Belize ATM Cave Tour: The World’s #1 Sacred Cave – Private 4 Pax – 6 Pax
The ATM Cave, also known as Actun Tunichil Muknal, is a national park managed by the National Institute of Cultural and History (NICH) and is one of the top tourist attractions in Belize. It is rated by National Geographic and Discovery Channel as the #1 sacred cave in the world.
The guided trip into the ATM Cave takes you deep into the underworld that the ancient Maya called “Xibalba.” The tour starts with a scenic 45-minute walk through Tapir Mountain Nature Reserve, where you will wade across crystal-clear rivers and hike under the jungle canopy.
Upon reaching the natural, hourglass-shaped opening, you will know that you have arrived at the entrance to the cave. You will then swim across a beautiful turquoise pool (about 15 feet across) to enter the cave.
From that point, you will follow your tour guide, swimming, wading, and climbing your way through the darkness of the cave for approximately an hour. Your highly trained professional team of guides will point out every possible area of injury and instruct you on how to avoid them.
Once out of the water, you will begin to see Mayan artifacts and human remains in that area. You will have the opportunity to learn about the Maya culture and their use of the cave for religious ceremonies.
The ATM Cave Tour is a unique and unforgettable experience that will give you a glimpse into the world of the ancient Maya.
Belize ATM Cave Tips and Advisory
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Your tour automatically gets upgrades to private if its 4pax -6pax
- Tour departs San Ignacio at 7:30 AM
- If you are coming from another part of the country, we meet at Teakettle Village (In front of the ATM sign ) at 8:00 AM
- Tours include Lunch, Transportation, Guide, Entrance Fee,
- Bottled Water, Soda
- Tours Equipment – Helmet, Lights, and life jackets
When preparing for a visit to the ATM Cave (Actun Tunichil Muknal) in Belize, it’s essential to bring a few key items to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Here’s a list of recommended things to bring:
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- Extra Water: Stay hydrated throughout the excursion by carrying an ample supply of drinking water. It’s important to drink regularly, especially in a humid environment.
- Appropriate footwear: Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes or hiking boots with good traction. The cave terrain can be uneven and slippery, so reliable footwear is crucial for navigating through the cave.
- Clothing: Dress in comfortable, no bikini! lightweight, and breathable clothing suitable for physical activity. Choose quick-drying materials as you will get wet during the cave exploration.
- Snacks: Pack some light snacks or energy bars to sustain your energy levels during the excursion. Choose non-perishable items that won’t get squished or melt easily.
- Medications: If you have any essential medications, make sure to bring an adequate supply.
The ATM (Actun Tunichil Muknal) Cave in Belize is known for its high intensity level. It offers an adventurous and physically demanding experience for visitors. Here are some factors that contribute to the intensity level of the ATM Cave:
- Physical fitness: Exploring the ATM Cave involves hiking, climbing, and wading through water. The terrain can be challenging, with uneven surfaces and submerged obstacles. Visitors should have a moderate to high level of physical fitness and mobility to navigate through the cave comfortably.
- Swimming and underwater activities: To reach certain sections of the cave, visitors may need to swim through a deep pool of water.
- Cave exploration: The ATM Cave is a complex underground system with intricate passages, chambers, and stalactite formations. Visitors will often need to climb, and squeeze through 5 narrow spaces (Approx. 2-3 ft ), which can be physically demanding and may require agility and flexibility.
- Restricted access: Due to the cultural and archaeological significance of the cave, access to certain areas may be restricted to protect the site. Visitors must follow the instructions of their licensed guide and avoid touching or disturbing any artifacts or formations within the cave.
- Photography restrictions: NO cameras are allowed beyond the parking lot.
- Age and health restrictions: The ATM Cave tour is physically demanding and may not be suitable for everyone. Some tour operators have height restrictions in place, typically requiring participants to be at least 40 inches in height. Visitors with certain medical conditions, mobility limitations, or claustrophobia should consult with their healthcare provider or tour operator to assess if the tour is appropriate for them.
- Tour duration: The duration of the ATM Cave tour can vary depending on the tour operator and group size. Generally, it takes around 4.5 hours to complete the entire experience from the parking lot. This includes hiking, cave exploration, and returning to the starting point. It’s advisable to allocate sufficient time for the tour and plan other activities accordingly.
- Safety equipment and guides: Our guides will provide safety equipment and are professional trained in First aid and CPR and swift water training.
- Archaeological significance: The ATM Cave is renowned for its ancient Mayan artifacts and skeletal remains. Visitors are expected to respect the historical and cultural significance of the cave and follow the guidance of trained guides to preserve the site’s integrity.
Your Guide to the World’s #1 Sacred Cave
Kawiil Tours team of experts are the best guides for the ATM Cave Tour in Belize. With over 21 years of experience and research in Mayan history, they are passionate about sharing their knowledge with visitors. The team will provide you with a fact-filled tour of the ATM Cave, a one-of-a-kind experience that you will never forget. You will learn about the Maya culture and their use of the cave for religious ceremonies.
If you are looking for an informative tour to the famous #1 Sacred cave in the world, then you came just to the right team!
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