Cenote Chaak Tun

Visitors to Playa del Carmen will appreciate the short drive to the must-see landmark of Cenote Chaak Tun. This natural wonder is steeped in Mayan history and offers thrilling discoveries.  Moreover, it provides a breathtaking experience molded over centuries by water and stone.

Access to this underground world wasn’t available until 1999. Now, visitors can observe the towering stalactites and stalagmites firsthand and swim in the crystal-clear freshwater pools.

Cenote Chaak Tun is part of the sprawling network of underground rivers scattered throughout Riviera Maya. These natural sinkholes were formed over millennia as rainwater gradually dissolved the porous limestone bedrock. Over time, this process created vast cave systems, many of which remain undiscovered. 

This cenote’s name comes from the Mayan words Chaak (the god of rain) and Tun (stone). The phrase translates into Spanish as “stone rain” or “water that comes from stone.” This further demonstrates the Mayans’ reverence and dependency on the cenotes. First, they were a crucial source of fresh water, and second, they served as sacred sites for spiritual rituals and offerings.

Tours to Cenote Chaak Tun are available for ages five and up. The experience is educational, adventurous, and fun for all. While you can rent snorkel gear from Playa Scuba or bring your own, snorkeling gear is included with your fee. 

The landmark’s proximity to Playa del Carmen makes combining multiple attractions easy. For instance, after exploring this cenote, head to nearby Rio Secreto for another fascinating underground adventure. The combinations are endless!

Cenote Chaak Tun is a rich testament to nature’s beauty and Mayan history, making it a must-see destination on the Yucatan Peninsula.

Cenote Chaak Tun: Fun Facts & Cool Features

A fun fact is that cenotes populate the Yucatan Peninsula. Aside from Chaak Tun and Rio Secreto, other nearby standouts include Two Eyes Cenotes and Gran Cenote. 

The popular Amazing Underground Adventure Tour at Cenote Chaak Tun is a two-hour trek into this fantastic world. You'll explore three caves and snorkel in the crystal-clear cenote's water. The price includes water shoes, a locker for changing, snorkeling gear, a life jacket, and an aquatic lamp. 

Explorers with a spirit of adventure will love learning that the water remains refreshingly cool year-round. Such assurance is a welcome break from the Riviera Maya's tropical heat. 

A fascinating fact is that visibility in cenotes is astounding. With very little settlement, the limestone-filtered water offers snorkelers up to 100 meters of underwater visibility. Add the beams of sunlight cutting through the water amidst the geological formations, and it's an experience of a lifetime. 

Another cool feature is the Ancient Traditions tour. This package offers an immersive Mayan experience featuring meditation, purification ceremonies, and a swim in the refreshing cenote. 

As mentioned, the attraction's proximity to Playa del Carmen makes it easy to combine sightseeing on Quinta Avenida with a tour. After exploring the caves and snorkeling, refuel at the popular Mia's HomeMade restaurant. Or plan a tour of the Museo Frida Kahlo to combine the arts with your nature and cultural tour at Chaak Tun.

Visiting Cenote Chaak Tun is an opportunity to experience natural artistry and connect with the past. Furthermore, it is an unforgettable experience that blends exploration, beauty, and Mayan history.

Getting There

Here are step-by-step driving directions from Playa del Carmen to Cenote Chaak Tun:

• Head southwest on Calle 14 Nte toward 1st Avenue Nte.
• Turn right onto Avenida 10.
• Drive for 5 km and merge onto Benito Juarez Avenue.
• Continue out of the town center toward Ejido.
• Look for signage to the destination.
• Address: Av. Benito Juárez 7-km 4, Ejidal, 77723 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico.

Cost

Below are the tour costs at Cenote Chaak Tun:

• Adult Amazing Underground Adventure Tour: $50 
• Child Amazing Underground Adventure Tour: $32
• Adult Ancient Traditions: $80
• Child Ancient Traditions: $40

Prices are subject to change; check their website for updates.