Dive Site: Chikin Ha
Level: Beginner
Depth: 12.5 meters max.
Dive Site: Chikin Ha
translated from Maya, means ‘Water of the West’. The cenote is located upstream from the Ponderosa System and is connected to many other cenotes. This makes it a popular spot not only for cavern divers, but also for certified cave divers or those who want to become one.
Location
The cenote is located approximately 10 km south of Puerto Aventuras and is easily recognizable from Highway 307 by its large signage. From the main road, a 1.5 km long path leads through the jungle to the cenote park facilities.
Snorkeling Destination
Cenote Chikin Ha is also a popular excursion for snorkeling groups and is therefore very well equipped. On the premises, you’ll find restrooms, showers, a small souvenir shop, several palapas for resting in the shade, and a kitchen where snacks are prepared. The parking area for divers is separate from the official parking lot, allowing closer access to the water. Tables and a palapa are available for setting up your equipment.
Cenote Entry
Access to Cenote Chikin Ha is via a short, approximately 50-meter walkway. The entry and exit points are equipped with stone steps, but you can also enter by jumping into the water.
Halocline Effect
At this dive site, we find two guide lines, which can be dived either as one long dive or as two dives of 45-60 minutes each. Both lines start in Cenote Chikin Ha and lead us through a tunnel to Cenote Arcoiris, which means Rainbow in English. On the way to Cenote Arcoiris, we are at a depth of approximately 12 m and can experience the amazing effect of the halocline, where fresh and saltwater separate.
Cenote Arcoiris
Upon arriving at Cenote Arcoiris, the permanently installed guide lines lead us almost completely around the cenote. By looking up at the surface, you can often immediately see why the cenote is called Rainbow.
Dive Site: Cenotes
