You’ve seen the towering masterpiece of Chichen Itza and swam in the healing waters of a cenote, and now you’re itching to learn more of the Yucatán’s rich Mayan history. We have everything you need to know about the Mayan’s crucial underground world of Balankanche. The sacred caves are home to rituals and sacrifices and were a vital part of the Mayan civilization. Discover more below!

What You Need to Know About Balankanche

Explore the beauty of an authentic Mayan sanctuary at Balankanche during your next visit to the Yucatán. The ancient cave-dwelling stands as a fortress for worshiping Mayan Gods. Walk the path of the ancient people today!

• Balankanche Caves is a sanctuary to praise the Chaac, the God of Rain.

Chaac is perhaps one of the most important Gods in Mayan history. Water is and was the root of all life, and therefore no sacrifice was too big, and rain rituals were common. Balankanche is the epicenter connecting the main cenotes underneath Chichen Itza. It ends at a pristine underground lake, which is where it derives its connection to Chaac. 

• The main section of the cave appears like a tree. 

Some may say it’s a chance of stalagmites and stalactites meeting in the perfect formation. The Mayas would argue that the “tree of life” seemingly holding up the mighty Chichen Itza is no coincidence at all. Either way, the cave forms an aged oak tree and represents life’s existence through water.

• There are over 100 incense burners in the cave.

Some of the burners date back to ancient times when the ancient Mayans would use them for their ceremonies and rituals. Some of the lamps and pottery are relatively recent to today's Mayan people.

• The caves have been open to the public for 22 years.

Balankanche Caves were found a long time ago by locals but were kept from the public eye until just a couple of decades ago. The guided tour takes you as far as the tree of life, preserving the entirety of the cave system. 

• Nature formed every part of Balankanche.

As you wander through the Balankanche caves, it may be hard to digest that humans played no part in its creation. Even with the sophisticated Mayan knowledge, the only handmade piece of the caves is the scattered pottery and artifacts brought into it. 

• Balankanche hides within a fruitful jungle.

It’s no wonder why it was so easy to hide Balankanche from the world above. The area produces rich vegetation. All of which are now labeled for guests to educate themselves about the local flora.                

Stay in the Heart of Mayaland

If you want to experience Chichen Itza the way the Mayan’s did, the only place to stay is at Mayaland Hotel and Bungalows. Mayaland is the first hotel ever constructed on an archeological site and boasts a private entrance into the ancient pyramid. We offer a five-star restaurant, three refreshing pools, a lush garden landscape, a full spa, and so much more. 

Complement your Mexican getaway with one of our private tours. Reserve your spot for an authentic Be Maya Experience. Enjoy a Mayan cooking lesson from our very own chef, a Mayan spirituality experience, a Mayan language and number lesson, a show in our planetarium, and a private tour of Chichen Itza. We are so excited to show you around our piece of Mayan paradise!