WHY IT RATES: Swimming one of the still-pristine Mayan jungle's natural freshwater sinkholes is an indescribably awe-inspiring experience; and now visitors can experience four such ancient cenotes and the different activities available at each with the one-of-a-kind Xenotes Tour by Xcaret. - Laurie Baratti, TravelPulse Associate Writer
One of Mexico's most distinct natural treasures in Riviera Maya are the cenotes, sinkholes full of mineral-rich crystal-clear fresh water that can be found deep within the Mayan jungle.
In pre-Historic times, cenotes were considered a sacred place for the Mayans who, for centuries, used the cenotes for shamanic rituals. Nowadays, visitors can harness the power and spiritual significance of cenotes by admiring their beauty, plunging into its waters or swimming along its underground rivers, experiences that can be reinvigorating, inspiring and healing.
Those seeking to explore and learn about the different types of cenotes that exist in nature can do so with the Xenotes Tour by Xcaret, the only tour in Cancun offering visits to four cenotes at the famous Ruta de los Cenotes (Cenotes Route) in the heart of the Mayan jungle.
Combining the excitement of an expedition and a chance to interact with nature, visitors are accompanied by certified guides with vast knowledge of cenotes, their history and the importance of preserving them for future generations.
Each one of the four cenotes features a different activity including kayaking, cliff jumping, zip lining, assisted rappelling or swimming. Visitors can explore the four types of cenotes during the tour including:
- Lu'um: a closed or cavern cenote that connects to the aquifer through tunnels or caves and due to its early age, it can only be reached by assisted rappel allowing guests to enjoy its beauty from above.
- Ha': a semi-open cenote, featuring beautiful aquatic flora and rock formations that can be explored by swimming or kayaking.
- Lik': an ancient cenote, due to its old age, which offers the perfect location to zipline or cliff jump into its crystal-clear waters.
- K'áak: an open cenote where the water is surrounded by lush green jungle, perfect for relaxing while floating in an inner tube.
To recharge and replenish their energy, guests are treated to traditional Mexican hot beverages and snacks along with a magical picnic surrounded by the lush greenery of the Mayan jungle.
Xenotes Tour by Xcaret is an all-day experience available Monday - Saturday for ages five and up.
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