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ATM (Actun Tunichil Muknal) Cave Tour
Belize ATM Cave Tour
Intensity Level:
(4 of 5 sweat drops)
Difficult – A good level of physical fitness is required. The ability to swim and be comfortable with small spaces is necessary
Age Recommendation:
Mature 10 yrs and up
Belize Department of Archaeology Advisory:
Any person visiting ATM Cave must be taller than 40 inches and no cameras are allowed inside the cave.
Includes:
Transportation to & from the park, guide, water, lunch & entrance fees.
Required Items to Bring:
Comfortable lightweight long pants and t-shirt that allow for easy movement and can get wet (swim gear can be worn in the cave, but it can get cold). Well-treaded tennis or hiking boots, a thick pair of socks (essential), mosquito repellent, a full change of clothes.
The adventure…
This unforgettable tour starts with a hike to the cave entrance including three stream crossings, and passes through the Tapir Mountain Nature Reserve.
Entering the cave is an adventure in itself as you swim into the darkness with only a headline to guide you. The ability to swim is a plus since you will be wading through deep water several times both inside and outside this awe-inspiring cave.
Once inside the cave, you will spend several hours swimming, climbing, and exploring several kilometers of ancient Maya pathways and chambers. The cave system contains four skeletons, ceramics, and stoneware left by the Maya.
After about 45 minutes of exploring the lower chambers, you will ascend to the upper chambers where you will be required to take off your shoes and explore in only your socks to prevent damage to the artifacts.
At the furthest end of the upper chambers, you will encounter the “crystal maiden”; the skeleton of a young girl, the bones of which have been completely covered by the natural processes of the cave, leaving them with a sparkling appearance.
Although the cave is rich with photo-worthy moments, cameras are not allowed in the cave for conservation purposes. Accidental damage to bones, pottery, and other sacred sites within the cave has forced the Dept. of Archaeology to discontinue this permission so do your best to capture the experience with mental photographs of
Our tours are best experienced as part of an all-inclusive package
but can also be booked individually.
WATER LEVEL NOTICE:
This Adventure is subject to high water levels from time to time throughout the year and can be replaced with another tour. Be sure to read “Water Based Adventures” Cancellation Notice – a note from Ian Anderson.
“My sister and I had an amazing adventure with fantastic guides. The place is absolutely beautiful.”