These natural limestone sinkholes are filled with cool waters that make them ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and even scuba diving. If you're visiting the popular Yucatan city of Tulum, exploring nearby cenotes is a must.
People Also Ask
Importance of the cenotes in Maya cultureThe cenotes for the Maya culture have been a symbol of duality since they represented life and death. They were a water source for the Maya cities and represented the gateway to the world of the dead: the Xibalbá.
Unlike the ocean where there can be big waves or a strong undertow, cenotes are closed off – within caves – that protect the calm, azure waters from the elements. This typically makes them an ideal spot for a restful swimming experience.
These natural limestone sinkholes are filled with cool waters that make them ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and even scuba diving. If you're visiting the popular Yucatan city of Tulum, exploring nearby cenotes is a must.
If you like independent travel and are keen to save money, you can visit a cenote independently. However, there are some important things to consider: You will need to rent a car as the best cenotes are off-the-beaten-path in scenic but remote areas.
Cenotes are fresh water pools in the jungle that are surrounded by limestone rock. We find water shoes to be protective and useful when snorkeling or swimming in the cenotes. If this is your first time here in the Riviera Maya, bring your water shoes so that you have them on hand for those exploration days.
The Yucatán Peninsula has almost no rivers and only a few lakes, and those are often marshy. The widely distributed cenotes are the only perennial source of potable water and have long been the principal source of water in much of the region.
This week, tourists have been warned to take precautions when visiting cenotes in the Mexican-Caribbean, after E Coli bacteria were found in 6 of the most-visited spots. The cenotes with the highest rate of bacterial infection were found in Tulum, at the Cristal, Calavera and Casa Cenotes.
1. Cenote Dos Ojos. Located halfway between Tulum and Playa del Carmen, Cenote Dos Ojos is filled with sparkling, turquoise water and is one of the best cenotes in Tulum as well as one of the most famous on the Yucatan Peninsula. Wooden stairs lead down to the clear water, where limestone rocks hang low over the cenote ...
Quintana Roo cenotes are a tourist attraction of sorts because they stay so clean due to the natural filtration process and thanks to the plants inside. In fact, the abundance of plant life in the Mayan jungle helps clean out all impurities before they even reach the surface.
Research the cenote beforehandSome cenotes are above-ground, while others are inside caves. You can walk right into some, while others require jumping in or walking down a large staircase. If you are claustrophobic, you should make sure to research the cenote so you know it's above ground.
A good tip is to wear your swimsuit from the moment you leave your room or hotel. This will help to speed up the change of clothes at the cenote. There's no need for fancy outfits. Natural Sunscreen/ Insect repellent: You are in the middle of the jungle.
Tip #3 – Bring a Quick-Dry TowelUnless you keep your towel in a locker (if they're provided at your chosen cenote), you'll probably have your towel close at hand, and between splashes and periodic dry-offs, you're going to want one that stays relatively dry.
Things to know before visiting Gran CenoteThere are bathrooms, changing rooms, and lockers on the premises. There is a cost to use the lockers, but it's worth it if you're carrying any valuables.
You'll still need to walk a few steps to reach the cenotes if you take the bus or cycle there. The most convenient way to reach Tulum's cenotes outside of town is by renting a car or taxi. Some cenotes can be quite far, especially if they're out of the city of Tulum.