Swim Crystal-Clear Freshwater Caverns in the Jungle
Small Group
Maximum 8 Guests With Local Bayahibe Guides
Hotel Pickup
Private Round-Trip Transport From Bayahibe Included
Description
Discover a different side of the Dominican Republic on a guided cenote snorkeling tour near Bayahibe. Away from the beaches and busy resort areas, this small-group adventure takes you into the tropical surroundings of Chicho Cave, where an underground freshwater cenote offers a memorable setting for swimming and snorkeling.
Your experience begins at Go Dive Bayahibe Diving Center, or with pickup if your location is eligible. Meet your local guides and get ready for a short walk through the natural landscape. Along the way, learn about the area's plants, wildlife, history, and geology as your guides introduce you to the environment surrounding the cave.
The main attraction is Cueva de Chicho, a fascinating underground cave with a freshwater cenote. Once you reach the entrance, make your way down into the cave and prepare to explore its clear waters. With the included snorkeling equipment, you can look beneath the surface and appreciate the unique atmosphere of this natural formation.
The cave visit is the highlight of the excursion, offering a refreshing break from the tropical heat and an experience quite different from snorkeling in the Caribbean Sea. Your guides help you understand the surroundings while giving you time to enjoy the water.
With a maximum of 10 travelers, bottled water, snorkeling equipment, and knowledgeable local guides, this Bayahibe cenote adventure is an excellent option for visitors who enjoy nature and want to explore beyond the coastline. Wear comfortable walking shoes, bring your swimwear, and get ready to discover one of the area's distinctive natural attractions.
A cenote is a natural freshwater pool formed where limestone bedrock has dissolved and exposed the groundwater beneath. The cenotes near Bayahibe are spring fed, crystal clear and cool, very different from a sea swim.
Where does the tour go?
The tour visits cenotes in the jungle on the Padre Nuestro trail, in the Cotubanama National Park area just inland from Bayahibe village.
How long is the tour?
About 3 hours door to door, including private hotel transport, the guided jungle walk and the snorkeling session.
What is included?
Private transportation, snorkeling equipment, your local guide and all fees and taxes are included. Tips and bottled water are not, so bring your own water.
How big is the group?
Groups are capped at 8 guests, so you snorkel with your guide rather than in a crowd.
Do I need to be a strong swimmer?
You should be comfortable in the water, but the cenote is calm and your guide stays with the group. Let them know your comfort level before you get in.
Is there a fitness requirement?
A moderate fitness level is recommended for the jungle walk. The tour is not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health, or for guests over 70 unless in excellent physical condition.
How much does it cost?
Tickets start at $55 per person. Check availability for current pricing on your date.
What should I bring?
Water shoes, a towel, a swimsuit and drinking water. Skip the sunscreen right before the swim; the cenote is a protected freshwater environment, and your guide will advise.
What is the cancellation policy?
This tour follows our standard policy: free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund.
When is the best time to visit the cenotes?
The cenotes are sheltered by jungle and swimmable year round. Mornings are the quietest and the light through the trees is at its best.
How is this different from a catamaran snorkeling tour?
Sea tours like the Catalina Island catamaran are about reefs and open water. This is a jungle walk and a freshwater cavern swim in a group of eight, a quieter and more unusual experience.
Know Before You Book
Minimum Age: 1 years old • Maximum Age: 99 years old
A moderate level of fitness is recommended for the jungle walk
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Not recommended for guests over 70 unless in excellent physical condition
Group size is capped at 8 guests
Your tour costs are refundable if canceled 24 hours before the tour departure. If booking using the Book Now, Pay Later option, the 5% deposit is non-refundable under all circumstances.
