90 minutes from Cancun and only 10 minutes from Tulum is this paradise that houses a unique ecosystem, a mixture of salt water and fresh water that creates a perfect habit for various organisms. Also, this is the home of Panchito the crocodile, an animal that has become popular with tourists. Dare to meet him!
- If you want to plan your getaway to Tulum, click here.
Cenote Manatí, where Panchito the crocodile lives
We know that the Riviera Maya is a paradise where white sand, turquoise blue waters and pre-Hispanic history come together. With this, we also have an incredible cenote route that stretches from Quintana Roo to Yucatan. However, due to its popularity, there are few unknown places in this area.
However, there is still one or another place that is not very popular among tourists, such as the Manatí cenote, which, although it is popular in the area, does not enjoy the fame of others such as the Cristalino or Dos Ojos cenote.
This place is very close to the sea and is connected to it by means of a 50 meter long underwater tunnel. For this reason, the water is brackish, thus creating a unique ecosystem that gives way to the diversity of marine and freshwater species.
Panchito the crocodile, the friendly neighbor
In addition to the great diversity of birds, fish, and algae found in this place, this is the home of the famous Panchito crocodile, an animal that went viral due to a video that shows it swimming among tourists without any risk.
Panchito has lived in this place since he was born. He is sometimes seen swimming through the waters of the cenote, at others in the nearby waters of the sea. It is important to note that on no occasion have there been attacks on tourists. For this reason, Panchito has become an icon in the area and some tourist guides invite you to meet him.
Despite the fact that there has never been an incident with Panchito, in the Manatí cenote they are reminded that visitors must take their precautions and swim at their own risk. It is good to remember that this is Panchito’s house, that he is in his natural habitat and that he is a crocodile. We always recommend respecting your space and taking prudence.
- If you want to plan your getaway to Tulum, click here.
What can you do in the cenote
Although this is not a cenote as such, since it does not have the corresponding characteristics, it is known as such due to its incredible caves and underwater tunnels. Because of this it is ideal for practicing diving Y snorkel. In addition, due to its mangrove nature, this place is perfect for exploring the waters in kayaking, paddle boarding or just swim.