EN
ES
Cenote Zapote
Hell's Bells Unique Formations
Cenote Zapote, a hidden gem in Puerto Morelos, offers a tranquil oasis for divers seeking a unique experience. Immerse yourself in the serenity of its clear waters and marvel at the intricate rock formations, including the famous "Hell's Bells" - a must-visit destination for diving enthusiasts.
Watch Zapote DiveCenote Zapote
Home to the unique "Bells of the Underworld" - found nowhere else on Earth
Cenote Zapote is home to one of the world's most remarkable geological phenomena - the legendary "Hell's Bells" or "Bells of the Underworld." These unique bell-shaped stalactites formed underwater and are found nowhere else on Earth, making this advanced cenote diving site a bucket-list destination for serious divers. Located in the Puerto Morelos cenote region, Zapote sits at depths of 28-36 meters where the Hell's Bells await discovery, rewarding Advanced Open Water certified divers with an otherworldly encounter.
What makes Zapote truly extraordinary is the scientific mystery surrounding the Hell's Bells. These formations represent a geological impossibility that science only recently explained—stalactites that grew underwater through a unique process involving bacteria and hydrogen sulfide layers. Each bell-shaped formation is distinct, ranging from a few centimeters to over 2 meters in length, creating an alien landscape that divers describe as visiting another planet. The cenote's hydrogen sulfide layer adds to the mystique, creating a halocline effect similar to the famous Cenote Angelita, making every dive a profound scientific and sensory experience.
For advanced divers seeking ultimate cenote exploration, Zapote offers an unparalleled adventure to witness geological wonders found nowhere else. This is diving at the pinnacle of achievement—exploring a site of international scientific significance while experiencing formations that challenge everything we thought we knew about geology. Book your dive with our expert guides who will position you perfectly to witness the Hell's Bells' majesty. Combine Zapote with nearby Cenote Maravilla for a complete cenote diving exploration of Puerto Morelos' most extraordinary underwater treasures.
Zapote Diving
Maximum Depth
The Hell's Bells are found at depths of 28-36 meters. This is a deep dive requiring proper certification.
Certification
Advanced Open Water required. Deep diving experience strongly recommended for the best experience.
Formation Type
The only place on Earth to see "Hell's Bells" - stalactites that formed underwater.
The Hell's Bells
The "Bells of the Underworld" are bell-shaped stalactites that formed underwater - a geological impossibility that science only recently explained. These formations are found nowhere else on Earth, making Zapote a site of international scientific significance.
How They Formed
Unlike normal stalactites that form in air, the Hell's Bells grew underwater through a unique process involving bacteria. The organisms created conditions that allowed calcium carbonate to precipitate on the underside of a hydrogen sulfide layer, forming the bell shapes.
The Discovery
Discovered by cave divers and studied by international scientists, the Hell's Bells rewrote our understanding of how mineral formations can occur. Each bell is unique, ranging from a few centimeters to over 2 meters in length.
The Zapote Experience
Your dive descends through clear water into the depths where the Hell's Bells await. Hovering among these unique formations feels like visiting another planet - nothing in your diving experience prepares you for the otherworldly sight.
The cenote also features a hydrogen sulfide layer similar to Cenote Angelita, adding to the mystical atmosphere. This is diving at its most extraordinary - a scientific wonder you can explore firsthand.
Before You Dive
Deep Dive Profile
This is a technical-level deep dive. We ensure all divers are comfortable with deep diving and proper air management before visiting Zapote.
Limited Access
To protect the fragile formations, access to Zapote is controlled. We coordinate permits in advance to ensure availability.
Photography
Wide-angle photography captures the scale of the bells. Our guides position divers for the best angles while protecting the formations.
Dive Cenote Zapote
Experience the Hell's Bells - found nowhere else on Earth.