Close your eyes and imagine swimming in a freshwater sinkhole as deep as a three-story building, shaded by a natural canopy of foliage and cascading liana branches, accompanied by fish and tortoises, listening to the relaxing sound of chirping birds... Doesn’t this sound like paradise? Well, we’ve got news for you – it’s only a flight away. A place like this exists. It's called Ik Kil, or the Sacred Blue Cenote, and it is found near the village of Pisté in Mexico.
The walls are formed from limestone. The water in the sinkhole is fresh rainwater, and the opening in the ceiling happened naturally with the collapse of the limestone. Several small waterfalls flow along the walls of the cenote, constantly feeding freshwater to the greenery surrounding it all around. By far, the most impressive and magical of all the foliage are the lianas cascading along the opening of the sinkhole and over the water.
Inside the water, you can find several species of marine life, including catfish, frogs, and even some tortoises.
The Sacred Blue Cenote is home to several species of birds, including cardinals, parrots, toucans, and the turquoise mot-mot, also known as toh.
* If you arrive independently by car, there is a large parking lot.
* The site is open daily from 8 AM to 5 PM. On-site, you can find rental life jackets and even accommodation. Lockers are free of charge. Bring towels, sandals, and a bathing suit with you.
* Before entering the water, you must clean yourself up in one of the open showers. To preserve the purity of the water, you are requested to remove makeup and either wear an all-natural sunscreen (titanium or zinc based) or no sunscreen at all.
* There are several restaurants where you can get food and drinks at reasonable prices, handicrafts, and souvenir shops.
* To descend into the water, you will go down on foot through a shaded flight of stairs which lands on a platform that is on the same level as the water. There is also a 16-foot diving platform for those who want to jump into the water.
Marine Portraits From the Pitch-Black Depths
A self-taught photographer who combined his passion for diving with his photography skills to bring us unique portraits of just-hatched fish.
The 10 Oldest Gardens in the World One Can Still Visit...
This article showcases the 10 oldest gardens founded by humans centuries ago that still exist today and are well-preserved.
Incredible Nature! Watch the Super Rare Ghost Shark Swim
This video captures rare footage of the living fossil species known as the ghost shark that lives at the bottom of the ocean.
Marina Serra - the Natural Swimming Pool of Italy
The locals call it "una piscina naturale" - a natural swimming pool. It offers shallow waters and is hidden from the tides by natural stone walls.
INTERACTIVE: 16 Gorgeous Places to See in Canada!
With this interactive map, you will be able to travel to some of the most beautiful places in a land already inundated with so many.
10 Wonderful Places to Go Whale Watching
If you wish to encounter whales, here are the top 10 destinations to do so
These Are the World's Most Stunning & Famous Opera Houses
Opera houses are iconic symbols of a city's cultural & financial status. They represent the pinnacle of high society and architectural achievement. Take a look.
The Many Forms of Wedding Dresses from All Over the World
Wedding customs are different all over the world, and these 20 countries have the most beautiful and colorful traditional wedding dresses.
25 of China's Hidden Treasures That All Visitors Must See
China is a land of beauty and mystery, filled with countless spots of natural, as well as man-made beauty.
Meghalaya: An Indian State Blessed With Endless Beauty
Meghalaya is a beautiful state in the northeast corner of India, which is filled with numerous natural wonders and cultural excitements.
10 Unforgettable Places In the World Full Of Color & Charm
Admire 10 astonishing and colorful tourist destinations all around the world.
10 Must-See Sights in the Moroccan City of Marrakesh
To have a perfect vacation in Marrakesh, the following ten places are highly recommended.
The Isle of Sky: Fly Above the Emerald Beauty of Scotland
This video takes us, by 4k drone, to a beautiful tour over Scotland.
The 10 Oldest Gardens in the World One Can Still Visit...
This article showcases the 10 oldest gardens founded by humans centuries ago that still exist today and are well-preserved.
The Tyrol Cow Festival - Celebrating With 100,000 Cows!
The Tyrol Cow Festival is an incredible occasion with 100,000 cows!
Titanic Sub: What Really Caused a 'Catastrophic' Implosion
The Titan sub tragedy has left everyone shaken. But what exactly happened to it?
Aren't Tuscany's Landscapes Absolutely Magnificent?
Tuscany is one of Italy's highlights, take a look at it's stunning countryside here.
8 Secret Rooms in the World’s Most Famous Landmarks
The world's famous landmarks hold some secrets, right there under the noses of the many visitors. Learn about 8 hidden rooms tucked in the most visited places.
Why Are Countries Named the Way They Are? This Map Tells!
Have you ever wondered why the countries of the world are named the way they are, and what on Earth they might literally mean? Wonder no more...
Living in a Medieval Castle Is Nothing Like You'd Imagine
Welcome to one of the most unusual homes in the world - a proper Medieval castle in Germany.
Are These the Most Beautiful Streets in the World?
There's something so charming and beautiful about these streets that are surrounded by trees. Take a look at these stunning streets.
13 Awesome Japanese Inventions That Help Make Life Easier
These pics show some ingenious ideas that the Japanese have come up with to make the life of their people much better.
9 Ancient Cities Your History Teacher Never Told You About
The world's history is filled with many civilizations that rose and fell, leaving behind ancient cities and a final monument to their legacy. You may have heard of some, but these cities are less-known, yet still as amazing.
Utrecht is the Netherlands’ Underrated Gem
If you’re looking for a big city with the vibe of a quaint small town, Utrecht may be the perfect choice for you. 10 of the city's best locations.
Cambodia Is an Asian Stunner That's Begging to Be Visited
Cambodia is a lesser-visited country in southeast Asia. It's hard to see why, because it's got a bit of everything. Here are 10 top destinations in Cambodia.
15 Unbelievable Sights to See in Fairy Tale Germany!
In my humble opinion the Germans have far more stunning locations than any of their European neighbors. Look at these fabulous photos of the great wonderland.
You Won't Believe That These Train Routes Actually Exist!
While most train journeys around the world are typically boring and uneventful, these terrifying ones more than make up for them!
28 Places of Humbling Beauty You Can Find In Asia
Asia is a stunning and highly diverse continent with countless locations to explore. It's time for you to see 28 of the most humbling, beautiful places there.
13 Free Attractions to Enjoy in the City of London
Remember that exploring London doesn't have to be an expensive venture - with careful planning and inclusion of free attractions in your itinerary...
What Architectural Wonders Looked Like During Construction
Have you ever wondered how some of the greatest architectural wonders of the past few centuries were created? Wonder no more...
10 Must-See Amazing and Unfamiliar Sites across France
France is filled with familiar and loved sites such as the Eifel Tower, but there are quite a few that are just as spectacular just not as know, here are 10 of them.
This Isn't Just a Mountain, It's Also An Incredible Temple
This may be the only mountain with so many religious structures on it. Together with the natural beauty of the place, it becomes the sight of a lifetime.
Tour 20 of the World's Finest Wine Regions Right Now
Where does the most delicious and refined wine in the world come from? From these 20 sensational wine regions all over the world. Take this fine wine tour.
These Genius Ideas Should Be Implemented Everywhere
We can’t believe these genius design solutions actually exist!
10 Stunning Abandoned Islands and Their Eerie Histories
These islands used to be someone’s home, but today, they have been reclaimed by nature. Ready to see these islands and learn their histories?
Big Wheeled Beauties to Make You Want to Live on the Road
These 10 Recreational Vehicles come packed with all the space, comfort and durability needed for the ultimate road trip
Colorful Travel Photos from Around the World - 13 Pics
Can travel photos be any more colorful?
The Award for the Most Creative Christmas Tree Goes To...
These creative DIY Christmas trees will inspire you to make one of your own!
This Unbelievable Map Lets You Travel Like Marco Polo
This wonderful interactive map enables you to visit great oriental cities and follow in the steps of the adventurous Marco Polo.
This Man Ran a Marathon Every Single Day of the Year!
Meet Gary McKee, the man who ran 365 marathons in a year!
These Past Architectural Designs Were Ahead of Their Time
Architecture in the 20th century was so unique! Here are some amazing examples.
How America Rebuilt the Iconic World Trade Center
Find out how the iconic World Trade Center was rebuilt from the ashes after its unfortunate destruction in 2001.
The Most Beautiful Places Time Has Forgotten...
These gorgeous places are surprisingly abandoned, which makes them even more mysterious and beautiful.
Witness the Beauty of Rural North Italy Like Never Before
You are hereby invited to take a few minutes with us to fly above the mountains of North Italy.
The Most Dazzling Ancient Castles and Fortresses on Earth
Featured in this sizeable collection of articles are the most noteworthy castles, palace and fortresses in Europe and beyond
These Pictures Will Make You Desperately Crave the ‘70s
Rediscover the charm of the '70s with these delightful pictures.
I've Never Seen a Town As Blue As This African One!
This wonderful little city is famous for one amazing thing: it is painted blue like the heavenly sky.