Cenote Chichikan
One of the most important and natural parts of a trip to Valladolid is a dip in the pool, and thus well into the Maya past, its people, culture, and place on the cultural profile of the world.
The Cenote Chichikan is one of the principal attractions in Valladolid, and already fantastically vibrant magical town in Yucatan. The site is, quite literally, six minutes in a taxi from the Tren Maya station. But for the big highway interchange it would be nearly walk-able.
Chichikan is a historic cenote with a big surrounding natural park intended to provide an immersive experience in the culture, landscape, and richness of the Maya people and world. More than a water park for swimming, the park aims to provide insight into the worldview and legacy of the Maya peoples.
13 different experiences are each related to key aspects of the civilization. The natural landscape is complemented by traditional architecture faithfully recreating the environment of the Maya Mundo. Wooden structures still sport traditional thatched roofs, trails are hemmed in by the abundant plant life, and traditional clothing lends to the atmosphere of respect for the overall environment.
Visits includes dynamic guided tours, tastings of ancestral foods like Maya chocolate, natural melipona honey, and handmade tortillas. The food is prepared on site by women with extensive culinary knowledge. Participants are invited to the ancient Mesoamerican ball game, a symbolic activity that was part entertainment, but which also had deep spiritual significance for the ancient people.
Three basic phrases in the Mayan language give visitors a small but meaningful connection with the overall culture. Visitors get a chance to see how clothing relates to the performance of ancient ceremonies, and better understand customs passed down over many generations. Tours end with a swim in the remarkable cenote, a sacred space for the Maya people. It is often considered a portal to the underworld and a source of life. After all that, the swim is a spiritual, cultural, and sensory moment. The Cenote Chichikan offers a cultural experience celebrating the living heritage of the Maya world, one that is welcoming and inviting even centuries after its peak.
Most guests will arrive to the park from the Tren Maya station, but transport from other parts of Yucatan or Quintana Roo is also widely available. Chichikan is often an important part of a stay within the city of Valladolid as well a unique place to visit all on its own.
Contact:
Cenote Chichikan
Alberto Criollo
Tel. 999 902 6005
admin@chichikan.com.mx
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