Created thousands of years ago by water which filtered through the limestone surface, these rivers have become, with the passing of time, a subterranean paradise. Caverns and vaults, with impressive rock formations are found all along these water filled tunnels. Experts assure us that during the Ice Ages, when the water level went down, rain filtered through the ground, dragging minerals from the soil and creating thousands of stalactites and stalagmites in the then empty caverns. After the Ice Ages, the water level rose and again flooded these underground passages. The entrance to this magical world is through cenotes or sinkholes, which were formed when the land above weakened and collapsed.
Divers describe it as flying through space.
The water is crystal clear and with sunlight, visibility is even better than in the Caribbean. 29 miles long and 12 miles wide, this flat island covered with dense jungle and white sand beaches is a favorite of divers and vacationers looking for tranquility with a Yucatecan flavor. Cozumel's dedication to diving and the conservation of marine life make it one of the most popular and well known dive spots in the world. The exceptionally clear and nutrient filled current that continually flows around the island from south to north has helped to create the spectacular coral formations and abundant array of marine life found along this extensive stretch of barrier reef. Divers have the opportunity to explore three massive reef systems, Santa Rosa, Colombia and Palancar with depths ranging from 50-120 ft.