Cenotes are one of the most amazing tourist attractions in Cancun, Mexico. But what is a cenote? And which are the best cenotes in Cancun? Read this article to find out.
Cenotes are pools of crystal clear water. The water in cenotes comes from underground rivers where, over thousands of years, the rock structure that supports it has collapsed. Many of them are caves or partially covered wells, while others give rise to lakes and completely open environments.
The water in the cenotes comes from underground rivers, which means that it is clean fresh water, suitable for drinking. Except for nature’s sediments that accumulate.
Some cenotes are impressive in size and look like sacred temples. Thus, those that were used for rituals were not used for water supply. In these cenotes, of religious function for the Maya, even skeletons were found in their beds.
Mexico cenotes
In Mexico, limestone is one of the main rocks that make up the soil. It is also known for being a very porous rock, also used for filtration and cleaning. What happens in many cenotes is that the water that emerges is the water that passes through the limestone, so it has been filtered through the rock and is extremely clean and transparent.
It is said that the ancient civilizations that lived there settled around the cenotes to enjoy their water – and also for the beliefs they had about them, but I will talk about this a little later.
Of course, this also depends on the condition of the cenote. If it is not maintained and cleaned, it is normal for the water to become turbid and full of sediments or foliage. The cenotes that are open to the public are well taken care of, so you don’t have to worry about this.
Mexico is one of the countries with the largest number of cenotes in the world. And in this article, we will list the most beautiful cenotes in Cancun, Mexico.
Cancun cenotes
Cancun is known for its amazing beaches, but there are also many other things to do and see in Cancun. This is exactly why this Mexican city, located in the state of Quintana Roo, is so impressive and one of the most sought-after destinations for tourists from all over the world who like to enjoy the natural beauty. Such is the case with the cenotes.
See below the most beautiful cenotes in Cancun.
Kin Ha cenote
Located inside a cave, the Kin Ha Cenote is accessible by a wooden staircase. This deep, cool water pool is part of the Ruta de Los Cenotes, a 19 km stretch about 30 minutes south of Cancún with several cenotes.
One of the main attractions at this cenote is diving from the jumping platform. And the best thing is, you can repeat the experience as many times as you like. The deep, clean, cool waters at the site are ideal for cooling off on a hot day.
Siete Bocas cenote
The Siete Bocas Cenote offers visitors a deep pool of calm water fed by an underground river in a cave system. This curious cave system is like a labyrinth of cenotes that wind between tunnels, with cliffs that can be used as jumping platforms, and beautiful rock formations, stalactites, and stalagmites.
On the surface, you can climb an observation tower to enjoy the panoramic view of the jungle. You can also walk through the underground passages between the pools and relax in the silence. The site is about half an hour north of Cancún.
La Noria cenote
The La Noria cenote is known for the beauty of the crystal clear waters, filled with colorful fish, and the imposing stalactites that you can admire while exploring the cave system. This wonder of nature is about an hour’s drive south of Cancun. So plan for a day trip.
Hubiku cenote
The Hubiku cenote is a semi-open underground cenote with occasional waterfalls, a family-friendly atmosphere, and several nearby attractions.
This cenote is 2 hours away from downtown Cancun. So please plan for a day trip. With so many attractions and activities available there such as museums, shopping options, restaurants, and of course the cenote, you and your family will have plenty to do all day.