About this experience
The ATM Cave Tour in Belize begins with a 45-minute jungle hike and three river crossings before entering the legendary Actun Tunichil Muknal cave system. Expect to get completely wet as you swim through the cave entrance and spend the next three hours climbing rocks, swimming through chambers, and exploring narrow passages like the famous “Headlock.” Inside, you’ll discover ancient Maya ceremonial areas, over 1,400 artifacts including pottery, tools, and water vessels dating back more than 1,100 years. The cave also contains skeletal remains used in sacred Maya rituals, including the famous “Crystal Maiden,” whose bones became naturally coated in sparkling calcite over centuries. ATM Cave offers one of the most unforgettable archaeological and adventure experiences in Belize, giving visitors a rare glimpse into the sacred spiritual world of the ancient Maya civilization.
At a glance
- Duration: 6 hr
- Private experience
Plan your experience
Set aside 6 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.
Before you go
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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
- Entrance fee
- Lunch
- All necessary Equipment
Itinerary and highlights
The ATM Cave Tour begins with a 45-minute hike through the jungle, leading to three river crossings that may require swimming or using ropes to navigate the current. Water levels are often high, so participants should expect to arrive at the cave entrance fully soaked. After gearing up with helmets and headlamps, the group enters the cave by swimming through its water-filled mouth. Over the next three hours, the tour involves climbing over rocks, swimming through large chambers, and navigating narrow passages—one famously known as “the Headlock.” This journey offers a rare and challenging glimpse into the sacred world of the ancient Maya.
Meeting and pickup information
- The meeting point is at Actun Tunichil Muknal Archaeological Reserve and your assigned guide will be waiting for you with a sign that has your name on it.
Languages and tickets
- English — Guide
- Spanish — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- Go Cave Tubing BZ Travel and Adventure
Accessibility and practical details
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Questions about this experience
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