What is a CENOTE?
The coastal area between Playa del Carmen and Tulum has a thin limestone surface that allows rain water to filter through the ground. Over the centuries, a system of underground rivers has been created through which the water flows to the Caribbean Sea. In fact, there are no above ground rivers in the region, except the Hondo River which forms the border between Mexico and Belize.
In some places, the roof above these waterways has weakened and collapsed over time. These natural cavities or sinkholes are called cenotes, from the Maya dzonot, and have been an important source of fresh water since the days of the ancient Maya.
These cenotes are underwater cavern openings leading to the caves and tunnels of the underground rivers. Cenotes are the doors to this amazing aquatic system. The size and shape of cenotes vary greatly, from simple holes in the ground to wells and small lakes.
Snorkeling and swimming can be done in almost all of the cenotes. Diving in a cenote require a minimum of Open Water Diving Certification and is done without losing sight of natural day light. Each diver has a flashlight, so they can see the incredible formations in the cavern. The diving depth is usually between 30 to 55 feet ( 9 to 17 meters), actually quite shallow so tank air time is extended. Visibility can be amazing, over 150 feet (50 meters).
Be sure to take a swimming, snorkeling or dive trip to enjoy the wonderful experience of diving in fresh water and stalactites and stalagmites silently reveal the ancient geological history of the Yucatan. A basic open water diver certification is sufficient, and no previous experience in cavern diving is needed.
Because it is carried out in a partially closed environment, the dive must be organized and supervised by a certified Full Cave Diver. For safety’s sake, there is one qualified guide for a group of maximum four divers.
Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the famous Yucatan underground river system.
Here are a few of the activities we offer that include exploration of regional fresh water cenotes:
Cenote Cavern Diving - need Open Water Diving Certification to participate
Jungle Crossing Nohoch - includes Cenote swimming & snorkeling
Mayan Encounter and Coba Ruins - includes Cenote swimming
Mayan Zipline, Chickin-ha - includes Cenote swimming
ATV Jungle Tour - includes cenote swimming