The Three Cenotes
The Nature Parc Chikin Ha hosts 3 Cenotes, Cenotes X Tabay, Chikin Ha, and Rainbow in one location, each with its charm. However, only two are suitable for swimming and Scuba Divin, Cenote X’Tabay and Cenote Chikin Ha, while the third, Cenote Rainbow, is reserved for ceremonial purposes.
Here’s your ultimate guide to exploring this natural wonder, from how to get there to what to expect.
Cenote X’tabay
The first cenote you’ll encounter, X’tabay, is an open cenote surrounded by lush greenery, including ceiba trees and palms. Its shallow, clear waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling, making it ideal for families. The cenote is home to fish, turtles, waterlilies, and colorful birds.
This dive site is often used for cave diving training of all levels. It’s wide cavern is used to practice laying line and it’s long spectacular tunnel can take you all the way to Cenote Eden while swimming with a stage or riding the fast lane with a DPV.
Cenote Chikin Ha
The main attraction, Cenote Chikin Ha, features a natural tunnel formed by ancient limestone. This cenote is great for adventure lovers, offering stunning views and varying watercolors throughout the day. It’s a favorite among cave divers.
If you are a certified Open Water Diver, this site offers spectacular cavern diving with its stunning halocline, white limestone, and a traverse towards Cenote Rainbow.
Cenote Rainbow
Further away, Cenote Rainbow is used for Mayan ceremonies and is not swimmable. However, it’s worth the visit for its tranquil beauty. The cenote is surrounded by trees and features crystal-clear waters, making it a fantastic spot for photography.
Cenote Divers will poke their heads through the surface as they swim from Cenote Chikin Ha. They might even break the calcite layer forming at the surface, as divers’ bubbles turn it into little flakes, allowing them to experience the unique feeling of snowfall underwater.
Location of Cenote Chikin Ha and Access
Just a 30-minute drive from Playa del Carmen and 40 minutes from Tulum, Cenote Chikin Ha is conveniently located along the Carretera Federal. It’s right before Cenote Azul and Jardin del Eden. Look for the vibrant entrance to the Chikin Ha cenotes.
Getting To Cenote Chikin Ha
Going to Cenote Chikin Ha by Car:
Driving is the most convenient option. From Playa del Carmen, head towards Tulum on the Carretera Federal. Look for the colorful sign on your right after about 30 km. If coming from Tulum, drive about 40 km and make a U-turn after the sign.
Arrive to Cenote Chikin Ha By Local Bus:
You can take a ‘colectivo’ from Playa del Carmen or Tulum. Ask the driver to drop you off at the entrance, but be prepared to walk about a mile to reach the cenote.
Arrive to Cenote Chikin Ha By Taxi:
Taxis are a reliable option. It’s best to agree on a fare beforehand and arrange for a pick-up time as taxis are not readily available on-site.
Things to Do in Cenote Chikin Ha
Swim and Snorkel:
Both Chikin Ha and X’tabay cenotes are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Explore underwater rock formations, tree roots, and aquatic life.
Dive:
The best way to explore the depths of Chikin Ha and X’tabay cenotes.
Do not hesitate to contact us to go on a Cenote Dive Tour, a guided cave dive or even start your cave diving journey!
Photography:
All three cenotes offer incredible photo opportunities, although Chikin Ha and Rainbow offer limited light conditions.
Relax and Chill:
Enjoy the natural beauty and tranquil environment, especially at X’tabay, which is surrounded by lush nature.
Other Activities:
The park offers ziplines and a Mayan ceremony experience. And of course spectacular scuba diving for all level!
Practical Information about Cenote Chikin Ha
Facilities:
The park provides showers, toilets, dressing rooms, life jackets, a picnic area, a snack bar, and snorkel equipment rentals as well a a souvenir shop.
Fees:
- 350 MXN per person for access to all three cenotes (includes life jacket if needed).
- 650 MXN per person for a package including a Mayan ceremony, biking, zipline, guide, snorkeling gear, and life jacket.
Opening Hours:
The cenotes are open daily from 8 am to 6 pm.
Environmental Respect
To protect the delicate ecosystem, please follow these guidelines:
- Keep noise levels low.
- Do not leave trash on the property, even in the trash bins as wild fauna might get into it faster than you can imagine.
- Do NOT use solar creams or sprays; use long-sleeved shirts, sun caps, etc…
- Shower before entering the cenotes, you are full of chemicals (shampoo, deodorant, etc…). It will all be washed off in the Cenote, damaging the beautiful fauna and flora.
- Do not touch stalactites, stalagmites, or roots, they grow slowly and might never recover.
- Respect the natural environment.
What to Bring
- Swimsuit and change of clothes
- Towel
- Organic mosquito repellent for AFTER swimming
Nearby Attractions
- Akumal Beach: 15.8 km (9.8 miles)
- Xpu-ha Beach: 4.7 km (2.9 miles)
- Cenote Azul: 6.6 km (4.1 miles)
- Cenote Cristalino: 6.6 km (4.1 miles)
- Cenote Eden: 7.4 km (4.5 miles)
We love Cenote Chikin Ha
Cenote Chikin Ha is a hidden gem that offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. Whether you’re diving into its depths or simply soaking up the serene surroundings, it’s a must-visit destination in the Yucatan Peninsula.
