Explore the unique depths of Cenote Angelita

Dive time: 35 to 40 minutes
Depth: 120 feet
Temperature: 78 degrees Fahrenheit
Tanks: 1
Certification: Advanced open water or show proof that you have done deep dives, or 2 star
Bathrooms: Yes, ecological
Parking: Yes
Entrance fee: Yes
Snorkeling: Yes, but not much to see

The topography of the cavern

The Cenote Angelita cave has no tunnels besides a couple of small swim-throughs. It is essentially one large cavern, edged by some stalactites, which descends to around 180 feet in depth. That’s a lot further down than you’ll usually go, though. The really amazing views are all tied to the effects created by the halocline and the hydrogen sulfate cloud which hovers at around 100 feet.

Dip beneath the cloud and you will see a truly bizarre effect. The change from fresh water to salt water makes it look as if you are floating in the air above a river bed. You can take a look at some photos to get the idea. But really experiencing it in person is something else entirely!

The surface
From the surface, Cenote Angelita doesn’t look like much more than a very pleasant pool. But beneath the waters, it’s got it where it counts.
There is a small selection of marine life which can often be seen from near the surface. The most popular residents are undoubtedly the crocodiles.

The light and the cloud
The light shining down through the pool makes the freshwater section of the cavern very clear indeed. There is very good visibility, though the cloud beneath you can give the cavern a slightly creepy, eerie look.
When you are floating in the depths, look up towards the light and you will see the mesmerising optical show which Mexico’s water-filled caverns are best known for. The light filters down between the roots and trees above is splintered by the water and seems to fall down towards you in a sparkling haze of beams.

The bottom
The true bottom of the cenote is very deep indeed. However, as you descend you won’t be able to escape the feeling that the cloud layer is the bottom. The branches of sunken trees emerge from it like dead fingers beckoning you deeper. If another diver emerges through it as you watch, remember to keep your mask in place despite the shock.

Deeper diving
For deeper diving in Angelita Cenote, you will need your lights. Especially when you get down beneath the hydrogen sulfate layer. Dipping beneath that layer can be nerves-inducing the first time, but it’s more than worth it to get the true experience of swimming in this most unusual of cenotes.

Cenote FAQ

Q. How deep is the cenote?
A. This cenote is 180 feet deep. Generally, you will only dive to 120 feet.
Q. What time of day is best for a Cenote Angelita dive?
A. It’s open from 8 am to 5 pm every day of the week. Any time between the mid-morning and mid-afternoon will probably be better because the sun will be shining down from directly overhead. If you want some advice as to when to go, ask in the Ko’ox shop before you head out.
Q. Is the cenote fresh water or salt water?
A. This cenote contains both. They meet at a layer called the halocline, which creates intriguing lighting effects. This effect is partly concealed by the hydrogen sulfate cloud here. But the cloud creates fascinating effects all of its own!
Q. Can I bring a camera?
A. To capture the jaw-dropping optical effects here it’s highly recommended that you bring a camera. Ko’ox will even provide you with a Go Pro, which you should request prior to your dive and thus capture your experience properly!