Today enjoy a full day shared tour exploring the impressive Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) Cave - the 'Cave of the Stone Sepulchre' - with included picnic lunch.
Located in the heart of the rainforest, the ATM cave system was a sacred place for the pre-Hispanic Mayans of Belize. A series of chambers ends in a huge 300m by 50m 'cathedral', where sacrificial ceremonies once took place. This fascinating living museum will allow you to view historic artifacts in their original setting.
After driving 1-hour to the trailhead, we walk for 45-minutes through the dense jungle of the Tapir Mountain Nature Reserve, wading across three streams as we learn more about the flora and fauna. At the entrance to the caves you will be fitted with a hard hat with headlamp and a life jacket, before swimming into the cave. Once inside climb onto some large rocks and wade upstream against the river for about 1-mile. Climb over, under and around some huge boulders, swim across two small lakes and climb up a steep ladder to 'the cathedral', where most artefacts have been found. This site is unique because these items have been left here and not removed to museums. You can also squeeze into smaller chambers, where you will find more ancient pottery and skeletons from Mayan sacrifices, and see impressive stalagmites and stalactites. You will be inside the cave for about 2-hours, before returning along the same route. Swimming is mainly required at the main entrance, but may be needed in a few other places inside the cave, depending on water levels. Mostly you will be wading through water that can vary between waist and neck height.
Note: This is a demanding tour that needs a good level of physical fitness, including the ability to clamber over high boulders and swim. If you suffer from claustrophobia, or if this excursion is too physically demanding for you, we suggest you remove this day from your itinerary.
You must wear proper river shoes with covered toes (or trainers) and socks today. Wear old light-weight trousers or shorts, and a top that allows for easy movement (ideally wear a swimsuit underneath) and expect to throw these away afterwards. Bring a full change of clothes for when you are finished, so you don’t get cold. Mosquito repellent is prohibited as it washes off as you enter the cave. Cameras are also strictly prohibited inside the cave. Children must be at least 8 years old and taller than 40 in (102 cm).