If you’re up for an unforgettable adventure in Belize, look no further than the ATM Cave. This impressive cave system, aka Actun Tunichil Muknal, is one of Central America’s most fascinating natural wonders, with sparkling stalactites and stalagmites, underground rivers, and ancient Mayan artifacts.
But wait, there’s more… the ATM Cave also boasts untouched human remains and artifacts that are over a thousand years old. Talk about history in the making! This blog post takes a deep dive into what makes the ATM Cave an epic destination and how to explore it like a pro. Grab your helmet and gear and get ready to channel your inner Indiana Jones!
Getting to the ATM Cave
Getting to the ATM Cave in Belize is an adventure in and of itself. Visitors must first travel by car or bus to the town of San Ignacio, located in western Belize. From there, it’s about an hour-and-a-half journey by vehicle to the base of the Tapir Mountain Nature Reserve, where the cave is located.
The journey to the opening of the cave is an adventure itself! Once you arrive, you’ll embark on a thrilling trek through the lush jungle and crossing shallow streams to reach the cave’s entrance. The hike to the ATM Cave typically takes about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on your fitness level and the weather conditions. Accompanied by an experienced guide, you’ll navigate through dense vegetation, crossing streams and encountering an array of exotic flora and fauna along the way. Wear sturdy shoes and comfy clothing – this isn’t a fashion show. When you arrive at the cave opening, you’ll be treated to a mesmerizing underground world.
ATM Cave – What’s the Hype?
Once forgotten, now famous – this cave has seen it all! In the 1980s, the ATM Cave was rediscovered, drawing countless adventurous travelers to its depths. The cave has been bustling with activity, with curious explorers and documentary makers alike. National Geographic’s “Explorer” and the History Channel‘s “Ancient Aliens” have both featured the cave in documentaries, contributing to its widespread fame. And it’s no wonder – National Geographic crowned this sacred site in their “Top Ten Caves of the World” list in 2012! The real question is, will you be the next adventurer to uncover its secrets?
Know Before You Go
The Cave is not your average tourist destination, and visiting it requires some preparation. Here are the steps you need to follow for an unforgettable to visit the ATM Cave in Belize:
Choose a Reputable Tour Company
The ATM Cave is protected by the Belizean government, and visitors are required to visit with a licensed guide. To visit the ATM Cave, it is imperative to book a guided tour with a licensed operator from a reputable tour company. With several companies to choose from, take the time to research and read reviews before making a booking. Belizing.com is a great place to start the search for a tour!
Pro tip: make sure that the tour you book will provide you with a helmet and a waterproof flashlight to help navigate through the cave and see the artifacts. This ensures unforgettable experiences that are both safe and enjoyable.
Physical Activity Level
The round trip journey from the opening of the ATM Cave to its back chamber is not a stroll through the park. The tour involves wading through underground rivers, scrambling over rocks, and sometimes swimming short distances. It’s important to note that the journey in and out of the ATM cave typically covers a distance of approximately 3 to 4 miles (4.8 to 6.4 kilometers). This distance includes both the hike through the jungle to reach the cave entrance and the exploration within the cave itself. If you’re up for the challenge, you’ll experience a cave tour like no other!
What to Wear
Opt for comfortable clothing that allows you to move comfortably and freely. Sturdy, close-toed water shoes with reliable traction are a MUST, specifically for slip-prone areas. The proper shoes will allow you to swim one moment and climb rocks the next. I decided to order a pair of neoprene socks right before this trip, and they were a game changer. No soggy toes for me! Getting soaked on the journey is inevitable – embrace it! I wore a swimsuit, tank, shorts, neoprene socks and hiking water shoes and would recommend you do the same.
What to Bring
During the Tour
On this adventure, less is more. No phones (or other tech) allowed, and your guide will provide you with a helmet, flashlight, and life jacket (if needed) to help you safely navigate the ATM Cave. Just bring yourself and the required essentials for the tour!
After the Tour
You’ll thank yourself later if bring an extra set of clothes to change into when the ATM Cave tour ends. I was surprised to learn that there was a shower house available to use afterward! It wouldn’t hurt to throw a travel size bottle of body wash in your bag. When the tour ended, our guide allowed plenty of time to rinse off, change clothes, and eat lunch before we hit the road. This hike is strenuous and you’ll be burning a solid amount of calories. Pack some snacks and water for the ride!
Follow the Rules of the ATM Cave
When you’re exploring the ATM Cave, you’ve gotta play by the rules. This isn’t an ordinary cave – it’s sacred ground with serious conservation regulations. Be sure to follow your guide’s instructions and keep your hands to yourself. No artifact-disturbing shenanigans allowed!
No Phones Allowed:
This epic adventure is one of best-kept secrets around – but not by choice. Phones, cameras, and recording devices are prohibited in the cave, keeping the mystery alive. The device restrictions are set to protect the artifacts and preserve the integrity of the site.
I know what you’re thinking – how will I share this awesome experience with my followers? How will I prove I was there? For the folks who are doing touristy things for the gram, I get it. I wish I had more photos and videos to share. Pics or it didn’t happen, right? However, capturing content for TikTok or reels won’t even cross your mind as you traverse the waters, squeeze through tight spaces, and climb the rocks inside the cave.
The cave may contain some cool stuff, but leave your camera in the vehicle. There’s no need to disturb those ancient Mayan artifacts or human remains for the perfect Instagram shot. I promise, this will rank high on the list of coolest experiences you’ve ever had.
Forget Disneyland, if you’re looking for a real adventure, you HAVE to explore the Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) cave in Belize! It’s not your average cave, but rather a geological wonder and ancient Mayan treasure trove, complete with human sacrifices and other ancient artifacts. Pretty cool, huh? Exploring the ATM Cave will leave you filled with awe and wonder, and a newfound admiration for Mayan history and natural beauty.
Trust me, it’s better than your average day at the office. If you’re the adventurous type, this cave is a must-do on your Belize bucket list!
