Carwash & Calavera

Overview

Come experiment the sensation of floating in the air above a small forest and get also the impression of being inside the skull!

The unusual name “Carwash” was derived from the fact that people used to wash their cars in this cenote because it is so close to the road. Do not worry, it is not happening anymore, you can dive in it now! Cenote Carwash is also known as Cenote Aktun Ha which means “Cave Water”.

This natural jacuzzi has a large variety of marine wildlife and plants. There are many algae formation and a cloud in the surface resulting from the decomposition of the plants. The effect of the light reflecting on the green algae is amazing.

You will feel like you are floating in the air above a small forest. You will experience the light falling through the algae layer and that creates an excellent lighting effect. The entrance in cavern area, you will pass under a curtain of fallen trees and roots leading into wonderfully decorated rooms filled with many stalactites, stalagmites and columns.

Cenote Calavera looks like a skull because of the three holes. When the light coming from these 3 small entrances, it looks like a skull from below (it can be seen as mouth and two eyes). This cenote is also known as Temple of Doom. It looks small from the surface but it opens considerably below the surface.

You will see many rock formations in this cavern. One of the most interesting features is a very dense and defined halocline. The reflected light appears very blue thanks to the clear-crystal water. At the end of the dive, you will see a few pieces of Mayan pottery and a small ledge where there are bones.

A minimum level of Open Water Diver or equivalent is required. If you do not have this certificate, you can obtain it by following Open Water Diver course PADI.