Yucatán Cenotes: A Guide To Mexico’s Natural Wonders

These holes took millions of years to form. In fact, the entire peninsula was underwater more than 65 million years ago, and was part of a giant coral reef. When the Chicxulub asteroid hit, causing an impact that killed off so many of the dinosaurs, it disrupted plate tectonics. As the plates dislodged, they shoved up the reef — and the Yucatán Peninsula was no longer submerged.  

When the bedrock was exposed to the elements, the sea, rain and other forces eroded and carved into the porous, calcareous substance, leaving behind aquifers. Where there was enough instability, the ground would fall and a sinkhole would form, revealing the pools below.

That’s a lot of science, but these events are what birthed the cenotes in the Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico. And this ecological history is so significant and singular that the region even received a UNESCO tentative listing to honor the natural heritage of this unique area.

Today, Yucatán cenotes are critically important as the peninsula’s only natural freshwater source. And I think it’s really special that they’re such visual pieces of ancient Mexico. You can literally see what built the land. So, next time you’re swimming somewhere like the famous cenote of Costa Maya, think about this storied past and all the sweeping planetary forces that it took to build these turquoise pools. They’re worth seeing in person, even if you just want a great spot to swim, but for anyone who, like me, is fascinated by nature, it’s an absolute must-see.

Today, the descendants of the Mayan people still make offerings of smaller items, including seeds, cacao, corn, sugar, flower petals and copal, or tree resin. Communities still tell the mythological and sacred stories surrounding the Yucatán cenotes, preserving the cultural history of the landscape through verbal tradition and oration.

As a storyteller myself, I find this way of connecting with the land to be quite powerful, and I think all travelers should come to the cenotes in the Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico, with this background in mind. You aren’t just visiting some random natural wonder. Riviera Maya cenotes, the cenote of Costa Maya and any other site you come to is woven with stories of death, rebirth and hope. These are stories worth knowing before you take a Mexico cruise, so that you can better appreciate the significance rather than just the beauty (and in my opinion, meaning only adds to the beauty).

Here are five tips I’d recommend for travelers wanting to feel more connected to the cultural significance of the Yucatán cenotes:

1. Read about the Mayan beliefs surrounding the cenotes before you go.

2. Hire a local guide who can tell you about this side of the cenotes on-site.

3. Ask surrounding community members about their traditions and stories related to the cenotes.

4. Make your own metaphorical offering when you visit the cenote, imagining what you’d like to offer nature or how you can help it.

5. Meditate on hope when you’re there, keeping in mind these thoughts when and if you choose to get into the cenote.

Know Before You Go: Yucatán Cenotes Essentials

The peninsula as a whole is a great Mexico destination for families, couples, singles and pretty much any kind of group, thanks to the sheer number of things to do. But if you’re itching to dive into ancient pools filled with sparkling teal waters, you should prioritize cenote-hopping while you’re there. The bright water and limestone edges of Yucatán cenotes make them striking even just from above, but if you choose to get in, you’ll enjoy stalagmites and stalactites, wildlife, fossils, underground cave systems and subterranean rivers. It’s straight out of an adventure novel.

While these pools are beautiful and exciting, even frequently visited sites like the Riviera Maya cenotes and the cenote of Costa Maya can be tricky if you’re a first timer or don’t come prepared. So, here are tips for visiting cenotes in the Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico:

● Know your swimming ability: Yucatán cenotes are deep and require swimming, so consider wearing a life jacket.

● Dive carefully: It can be dangerous if you’re inexperienced, so consider sticking to snorkeling or swimming if you’re unsure.

● Hire a guide: They know the area better than you will.

● Don’t use sunscreen or use reef-safe: Toxic chemicals in any body or hair product can harm wildlife and the water.

● Follow directions: Read the signs and water safety notices in the area.

● Only swim in public cenotes: These will likely be marked, but you can always ask if you’re unsure.

● Don’t disrupt species: Leave the fauna and flora, especially the resident crocodiles, alone so that they aren’t harmed.

● Avoid swallowing water: Cenote water can contain bacteria.

● Keep in mind your mobility: Yucatán cenotes aren’t always suitable for those with limited mobility, and the cave systems never are.

● Don’t go into the caves alone: Going in solo can put you at risk of getting lost or injured without help to exit.

● Take an expert: If you want to go deeper into the caves, consider taking someone who knows them.

● Wear goggles: This will allow you to see better.

● Pick an eco-tourism operator: If you’re visiting the Yucatán cenotes with a group, consider choosing a sustainable company to ensure responsible visitation.

● Take a freediving class: If you plan on freediving and haven’t done it before, make sure to take a class beforehand so you can learn how to do so safely.