Cenote Ik-Kil

Formation of Cenotes

The Yucatán Peninsula is home to countless cenotes, natural sinkholes filled with fresh water. One of the most famous, Cenote Ik-Kil, is located just a short distance from the archaeological site of Chichen Itza. But what exactly are cenotes, and how did they form?

According to one scientific theory, these karstic lakes—deep natural wells with fresh water—were created after a massive meteorite, 10–15 km in diameter, struck Mexico about 66 million years ago. The impact formed the enormous Chicxulub crater, 180 km across, located near the town of Chicxulub Puerto, north of Mérida. The meteorite’s immense size caused dramatic climate changes, which scientists believe contributed to the extinction of the dinosaurs.

Over thousands of years, rainwater and sea erosion gradually wore away the soft limestone, while collapses of upper layers formed caves that eventually filled with rainwater. Many cenotes in the Yucatán form a circular pattern around the Chicxulub crater, creating a natural ring of these stunning freshwater pools.

The Significance of Cenotes for the Ancient Maya

Cenotes were vital sources of freshwater for ancient civilizations. The Maya also considered the water sacred, and the cenotes themselves were seen as portals to the underworld. Ritual sacrifices were often performed in cenotes, with offerings that included men, women, and children. Archaeologists have found jewelry and human remains in these sacred pools, highlighting their spiritual importance.

Cenote Ik-Kil

Cenote Ik-Kil, meaning “the place where the wind is born,” is located just 5 km from Chichen Itza’s famous Kukulkan Pyramid. After exploring the archaeological sites, tourists often cool off in this stunning cenote.

The water is pristine and vividly blue, with a temperature perfect for swimming—around 23–25°C. The cenote is deep, about 45 meters, with a diameter of 61 meters and surrounding cliffs rising 30 meters high. It is a remarkably scenic location: the water is clear enough to see fish swimming below, vines hang down from above, and lush greenery crowns the cliffs, creating the impression of a magical oasis.

An incredible destination that is a must-visit for anyone exploring the Yucatán.