hitting the pool at the bottom.
This is one of the better sinkholes that cater to tourists. There are towels and lockers for personal belongings and change rooms. To get to the bottom, you have a long walk down the steps to the cenote (70 ft. below ground!). There is a small souvenir shop and a couple of tequila vendors offering decently sized sample shots of their tequila. If you decide to buy, it is cheap. Once you pay the entrance fee, stay as long as you want.
Many going to the ruins, stay at the small town of Piste, about 96 miles from Cancun. It is good 45-60 min. ride from the Cancun airport. Piste tends to be the location many backpackers use to stay at while visiting Chichen Itza. There is camping in Piste. There are NO bank ATM machines in Piste. By far, the best hotel is the Mayaland Hotel, which is just minutes from the Mayan temples.