The Yucatan Peninsula is a giant limestone shelf that was once covered by the ocean millions of years ago. The porous nature of this landscape has created a large underground river system, so far about 300 miles have been mapped. Cenotes are large sinkholes that form when limestone at the surface level collapses, revealing small to large caverns/swimming holes, that are filled with natural water coming from the underground river system. Of the many thousands dotted, many undiscovered, throughout the Yucatán region of southeast Mexico, there are a number of them that are perfect for swimming, providing one of the area’s most unique experiences. Especially during the dog days of summer, they provide a perfect spot to cool down.
In Maya culture, cenotes were one of the pathways to the underworld, known as Xibalba. Many Cenotes therefore, were ceremonial sites where offerings were placed as a way of communicating with the gods of that they believed to inhabit them.
Below is a synopsis of ones that can be visited for swimming and relaxing. There are options such as rope swings, zip-lines and moderate cliffs to jump off of. Please note entry fees and hours of operation may vary from what we have listed.
