San Ignacio

Overview

Gallery

Itinerary

• Taking a journey into the Maya underworld at Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) or the u201cCave of the Stone Sepulchreu201d for one of the most enlightening, epic and unique experiences of your life.nnLeave the world of the living behind as you venture into the heart of the ATM Cave with your licensed guide. Recently deemed the #1 Sacred Cave destination in the world by National Geographic, the ATM cave is not only beautiful geologically with its crystalline stalactites and stalagmites, but also historically, as is a natural museum of ancient Maya artifacts, as well as a sacred burial place. nThis is the final resting place of u201cCrystal Maiden,u201d an ancient Maya ceremonial victim, as well as the remains of 13 other sacrificed men, women and children. Your professional guides have led government officials, National Geographic, Discovery Channel, The British High Commission and US Embassy officials into the ATM Cave. This sacrificial site is accessed by a 45 minute drive from our office in San Ignacio.

• Here we enter the Tapir Mountain Nature Reserve and park our vehicles at the ranger post. From this point on we are on foot, hiking through the jungle for approximately 45 minutes to the entrance of the cave. To access the cave we swim across a small spring- fed pool and wade into the dark underworld of the cave that allows us access the extensive underground maze of tunnels, passageways and chambers, climaxing in the ceremonial chamber housing stoneware, ceramics, the famed crystallized skeleton of the u201cCrystal Maidenu201d. nWe spend approximately 3 hours in the cave at the guidance of our experienced guides. nnWe enter back into the jungle world and hike to our vehicles where we relax and enjoy a homemade picnic lunch with water and soft drinks before driving back to San Ignacio. nnDifficulty level: Moderate (involved some easy swimming and life jackets are provided for non-swimmers, who will also be escorted by our highly trained guide).

Good to know

• Infants are required to sit on an adultu2019s lap

• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

• Not recommended for pregnant travelers

• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

• Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately

• Cancellations only due to severe rain or flooding

• Guests must wear appropriate (Closed toe) shoes for walking through jungle and water

• Guests must bring a pair of socks for the dry chamber in the cave

• Minimum height requirement is 40inches

• Vegetarian meal option available upon request

• Clothes to be worn for the tour needs to be modest to respect the cave. Clothing such as macaroni straps, bikini, shorts and sleeveless shirts for both male and females are not allowed.

• Eco friendly bug repellent is optional (Apply only if needed)

• No cameras/ electronics are allowed on the hike and/or on in the cave.

• Bring along a water bottle. We will have water available to refill your bottles.

• Have a good breakfast before the tour. Lunch will be late.

• Tours are limited to 6 guests per guide. Larger groups (7+) will travel together while being assigned different guides.

• Form of Identification (ID) is required at check-in

• Extra set of dry clothing and sandals/flip flops to change into after your tour. This is a wet tour.

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Reviews