Scuba diving in Playa del Carmen

Cenote diving, cave diving, fun ocean dives, PADI and SDI courses with Xibalba Divers MX. Safety first, small groups, and a personalized experience from start to finish. Contact us and we will confirm availability, meeting details, and the best dive plan for the day.

Humann Pour-Heidari

Scuba Diving Instructor and Cave Diver

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Experience Xibalba

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About Xibalba Divers Mx

At Xibalba Diver Mx diving school, we specialize in cave diving, cenote diving, and open water ocean diving. Our wide range of courses offer the right choice for divers of all experience levels. From open water courses for beginners, to Divemaster courses which open the door to the world of professional diving. Our specialty courses provide an opportunity for divers of all levels to expand and develop their knowledge and diving skills. This way you receive much more from your dives with us and become a better and safer diver. The safety of our customer is our top priority. We have the upmost respect for the underwater world and its inherent risks. Fun diving is safe diving.

Diving Courses

Open Water Course

Learn the essential knowledge and skills every diver needs to dive safely and confidently. This course focuses on proper buoyancy control, correct body position underwater, and core diving techniques that form the foundation of all future diving. By the end of the Open Water Diver course, you will be trained to plan and execute dives independently, to a maximum depth of 18 meters or 60 feet. Course duration is 3 days. The course includes learning materials, pool training sessions, 4 open water dives, certification fee, and full rental equipment. There are no hidden costs.

Price: 9,000 MXN

Advanced Open Water Course

Advanced Open Water Course

This course builds on your Open Water Diver certification and introduces new skills that increase your confidence, control, and comfort underwater. You will complete five unforgettable adventure dives while expanding your depth, navigation, and buoyancy skills.

Three adventure dives are required as part of the course: deep diving to a maximum depth of 30 meters or 100 feet, underwater navigation, and peak performance buoyancy.

In addition, you can choose two more adventure dives from the following options: drift diving (recommended), wreck diving, fish identification, naturalist, boat diving, Project Aware, cavern diving (extra cost), or shark conservation (seasonal, extra cost).

The course duration is 3 days and includes theory lessons, six open water dives (five adventure dives plus one fun dive), certification fee, and rental equipment. There are no hidden costs.

Price: 9,000 MXN

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Rescue Diver

This course teaches you how to recognize potential emergency situations early and respond calmly and effectively. You will learn how to manage and resolve common diving problems, improving safety for both you and your dive buddy while building confidence and awareness underwater.

The course duration is 3 days and includes learning materials, theory lessons, pool training, four open water dives, certification fee, and rental equipment. There are no hidden costs.

Price: 9,000 MXN

Rescue Dive

Divemaster Course

The Divemaster course is the first step toward a professional career in recreational diving. This program develops the skills, leadership abilities, and knowledge required to work as a dive professional, allowing you to assist instructors, guide certified divers, and gain real world experience in a dive center environment.

Requirements include a minimum age of 18 years, at least 40 logged dives to begin the course and 60 logged dives for certification, and a valid medical certificate confirming fitness to dive.

The course includes pool training, theory lessons, practical dives, and the certification fee. Learning materials are not included.

Price: 25,750 MXN

Dive Master Course

Cenotes

Cenote Diving in the Riviera Maya

There are more than 10,000 cenotes across the Yucatán Peninsula, with new ones still being discovered. The word cenote comes from the Mayan term Tsʼonot, meaning “water hole.” Many cenotes are interconnected, forming a vast underground river system that eventually flows into the sea.

For the ancient Maya, cenotes were sacred places believed to be entrances to Xibalba, the underworld. Xibalba held great spiritual importance, as it was thought to be the realm of the gods, including Chaac, the god of rain.

Diving in the cenotes takes you into a mystical and awe inspiring world shaped by nature and ancient history. Crystal clear water, dramatic light beams, and unique geological formations make each dive a truly unforgettable experience.

Cavern Diving

Cenote water is rainwater that has filtered through layers of limestone, creating crystal clear visibility and a calm, magical atmosphere underwater. During cavern dives you will explore stunning rock formations, including stalactites and stalagmites, with beautiful light beams that make each cenote feel like a completely different world.

Water temperature is typically 24 to 26°C (75 to 79°F). An Open Water Diver certification is required for most cenotes, while some dives require Advanced Open Water Diver (AOWD).

Prices
Chac Mool + Kukulkan, 3,000 MXN
Chikin Ha, 3,200 MXN
Ponderosa (El Eden) + Tajma Ha, 3,200 MXN
Dos Ojos (Barbie Line and Bat Cave), 3,400 MXN
Dreamgate (Upstream and Downstream), 3,400 MXN
Taak Bi Ha + Taak Be Luum, 3,400 MXN
El Pit + Nicte Ha, 3,800 MXN (AOWD required)
Angelita + Carwash or Casa Cenote, 3,800 MXN (AOWD required)
Zapote (Hell’s Bells) + Maravilla or Kin Ha, 3,800 MXN (AOWD required)

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Cave Diving

If you hold a full cave diving certification, you are invited to explore the extraordinary underwater cave systems of Quintana Roo with us. These limestone caves offer a truly unique diving environment, with breathtaking formations, pristine conditions, and an unmatched sense of exploration.

We have access to a wide variety of cave systems in the region, each with its own character and beauty. Dives are planned carefully and customized based on your experience level, interests, and goals to ensure a safe and unforgettable experience.

Prices:
• 1 double tank set: 5,000 MXN
• 2 double tank sets: 7,000 MXN

Bull Shark Dives

From November to February, you have the opportunity to dive with bull sharks (Carcharhinus leucas). These incredible animals can be found in warm, shallow waters along coastlines and even in rivers. They are known as the only shark species that can survive in both freshwater and saltwater. For generations, female bull sharks have come to the Riviera Maya during the winter season to give birth. Near the coastal mangrove areas, pregnant females give birth to their pups. The young develop inside their mothers and are born alive. After birth, they are ready to hunt.

Shark Feeding

Shark feeding dives are conducted by professional shark specialists who have completed intensive training programs. A portion of the revenue from these dives is invested directly into the protection and conservation of these incredible animals.

The dive takes place at a depth of approximately 24 meters / 80 feet. Once the group reaches depth, divers kneel on the sandy bottom and observe the sharks as they move gracefully through the area, creating an exhilarating and unforgettable experience for any shark enthusiast.

The dive includes one shark feeding dive and one marine park entrance fee.

Price: 4,200 MXN

Shark Feeding 2

Shark Observation

This dive takes place at Shark Point, a large sandy area where bull sharks are often visible even during the descent. The planned depth is approximately 24 meters, allowing divers to settle on the sandy bottom and calmly observe the sharks as they move through the area.

To extend bottom time, Nitrox is included at no extra cost for certified divers. After the shark observation dive, the experience continues with a second dive on a shallow reef at a depth of 10 to 12 meters, offering a relaxed and scenic contrast to the first dive.

This experience is highly recommended for passionate divers looking for a longer, well balanced shark encounter.

The dive includes two dives, one Nitrox tank for certified divers, and marine park entrance fees.

Price: 2,800 MXN

Shark Observation

Fun Dives

All fun dives include two dives on two different reefs, carefully selected on the day of the dive based on ocean conditions and the diver’s experience level. This ensures safe, relaxed, and enjoyable dives with the best possible visibility and marine life.

Nitrox is available for an additional fee for certified divers.

Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen offers a wide variety of reef dives suitable for all experience levels. Dive sites range from gentle shallow reefs ideal for beginners to drift dives, steep walls, wreck dives, and deeper reef formations with swim throughs. Each day’s dive sites are selected based on ocean conditions and diver experience to ensure the best possible underwater experience.

The dive includes two reef dives and drinking water.

Price: 2,200 MXN

Shark Feeding 2

Cozumel

Cozumel is widely considered the most famous diving destination in Mexico, offering world class reef formations for divers of all levels. From dramatic wall dives and large swim throughs to exhilarating drift dives, colorful shallow reefs for beginners, and reef covered wrecks, Cozumel truly has something for everyone.

The excursion begins early in the morning with a speed boat departure from Playa del Carmen, heading directly to the reefs off the coast of Cozumel. Between dives, brunch is served on the boat and includes a sandwich, fruit, a muffin, and water. After the surface interval, the second dive is completed before returning to Playa del Carmen. The total trip runs from approximately 08:30 to 12:30.

The excursion includes speed boat transportation, two dives, and snacks and water.

Price: 3,400 MXN per person

Client Testimonials You Can Trust

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Dive Deeper in the Riviera Maya

Small groups, safety first, and unforgettable cenote, reef, and shark experiences guided by a certified instructor and cave diver.

Frequently Asked Questions

Still have questions? Contact us anytime and we’ll help you choose the right dive, course, and plan for your experience level and dates.

Where is Xibalba Divers MX located?

We are based in the heart of Playa del Carmen, the perfect “hub” for diving the Riviera Maya. From here, we have quick access to the local reefs, the famous Yucatan Cenotes, and the ferry to Cozumel.

What is the water temperature?
  • Ocean: 26°C–29°C (78°F–84°F) depending on the season. A 3mm wetsuit is usually perfect.
  • Cenotes: A constant 24°C (75°F) year-round. Since there is no sun or movement to keep you warm, we recommend a 5mm wetsuit or a 3mm with a vest for cenote days.
Is dive equipment included in the price?

We offer flexible options! You can bring your own gear, or rent high-quality, well-maintained equipment from us for a small daily fee. (Tanks and weights are always included in our dive packages).

What is the best time of year to dive here?

 The Answer: You can dive year-round. However, Bull Shark season is Nov–March, and Whale Shark season (snorkeling) is June–September. The best visibility is usually during the dry season (Nov–April).

Ocean & Cozumel FAQ

How do we get to Cozumel from Playa del Carmen? We make it easy! We meet at the beach, take the 45Speedboat to Cozumel as a group. This allows us to dive the famous Cozumel Marine Park reefs like Palancar and Santa Rosa.

What happens if the Port is closed due to weather? One of the best things about diving with Xibalba Divers MX is our flexibility. If the ocean is too rough and the Port Authority closes the harbor, we don’t have to cancel your day, we simply head to the Cenotes, which are protected from the wind and always diveable!

Bull Shark Diving FAQ

When is Bull Shark season? The female Bull Sharks usually arrive in Playa del Carmen in late November and stay until early March.

Is it safe to dive with them? Yes. We follow strict safety protocols. These are “observation” dives where we descend to a sandy bottom (approx. 24m/80ft) and watch the sharks in their natural habitat. We do not use cages, but we maintain a calm, respectful distance that ensures both diver and shark safety.

What certification do I need for the sharks? Because the site is around 25 meters deep, we require an Advanced Open Water certification or an Open Water certification with proven deep-diving experience. Good buoyancy is a must to avoid disturbing the sandy bottom.

Booking & Logistics

What is your cancellation policy? We understand travel plans can change. We offer a full refund for cancellations made at least 48 hours in advance. For “No Shows,” the deposit is non-refundable.

Do you offer hotel pick-up? We offer pick-ups for most hotels in the Playacar area and downtown Playa del Carmen. If you are staying further away (Tulum or Cancun), contact us and we can help arrange transportation!

Do I need previous diving experience to dive with you?

Some experiences, such as fun dives, cenotes, and shark dives, require a valid diving certification. If you are not certified yet, we offer beginner courses like the Open Water Course so you can start diving safely.

Which certification agencies do you accept?

We accept all major internationally recognized diving certifications, including PADI, SSI, NAUI, and equivalent agencies.

What is the minimum age to dive?

The minimum age depends on the activity. Most certified dives require a minimum age of 10 to 12 years, while professional level courses such as Divemaster require a minimum age of 18.

Do I need my own equipment?

No. Full rental equipment is included in most courses and dives unless otherwise stated. If you have your own equipment, you are welcome to bring it.

How many divers are in each group?

We keep group sizes small to ensure safety, comfort, and a more personal experience. The exact group size depends on the activity and conditions.

Is cenote diving safe?

Yes. Cenote and cavern dives are conducted under strict safety standards, with certified guides and carefully selected sites based on diver experience.

Do you offer transportation?

Transportation is included for certain trips such as Cozumel excursions. For other dives, meeting points and logistics will be confirmed during booking.

**What happens if weather conditions are not suitable?

Safety always comes first. If conditions are not suitable, we may reschedule the dive or offer an alternative experience.

Are prices all inclusive?

Yes. Prices clearly list what is included, and there are no hidden costs unless specifically stated, such as optional upgrades or entrance fees not included.

How do I book a dive or course?

You can contact us through the website, WhatsApp, or email. We will help you choose the best experience based on your certification level and interests.

https://www.youtube.com/@xibalbadivermx  Checkout the newest video on our YouTube Channel!!!

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Diving in Playa del Carmen and Cozumel #playadelcarmendiving #cozumeldiving #diving #scubadivingmag #divetheworld

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Wreck diving Mama Viña Playa del Carmen | Xibalba Divers Mx  #playadelcarmendiving #wreckdiving #diving #lovetheocean #divinginthecaribbean

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Cave Diving with Xibalba Crew  #xibalbadiversmx #playadelcarmendiving #cavelife #cenotediving #divesafedivesmart

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Just enjoying de gorgeous cenotes of the riviera maya 😍😍
#xibalbadiversmx #playadelcarmendiving #cavelife #cenotediving #divesafedivesmart

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🧭 What’s the difference between an arrow and a REM in cave diving?
📍 Cenote Taj Ma Ha – Riviera Maya, Mexico

In the darkness of the overhead environment, navigation is survival. Cave divers don’t just follow the line — they follow the language of line markers:

🔺 Directional Arrow:
Points toward the nearest exit. It's your guide out — used at jumps, T’s, or as a permanent reference. It literally shows the way to life.

🟨 REM (Referencing Exit Marker):
Also called “cookies” — these non-directional markers are personalized. Divers place them at junctions or decision points to mark their own exit path, without misleading others.

✅ In training and real dives, we teach you to read and place these with clarity, discipline, and respect. Because in caves, decisions are made before you go in.

Want to learn real cave diving protocols or explore Taj Ma Ha the right way?
DM us to book a guided tour!

#XibalbaDiversMx #CenoteTajMaHa #CaveDiving #LineMarkerLogic #ArrowVsREM #CaveDivingTraining #ScubaEducation #CenoteExploration #PlayaDelCarmenDiving #TechnicalDiving #FullCaveDiver #CaveLife #DiveSafeDiveSmart

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🎥 Deep below the surface… life adapts in the dark.
📍 Cenote Tikeem Chi – Yucatán, México

Meet the blind cave fish – a true marvel of evolution 🐟
These fish live in total darkness, where eyesight is useless. Over generations, they lost their pigmentation and eyes, relying instead on enhanced senses of smell, vibration, and touch to navigate.

They’re endemic to cenotes and underground rivers in the Yucatán – perfectly adapted to the silent, still world beneath the jungle. 🌿🖤

Diving here isn’t just beautiful — it’s a window into a hidden ecosystem that few ever get to witness.

✨ Wanna explore the secret world below?
Book your cenote dive with Xibalba Divers Mx – we’ll take you beyond the ordinary.

#XibalbaDiversMx #CenoteTikeemChi #BlindFish #CaveFish #CenoteDiving #YucatanCenotes #DiveMexico #UndergroundWorld #CaveLife #ScubaExploration #EvolutionInAction #PlayaDelCarmenDiving #HiddenEcosystems #ScubaWithPurpose #wildlife #wildlifephotography #blindfisch

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