Adventure Collective Journal

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Cenote Adventure Tour: Swim Three Underground Caverns Near Progreso

Cenote Adventure Tour: Swim Three Underground Caverns Near Progreso

Swim three underground cenotes near Progreso on an accessible half‑day tour that includes transportation, life jackets and a Yucatecan lunch. Expect cavern dives, cool spring water, short stair descents and cultural context about the Maya and Yucatán’s karst landscape.

Progreso, Yucatán
4–5.5 hours
By Adventure CollectiveOctober 2025

The Experience

Before You Go

Bring a reusable water bottle

The operator provides bottled water on the van, but a refillable bottle keeps you hydrated for walks between cenotes.

Wear water shoes

Rocks and stairs into cenotes can be slippery—closed‑toe water shoes give traction and protect feet.

Use biodegradable sunscreen

Oils from regular sunscreen can harm aquatic ecosystems; choose reef‑safe or biodegradable formulas.

Carry small cash

Bring pesos for tips, snacks, or souvenirs at the Ex Hacienda; card acceptance can be limited.

Local Knowledge

Hidden Gems

  • Ex Hacienda de San Antonio cenote and on‑site Yucatecan restaurant
  • The cavern‑type cenote with skylight visited early in the itinerary for calmer water and better light

Wildlife

  • Bats roosting in cave ceilings
  • Small freshwater fish and turtles in cenote pools

Conservation Note

Avoid non‑biodegradable sunscreen, stay on marked paths, and refrain from touching formations—cenote formations grow extremely slowly and are sensitive to oils and breakage.

Cenotes were vital to Maya communities as freshwater sources and ceremonial sites; many caverns still contain archaeological and geological features that reflect long‑term human and natural history.

What to Bring

SwimsuitEssential

Wear under your clothes or bring a change—cenote swims are the core of the trip.

Water shoesEssential

Protects feet on slick rock and makes entries/exits safer.

Biodegradable sunscreenEssential

Protects skin while minimizing impact to cenote water quality.

Quick‑dry towel and dry bag

Keeps belongings dry and speeds up post‑swim drying.

Common Questions

How long is the tour and how many cenotes do we visit?

The operator lists roughly 4–5.5 hours on tour and visits three underground/cavern cenotes, with a lunch stop at Ex Hacienda de San Antonio.

Is transportation included from Progreso or Mérida?

Yes—air‑conditioned transport is included; pickup points generally include Progreso and sometimes Mérida depending on the booking details—confirm at reservation.

Are life jackets and gear provided?

Life jackets are provided on the tour; other gear like snorkels or water shoes are personal items to bring.

Who should avoid this tour?

Not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious spinal, heart, or mobility issues; participants should have the ability to navigate stairs and enter/exit water.

Book This Experience

Check Availability

Duration

4–5.5 hours

Location

Progreso, Yucatán

Difficulty

easy

Fitness Level

Suitable for most fitness levels; requires basic mobility for stairs and short walks and basic swimming ability for water comfort.

Free cancellation available

Ready to Explore Progreso?

Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.

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