Explore the Mystical Car Wash Cenote Dive Near Cancun: A Unique Underwater Adventure
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
9 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be in good physical condition capable of moderate exertion and comfortable with confined spaces underwater.
Overview
Discover the Car Wash Cenote Dive, a rare freshwater sinkhole near Cancún boasting exceptional underwater visibility, dramatic limestone formations, and a rich cultural history—perfect for divers seeking a unique adventure.
Car Wash Cenote Dive (From Cancun)
Starting at MXN$4960 l 9 Hours l Ages 10+
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
This Cenote is Surrounded by Rich Flora & Fauna From Water Lilies to Turtles & Occasional Small Crocodiles!
Rates
Certified Diver (Ages 10+): MXN$4960
Duration
9 Hours
About
The Carwash cenote, also called Aktun-Ha, is located 8 km outside of Tulum on the road to Coba. The entrance to the cenote is easily accessible to divers since the level of the water is just a few inches below ground level. With a depth of 50 feet and water temperature of 78 °F, this cenote is surrounded by rich flora and fauna from water lilies to turtles and occasional small crocodiles. The impressive display of speleothems (stalactites, stalagmites, and columns) never fails to draw the attention of divers. If you look closely, you’ll also see some pottery and fossils lying around.
Requirements
- Open Water Scuba Certification (or higher)
- At least 10 years old
Included
- All scuba equipment & tanks
- Lamps & underwater flashlights
- English speaking guides
- Bottled water
- Breakfast & lunch
- Transportation from our facility to the Cenote and drop-off at your hotel (within Cancun hotel zone)
What to Expect
- This cenote gives divers the opportunity to experience upstream and downstream dives. The upstream dive with its large chestnut coloured columns is a more popular route which leads divers through a water path of roots and fallen trees. Divers are treated to a fascinating display of light that penetrates through the roots.
- During the summer, there is a build-up of algae cloud at the surface due to the decomposition of the plants. The water might appear murky in the first few meters but it clears out as you descend to reveal an amazing view below.
- The Carwash cenote does not have a permanent guideline because it is frequently used for cavern and cave diving training sessions. Your guide is expected to place and remove a guideline during the dive.
- We value the importance of quality service and high safety standards that’s why we only bring up to four divers at a time per instructor.
Shuttle Service Information
- Pickup & drop-off schedule & locations vary on where you stay
- Pickup at 6:00 AM at the Alwaysdiving facility
Adventure Tips
Check Dive Certification Requirements
Ensure you have an appropriate diving certification, as some parts of the cenote require advanced buoyancy skills.
Bring Waterproof Lighting
Underwater caves can be dark; a reliable dive light enhances visibility and safety.
Arrive Early
Transportation from Cancún takes about an hour; arriving early maximizes dive time and enjoyment.
Respect the Fragile Ecosystem
Avoid touching formations or stirring sediment to keep the water clear and the environment intact.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Freshwater turtles
- Native cave fish species
History
Cenotes like Car Wash have long been sacred wells for the Maya civilization, used for rituals and as sources of fresh water.
Conservation
Operators follow strict guidelines to minimize human impact, including limiting dive group sizes and prohibiting touching formations to preserve the fragile ecosystem.
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Adventure Hotspots in Cancún
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Cenote/Technical Dive Light
Provides visibility in dark underwater caverns and narrow passages.
Full-Face Mask or Quality Regulator
Enhances comfort and breathing control in fresh water with varied conditions.
Wetsuit (3mm to 5mm)
Keeps you warm in the consistently cool freshwater environment.
spring;summer;fall;winter specific
Dive Computer
Monitors depth and dive time to maximize safety during cenote exploration.