About this experience
Prepare for the experience of a lifetime on this exclusive ceremonial cave exploration tour. Step into the ancient past as you immerse yourself in a spectacular, hidden cave system once used by the Maya to perform sacred rituals and blood sacrifices.
Led by a professionally trained, licensed guide, your expedition takes you deep into Xibalba—the Maya underworld. To uncover this sacred site, you will hike through subterranean waters, navigate winding stone tunnels, and explore monumental burial chambers. Along the way, you'll stand face-to-face with breathtaking stalactites, towering stalagmites, and pristine, centuries-old Maya pottery.
This tour begins at 7:00am and concludes around 3:00pm.
At a glance
- Duration: 7 hr
Plan your experience
Set aside 7 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.
Before you go
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Local guides to help you plan
San Ignacio Travel Guide
Plan a rewarding stay in San Ignacio, Belize, with practical advice on transportation, trip length, the town market, ATM cave tours, Big Rock Falls, accessibility, costs, and active day trips across the Cayo District.
What is included
- Equipment
- Soda/Pop
- Bottled water
- Professional guide
- Snacks
- Towels
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- Park Entrance Fees
- Lunch and refreshments are included. Do let us know if there are any dietary restrictions or preferences we should know about.
- Transportation
- Hotel pickup and drop-off (selected hotels only)
Not included
- Gratuities
Itinerary and highlights
Hidden deep within the Tapir Mountain Nature Reserve, the legendary ATM Cave sits roughly an hour's drive southeast of San Ignacio in Teakettle Village. Your journey begins with a scenic 30-minute hike through lush jungle trails and refreshing river crossings to reach the cave's hidden entrance. From there, a brief 15-foot swim grants you entry into Xibalba—the mysterious Maya underworld.
Guided by the glow of your headlamp, you will navigate winding chambers to reach the main plaza's ancient burial grounds. Along the way, your expert guide will unveil the secrets of the sacrificial ceremonies that took place in this sacred sanctuary thousands of years ago. Witnessing intact calcified remains, ancient pottery, and altars where Maya kings made blood offerings brings history vividly to life. You will return to your resort by mid-afternoon, carrying unforgettable memories and stories of an adventure that will last a lifetime.
See the overview, available options and booking details for the experience schedule.
Meeting and pickup information
- The Cayo Welcome Center. Your driver/guide will have a sign with your name for easy recognition. He will meet you outside of the Cayo Welcome Center's office
- We provide complimentary pickup at place of accommodation within a 10km radius of San Ignacio Town.
Languages and tickets
- English — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- Cayo Inland Expeditions
Meeting points and locations
Accessibility and practical details
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Child rate applies only when sharing with 2 paying adults
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- A minimum of 2 (two) people per booking is required
- Subject to favorable weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you will be given the option of an alternative date or the option to do a different tour (surcharges may apply)
- Not available for children shorter than 40" in height.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Questions about this experience
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