The El Pit Cenote

The El Pit Cenote is a perfect cenote to practice professional diving. The reason: it is one of the deepest and most beautiful examples of this type of natural formation. The El Pit Cenote is the entrance to the Mayan underworld and a favorite of professional divers. It sits in the ejido Jacinto Pat in the Xel-Ha area.

History

The ancient Mayans had a deep respect for it because they believed it was the entrance to the underworld, as it is one of the most spectacular cenotes in the region, and relatively young. Its only entrance is a hole in the roof of the cavern of approximately 10 meters in diameter.

The El Pit Cenote: What to expect

In the depths of this cenote have been found two human skeletons of 10 thousand years ago. Its only entrance is a small hole in the roof through which steep wooden stairs descends. The hole is perfect to illuminate the crystal clear blue waters of the cenote, but without reaching to glimpse the bottom, once inside the water, the light coming through the roof becomes a light show that illuminates the most beautiful natural formations in the depths of the cenote.

Some features

It has a maximum depth of 400 feet and the recommendation is not to go down more than 130 feet after ten meters deep the fresh water crosses the salt water, which is known as halocline. Indeed, after 65 feet deep begins a light fog made of hydrogen sulfide. In the mist you will see branches and vegetation peeking out, reminding you that life doesn’t end no matter how close you get to the underworld.

The El Pit Cenote: Services

The El Pit Cenote has parking, restrooms and ecological showers, as well as an area to prepare your diving equipment. The descent to the cenote is a steep wooden staircase and there are ropes to help you with your equipment. If you plan to dive, it is recommended that you follow the instructions for divers in the cenote and hire a professional service to have the most fun without worrying about anything. It’s open Monday to Sunday from 9 am to 5 pm.