Akton Usil underground caves

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Akton Usil underground caves

Welcome to an extraordinary world of discovery where ancient secrets come to life. With an impressive height reaching over 196.8 ft, the cave vault stands tall, showcasing meticulously outlined Mayan hieroglyphs that offer a fascinating glimpse into the rich tapestry of this ancient civilization. Indeed, these grottoes are a recent discovery, revealing a treasure trove of hidden artifacts and remnants of a bygone era. As you explore, you’ll encounter altars, pottery fragments, bones, and an array of astonishing objects that provide invaluable insights into the Mayan culture. Here are some tips on the Akton Usil underground caves.

Ancient Mayan paintings

Aktun Usil can be translated as “place where you see the paint blowing”. This name is a reference to the fascinating cave paintings found inside an extraordinary complex of caves in western Yucatan.

These caves opened to the public in 2012. So, inside them you can still find several pieces of Mayan art. Altars, vessels, bones and ceramic objects. They remained there since the days of the ancient Maya civilization.

Akton Usil underground caves: some tips

  • To ensure you have the best experience, it is advisable to hire the services of local guides certified in nature and environmental and cultural interpretation. They will help you better understand everything you will see and tell you Mayan stories and legends related to the place.
  • No matter what you do, it is vital that you do not intervene or take any object found in the enclosure.
  • Although you may find treasures, their historical and cultural value is immense, so it is important not to touch them.
  • To avoid the sun on the way to the caves, it is advisable to visit the site early in the morning and wear comfortable clothes and closed-toe shoes to ensure your comfort during the visit.
  • Show respect for the environment and avoid littering. Contribute to preserve the natural beauty and integrity of this fascinating place.

How to get to Akton Usil underground caves

By car from Mérida, take the Gulf Coast Highway (Federal Highway 180) heading south. One kilometer after the junction with the Muna-Maxcanú highway, you will find the turnoff to the caves.