San Cristobal: Cenote Chukumaltik & Uninajab Adventure

If you’re looking for a day trip that combines nature, adventure, and a touch of untouched beauty in Chiapas, this tour to Cenote Chukumaltik and Uninajab might catch your eye. We’ve seen a few options like this, and honestly, the ones that stand out are the ones that keep things authentic and avoid overly developed spots. This particular tour has a few things going for it that we like—and some that you might want to consider before booking.

What draws us in? First, the chance to visit Cenote Chukumaltik, a newly opened site with minimal infrastructure, promising a more natural experience. Second, the inclusion of Uninajab, with its peaceful pools and scenic hiking—great for those who want a mix of adventure and relaxation. However, one thing to keep in mind is that the long travel time (about 2.5 hours each way) might be a bit tiring for some.

This tour feels particularly suited for travelers who enjoy natural scenery, outdoor activities, and don’t mind a full day on the road. It’s perfect if you’re after an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience rather than a luxury or highly developed tourist spot.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Minimal infrastructure at Cenote Chukumaltik means fewer crowds and more natural beauty.
• Activities Galore: Swimming, cliff jumping, and exploring natural pools make this a lively day.
• Long Travel: Expect around 2.5 hours each way, so plan for a full day on the move.
• Good Value: At $76 per person, the price covers transportation, entrance fees, and insurance—pretty reasonable for a full-day adventure.
• Comfortable Essentials: Bring good walking shoes, swimwear, and casual clothes for comfort.
• Language: Tours are conducted in Spanish, so some basic understanding helps.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Day in Detail

When you sign up for this tour, the journey begins with a pickup from Zona Centro in San Cristobal. From there, you’ll head out on a roughly 2.5-hour drive to the recently opened Cenote Chukumaltik. This place is a real gem because it’s still relatively unspoiled, with not much built-up infrastructure around, which is a rare find these days.

What makes Chukumaltik special is its almost untouched feel. The site is known for activities like swimming and cliff jumping—so if you’re comfortable with heights and love a splash, you’ll likely enjoy yourself here. It’s a chance to connect with nature without the noise of busy resorts or heavily commercialized areas. Some reviews mention that the site offers stunning views, which makes the effort of the long drive worth it.

After spending about 2.5 hours at Chukumaltik, you’ll hop back into the vehicle and head towards Uninajab, a set of tranquil natural pools formed by regional water deposits. Here, you’ll have around 2.5 hours to relax, hike, or simply enjoy the scenic pools. The setting is peaceful and perfect for unwinding after the more active morning.

The return trip to San Cristobal takes another 2.5 hours. While this may seem lengthy, the journey offers opportunities to reflect on the day and enjoy some scenic views along the way. The entire experience is designed to give you a full taste of Chiapas’ natural landscapes—without rushing.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $76, your package covers transportation, park entrance fees, traveler’s insurance, and certified drivers—which adds a layer of reassurance when venturing into remote spots. One thing to note: meals and beverages are not included, so it’s wise to bring snacks or plan to eat before or after the tour.

The tour has positive reviews, with some travelers appreciating the smooth logistics and well-organized transportation, ensuring you aren’t left waiting or navigating alone. The driver speaks Spanish, so brushing up on basic phrases or bringing a translation app can be helpful, especially if you’re not fluent.

Our Honest Take: Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re after a full day immersed in nature, enjoy outdoor activities, and are okay with a long travel time, this trip could be a winner. It’s well-suited for those who appreciate authentic experiences and are less concerned about luxury amenities. The minimal infrastructure at Chukumaltik means you won’t find fancy facilities, but that’s part of what keeps the experience genuine.

However, if you’re traveling with very young children or have mobility concerns, the long hours on the road and the natural, sometimes uneven terrain might be a challenge. Also, if you’d prefer a more curated or comfortable experience, this might not be the best choice.

The Sum Up

All in all, this tour offers a solid way to see some of Chiapas’ less-developed, but incredibly beautiful, natural sites. The combination of swimming, cliff jumping, and relaxing in pristine pools makes it appealing for adventurous travelers who love being outdoors. The price is reasonable considering the full-day experience and included transportation, especially if you’re keen to avoid overly touristy spots.

If your idea of a perfect day involves soaking in natural beauty without the crowds, and you’re up for a bit of travel, this could very well be worth it. Just pack your essentials, bring some patience for the drive, and prepare to enjoy some truly stunning views and memorable experiences.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transportation from your hotel to the sites and back is included, along with park entrance fees and insurance.

How long is the travel time?
The drive to Cenote Chukumaltik and back to San Cristobal takes approximately 2.5 hours each way.

What activities can I expect at Chukumaltik?
You can swim and cliff jump, making it a lively spot for water activities, especially if you enjoy natural pools and adventure.

Are meals provided?
No, meals and beverages are not included, so bring your own snacks or plan to eat before or after the tour.

Is the site suitable for families?
The tour is more suited for those comfortable with outdoor activities and natural water spots. Very young children might find the long travel and activities challenging.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, swimwear, casual clothes, and sunscreen are recommended. Don’t forget a towel if you plan to swim.

Is the tour conducted in English?
The driver speaks Spanish, so basic Spanish knowledge or a translation app will help, as the tour is primarily conducted in Spanish.

This adventure offers a compelling way to experience some of Chiapas’ purest natural sites. A balance of activity and serenity, it’s worth considering if you’re after an authentic, off-the-beaten-path day.

You can check availability for your dates here: