Cave Training Mexico

Located in Playa del Carmen, Cave Training Mexico focuses on the unique underwater landscapes of the Yucatan Peninsula. Since its founding in 2001 by Alessandra Figari, the centre has established itself as a specialist hub for divers looking to progress from recreational reef diving into the complex environments of cenotes and caves.

The centre caters to a broad spectrum of divers, ranging from those looking for their first cavern experience to highly experienced technical divers and rebreather users. Whether you are seeking a guided exploration of the local limestone formations or intensive technical training, the focus remains on precision and safety in these delicate environments.

The team is led by Alessandra Figari and Peter Broger, supported by a group of qualified instructors who are trained in-house to maintain the centre's standards. During peak periods, additional instructors are brought in to ensure that the high level of supervision required for technical and cave training is never compromised.

Safety is managed through a strict diver-to-guide ratio, with a maximum of four divers per guide. This ensures that every student or guided diver receives the necessary attention, particularly when navigating the specific challenges of cave and cavern environments.

The course catalogue is extensive, specifically designed to take a diver from basic cavern exploration to advanced technical proficiency. They offer Cavern Diver, Intro to Cave, and Full Cave certifications through TDI, IANTD, and other recognised bodies.

For technical divers, the centre provides a comprehensive range of training including TEK 40, 45, 50, and 60, as well as Decompression Procedures. Rebreather training is a core speciality, with CCR Open Water, Advanced Open Water, and specific CCR 40, 60, and 100 courses available.

The centre is well-equipped for technical diving, offering Poseidon MKVI and Evolution rebreathers for those training on CCR. For open-circuit divers, a range of AL 80cf, AL 40ct, and steel cylinders are available, alongside necessary scrubbers and oxygen.

For those needing to hire kit, the centre stocks brands including SEAC, Dive Rite, Dive System, and Apex. Transport to the dive sites is provided via air-conditioned Toyota Tacoma vehicles. If you are staying at a hotel within the reachable cenote or cavern area, the team can arrange drop-offs in accordance with local Mexican regulations.

In the cavern and cave systems, the environment is defined by stunning geological formations and crystal-clear water. You will find a variety of hard corals (Scleractinia), sponges (Porifera), and gorgonians that decorate the limestone walls.

Macro life enthusiasts can look for Nudibranch (Chromodoris willani), sexy shrimp, and various crustaceans including crabs (Brachyura) and lobster (Homaridae). You may also encounter seahorses (Hippocampus kuda), anemones (Actiniaria), and Christmas tree worms.

In the wider regional waters, you can encounter a variety of larger species. During June to September, Manta rays (Mobula alfredi) and Whale sharks are seasonally present. You may also see various species of turtles (Cheloniidae), stingrays (Batoidea), and sharks including Nurse sharks (Ginglymostoma cirratum), Reef sharks (Carcharhinus), and Caribbean reef sharks.

Diving in the Yucatan caves and cenotes is characterised by very calm conditions, with currents typically being low to non-existent. This makes it an ideal environment for precision buoyancy work and technical training.

Visibility in the cenote systems is often exceptional, frequently reaching 60 metres, though it can vary depending on the specific site and recent activity.