Description: One of my most favorite things that we did was to visit a few cenotes throughout the Yucatan. Cenotes are a type of sinkhole unique to this peninsula area of Mexico, and exist in several environments, including open, cavern, and cave. The word is derived from the Mayan word, "dzonot" which means sacred well, as the ancient Mayans thought that these fresh water collections were a gift from the gods. Some of the underwater cave and river systems extend for dozens of kilometers in a web of interconnected streams. Divers come from around the world to experience the unique experience and specialized ecosystems of the cenotes.
The first cenote we visited was the Gran Cenote just outside of Tulum. This is mostly a cavernous sinkhole, and is touted as one of the most beautiful in the area. It was completely magical getting there early before many people, and swimming in the open area as well as under the cave openings where countless stalactites hang. Groups of small birds chirped and wizzed above our head just barely grazing the water before landing again in the holes among the cave ceiling.
There were so many caves and passageways to explore beneath the water but as we were just snorkeling, many were off limits to us, although a couple groups of divers emerged from the blackness during our swim. It was so peaceful down in the sinkhole and the shade of the overgrowth and the coolness of the water was very refreshing from the overwhelming heat during that week.
I'd definitely recommend this as a MUST SEE and EXPERIENCE place while in the Tulum area.
http://www.grancenote.com/
Open 10-5 everyday
Entrance fee: about $8/per person
Snorkel equipment available for rent : about $7/mask, fins
More extensive diving tours available as well. Consult the site for more info on pricing.
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