Chunyaxche Lagoon: Float on Mayan-Built Canals

The Chunyaxche lagoon is only 15 minutes from Tulum and neighbors the Muyil archeological site. Forget another country: its sheer extension and colors make the visitor feel they’re on another planet. And, to keep the paradise theme going, the way you tour it is to simply relax.

Facilities at Chunyaxche Lagoon

Chunyaxche Lagoon is in the Sian Ka’an Reserve along with other places of interest like the Muyil Archeological site. Your experience may vary a little depending on how you combine the different activities this place offers.

Let’s start with just the Chunyaxche lagoon. At your arrival, you’ll be able to rent the equipment you’ll need for the tour. Lifejackets are a must, but you can rent kayaks, too.

What is there to do at the Chunyaxche Lagoon?

Unlike other lagoons and cenotes, here you can’t just walk up to the shore and jump in. Swimming is not forbidden, but it’s limited to designated areas. This is a protected zone and there might be alligators around, so it might not be safe to venture in without a guide.

You can reserve your boat tour in advance or book one on the spot, right on the pier. Pay the fee and you’re off. The boat will stop at the mouth of the canals. Jump in the water and lay on your back. The mild current will carry you as you admire your surroundings. They’re even more impressive when you find out mother nature didn’t form these canals, but the Mayans themselves.

The whole tour lasts about 2 two 3 hours.

Combine Chunyaxche with the Muyil Archeological site or Cenote de las Golondrinas Cenote

If you choose to visit the Muyil Archeological site, its paths through the jungle will eventually take you to the Muyil lagoon pier. The boat will cross the Muyil Lagoon to the much larger Chunyaxche and tour the canals the same way as before. The tour over, your guide will return you to the pier you sailed from.

Alternatively, the famous Las Golondrinas Cenote is only 5 minutes away, in case you’d like to swim underground as well.