Overview

The Yucatan Peninsula has thousands of cenotes—natural sinkholes formed by collapsed limestone that reveal the underground river system. The Maya considered them sacred entrances to the underworld. Today, visitors swim in crystal-clear freshwater pools, some open to the sky with jungle surroundings, others in dramatic underground caves with light beams penetrating from above. Popular cenotes from Mérida include X'batún and Dzombakal (30 km), Cuzamá cenotes with horse-drawn cart access (50 km), Cenote Yokdzonot (100 km), and the Homún cenotes area (45 km).

Highlights

• Crystal-clear swimming
• Variety of styles (open, semi-open, cave)
• Snorkeling and diving
• Sacred Maya heritage
• Relief from Yucatan heat

Getting There

Location