Freediving in the Cenotes

The limestone of the Yucatán Peninsula is pierced by cenotes, sinkholes opening to flooded caves of astonishingly clear freshwater. Freedivers descend through beams of sunlight and the shimmering halocline, where fresh water meets salt water below.

Cool, crystal-clear freshwater, open cenotes suitable for freediving, and strict rules against entering the overhead cave sections. Many cenotes are on private land with entry fees.

Base in Tulum and dive with a local freediving guide who knows which cenotes are safe. Stay in open water, never enter the caves, and visit at midday for the light beams.