Cenote Taa’k Bi Ha, courtesy Sandra Salvado

Last Sunday I blogged about Dos Ojos, a cenote within Dos Ojos Park.  Within the park are several different cenotes; Taa’k Bi Ha is one of several within the same park system.

Dos Ojos Park is located between Akumal and Tulum–the entrance to the park is just off the main highway and therefore fairly easy to reach via any form of transportation (colectivo, bus, rental car, taxi, etc.).  To get to Taa’k Bi Ha, tell the attendants at the entrance to Parque Dos Ojos that you will be going to Taa’k Bi Ha cenote, they will let you through without paying the entrance fee; you will be charged a fee once you reach the actual cenote entrance.  The turn-off to Taa’k Bi Ha is just past Dos Ojos cenote entrance (look for the sign).

This cenote was recently discovered several years ago and therefore is not as popular as other more well-known cenotes.  That is great for visitors, though, since there may be times when you may have the cenote practically to yourselves.  It is a cave cenote, so expect lots of stalactites, stalagmites, bats, small fish, and tight places to squeeze through if you do any kind of tour.  FYI:  If you are claustrophobic at all, skip this cenote. 

Since Taa’k Bi Ha is a cave cenote, there is very little to no natural light coming in from above.  Generators run outside the cenote to produce light within the cave and can be quite loud, but once you’re in there it is very peaceful.  Getting in is a tight squeeze from little more than a hole in the ground, but once inside the cavern opens up into a large space with tunnels leading off (those are accessible by tour groups only).  Visitors can experience this cenote via a self-guided tour, a tour with a local guide, or by tours with several established companies.  I would suggest that you book a tour with one of the local guides to get the most out of this cenote experience–not only do you get a history of the cenote and a look at its hidden gems, you get access to a snorkel mask, waterproof flashlight, and flotation vest all for little more than an additional 50 pesos p/person ($2+ USD).  If you are doing a self-guided tour, I would suggest that you bring your own waterproof flashlight since the cenote only rents out flotation vests.

While many visitors come here just to swim and snorkel, it is also becoming more popular for cave divers (special certification is required).  Equipment is lowered through one of the smaller cave ceiling openings since the actual entrance is hardly large enough for people to duck their heads to enter.

Another FYI–this cenote doesn’t have lockers yet, so be prudent about what you choose to bring in a backpack.

Here are a few short videos of Taa’k Bi Ha cenote.  The first is a general one of the cenote entrance and experience (without going into the tunnels), while the second one shows what tight spaces you may encounter if on an official guided tour.

What do you think?  Would you visit this cenote?