Yokdzonot Cenote

Calle 20 s/n, entre calle 27 y calle 2997922, 97922 Yokdzonot, Yuc., Mexico

Hours

Open daily 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Cost

Here are the costs associated with visiting Yokdzonot Cenote:

General Admission: $150 MXN
Snorkeling Gear Rental: $50 MXN
Rappelling and Ziplining: $200 MXN

Prices are subject to change; check their website for updates.

+52 985-121-23-28

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About

One attraction not to be missed on your Merida vacation is the chance to dive into the Yokdzonot Cenote. A cenote is a geological wonder filled with freshwater that looks like a sinkhole or natural swimming pool.

Because water is scarce in the Yucatan, cenotes were essential to ancient civilizations and considered sacred. "Yokdzonot" translates to "bottom of the water," hinting at the depths of this particular cenote, which Mayans believed were gateways to the underworld. They often tossed jewels, coins, and even human sacrifices into the cenote to appease these spiritual forces.

It wasn't until 2005 that a group of local women decided to transform the abandoned cenote of Yokdzonot into an eco-friendly attraction. In 2007, their sweat equity paid off, and Yokdzonot Cenote opened. They continue to clean and maintain the cenote to ensure its natural beauty and historical essence last for many generations.

A stunning feature of the Yokdzonot Cenote is the steep limestone cliffs that offer a stunning contrast against the azure waters. In addition to swimming, cliff jumping, and snorkeling, rappelling and ziplining are available for the more daring visitors.

Whether floating in the cool waters or simply lounging on the wooden decks, visitors can soak up the serene atmosphere and envision the centuries of history that have unfolded here.

Located about half an hour from Chichén Itzá, visiting Yokdzonot Cenote to relax in the cool waters is the perfect treat!

Yokdzonot Cenote: Fun Facts & Cool Features

The Yokdzonot Cenote's connection to the Maya civilization is a fun fact already mentioned. Aside from being a refreshing break from the Yucatan heat, visiting will also inspire and appeal to history buffs.

One of the unique activities offered at Yokdzonot Cenote is rappelling down the steep limestone cliffs. This thrilling outdoor activity gives visitors a unique perspective of the cenote. The zipline course is perfect for thrill seekers who want to soar 100' over the crystal-clear waters.

After a day of adventure, grab a nutritious meal at the locally operated restaurant. The eatery is open all year from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM and offers delicious Yucatan and Mexican-inspired cuisine.

If you’d like a full day of exploration, stop in at the Taco Maya by Oxtun near the entrance to Chichén-Itzá either before or after visiting the Yokdzonot Cenote.

For a thrilling adventure, sign up for a bike ride to another cenote 3 km (1.86 miles) away. Bicycles are included with your fee, and your guide will lead you over well-maintained paths to explore the second cenote. While you can't swim in it, it offers another perspective on these waterholes.

But don't assume this destination is only for adrenaline junkies! The facility has hammocks for siestas and offers overnight camping for the ultimate cenote experience.

Visiting Yokdzonot Cenote is a truly enriching experience that combines the wonders of natural beauty, the thrill of adventure, and the depth of historical significance. Whether you're an adventure seeker eager to rappel, seeking a cool break from the heat, or a history buff, Yokdzonot Cenote offers something for everyone on your Merida vacation.

Getting There

Here are step-by-step driving directions to Yokdzonot Cenote from Merida:

Head east on Calle 59 toward Calle 58.
Turn left at the 1st cross street onto Calle 52.
Continue onto Av. Itzaes/Mexico 261.
Take the exit toward Cancun/Carretera Federal 180.
Follow Carretera Federal 180 to Yokdzonot.
Slight right to stay on Carretera Federal 180.
Continue straight to stay on Carretera Federal 180.
Address: KM 145 Carretera Piste-Chichen Itza, Yokdzonot, Yucatan

Local Tips

Arrive early to enjoy a quieter experience before the crowds.
Bring cash, as credit card facilities may be limited.
Remember to bring biodegradable sunscreen to protect the cenote's ecosystem.
Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid the weekend rush.
Definitely plan on sampling truly authentic dishes from the on-site restaurant.

Location

Calle 20 s/n, entre calle 27 y calle 2997922, 97922 Yokdzonot, Yuc., Mexico

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a good way to spend a day in Merida, Mexico?

Start the day off with authentic Yucatecan cuisine at La Chaya Maya in the center of Mérida. Wake your senses with their huevos con chaya dish, highlighting the endemic chaya plant of the Yucatan. Try the cochinita pibil, salbutes or panuchos for a true culinary experience. Be sure to get an early start to visit the ruins of Chichén Itzá. The impressive archaeological site is one of the most important and most visited in Mexico. This will immerse you in the history of the Mayan civilization. Try to arrive early to avoid crowds and the heat.

After exploring Chichén Itzá, visit a nearby restaurant such as La Tía Polóc to further your culinary journey with handmade tortillas and traditional pork poc chuc. After lunch, visit a nearby cenote to cool off and relax. Cenotes, strewn about the Yucatan Peninsula, are natural underground water reservoirs, each offering an absolutely magical experience. There are severl cenotes in the area, so choose one that suits your preferences, whether for swimming, snorkeling or simply to enjoy the natural beauty.

Once you’ve explored pyramids and cenotes, return to Mérida to spend the afternoon exploring the city. Stroll through the historic center, visit the Cathedral of San Ildefonso, or wander along the Paseo de Montejo and admire the colonial architecture. Don’t miss the light and sound show in the Plaza Grande, offering a fascinating view of the city’s history! Top the evening off by treating yourself to the signature cuisine at Kuuk. The renowned fusion restaurant offers tasting menus that change regularly to highlight the best of the season.

What are the biggest main events in Merida, Mexico?

Fiesta is a way of life in Mexico, and Mérida is no exception! Festive celebrations in Mérida highlight Mayan Culture, the musical genre of Yucateca trova, as well as traditional Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), folk art fairs, and colorful Carnival parades, y más! Each night in Mérida’s Plaza Grande is a fiesta of its own, as music and dance fill the iconic square to the delight of vacationers and residents.

Among the many celebrations in and around Mérida, each Fall provides the opportunity to delight in culture and art at the International Festival of Mayan Culture (FICMaya). This festival offers a wide range of cultural events, including music, dance, theater, conferences, exhibitions and more, all focused on the rich cultural heritage of the Mayan civilization. Fall is also marked by Mexico’s traditional Day of the Dead (Nov 1st and 2nd), celebrated in Mérida with parades of catrinas, impressive altars, musical performances, and a series of cultural activities.

Paying further homage to the rhythmic vibe and sounds of the Yucatan, the Festival de la Trova Yucateca in December showcases this traditional musical genre of the region. Concerts, contests, workshops, and more all focus on music and troubadour poetry. Visitors in November and December will also be amazed at the X’matkuil Fair on the outskirts of Mérida. In the spirit of any fair, there are mechanical rides, food exhibits, a variety of handicrafts, and rich gastronomy.

In February, the Carnival of Mérida is one of the largest and most colorful in Mexico! It includes parades, live music, dances, costume contests, and a festive atmosphere that attracts people from everywhere!

Whenever your vacation getaway brings you to Mérida, there’s always something to celebrate with a fiesta!