Aktun Chen

In the Mayan culture water played a really important role, especially for worshiping their Gods and paying tribute to them, but the Maya also had great knowledge about hydrology, physical and mechanical sciences for the correct use and handling of water from rivers, lakes and streams to supply their villages, as well as larger cities located in the middle of the jungle.

Many underground rivers connected to cenotes „ts’ono’ot” (which means sinkhole) where used by the Maya for these purposes and one of them is located 107 km southeast from Cancun, 4 km south of Akumal and 14 km before Tulum, this place is called Aktun Chen which translates to “A cave with a sinkhole inside”.

The natural park of Aktun Chen has a surface of 400 hectares (988 acres); at its surroundings, the only thing that has been exploited with moderation it’s a tree called “Chicozapote”, which locals use to produce gum. Aktun Chen itself has stalagmites and stalactites that have been formed over 5 million years by the filtration of water and accumulation of calcium carbonate which offer the visitor a spectacular view of the interior of the cave; one of Aktun Chen galleries - which has three in total- is lit artificially but in a discreet way to enjoy a better glimpse of the shapes, some of them make You believe that were made by an sculpting artist.

So be ready not only to explore Aktun Chen jungle and the interior of its caves, but also to swim or snorkel in the sinkhole of Aktun Chen, which will be so refreshing and relaxing after the hot and humid jungle walks, just be careful not to move the bottom sediment, which consists of a delicate 7 meters layer of carbonated calcium, that could form a cloud preventing to see through the crystal clear water ruining the only Aktun Chen sinkhole where is permitted to swim.

You will see at the premises of Aktun Chen Park, a variety of the local flora and fauna, with some considered endangered species, such as the spider monkey, white tail dears, wild boars, snakes, turkeys and other animals, that are preserved to help them reproduce, so they can later be freed, making their lives more pleasant and Your visit to Aktun Chen Cave & Underground River Entrance congenial and interactive.