Chaak Tun Cenote: Underground, Back in Time

Only five minutes from Playa del Carmen, the tours in Chaak Tun Cenote offer the rare opportunity to set foot into one of the most ancient places on the planet.

What kind of cenote is Chaak Tun?

Your entry ticket includes access to the facilities—bathrooms and locker rooms—and all the necessary gear. This is a touring cenote, so it’s a little more equipment than usual: snorkel, helmet, flashlights (one per couple), water shoes, and wetsuits.

Among the different tours and activities in this place, the snorkel cave tour, called “Amazing Underground Adventure” is probably the most popular. So, once you’re all geared up, follow your guide into the Mayan underworld.

Chaak Tun’s Amazing Underground Adventure

Remember to always follow your guide’s instructions. They know their stuff and the route you’re going to take.

Welcome to one of the most ancient places on earth. Chaak Tun, in Mayan, means “rain of rocks”. One look at the stalactite-filled roofs and you’ll immediately know why. As you follow him or her, your guide will tirelessly explain the history of this place and the rock formations adorning it. As only a visitor to this strange ecosystem, you’ll stumble into the usual tenants for sure, such as catfish and the occasional bat.

Though it feels like you’re only discovering this place now, it’ll soon be clear that other civilizations beat us to the punch for about a thousand years. This place—your guide will explain—had an important significance in Mayan lore, as they considered it the entrance to the underworld. There are a few objects—like pottery pieces—left here for you to see.

Some parts of the tour are lit, and others aren’t—your flashlight is your best friend. As such, this tour is not for those who aren’t comfortable in tight or dark places. 

Back on the surface

Your tour over, and your eyes used to the light once again, your guide will take you to another cenote where you and your group will be able to enjoy at your leisure.