El Chapo -- Down and Out in Mexican Jail ... Photos Tell the Story

Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman was able to escape in relative comfort, because new photos show he had a top notch construction crew that could pass inspection in most cities.

It's probably a good thing the cuisine in Mexican jail isn't five star, because the hole would barely accommodate a 32" waist.

But once Chapo scurried down the hole, it was clear sailing because the rig was borderline comfortable.

Chapo's contributors sparrowed no expense ... a bird was used to test the tunnel for toxic fumes. The sparrow didn't fare as well as Chapo.

10,000 officers (and one billionaire) are on high alert as they try to recapture him.