Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) Cave

Affiliate Disclosure: We get paid by recommending products, experiences and services we love. If you click on a link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

This tour is epic, and our top recommendation for a cave adventure in Belize! Imagine the Narrows of Zion (narrow passages with running water that you wade, swim, and climb through), but underground! Besides the impressive stalactites, stalagmites, bats, and giant cavern rooms, the ATM Cave is famous for being an incredible archaeological marvel with most of the artifacts remaining exactly where they were originally discovered.

The Mayan believed caves were the passageway to the Underworld, and this one, in particular, was used for sacrificial ceremonies. During drought years, Mayans would venture deep within this cave to make sacrifices in attempt to bring prosperity and good agriculture on their society. Not to mention, while tripping on some natural medicines… About 1/2 mile into the ATM cave, you enter a very large cavern room where these sacrifices took place and witness the ancient ceramics, tools, and, of course, the eerie remains of those who had been slain for the gods.

Belize requires you to have a licensed guide to enter this cave and we highly recommend going with MayaWalk. They are incredibly professional and the guides are exceptionally well trained and knowledgeable. They provide transportation to and from downtown San Ignacio and bring lunch for you after the tour.

Tour Duration: ~8 hours

Lunch Provided after Tour: Belizean classic dish and rum punch for the adults

Pick-Up / Drop-Off Location: San Ignacio