Mani Chan Cenote: A Trip to the Underworld
Did you know there are different kinds of cenotes? The town of Homun is known for its wide variety, and Mani Chan, its latest addition, certainly adds to it. If you’ve ever wondered what a cenote looks like when it’s just been opened to the public, here’s your chance to find out.
The entrance to Mani Chan
Mani Chan doesn’t fit most people’s definition of a cenote—at least, not at first. Cenotes are not just holes in the ground filled with water (that’s a pool, right?). Here, you’d probably be surprised as your guide asks you to follow him or her into a cave—with no water.
Inside, stalactites hang from the roof of the grotto, droplets drip to the ground below. There are sets of rocks that were probably left by previous visitors centuries ago, and the seashells embedded in the walls sure are an interesting sight.
It’s cool, but still no cenote.
Deeper Underground
As you continue your journey to the underworld, your guide points out a type of clay that’s unusual to find in locations such as this. It’s actually used to make utensils and other commodities, exemplified by those left here as part of the tour.
You’ll also come across the reason for this place’s name, a boulder with a small stairway carved into it. Mani Chan means “small steps”, and it is thought these, on the boulder, were the entrance to the cenote.
Yes, you heard that right—you’re finally walking into the cenote.
Finally, the Mani Chan Cenote
Cenotes are most famous for how clear the water is in them. Some say it makes them feel like they’re floating. Here it’s no different, as you’ll be able to see the bottom, 50 feet under you.
But this place is not just for floaters. If you’re more interested in what is under the surface than over it, you can explore a 1-mile-long underwater cave, provided you have the right equipment.
It’s worth noting it hasn’t been long since this cenote was opened to the public, so the facilities here are minimal. There’s not much other than the guides who walk you to this underground treasure.
