About this experience
Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) is one of the most popular and impressive Maya ceremonial caves ever found.
ATM was in use during the early classic period, which dates to around 300-600AD. The caving part of the tour, takes you through a subterranean river, over (and under) more than a few rocks and into the main chamber.
The ATM Cave is a wet cave – you swim into the mouth and then wade through ankle to chest high water before climbing to a intricate passageways of dry chambers which lead to the cathedral-like main hall, a towering chamber 350 metres in length and 50mteres wide and filled with artefacts and sacrificial remains.
After this another climb takes you to the stone chamber where the Crystal Maiden lies, this is the skeleton of a teenage girl who was sacrificed and left in the cave. Over thousands of years her remains have been covered by a layer of diamond like limestone. The Mayas sacrificed humans in the hopes of appeasing the gods and bringing fertility to the land.
At a glance
- Duration: 9 hr
Plan your experience
Set aside 9 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
Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave Guide
Plan an Actun Tunichil Muknal cave tour in Belize, including advance booking, physical requirements, costs, equipment, access rules, and what to expect from the full-day adventure.
What is included
- Private transportation
- Bottled water
- Lunch
- All Fees and Taxes
- Air-conditioned vehicle
Not included
- Alcoholic Beverages
Itinerary and highlights
Take a journey into the Mayan underworld at Actun Tunichil Muknal, or the “Cave of the Stone Sepulchre”, will be one of the most enlightening, epic, and unique experiences of your life. Leave the world of the living behind as you venture into the heart of the ATM Cave with your licensed guide.
Meeting and pickup information
- Complimentary pickup from any accommodation in Hopkins
Languages and tickets
- English — Guide
- Spanish — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- Get to Know Belize Adventures
Accessibility and practical details
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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