05.23.20
Like most of you, we have been sequestered for the past two months, and since we were always go-go-going for the prior 14 months, this was a huge adjustment. We never stayed anywhere longer than six weeks and ventured out to different places wherever we were. BUT, there is light at the proverbial end of the tunnel as Puerto Morelos (MX) is relaxing the restrictions from a very strict Phase III, to a less restrictive, Phase II, and hopefully will move into #1 on June 1. That will open up the Cancun airport along with restaurants, most businesses, and especially the beach!
This week we experienced one of the more unique features of the Yucatan Peninsula—cenotes.
Many believe that the giant meteor that wiped out the dinosaurs 66 million years ago generated so much heat and debris that it formed a huge underground cave and water system under the ground in this area. BTW, that meteor hit just a few hundred miles from here, so I figure we’re safe because, hey, what are the odds??
The soft limestone bed in this area is very water soluble (it used to be underwater so much of it is dead coral) so forms underground caves and sinkholes of various sizes and proximity to the surface. These are not limited to Mexico, but they say there are more than 6000 on the Peninsula, and we have dozens within 50 miles of us. Some of these underground systems go for hundreds of miles, though not all are accessible. And some are only accessible with scuba tanks, but that will have to wait. With some digging I learned that two of the longest running underground aquifers in the world are here in Mexico, one being 353 km long and the other 270 km long. These waterways were huge contributors to the growth of Mayan civilizations during the past 13,000 years.
I had never been to one, though Kathleen had, and I was taken back by the beautiful underground cavern filled with cool/ cold water that was probably 66 degrees or so, just a bit chilly. Fern and lichen grow around the perimeter of the holes down to the water, and this one here, called Cenote Oja de Agua, had four different entry points, including some that were “jump only” access! (27 feet or so they SAY…)
I wasn’t quite ready for that, so instead walked in through one of the others. The water color is hard to describe and varied between aquamarine and greenish depending upon how the light from above struck it. The actual grounds were lovely, with cabanas strewn around to hang out, chairs to lie in and changing rooms, showers, and bathrooms. The jungle was everywhere and as “modern” as it was, it was still a very rustic, wild setting.
Plus we were the only ones there, keeping our social distancing manners in mind.
This is a family owned, private cenote and not open to the public during the “off season” which will last until next fall. We met a fabulous tour guide, Martin, who is from this area, and knows all the best spots. He shared this one and we have many more journeys planned so we can catch up on our Adventure Shortage. BTW, these cenotes are magical to the Mayan culture and many believed that they were access points to their “underworld” where their Gods lived, and spirits went to after death.
We welcome any followers to check out Puerto Morelos, Mexico as soon as you are ready, willing, and able to travel. As we develop relationships down here we would LOVE to share this beauty with you!
It is easy to get to Cancun airport (opening soon) and it’s very affordable and will blow your minds with natural beauty everywhere, including the people. #cenote, #mexico, #meteor, #puertomorelos
