Aktun Chen Photo by Gary J Wood

Aktun Chen, located along the Mayan Riviera, is just 4 kilometers south of Akumal. This provides a perfect opportunity to take a day tour of the location most known for its many explored caves.

The name “Aktun Chen” means “cave with an underground river inside” in ancient Mayan language. Nearly 988 acres of unexplored rainforests surround the town, aside from the harvesting of a gum from a local tree called “chicozapote”.

Three caves call Aktun Chen “home”, and rivers flow underground in these caves. The main cave offers an easy walking tour that may even be an option if you require the aid of a walking cane. Most who are able to walk on their own, even with manual assistance, are able to navigate the cave paths.

Indirect lighting from several openings in the cave prevents an uncomfortable experience for those who suffer from claustrophobia. Water and calcium carbonate formed the stalactites, stalagmites and natural sculptures seen there over the past five million years.

Regional and local wildlife is also easily seen in Aktun Chen. This includes white tail deer, spider monkeys, badgers, wild boars, wild turkey, iguanas and multiple species of birds.

When arriving at Aktun Chen’s main cave, a specially-trained guide will greet you in the reception area. The guide will then take you and your traveling companions on an hour and fifteen minute tour of the friendly cave system over 600 meters long.

During the tour, you will have the opportunity to view a beautiful cenote with crisp, clear water that is 12 meters deep. Local flora and fauna abound at this cenote, and offer an ideal photo opportunity for future memoirs.

At the end of the cave tour, a small restaurant is available for a quick bite to eat or a relaxing drink. This establishment offers local cuisine, tropical fruit and Mexican beer for a unique taste of Aktun Chen.

When arriving at and leaving the cave, you will notice the reception area which is surrounded and decorated with local tropical flora. This will also offer an ideal opportunity for you to snap a picture of the pretty scenery or a memorable moment with your travel mates!

Eco tours are also available at Aktun Chen, offering several opportunities to hike and climb cliffs, as well as explore the local rainforests. The largely untouched environment in which Aktun Chen resides allows visitors to truly experience the local wildlife and plant life in its raw and natural form.

Our villa is 3 miles from the entrance to Aktun Chen.  Why not rent our villa in Akumal.

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