Cenotes: Yucatán’s Natural Treasure Beneath the Surface
- Pája Polanská
- Aug 5
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 7
Cenotes are considered one of Yucatán’s greatest natural wonders — crystal-clear pools of underground water, often hidden in the jungle or nestled within ancient caves.
It’s estimated that there are over 6,000 cenotes across the Yucatán Peninsula. Many of them are interconnected through an extensive underground cave system formed over millions of years, as rainwater gradually dissolved the region’s porous limestone bedrock.
Beyond Tourism: The Everyday Importance of Cenotes
Of the 6,000 known cenotes, only a few hundred are accessible to the public. These natural formations have become popular destinations for swimming, diving, and connecting with nature. However, their importance goes far beyond tourism.
Yucatán has no rivers, lakes, or surface streams — which makes cenotes a crucial part of the region’s freshwater system. Most homes rely on water drawn directly from the underground aquifer connected to cenotes. This water is used daily for household tasks such as washing, cleaning, and bathing.
Why Cenote Water Isn’t Used for Drinking
There’s a common belief that tap water in Mexico is unsafe due to bacteria or parasites — and while this may be true in some parts of the country, Yucatán’s underground water system is not typically contaminated in this way.
Instead, the reason cenote water isn’t used for drinking is because of its naturally high concentration of dissolved limestone minerals. Over time, drinking this mineral-heavy water can increase the risk of developing kidney stones. That’s why locals rely on purified or bottled water for safe consumption — even though the water from cenotes remains vital for many aspects of daily life.
Preserving Cenotes for the Future
Even though cenote water is not typically used for drinking, preserving its quality is essential — not just for visitors to enjoy their natural beauty, but for the well-being of the entire peninsula.
Cenotes are part of a delicate ecosystem that supports local flora and fauna, and they are directly connected to the underground freshwater system that supplies water to many communities. When a cenote becomes polluted — whether through careless tourism, agricultural runoff, or improper waste disposal — it affects more than just that one spot. Because many cenotes are hydrologically connected underground, contamination can spread and disrupt entire sections of the aquifer.
Protecting cenotes means protecting Yucatán’s environment, biodiversity, and long-term water security. Whether you’re a traveler or a local, being mindful of how we treat these natural spaces helps preserve them for generations to come.
How to Be a Responsible Visitor to Cenotes
If you plan to visit a cenote, here are a few simple ways to help protect these fragile ecosystems:
Shower before entering the water – Rinsing off sweat, lotions, and other contaminants helps keep the water clean.
Avoid using sunscreen or insect repellent – Even biodegradable products can harm the delicate aquatic life. If needed, apply before arrival and rinse thoroughly before swimming.
Wear proper swimwear only – Avoid wearing everyday clothing, as detergents and fibers can pollute the water.
Do not touch or climb on rock formations or roots – These natural structures are fragile and often home to small organisms.
Respect signs and guidelines – If an area is marked off-limits, it’s for good reason — either to protect you, the environment, or both.
Take your trash with you – Even small bits of litter can have a big impact on the environment and wildlife.
By following these simple guidelines, you're helping to preserve Yucatán’s cenotes for future generations — and ensuring that they remain clean, safe, and beautiful for everyone to enjoy.
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