Visiting a cenote in the Riviera Maya isn’t just about swimming and having fun. These are living ecosystems, formed over millions of years on porous limestone rock. Their waters are rich in minerals and feed one of the most fascinating underground systems on the planet.
When you step into a cave, a subterranean river, or a semi-open cenote, you might notice something surprising: what floats on the surface isn’t always dirt—and what you bring on your skin can cause invisible but serious damage.
The soil across the Yucatán Peninsula (Quintana Roo, Campeche, and Yucatán) is made of limestone, a rock that works as a natural filter. Rainwater seeps through it, carrying minerals like calcium and magnesium into the cenotes, enriching the water.
This is why the water may feel different or appear slightly cloudy in some areas—it’s not pollution; it’s nature in its purest form.
But when we enter a cenote without rinsing off, natural skin oils and residues from sunscreen, creams, perfumes, or repellents mix with the minerals. This disrupts the delicate balance of the water and clouds its clarity, damaging the natural processes happening inside the ecosystem.
Residues also stick to the cenote’s walls and formations like stalactites and stalagmites, halting their millennia-long growth. Even the simple touch of a hand leaves oils that interfere with their development. That’s why touching these formations is strictly off-limits.
Conservation starts with small actions. Before entering a cenote:
- Rinse off with clean water (no soap) to remove oils and product residue.
- Avoid sunscreen, creams, makeup, or repellent—even those labeled “biodegradable.”
- Follow the park’s or guide’s rules—they’re there to protect this natural heritage.
A cenote is a natural sanctuary. Every drop of water, every suspended mineral, every rock formation was here long before us. With respect, care, and awareness, we can make sure they remain for generations to come.
