Located just on the outskirts of the picturesque town of Homun, lies a cenote whose adventure begins on the road. To reach this enigmatic place, you must take a detour that leads you down a dirt path, where you’ll encounter several cenotes along the way. But don’t get sidetracked, keep going until you reach your destination: a cenote that, as its name in Spanish suggests, means “Hidden” or “Stored.”
This underground cenote, concealed beneath the earth, invites you to explore it as if you were entering a hidden treasure. Access is through an opening in the rock, where two stone stairways guide you: one for entering and one for exiting. As you descend, a breathtaking underground vault opens before your eyes, offering a panoramic view that leaves you speechless. The solid ground where the stairs rest is adorned with stalactite and stalagmite formations that, over time, have created natural columns resembling sculptures crafted by the earth itself.
Before reaching the water, you'll pass through the cavern, where the rocky formations continue to grow slowly, some unified into a large colonnade resembling a stone waterfall. This detail reveals the deep respect the ancient Maya had for these sacred spaces, where nature continues to patiently sculpt its masterpiece. Remember not to touch these formations so they can keep growing for centuries to come.
Unlike many other cenotes, on the right side of this enigmatic place, you can see handprints painted on the stone walls. These silent witnesses of the past are clear evidence that the ancient Maya not only found refuge here, but also sourced water from this natural sanctuary. The handprints on the rock seem to tell the stories of those who saw this cenote not only as a vital resource but also as a sacred place, full of symbolism and a deep connection to nature.
When you reach the crystal-clear waters, a deep emerald green, stone steps invite you to dive in. At first, the depth is barely 60 centimeters, but just a few more steps and the cenote reaches an impressive depth of 10 meters. Immersing yourself in these waters is like feeling the ancient history that resides in every drop, in every stone.
In addition to its history, this cenote is also home to wildlife. Swallows and the famous Tho bird fly and sing above you as you enjoy the refreshing waters, creating a natural symphony that further connects you to the surroundings. The fluttering of these birds adds a magical touch to the experience, reminding you that you are immersed in a natural sanctuary that the Maya once revered.
This cenote is more than just a stop on your tour of Homun; it’s an opportunity to explore and connect with nature and Maya culture in its purest and most mysterious form.