That was a mighty climb up the Ixmoja pyramid but totally worth the panoramic views of the jungle canopy. Working up a sweat, I craved a refreshing dip to cool off. Fortunately, the region between Coba and Valladolid is teeming with cenotes, each with its distinct features. With so many options at my disposal, the hardest part was deciding which one to choose.
Cenotes are natural swimming holes or sinkholes formed by the collapse of porous limestone bedrock, revealing the underlying groundwater. The water is often crystal clear and refreshing, perfect for snorkelling and swimming. Some cenotes will have intricate cave systems, underwater rock formations, and even submerged trees and vines. Cenotes are often surrounded by lush vegetation, creating a visually appealing landscape.
Southwest of Coba is Cenote Multun-Ha tucked away in a beautiful chamber about 59ft (18m) underground. Access is via a circular staircase leading to a wooden platform that extends over the water. A portion of the cavern's roof collapsed, opening the cenote to sunlight filtering in. The deepest part is about 115ft (35m) and accessible only to certified scuba divers.
Nearby is Cenote Choo-ha, where the clear water lets the viewer see fish swimming. The cavern is adorned with stalactites and stalagmites that have formed over thousands of years. A mere 787ft (240m) away is Cenote Tankach-Ha, located in a cave system with a platform for jumping into the water. All three cenotes are in dense jungles where beautiful orchids and bromeliads grow.
North of Coba is Cenote Kuxtal which has been said to have healing properties. But what makes this cenote fun is the swing hanging just above the water's surface and the 26ft (8m) jumping platform for the adventurous souls looking for a thrill.
Not far from Valladolid is Cenote X'ux Ha, nestled below a massive limestone dome and home to blind fish who have adapted to the dark environment of the cave. The first descent via stairs leads to a platform offering a 180-degree view of the cenote. From here, a further 82ft (25m) descent reaches the bottom of the cenote. A natural hole at the top of the cathedral-like dome filters light into the cavern, illuminating the clear water. The yellowish-green walls of the cavern provide a stunning contrast to the cobalt colour of the water.
The last of the cenotes
in this area is Suytun, known for its impressive stalactite formations that
hang down from the ceiling. A platform built in the middle of the cenote
provides a perfect spot for that Instagram-worthy photo. This is where I
decided to take my swim, have a cool refreshment and take some time to rest.
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