What are cenotes?

They are natural pools of water formed millions of years ago in the Yucatan Peninsula and are the gateway to the longest underground river systems in the world. For they nature, enigmatic history and location among the jungle, they are considered and authentic oasis maya.

Interesting facts about cenotes

Formation

• Their creation goes back million of years ago, during the last Ice Age. The water level dropped and left the reef barrier exposed, which with the passing of time turned to fertile soil allowing vegetation to grow which will later become tropical jungle.
• When the first raining mixed with the carbon dioxide of the atmosphere, it made the limestone erode.
• This way wells were formed, which in time turned into much bigger passages and tunnels, creating an oasis maya of huge underground river systems, cenotes and caverns.

• Ancient Mayans had a strong connection with cenotes, since they were they water source, and were also considered the entrance to the underworld.
• Jade, copper, gold and even clothing have been found inside, as offerings to the gods.
• For the Mayans, the duality mountain and water spring had to be represented in their settlement, reason why pyramids exist, as a recreation of the sacred mountain.

Ice Age
Their creation goes back million of years ago, during the last Ice Age.

Mayan Civilization
The Yucatan Peninsula has the largest extension of cenotes with approximately 10,000 along its territory.

Now
In Quintana Roo cenotes cover an area of 39 square miles (61 km²).