Glimpse what goes on below the Earth’s surface at the Calcehtok Caves, where tour guides offer a range of underground activities for all experience levels. This little-known gem is sure to be one of the highlights of any trip to the region.
Bring your kids and take the family tour, which involves walking through an easily accessible part of the cave. Enter through an opening bordered with lush vegetation and descend down into the cool air. Be amazed at how far the forest birds also venture down these tunnels. See the interesting rock formations as they loom into the beam of light, a maze of twisted stalagmites and hanging stalactites. Switch off your headlamp and you’ll be enveloped in absolute darkness, a truly profound experience.
Ramp up the excitement with one of the more adventurous tour options. Squeeze through gaps that at first seem impossible and crawl on your hands and knees through muddy passageways. Experienced cavers can challenge themselves with an expert-level tour, involving a descent that goes deeper into the system using ropes and sheer willpower. Be aware that these tours are not for claustrophobic folks. Wear sturdy shoes and clothes you don’t mind getting muddy. Make sure you’re feeling flexible and fit, as the journey is rigorous and it’s a long walk back up into daylight.
Pause to listen to the sound of water dripping into ancient carved receptacles, a reminder that this was once the site of Mayan ritual and sacrifice. See the remnants of old carving and pottery shards and listen to stories about the graves found in the depths of the tunnel system. Mayan families hid within these 30 caves during the ferocious battles that marked the final resistance to descendants of Spanish invaders. Ask your guide about the local spirits that are said to inhabit the caves.
To access the site, drive about 9 miles (15 kilometers) from the nearby town of Maxcanú or take a tour that includes transportation. The incredible Calcehtok Caves are some of the best-kept secrets on this stunning peninsula.
