ATM CAVE & XUNANTUNICH MAYA TEMPLE – FULL-DAY COMBINATION TOUR

Departure Time: 7:15 AM
Return Time: Approximately 4:30 PM
Level of Difficulty: Moderate to High

Make the most of your time in western Belize with an adventure-packed combination of Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) Cave and Xunantunich Maya Temple—two remarkable experiences showcasing the history, culture, and spiritual world of the ancient Maya.

This is a full and active day, so an early departure from San Ignacio is required. We'll explore ATM Cave first, break for lunch and a change into dry clothes, and then continue directly to Xunantunich for the second part of your adventure.

ACTUN TUNICHIL MUKNAL (ATM) CAVE

Our journey begins with an approximately one-hour drive from San Ignacio to the area where ATM Cave is located.

From the trailhead, an approximately 30-minute hike through the tropical rainforest, including several river crossings, brings us to the entrance of the cave. A short swim of approximately 15 feet takes you into what the ancient Maya considered “Xibalba” — the underworld.

Equipped with a helmet and headlamp, you'll follow your specially trained guide as you swim, wade, climb, and carefully navigate your way through the cave's chambers and passageways.Deeper inside, you'll encounter ceremonial areas containing ancient pottery, artifacts, altars, and human remains. Your guide will explain the spiritual significance of caves to the ancient Maya and the ceremonies and rituals believed to have taken place within this sacred environment.

After exiting the cave, we'll hike back to the starting point, change into dry clothes, and enjoy a well-earned lunch before continuing to Xunantunich.

XUNANTUNICH MAYA TEMPLE

Our adventure continues to the village of San Jose Succotz, home to Xunantunich—one of Belize's most impressive ancient Maya sites.

Getting there is part of the experience! We'll cross the Mopan River aboard a traditional hand-cranked ferry before making our way up to the archaeological reserve.

At Xunantunich, you'll explore impressive plazas, temples, palaces, and other ancient structures while your guide shares the history, architecture, and culture of the Maya civilization.

The highlight is El Castillo, rising approximately 130 feet above the main plaza. Guests who choose to climb to the upper levels are rewarded with spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, Maya Mountains, and across toward neighboring Guatemala.

The surrounding tropical forest is also home to a variety of wildlife, so keep an eye out for howler monkeys, spider monkeys, iguanas, and tropical birds along the way.Combining the underground adventure and archaeology of ATM Cave with the towering temples and panoramic views of Xunantunich, this tour is an incredible way to experience two very different sides of the ancient Maya world in one unforgettable day.

IMPORTANT TO KNOW

This is a physically active, full-day tour involving hiking, river crossings, swimming, wading, climbing, wet conditions, uneven terrain, and additional walking at Xunantunich.

Guests should be reasonably fit and comfortable in and around water. Swimming ability is beneficial. ATM Cave may not be suitable for guests who experience claustrophobia or have mobility limitations.

Socks are mandatory for entering and walking within designated archaeological areas of ATM Cave.

WHAT TO BRING

• Comfortable, lightweight clothing suitable for getting wet
• Change of dry clothes for Xunantunich and the return journey
• Tennis shoes or hiking shoes that can get completely wet
• Pair of socks (mandatory for ATM)
• Insect repellent
• Sunscreen
• Hat or cap
• Personal medications, if required

INCLUDED

Round-trip transportation • Entrance fees to ATM Cave & Xunantunich • Licensed/professional guides • Required ATM safety equipment • Helmet & headlamp • Lunch • Purified water • Soda, Snack, Towel