Cenotes in Riviera Maya
Going through the Riviera Maya and not entering your wildest and exuberant side to find the bored heart of the jungle would be an unforgivable mistake! A cenote is a deep, water-filled sinkhole in limestone that is created when the roof of an underground cavern collapses. This creates a natural pool which is then filled by rain and water flowing from underground rivers. The water is very fresh and you can have a moment of relax and enjoy the wonders of nature.
The word cenote comes from the Mayan word dzonot, which means “well”. For the ancient Maya, cenotes were their only source of fresh water. Mayan cities were built around a cenote for the sole purpose of a water source, and today, cenotes are used for daily water sources. In addition to a water source, cenotes were considered to be ‘sacred wells’ where religious ceremonies often took place. Cenotes are the entrance into the underworld, the most sacred place for the Mayas. So interesting right??
One of the cenotes most known and preferred by tourism is Chac-Mool and for sure is my favorite one. Is in Puerto Aventuras, just a few minutes by car from Playa del Carmen. Chac-Mool has two entrances that lead to their respective cavities, the first of considerable dimensions and the second full of stalagmites. You will love it, because the fact that combines sweet and salty waters cause the phenomenon known as Haloclin, in which the layers of different salinities form columns perfectly delimited. Chac Mool is one of the cenotes preferred by divers with little practice and all kind of swimmers. Is just amazing, no words to describe it because you must live this incredible experience!!!!
Here I leave you some interesting information that can be very useful:
Schedule: Most cenotes open to the public from 10 am to 5 pm
Prices: Although there are cenotes with lower prices, the price of the entrance of the most visited round between 75 and 155 pesos MXN. Hiring a snorkel tour with qualified personnel costs between 400 and 650 pesos MXN.
Tour cenotes: If you want to take advantage of the weather and visit several cenotes in your stay in the Riviera Maya, there are specialized companies that offer you a tour starting at 1500 pesos MXN. In these cases, usually offer a tour of four cenotes and include activities such as kayaking, snorkeling, zip lines, abseiling and picnic. It is important to consult before hiring if you have health problems (asthma, heart, diabetes, pregnancy, etc.), as some activities may be advised against!!!
