Do you like cenotes? These natural wonders are freshwater pools that are formed by the collapse of limestone rock. Cenotes are very popular in the Yucatan Peninsula, where there are more than 6,000. Cenotes offer a unique experience of contact with nature and Mayan culture. Here we present the top 7 activities you can do in a cenote.
1. Swim and diving.
The cenotes are ideal for cooling off and admiring the underwater beauty.
You can swim in the crystal clear waters and observe the fish, plants and rock formations. Some cenotes have caves and tunnels that you can explore with diving equipment and a specialized guide.
2. Go snorkelling.
If you don’t want to dive so deep, you can snorkel on the surface and enjoy the view.
The cenotes have a great variety of aquatic life and colors that will surprise you. In addition, snorkeling is an activity suitable for the whole family and does not require much experience.
Cenote X’Batún
3. Take photos.
Cenotes are incredible places to capture with your camera.
You can take photos of the light filtering through the cracks, of the reflections in the water, of the roots of the trees that hang from the ceiling or of the birds that fly over the place. Don’t forget to bring a waterproof camera and a tripod for best results.
4. Practice yoga and meditation.
Cenotes are spaces of peace and harmony, perfect for relaxing and connecting with yourself.
You can practice yoga and meditation on the shores or on the wooden platforms that are in some cenotes. The sound of water, the fresh air and the natural environment will help you release stress and recharge your energy.
Cenote SuHem, Tecoh
5. Learn about the Mayan culture.
Cenotes were sacred places for the ancient Maya, who used them to perform rituals and offerings to the gods.
In some cenotes you can find archaeological remains, such as pots, jewelry or even human remains. You can also visit the nearby sites where there are temples, pyramids and other Mayan constructions.
6. Rappel or zip line.
If you like strong emotions, you can venture rappelling or zip-lining into the cenotes.
Some cenotes have facilities so you can descend a rope or slide down a cable into the water. It is a fun and different way to access the cenote and feel the adrenaline.
Chenké, Hda. Kampepén
7. Enjoy the local gastronomy.
After a day full of adventures in the cenotes, nothing better than tasting the typical food of the region.
You can try dishes like panuchos, salbutess, poc chuc or cochinita pibil. You can also refresh yourself with an agua de horchata, an orange juice or a cold beer.
These are just some of the activities you can do in a cenote, but there are many more.
The important thing is that you respect the environment and that you have a lot of fun.
What are you waiting for to visit a cenote?
