Pass the gateway of the Mayan Underworld, stepping into hidden chambers revealing ancient Mayan artifacts, human skeletons and geological processes that have helped to shape the Mayan underworld.

About this activity

Free cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund
Reserve now & pay later: Keep your travel plans flexible — book your spot and pay nothing today.
Covid-19 precautions: Special health and safety measures are in place. Check your activity voucher once you book for full details. Learn more
Duration 8 hours: Check availability to see starting times.
Live tour guide: Spanish, English
Pickup included: Hotels within San Ignacio Town or surrounding area.

Highlights

Enjoy amazing geological formations such as sparkling stalactites, stalagmites and flow stones
Discover the parallel unseen world where kings and shamans could enter to communicate with gods
Swim in the crystal clear water of the underworld

Full description

Depart from San Ignacio and head to the starting point for your hike. Make your first river crossing band hike to the cave entrance for a safety demonstration.

Make your way into the cave, swimming and then walking through the main water passage until you reach the boulder and head to the dry chamber. To enter the chamber, you will be required to slip off your shoes in order to protect the cave. Marvel at the cave's artifacts, most of which have been calcified into the ground, unmoved even by archaeologists. Hear your guides talk about the rituals and ceremonies, bloodletting offerings, food offerings and human offerings, including the 15 human remains uncovered by archaeologists. To access the last chamber, you will climb up a ladder to see a full skeletal remains before exiting the cave in the same way you came in. You will hike back to the parking lot before replenishing yourself with lunch and returning to San Ignacio.

Includes

Entrance fees
Water, snacks
Lunch
Rum punch
Tour guide
Transportation
Equipment rental

Gratuities (optional)

Not suitable for

Pregnant women
People with back problems
Wheelchair users
People under 3 ft 3 in (100 cm)

Covid-19 precautions

Safety measures in place

All areas that customers touch are frequently cleaned
The number of visitors is limited to reduce crowds

Traveler requirements

You are required to bring and wear a mask
You must fill out a travel information form
You will receive a mandatory temperature check

Important information

What to bring

Change of clothes
Towel
Insect repellent
Socks
Closed-toe shoes

Not allowed

Cameras
Video recording

Know before you go

Cameras are not allowed
Please bring a complete change of clothes, closed-toe footwear, a pair of socks, mosquito repellent, and a towel

Customer reviews

Overall rating

4.9 /5

based on 73 reviews

Review summary

Guide
4.7/5
Transportation
4.4/5
Value for money
4.8/5
Safety
4.9/5

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Even though we started a bit later because we waited for another group and since we also were understanding english the language was changed to English to make it more confortable for the guide, we had a great experience and we were happy with the tour, explanations and food. Thanks!

September 22, 2022

The ATM tour was so awesome and I’d recommend anyone visiting Belize to do this activity. There was hiking, climbing, swimming, stalactites, stalagmites, and getting a glimpse of the Mayan culture through calcified artifacts and human remains. Although the tour guide seemed a bit reserved in the information he provided, he was very friendly and tried his best to answer any questions asked. Overall it was a tour I’m happy I did and would even consider doing it again if i find myself in Belize again.

November 14, 2021

My husband and I had an amazing time on this tour with our driver Jeremy and guide Fernando. Fernando was knowledgeable and attentive to our safety while we were in the cave. I was concerned about the river crossings and some of the physical demands required of this tour but Fernando was helpful. I know some others complain about the bumpy ride but it's nothing compared to the drive out to Caracol. The food and rum punch was a life saver after such an exhausting day! All in all, it was a great experience and a must-do adventure if you are in Belize.

June 30, 2021

San Ignacio: Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) Cave Full-Day Tour

San Ignacio: Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) Cave Full-Day Tour

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