This virtually unknown atoll lies off the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula between Cozumel and Belize, and is accessed from the villages of Majahual and Xcalak. The Great Maya Barrier Reef, the second largest barrier reef in the world, has been designated a biosphere by UNESCO and is a Mexican archeological marine protected area (MPA). Government permits are required to dive this reef. Divers will experience deep walls, shallow walls, unique geographical formations, vast canyons between spur and groove reef systems, swim throughs, caverns, and an exotic array of Caribbean marine reef creatures. Three-tank day trip boat dives are available, weather permitting, as the two-hour boat trip across 36 nautical miles of open ocean can encounter rough seas to the atoll. The best time of the year to dive Chinchorro is during the summer months when the seas are calmest and there is almost daily access.
There are a variety of more than 200 wrecks from all time periods—everything from tankers to a rumored German U-boat and XVII-century Spanish galleons. It is against the biosphere reserve regulations to dive most wrecks as many have been vandalized by divers, however snorkeling is allowed.
The town of Xcalak and the reefs of Chinchorro are unspoiled and remain as the Caribbean was 20 years ago. Peaceful eco-friendly accommodations and spectacular underwater sites are offered to the adventuresome diver. We are offering limited availability at selected lodging. Call or email for availability, details and pricing.