Mexico's Cenotes Are a Cave Diver's Paradise

The Yucatán Peninsula is home to over 6,000 cenotes—underwater sinkholes formed when limestone bedrock collapses—as well as miles of vast underground rivers and a host of other beautiful caves. In fact, there are over 590 miles of underground passage that make up the incredible Sistema Sac Actun cave system. This makes it one of the longest underwater systems in the world, and it provides perfect conditions for exploration by divers from all over the globe. From crystal clear waters to incredible rock formations and ancient artifacts, there’s no shortage of awe-inspiring sights to discover beneath the surface.

The temperature of the water in these cenotes ranges from 72ºF in winter months up to 82ºF during summer. Most of them have virtually no current whatsoever, making them great spots for inexperienced divers who want a safe and enjoyable underwater experience without having to worry about strong currents or waves. Experienced divers will also appreciate the opportunity these cenotes offer to practice technical dives like sidemounts or rebreathers—without worrying about conditions like surge or waves that make practicing those dives difficult elsewhere.

Cave diving in the Yucatan isn’t just about the beauty; it also offers a chance to explore some of the region’s most fascinating histories and cultures. The caves here are filled with artifacts from pre-Hispanic civilizations such as pottery and jewelry. You’ll also get to observe local wildlife like fish and turtles up close. For those looking for something even more extreme, some of these caves have tunnels that reach depths of over 200 feet.