Sacred Cenotes of the Riviera Maya
.jpg) "Cenotes", are cool fresh water sanctuaries scattered throughout the green jungles and savannas of the Yucatan Peninsula. The entrance to magical caverns and cave passages below the earth, cenotes are created when the ceiling of a cave collapses. When visiting a cenote we recommend that you take along your snorkel gear. You will see a mysterious and beautiful underwater landscape and the water is crystal clear and refreshing.
Cenotes are believed to have been of great significance to the Mayan people. Recognized by the Maya as the link between the earth and the netherworlds and often the only source of freshwater in the river less Yucatan Peninsula, cenotes were considered sacred. Important ceremonial centers were often constructed nearby.
Take a Swim!
Cenotes are believed by many to be fountains of eternal youth. Cenotes can be found throughout the Yucatan Peninsula. In our area some of the favorites for swimming are located along the Tulum - Coba Highway. Just head south from Akumal towards Tulum. Take a right at the sign for Coba. Traveling along the highway you will see signs for "Grand Cenote", great place for a swim or a snorkel.
"Hidden Worlds Cenote Park" located on the highway between Akumal and Tulum is also a great place to explore a cenote. And by this I mean explore! Jump into Buddy Mobile with your guide and head back into the jungle. Once you arrive at the cenote you will be awed by the incredible rock formations and crystal clear blue water.
Hidden Worlds Cenote Park offers the unique opportunity to experience cenote snorkeling, cavern and cave diving at its best. Hidden Worlds has trained staff to instruct you on the finer points of snorkeling, cavern and cave diving so you can embark on the jungle adventure of a lifetime.
Experience the worldds only Skycycle Canopy Ride, Jungle Zip-lines, Rappelling, Cavern Snorkel Adventures, and a Cenote Splashdown Zip-line while surrounded by the lush Mayan jungle. The Skycycle Ultimate Cavern and Canopy Adventure is located on one of the three longest underground river systems in the world; at over 65 kilometers, or 45 miles, of explored subterranean passage, it comprises 24 known cenotes which provide access to this pristine natural wonderland.
"Xel-Ha", seven miles south of Akumal, is an ecologically friendly marine park and natural aquarium. Besides its beautiful lagoons, Xel-Ha is also home to some incredible water ways, caves and cenotes. This is a great place for the whole family to experience the absolute wonder of a cenote. Yes, Xel-Ha is a heavily visited tourist destination. But it is also an incredibly beautiful and well cared for ecological park that offers the opportunity for everyone to experience the many unique ecosystems of the Yucatan Peninsula. Swim with Dolphin program located here.
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