Cenote Xkeken — Attraction in Yucatán

Cenote Xkeken is just outside of Valladolid and is connected with Cenote Samula. The entrance fee was MXN80 for one and MXN125 for visiting both. We visited both on a Tuesday afternoon after spending the morning at Chichen Itza.

Pros: -The cenotes are really stunning with a near full cave enclosure with a couple of holes for sunlight. The water is crystal clear and there are tree roots stretching from the ceiling to the water. -These cenotes seem to be less crowded than other ones we've visited -The price is slightly cheaper than the cenotes we've visited near Tulum

Cons: -They really have a ridiculous system of charging you an obligatory rental fee for a life jacket at each cenote (even though though they are right next to each other). The cost is MXN 20 per rental, so MXN 40 per person if you plan on seeing both cenotes -There were staff on-site ensuring that everyone wore a life jacket while in the water. Based on my experience, there were no currents or other obvious drowning risks. Therefore, I can see no good reason why someone with a basic ability to float or swim should be forced to wear a life jacket. -There are "guides" who offer to walk with you from the ticket counter to the cenote entrance (about a 3 min. walk to either cenote), but they will charge you for the service. I highly recommend refusing their assistance as the paths are well marked and it's an obvious money grab. -After passing the paid entrance area, there are vendors lining the paths to the cenotes trying to sell the usual tourist tchochkes.

Overall, I would still recommend visiting due to the quality of the cenotes and the fact that they don't seem to be on the Chichen Itza bus tour route and subsequently aren't teeming with people. However, be prepared for some frustrations with the site operations...

I had an absolutely amazing experience at this cenote! It is a truly remarkable place that showcases the natural beauty and uniqueness of this area. I highly recommend visiting if you have the opportunity.

The cenote itself is a sight to behold. Its crystal-clear waters and stunning rock formations create a mesmerizing and tranquil atmosphere. The moment I stepped foot into the cenote, I was in awe of its beauty. The water was refreshing, and swimming in it was an incredible experience that I will never forget.

One of the highlights of my visit was the opportunity to support the local community by purchasing souvenirs. The locals offer a wide range of handmade crafts and unique items that reflect the culture and heritage of the area. It was a pleasure to browse through their offerings and find something special to take home as a memento. Just remember to have some cash with you to fully enjoy this aspect of the experience.

The overall ambiance of the cenote was peaceful and serene. The sounds of nature and the surrounding lush greenery added to the tranquility of the place. It was a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, allowing me to connect with nature and find inner peace.

In conclusion, this cenote is a must-visit destination. Its natural beauty, the opportunity to swim in its pristine waters, and the chance to support the local community by purchasing souvenirs make it an unforgettable experience. Make sure to bring some cash with you to fully enjoy all that this incredible place...

I recently had the pleasure of visiting Xenotes and was pleasantly surprised by the overall experience. Despite the potential for a crowded environment, the organization and management of the site were truly impressive.

From arrival, it was clear that Xenotes is exceptionally well-organized. The flow of visitors, the transitions between different cenotes, and the guidance provided by the staff ensured a smooth and enjoyable day. This meticulous planning truly enhanced the experience.

Even though the inside areas were quite crowded, the staff managed to maintain a good balance of people, preventing any feeling of being overwhelmed or rushed. This thoughtful management allowed everyone to fully appreciate the natural beauty and unique activities each cenote offered, even during peak times.

The xenotes themselves were excellent, offering breathtaking natural beauty and a variety of activities that catered to different preferences. The sheer splendor of these natural sinkholes, combined with the efficient operation, made for a memorable and highly recommended visit.

In summary, my experience at Xenotes was fantastic. The excellent natural attractions, coupled with the surprisingly well-organized and balanced crowd management, made for a truly enjoyable and...