T9-Actun Tunichil Muknal Tour (ATM Cave)

from $554

Duration

11 hours

Type

Guided

Difficulty

Challenging

Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) Cave was rated by the Discovery Channel as the number one Sacred Cave in the world. Only accessible by swimming across a spring-fed pool, ATM contains hundreds of relics that have lain undisturbed for more than a millennia. At the far end of the cave lie the bones of more than a dozen men, women, and children who were ritually slaughtered by the ancient Maya.This tour departs very early from Placencia. It is a 2.5-hour drive each way but it is so worth it. This is an experience of a lifetime.

Inclusions

All taxes, fees, and handling charges
Lunch
Professional tour guide
Driver/guide
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Use of helmet, lights, and life vests
National park entrance fee
Entry or admission fee

Exclusions

Gratuities
Tip or gratuity

Tour Plan

Itinerary

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ATM Cave Tour Itinerary – From Placencia

Step-by-Step Itinerary

6:00 AM – Depart Placencia

Pick-up from your hotel or designated location
Begin the drive through scenic mountain and jungle landscapes to western Belize
Light refreshments provided en route

9:30 AM – Arrive at ATM Cave Site

Meet your certified guide at the Tapir Mountain Nature Reserve
Receive safety briefing and gear (helmet, headlamp, and life vest if needed)
Begin a 45-minute guided hike through lush jungle terrain and river crossings

10:30 AM – Enter the Cave

Swim into the cave entrance and begin your underground adventure
Explore ancient ceremonial chambers, crystal formations, and Maya artifacts
Learn the story of the sacred “Crystal Maiden” and the spiritual history of the cave

1:00 PM – Exit the Cave and Hike Back

Walk back through the jungle trail to the base
Change into dry clothes and rest

1:30 PM – Picnic Lunch on Site

Enjoy a locally prepared picnic-style lunch in a shaded area
Take time to relax and reflect on the experience

2:30 PM – Begin Return to Placencia

Sit back and enjoy the return drive through Belize’s diverse landscape

5:00 PM – Arrive Back in Placencia

Drop-off at your accommodation
Tour concludes

What to Know Before You Go:

Minimum age: 10 years old
Participants must be physically fit, able to swim, and comfortable in enclosed spaces
Cameras are not permitted inside the cave (to protect cultural heritage)
Please bring: change of clothes, towel, water shoes, and a reusable water bottle
Lunch is included

Meeting / Pickup

Pick-up only: Customers must be picked up from selected pick-up locations.

Please Note

For kids aged 8–9, contact reservations to check eligibility
Confirmation will be received at the time of booking
Not wheelchair accessible
Child rate applies only when sharing with 4 paying adults
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Not recommended for children aged 10 and under
Wear cool comfortable jungle attire for this subtropical climate.
Bring a change of clothing
Must have a pair of socks
This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
This tour/activity will have a maximum of 8 participants per guide.