top of page
A7405073-2.jpg

cenote

freediving
week

Dive deep into the natural sinkholes of the Yucatán Peninsula

Merida & Valladolid, Mexico

14-22 February 2026 (8 nights)

Max 12 participants

Freediving training in different cenotes every day

From beginner to master levels (certifications included)

Professional underwater photography

Immersing into ancient Maya culture

Real local experience with local guides

Booking via WhatsApp

Dive into the Mystical Depths of the Mexican Cenotes!

Join us on an unforgettable freediving week in the enchanting cenotes of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula. These ancient sinkholes are known for their crystal-clear waters, surreal limestone formations, and sacred Maya history, offering a freediving experience like no other. Whether you're here to train, explore, or earn your Level 1–3 freediving certification, this trip is designed for all levels. 

Where

Merida & Valladolid​

Mexico

We will spend 3 nights in Merida and 4 nights in Valladolid, freediving in breathtaking cenotes around the area. Cenotes are natural sinkholes in the ground filled with fresh water and Yucatán has hundreds of them, and we will show you the BEST ones for freediving and taking beautiful photos.

When

14-​21 Feb 2026 (7 nights)

February is the best time of the year to explore the cenotes of the Yucatán, as the weather is sunny and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 26-28°C, making it ideal for outdoor adventures. The water temperature in most cenotes is refreshing around 24-26°C.

What

Exploring different cenotes every day, freediving training with personalized attention (up to 3 freedivers per buoy), freediving certifications upon completing requirements, UW photography, connecting with nature in the heart of the jungle, visiting Chichen Itza, one of the 7 Wonders of the World, eating lots of Mexican food, and having lots of fun with an amazing group of people.

Who

A small group of awesome adventure seekers like You!

Whether you're traveling alone, with friends, or with your partner, you're welcome to join us. We LOVE to travel and share amazing underwater experiences with others - making new friendships and unforgettable memories that stay with us. For us there is no better way of traveling & we look forward to having You!

Your Hosts

We are a four professional freedivers, expedition leaders and underwater photographers, passionate about sharing our knowledge and adventures with others. We look forward to having You with us in Mexico!

nusy

Freediving Instructor & Athlete

Co-founder of Blue Spirit

Hi! I’m a Molchanovs Freediving Instructor and proud member of the Molchanovs Athlete Team. Originally from Hungary, I’ve had the chance to live in Italy and Ecuador, and traveling has always been a huge part of my life. Now, I’m lucky enough to combine my love for travel with my passion for freediving. Mexico is one of my favorite places where I always want to return to and I can’t wait to share this amazing experience with all of you who'll join us!

Copy of IMG_5844.jpeg

Carlos

Professional Filmmaker & Freediver

Co-founder of Blue Spirit

Hi! I’m a freediver, filmmaker, and an underwater videographer & photographer with a huge passion for nature and the ocean. I’m from Ecuador, and I’ve spent most of my life by the sea, surfing and diving. Mexico is a truly special place that’s inspired me in so many ways. My goal on this expedition is to make sure you have an unforgettable time while capturing all the best moments of our adventure, so you’ll have some amazing memories to take home with you!

IMG_1243.JPG
Fran Komodo_edited.jpg

francesca

Freediving Instructor &

Underwater Photographer

Co-founder of Alma Libre

Ciao! I am Francesca, a traveler and adventure lover from Italy. As far as I remember, I have always loved travelling and exploring new places. While for many the unknown can be terrifying, for me it’s something I chase and look for with my travels. I love not knowing what’s coming and see what happens. No need to say I am incredibly happy with where life took me: living in Mexico and building my dream life with the man I love by my side. I could never imagine that one day I would turn my passions into my job and I couldn’t be more excited to share them with you!

Alberto Komodo_edited.jpg

alberto

Freediving Instructor &

Co-founder of Alma Libre

⁠Hola! I’m Alberto, one half of the passionate duo behind Alma Libre. I was raised in the beautiful Yucatán, where my love for exploration and adventure began. Growing up, I spent countless hours discovering the hidden gems of this region, specially cenotes. Freediving has always been more than just a sport to me; it’s a way to connect deeply with nature and find inner peace. It makes me so happy to be able to share this passion and knowledge as a freediving instructor with other adventurers and beautiful souls. I’m really looking forward to meeting you on our next adventure!

the YUcatan peninsula

_edited.jpg

merida

Merida is the capital of Yucatan, surrounded by hundreds of cenotes. This will be our first base, and each day we will drive to show you our favorite spots for freediving and underwater photography, after visiting dozens of them. Trust us, you will LOVE them!

A7407623.jpg

The Yucatán Peninsula, located in southeastern Mexico is known for its vibrant culture, history, and breathtaking natural beauty. The area is famous for its deep connection to the ancient Mayan civilization, with incredible archaeological sites like Chichen Itza, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. But what truly sets the Yucatán apart is its stunning natural beauty, especially the cenotes - natural sinkholes that have formed over thousands of years. Each cenote has its own unique charm, crystal clear waters, fascinating limestone formations and beautiful light beams which make it a must visit destination for nature lovers and freedivers. This place also holds a special piece in our hearts, as this is where we met with out co-organizers, Francesca and Alberto back in 2020 during our freediving instructor course. You can read more about our story below :)

valladolid

Valladolid will be our second base, and it is the cutest little mexican town you'll ever see, also surrounded by breathtaking cenotes. Here, we will aim to dive a little deeper into light beams and beyond, after a rest day in the middle of our trip. 

A7404281.jpg

Highlights of the trip

Accommodation

We'll be staying in charming, Mexican style accommodations that right in the heart of Mérida and Valladolid. These boutique-style stays are designed for comfort and authenticity, offering a cozy and inviting atmosphere with a traditional local touch. Each room comes with air conditioning, a private bathroom, and WiFi access to help you stay connected and refreshed during your journey.

Please note that the photos provided are for reference only. The final selection of accommodations will be made based on the size and specific needs of our group, ensuring everyone has a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Program

We will be exploring different cenotes every single day, which are usually located about 40-60 minute drives from our accommodations. The daily plan is to wake up comfortably, have a nice breakfast, jump in the car, and head to the cenote of the day - each of them beautifully unique. You’ll have the chance to gradually increase your depth from 20 to 50 meters depending on your level and comfort, or simply enjoy fun dives, take photos, or relax in nature. Throughout the week we will mix in other fun activities, too like salsa night, visiting pyramids, different workshops and more.

Highlights of the week

Day 1

  • Arrival at Merida

  • Checking in at our accommodation at 4pm

  • Welcome drink & briefing

  • EQ workshop

  • Welcome dinner

Day 2

  • Visiting our first cenote (up to 20m depth) where we will do a small welcome ceremony and an adaptation session to get the week started.

  • Late lunch at the beach & catching the sunset

Day 3

  • Another day another beautiful cenote with a little more depth to 30m, and the perfect light beam for some photos. We will take videos of everyone, to review your technique later in the afternoon.

  • Mexican lunch at Maya family's home

  • Freediving technique review session

  • Salsa night

Day 4

  • No Fins Day & Fun diving (up to 20m depth) with sand dunes bottom and light beams - such a unique combo - where we will also do a workshop about movement & modeling underwater, so you can take home some real amazing photos after the trip. 

  • Late lunch at the beach & catching the sunset

Day 5

  • Slow morning and checking out to head to Valladolid

  • Stopping by Izamal "the yellow town" on the way for some lunch, coffee and ice cream

  • Visiting Chichen Itza, one of the most famous Maya pyramids and one of the Seven Wonders of the World

Day 6

  • Visiting our first cenote in Valladolid - and if you thought it can't get any more beautiful, wait for this one. In this cenote we have up to 35m depth

  • Afternoon Photography & Editing Workshop

  • Night walk & shopping in Valladolid

Day 7

  • Our cenote of the day on the day before the last one has up to 45m depth it is one of the craziest ones with both perfect light beams and sulfide cloud close to the bottom.

  • Dinner & table games

Day 8

  • Our last cenote has 51m depth, and the most beautiful limestone ceiling formations, that makes your wonder how nature can be so incredibly amazing

  • Hang around the cenote for lunch

  • Enjoy our goodbye dinner with the group

Day 9

  • Breakfast

  • Checkout from our accommodation by 10am

  • Departures from Valladolid

* The above program may be subject to changes depending on weather conditions, and final group composition.

CALCUCH-3.jpg
A7406291.jpg
A7406723.jpg
A7402632-4.jpg
A7407256.jpg
DJI_0842.jpg

our mission

Our goal is to inspire people to explore the underwater world, discover their potential, and build a deeper connection with nature and themselves. We believe that freediving offers a unique opportunity to step out of your comfort zone, challenge your limits, and grow. 

 

We hope to create an experience where every breath hold brings you closer to the deeper parts of who you are, and to the incredible natural world around you.

requirements

insurance

A travel insurance that covers freediving activities is required for this adventure. We use DAN, who offers worldwide travel and underwater activities insurance, but you may find other alternatives in your area.

speaking english

The official language of our expeditions is English and it is important that everyone feel comfortable speaking the language, so we can all enjoy and connect as a group.

freediving gear

 

You should bring your own gear (wetsuit, mask, snorkel, fins, belt). Weights for belts will be provided. You may also rent snorkeling equipment on the islands, but not professional gear.

YOU&ME.jpg

packing list

  • Freediving Gear:

    • mask & snorkel

    • freediving fins (long fins recommended)

    • wetsuit (min 3mm)

    • weight belt (lead will be provided)

  • Camera/action camera - Carlos & Francesca will be taking photos of the trip of course, but it’s recommended to bring your own cameras, too :)

  • Comfortable clothes for warm tropical weather

  • Sandals, flip flops, comfortable shoes for walking

  • Swimsuits, bikinis, board shorts, rash guards, etc.

  • Windbreaker jacket, rain jacket in case

  • Mosquito repellent

  • Sun protection: sunscreen (min 50 UV), sunglasses, hat/cap

  • Backpack and waterproof bag for your gear and personal items

  • Water bottle

  • Plug converter: type A and type B are used, standard voltage 127V and 60Hz

  • SIM Cards: You can buy SIM cards at the airports or in any OXXO supermarket

  • Some cash for extra expenses - Currency: Mexican Peso (MXN)

  • Travel & Freediving Insurance (we recommend DAN who specialize in travel & underwater activities insurance, but you may find other providers)

PLEASE NOTE: no sunscreens, makeup or repellents can be used in cenotes - only after getting out! Same goes for shampoo and antifog liquids for masks - we recommend applying toothpaste or shampoo the night before in masks and washing it before leaving to our sessions. This is important in order to take care of natural freshwater cenotes. 

pricing

2550 EUR

2350 EUR

(only until September 1)

The trip includes shared rooms as indicated in the accommodation descriptions - and we will arrange the group in the rooms based on age and gender. Single room availability is limited and may be arranged upon request for an additional fee. To ensure we can accommodate your preference, please let us know at your earliest convenience so we can coordinate accordingly.

via WhatsApp

what's included

  • Accommodation for 8 nights

  • Breakfast, lunch, welcome & goodbye dinner

  • Freediving training sessions every day

  • Visiting our 5 favorite cenotes

  • Level 1-3 Molchanovs Freediving Certifications

        (upon completing requirements)

  • Transportation during the trip

  • Equalization, modeling, photography workshops

  • Professional photos of the trip

  • Visiting Izamal & Chichen Itza Pyramid

  • The best local guides, experienced freediving instructors and underwater photographers :)

  • A lifetime experience with an awesome group

what's not included

  • International flight tickets

  • Airport transfer to Merida

  • Five dinner meals

  • Alcoholic beverages

  • Travel & Freediving insurance

  • Freediving gear (except for lead)

  • Personal expenses

  • Transportation outside the official program

DJI_0512.jpg

reservation

To secure your spot a deposit of 990 EUR is required (partially refundable, see cancellation policy below). The remainder amount must be paid in full maximum 75 day prior departure.

payment

For reservations, please contact us at bluespirit.freediving@gmail.com or via WhatsApp at this link.

cancellations

Because this expedition is for a small group of people, cancellation options are limited. If you cancel more than 75 days prior to the trip, we can refund you half of the deposit. If you cancel within 75 days prior to the trip, then unfortunately we will not be able to make a refund. However, if you find someone else to fill your spot, we can refund you the full amount (except any bank fees).

important note

The expedition is subject to a minimum number of participants. We will confirm the trip to everyone as soon as possible (at latest 90 days before departure) therefore, we recommend to only purchase refundable and flexible flights in the meantime. If we don’t reach the minimum number of participants, the trip will be cancelled and you will receive a full refund.

  • Is this trip for me?
    If you love the ocean, wildlife, nature and adventures, this trip is definitely for You! We will be constantly on the go on exciting excursions and spending hours in the ocean looking for magical encounters. However, if you’re looking for something more relaxing or if you’re not really a good swimmer, this trip might not be for you.
  • Do I need a freediving certificate?
    You do not need a freediving certificate, but it’s very recommended to take a course before, so you can take more advantage of the trip and enjoy the incredible underwater activites and marine life on another level. Also note, that ocean conditions can vary in some places like Kicker Rock, where the water may be completely calm, but stronger currents may also enter. Therefore, it is required to be a good swimmer and be comfortable in open water using snorkel equipment.
  • Will there be freediving trainings?
    This trip is focused on exploring marine life, not specifically freediving trainings. We will practice recreational freediving at its best every day.
  • Will there be any scuba diving activities?
    No, this is a freediving expedition, where we won’t be doing any scuba diving activities. However, if you wish to stay longer to do scuba diving too, we are happy to help you organize it.
  • Where do I need to book my flight?
    San Cristóbal, Galápagos (SCY). You may book your international flights directly to San Cristobal Island, but it will have stop over in either Guayaquil or Quito, so it may be more economic to book a flight to Guayaquil or Quito and then separately buy a domestic flight to San Cristobal Island. Common international airlines flying from Europe are: Turkish Airlines via Istanbul, KLM via Amsterdam, Avianca/Iberia via Madrid. Common airlines for domestic flights are: LATAM, Avianca.
  • Do I need a visa for Ecuador/Galapagos?
    No visas are required for U.S., Canadian, and most European citizens unless you plan to stay more than 90 days. In other cases, please check with local immigration offices or the Ecuadorian consulate.
  • Do I need any vaccines to enter the Galapagos Islands?
    There is no vaccination requirement for traveling to the highlands, coastal and Galápagos regions of Ecuador.
  • What's the local currency?
    The local currency is United States Dollar (USD).
  • What are the payment options on the island? (cash, ATMs, cards)
    Cash: We recommend to bring some cash with you for the National Park entrance fees (230 USD); some local stores and restaurants that may only accept cash (average spend in restaurants is between 6-30 USD per meal depending on the place); optional tips for guides. ATMs: There are a few ATMs on the island. You may withdraw up to 200-300 USD at once at a cost of 4.60 USD per transaction. Card payments: You may also use card payments in most local businesses - depending on the business you may be charged 8-10% extra fee.
  • Will we really see all these animals?
    We can guarantee that you will see most animals described, like sea lions all around, sea turtles, giant Galápagos turtles, lots of local bird species, and with a very good chance dolphins, school of fish and different kinds of sharks too, BUT remember, that nature is nature, and we cannot guarantee wildlife encounters.
bottom of page