Playa del Carmen: Diving in Cenotes The Pit and Dos Ojos

When it comes to unique adventures in Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, few experiences compare to diving into the legendary cenotes. This tour, offered by Acuaticaribe, takes you on a five-hour journey through two of the most famous underground swimming spots: The Pit and Dos Ojos. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, it’s clear from detailed descriptions and reviews that it offers a fascinating blend of natural beauty, cultural myth, and adventure.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the stunning rock formations and crystal-clear waters promise incredible visual delight. Second, the expert guides ensure safety and add a layer of rich storytelling—learning about the cenotes’ significance to Mayan culture is a bonus. Third, the convenient logistics—transport from Playa del Carmen, a modest price, and the inclusion of lunch—make it an appealing option for travelers looking to maximize their time.

One potential consideration? The cost of extras, such as entrance tickets ($30 USD) and gear rental ($20 USD), can add up, so budget accordingly. This tour is best suited for certified open water or advanced divers who are comfortable exploring underground systems. If you’re in Playa del Carmen or Cancun and craving an authentic, awe-inspiring experience, this adventure might just be perfect.

Good To Know

• Two iconic cenotes—The Pit and Dos Ojos—are visited in one tour, maximizing your underwater exploration.
• Expert guides accompany you, sharing fascinating insights into the cenotes’ history and geology.
• Crystal-clear waters and impressive formations create a visually stunning environment.
• The tour includes transportation, lunch, and a full cave guide, providing good value.
• Equipment is not included but can be rented for $20 USD.
• Entrance fees to the cenotes are $30 USD, payable separately at the site.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Discovering the Cenotes in Quintana Roo

The Yucatán Peninsula is famous for its limestone formations and underground rivers, which have created thousands of cenotes—natural sinkholes filled with fresh water—many of which hold spiritual significance. The Pit and Dos Ojos are among the most celebrated for their size, clarity, and geological features.

This tour takes you through The Pit, known for its dramatic vertical drop and striking stalagmites, and Dos Ojos, famous for its extensive underwater caves and a mesmerizing network of tunnels. Both are part of the Sac Actun system, the world’s largest underground river network, stretching over 215 miles. Exploring these gives divers a real sense of the Yucatán’s subterranean complexity.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The tour kicks off at Acuaticaribe, a small but well-organized meeting point in Playa del Carmen. From there, a van ride of about 45 minutes whisks you to the cenotes, giving time to review safety protocols and meet your guides.

Once at Cenote El Pit, you’ll prepare for your 1.5-hour dive into its depths. Expect to be awestruck by the dramatic vertical drop and the play of light filtering through the water, creating stunning visual effects. The guide, who is certified and knowledgeable, will point out formations like stalagmites and stalactites, which look like natural sculptures.

After a short break, you’ll transfer to Dos Ojos, just a 10-minute ride away. Here, you’ll enjoy another 1-hour dive through the extensive underwater maze, marveling at the transparent waters and the intricate calcareous structures. Reviewers mention the incredible light effects and the biodiversity within the caves, including bats in the dome areas.

The tour concludes with a 45-minute ride back to Playa del Carmen, and most participants are back by early afternoon. Lunch is included, giving you time to relax and share your experiences.

Diving Experience: What You Need to Know

This tour is designed for certified divers—either open water or advanced—who are comfortable exploring underground systems. Several reviewers have highlighted the helpfulness of guides, with one praising the knowledgeable guide, Juan, who made the experience both fun and safe.

Equipment rental is available for $20 USD if needed, but it’s best to bring your own gear if you have it. Entrance tickets are not included in the base price; they cost around $30 USD and are paid directly at the cenote entrance.

The dives are shallow, around 40 minutes each, which is suitable for most divers with experience. However, it’s important to note that solo divers should check with the provider beforehand to confirm upcoming schedules, as this activity is tailored to trained divers.

Logistics and Practical Details

• Meeting point is at Acuaticaribe, located at 40 norte avenida #3, between calle 34 and 36, right in front of Casa Shambala. Look for a small wall painted with colorful fish.
• The full experience lasts about 5 hours, generally scheduled in the morning for optimal light conditions.
• Transportation is included, with a van ride in each direction, providing convenience and comfort.
• The group size is limited to 4 participants, ensuring personalized attention and safety.
• Reserve now, pay later option adds flexibility, with full payment of $110 USD due after confirmation.

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The Experience from a Review Perspective

Multiple reviewers have shared their appreciation for guides who go above and beyond—not just ensuring safety but also enhancing the storytelling aspect. One mentioned that guides like Carlos provide an engaging narrative about the cultural significance of the cenotes, making the experience feel authentic rather than just a tourist attraction.

Others highlighted the stunning visuals—“You can’t beat the light filtering through the water, illuminating formations like underwater sculptures,” one reviewer wrote. The biodiversity, including bats and small cave creatures, adds another layer of intrigue, especially for those interested in natural ecosystems.

Some travelers noted that the price includes a hearty lunch, which is a thoughtful addition after a morning of exploration. The modest cost of $25 for the reservation makes it accessible, but be prepared for the additional fees for entrance and gear.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for certified divers looking to explore the underground world of Yucatán. It’s especially suited for those who want a small-group, personalized experience with knowledgeable guides. If you’re in Playa del Carmen or Cancun and have a couple of free hours, it offers a beautiful blend of adventure and culture.

Non-divers or those without certification might find this tour unsuitable, but there are plenty of other nearby adventure options. Children under 15 are not recommended for this activity due to the technical nature of diving in these environments.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For travelers with a certification and a love for underwater exploration, this tour offers a chance to see some of the most iconic cenotes in the region, in a safe and well-organized manner. The stunning formations, expert guides, and small group size add to its appeal, making it a memorable experience.

While the upfront cost may seem modest, remember to budget for extra fees—entrance tickets and gear rental. The inclusion of lunch and transportation makes it a convenient choice for those staying in Playa del Carmen or Cancun.

For those eager to see the natural underground wonders of the Yucatán, this tour provides an authentic, visually stunning, and informative adventure that will likely stay with you long after you surface.

FAQ

Is equipment included in the tour?
No, equipment is not included but can be rented for $20 USD if needed.

Are entrance tickets to the cenotes included?
No, tickets cost $30 USD and are payable at the entrance.

What level of diver is suitable for this tour?
It’s designed for certified divers with experience in open water or advanced diving.

How long are each of the dives?
Each dive lasts around 40 minutes, giving plenty of time to enjoy the surroundings.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, round-trip transportation from Playa del Carmen is included.

Can I book without paying the full amount upfront?
Yes, you can reserve your spot with a “Reserve & Pay Later” option; full payment is due after booking confirmation.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, cash, and your diving certification. You might also want to bring a waterproof camera or GoPro.

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, children under 15 are not recommended due to the diving requirements.

Do I need to be a solo diver to join?
If you are a solo diver, contact the provider to confirm upcoming scheduled dates, as the activity is tailored for experienced divers.

To sum it up, this cenote tour in Playa del Carmen offers passionate divers and curious explorers a chance to see some of the most breathtaking underwater formations while benefiting from knowledgeable guides and thoughtful logistics. For those ready to explore a hidden world beneath Mexico’s surface, it’s a worthwhile adventure packed with natural beauty, cultural stories, and a touch of adrenaline.

You can check if your dates are available here: