The cenotes are impressive cave springs formed in a natural fashion due to the accumulation of the waters of several subterranean rivers. They are characteristic of the State of Yucatan, and it is known that they were sacred places for the Mayas in pre-Hispanic times.

To submerge in the cenotes is not only to evoke the tributes and beliefs of the men of one of the greatest Mesoamerican Civilisations, but to explore the flora and fauna dwelling in this fantastic and singular sceneries as well, which present endemic species such as the blindfishes of Yucatan (Typhiliacina pearsei), the mud eels (Ophisternon aenigmaticum) and the blind eels (Ophisternon infernale), all accustomed to a life with no sunlight.

You need more than the desire to do so in order to adventure yourself into these clear waters. Sportspeople must be in excellent physical conditions, have the necessary theoretical knowledge and a vast experience on immersions. In addition, it is also necessary to go in the company of a caving diver duly accredited.

Yucatan is the perfect place to explore the cenotes. You can find the following places on the surroundings of Mérida, the capital of the State:

• Xlaca: it has an approximate depth of 44 metres, being one of the largest cenotes of Yucatan. It is located at 22 kilometres from Mérida, within the archaeological zone of Dzibilchaltún. It is known that the Mayas used them as a source of water.
  
  
• Xlacah: it is another one of the large cenotes in the State. In 1958 a group of investigators extracted countless vessels and bone remains from its depths, the same that are now in exhibition in the Field Museum of Dzibilchaltún. Its Mayan name can be translated as Old Town.
  
  
• Ik-kil: it has a 48-metre depth and caves interconnected through a system of subterranean rivers. It is located at 2 kilometres from the Mayan City of Chichén Itzá.
  
  
• Dzonot-ila: it is located inside a cave and is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful in the State, due to the numerous stalactites and stalagmites protruding on its interior. It has three zones: the main cave or Highway, the Rococo Lounge and the chamber known as "The Doubts". The blindfishes and catfishes stand out amongst the fauna, along with the isopodous and lobsters.
  It is located on the outskirts of the Town of Abalá, 52 kilometres away from Mérida.