Nohoch Nah Chich, whose name is Mayan for “giant bird cage,” is an easily accessible cenote popular for diving day trips with certified diving guides from Cancun and Playa del Carmen. It’s part of the Yucatan’s vast Sac Actun cave system, which extends for more than 216 miles (348 kilometers) and stretches 5 miles (8 kilometers) inland. At Nohoch Nah Chich you can learn about the formation and history of the underwater caves that the ancient Maya believed were sacred portals to the underworld.
You can visit the cenote independently or on a day tour from Cancun or Playa del Carmen that may also include rappelling, ziplining, and a ride in an all-terrain vehicle. If you want to avoid renting a car in Mexico, you can opt for a tour that includes round-trip transportation from your hotel.