212 660 0228
myScottDunn
Inquire Now
Inquire Now

Actun Tunichil Muknal

Actun Tunichil Muknal or ATM caves is one of Belize’s most impressive adventure experiences and a rare opportunity to see ancient Maya ceremonial sites and altars as they were and virtually untouched for centuries.

ATM Cave Adventure
Home
Area

Mayan Mountains

Type

History

Wildlife & Nature

Who

Adults

Older Kids

Difficulty

Moderate

Duration

Full Day

Actun Tunichil Muknal "Cave of the Stone Sepulcher" is one of the most impressive caves in the Maya lowland. Located in the heart of the Belizean Rainforest, this cave was a sacred place to the pre-Hispanic Mayas of Belize, who first began to use the entrance during the early classic period (300-600AD.) The cave system consists of a series of chambers, ending in a 300 by 50-meter Cathedral where sacrificial ceremonies once took place. Visitors to this cave have the opportunity to travel into the Maya past and witness a living museum where the human sacrifices and artifacts can be viewed in their original context. On the tour, you will drive to the trailhead and trek for 45 minutes through dense Jungle in the Tapir Mountain Nature Reserve, wading across three streams and learning about the flora and fauna of the Jungle. At the entrance of the Cave, you will be outfitted in the necessary equipment. Some swimming will be required as well as climbing and caving activity. This is a first-class caving and archaeological experience. Please note: For this intense tour, guests must have a good level of physical fitness, including swimming ability, and be comfortable in small spaces. Children must be a mature 8 years or older and taller than 102 cm (40 "). Guests must wear comfortable, light-weight long pants or shorts and shirt that allow for easy movement and can get wet, and bring a full change of clothes. (Swimsuits are acceptable but you may get cold). Well-treaded sneakers, hiking boots, or high-quality river shoes with covered toes, and socks are required footwear. Mosquito repellent is prohibited because it washes off immediately when you get into the water to enter the cave. Cameras are strictly prohibited inside.

Tours Featuring This Experience

Be inspired by the itineraries below which include this experience and let our travel specialists craft a bespoke luxury holiday for you.

Recommended Hotels Nearby

A selection of luxury hotel options in the area, handpicked and recommended by our travel specialists.

More Experiences in This Area

Discover more things to do in the area and chat to our specialists about crafting these experiences into your tailor-made holiday.

Call us on 212 660 0228 to start planning your holiday