CENOTE IK KIL

Located just three kilometers (two miles) from the archaeological site of Chichén Itzá, only an hour and a half from Mérida and 35 minutes from Valladolid, the sacred blue cenote Ik Kil is one of the most spectacular sites of Yucatán. Ik Kil is a circular, open cenote; the entry of light allows you to see the blue and green tones in its crystalline waters; hence its nickname the “blue” cenote. Did you know that there are over 7000 cenotes (sinkholes) in the Yucatán Peninsula? The Maya used to consider the cenotes, or “dzonot,” which means “cavern with water,” as sacred sites of life and death, generous sources of water, and the entry to the underworld. Animal remains, fossils, and offerings which the Maya threw into the cenotes have been found; and it is said that the cenotes are interconnected and flow into the sea. Cenote Ik Kil has many features which will surprise you. One of them is being able to admire from up high the trees and exotic vegetation that cascade into the cenote; we can tell you now that this will be a magnificent place for captivating photographs. If you are the intrepid type, you can dive from as high as five meters, as the cenote waters are at least 40 meters deep; and if you are a nature lover, you will enjoy swimming among the colorful fish and observe wild birds flying overhead. If you are lucky, you will see the Toh bird, our own state bird, with its famous distinctive sound “tuuut tuut”, which you will know by its brilliant plumage and unique tail which has a pendulum swinging motion. In order to enter the cenote you will descend a stone staircase with platforms from which to see the beauty of this natural place and, of course, from which to take photographs to show off. You will find it ideal for a refreshing swim after visiting the archaeological site, with its ideal temperature providing you with an invigorating way to relax in a natural setting. We recommend that you bring your bathing suit, towel, and sandals. If you don’t feel comfortable swimming in deep water, there are life vests for rent, so you can relax and enjoy a purifying swim in the ancient and sacred waters of this cenote. Cenote Ik Kil has all the services you need to enjoy a pleasant stay, including cabins and rooms in case you decide to stay and enjoy the captivating nights full of stars. There is also a restaurant with a buffet including a wide variety of options for all tastes, as well as a bar, bathrooms, and ample parking. Don’t miss this magnificent experience; the cenote is open from 8 am to 5 pm

JOSE GABRIEL CHAN ESCALANTE