MEXICO: THE NATURAL WONDERS OF THE MAYA WORLD 2020

Visiting cenotes in Mexico is one of the most magical experiences you can have as a tourist to the country.

And with more than 6,000 in the Yucatan Peninsula alone, there are plenty to visit.

But what are cenotes? And how are cenotes formed? Here we’ll take you through everything you need to know and give you three cenotes we think you should visit.

 

All about cenotes

WHAT ARE CENOTES?

Cenotes are natural sinkholes, typically with fresh water at the bottom. The name comes from the ancient Maya word ts’onot, which roughly translates as sacred well. The ancient Maya considered cenotes sacred, partly because they were a source of fresh water. Archaeologists have found human bones and jewelry at the bottom of cenotes, which has led to the belief that they were used as places of human sacrifice, although this is contested.

 

HOW ARE CENOTES FORMED?

Cenotes are formed when porous rock (typically limestone) collapses, exposing a hidden, subterranean cave filled with water.

 

WHERE ARE THE CENOTES IN MEXICO?

The majority of the cenotes in Mexico lie in the Yucatan Peninsula. Estimates put the number at more than 6,000. The most famous is probably Cenote Dos Ojos, which is a beautiful cave system and popular snorkeling and scuba diving site.

 

WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF CENOTE?

Cenotes can be classified into four different types:

Jug or pit cenotes: Named after their shape, jug or pit cenotes have a wider water diameter then their surface entrance.

Cylinder cenotes: Cylinder cenotes are defined by their vertical walls.

Basin cenotes: Basin cenotes have a shallow water feature (shaped like a basin).

Cave cenotes: Cave cenotes will typically have an entrance from the side, rather than the top.

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