Cenotes are important sources of drinking water, and most cities have been established around cenotes. High permeability of the underlying limestone and lack of soil results in there being no surface drainage (i.e. lakes and rivers) in most of the northern Yucatan Peninsula.

In addition to serving as a source of drinking water, the cenotes are also a source of recreation, as is seen here at Cenote Noc Ac. Unfortunately, cenotes are often used as garbage cans. According to the locals, this cenote has a lining of beer bottles and other rubbish at its bottom.

Photo: Jean Bahr