The Yucatan Cenotes
Sacred sinkholes of crystal water - natural pools and flooded caverns hidden in the Yucatan jungle, once holy to the Maya, now magical spots to swim, snorkel and dive.
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Illustrative image - a scene in the spirit of the place, not a photograph of it. Real photos are below.
Cenotes are the magical natural sinkholes of the Yucatan, pools of crystal-clear fresh water in collapsed limestone, ranging from open jade pools to vast flooded caverns hung with stalactites and pierced by shafts of light. Sacred to the ancient Maya as gateways to the underworld and sources of water, thousands are scattered across the peninsula, and swimming, snorkelling or diving in their cool, clear water is unforgettable.
What you actually see
- The open cenotes - the jade pools open to the sky and jungle.
- The cavern cenotes - the underground caverns of stalactites and light shafts.
- Swimming and snorkelling - the cool, clear water for a refreshing dip.
- Cave diving - the flooded cave systems for experienced divers.
When to go
November to April for the driest weather and clearest water, though the cool water is refreshing in the heat any time. Go early to have the popular cenotes before the tour crowds arrive; weekdays are quieter.
Honest expectations
The famous cenotes near the resorts get crowded and can feel commercialised, so seek out quieter, lesser-known ones for magic. Sunscreen is often banned to protect the water, so shower first and cover up instead. Some are deep with no shallow end, so they suit swimmers.
Nearby
Chichen Itza, Valladolid and the Riviera Maya coast are all dotted with cenotes.
What to pack for The Yucatan Cenotes
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.
