Trail with William Chankin Guide to Cenote Corcho Negro and Waterfalls- Lacandon Jungle

Set deep inside the Lacandona Jungle of Chiapas, Mexico, the Trail with William Chankin to Cenote Corcho Negro and Waterfalls is a compact 3–4 hour eco-adventure that opens a raw, living page of tropical forest. From the meeting point at Lacandones Lodge in Lacanjá Chansayab, local biologist and guide William Chankin leads small groups along a shaded footpath through broadleaf rainforest, explaining plant uses, bird calls, and Mayan cultural connections as you go. The trail finishes at Corcho Negro, a dark-hued cenote and a band of waterfalls that tumble over limestone shelves into plunge pools perfect for a cool, clear swim.

Geologically, the cenote sits where porous limestone gives way beneath the jungle, forming a sinkhole pool ringed by ferns, fig trees, and towering buttress roots. Along the way you’ll cross root-tangled boardwalks and fern-carpeted clearings where the air hums with insects and the high-pitched yips of howler monkeys. William’s background in biology sharpens the experience: he points out medicinal shrubs, identifies insectivorous bats, and recounts how local Lacandon Maya maintain ancestral ties to the forest.

The itinerary is straightforward: meet at Lacandones Lodge, hike roughly an hour out and back while stopping at viewpoints, then relax and swim at the cenote and waterfall before returning to your lodge. Groups are capped at about 12 people, making every visit feel intimate and low-impact. The route is family-friendly for ages 12 and up, but expect uneven terrain, occasional muddy steps, and short rocky scrambles near the water.

What makes this outing stand out is its combination of science-led interpretation and cultural context—this is not only a swim stop but an interpretive walk led by a certified biologist who grew up reading the forest like a textbook. The tour also connects visitors to the nearby archaeological landscape; Bonampak and remote Mayan sites lie within the same river basin and help frame the region’s human history. Bring biodegradable sunscreen and a swimsuit, and plan to rehydrate after the humidity and exercise.

Respectful behavior toward the community and the reserve is emphasized; entry fees support conservation and local guides. For travelers based in Tuxtla Gutiérrez or staying at nearby eco-lodges, this half-day excursion is a compact way to encounter the Lacandona’s living jungle, cool off in a rarely visited cenote, and hear the stories of people who still live with the forest. Plan to confirm your booking at least one day before via [email protected]; tours typically begin at 9:00 a.m. but can be scheduled to fit lodge pickups.

The price includes entry to the reserve and your local guide; bring one liter of water, snack, and sturdy closed sandals or sneakers suitable for wet rock. This is a half-day, low-impact experience. Expect humid warmth.