Caving
Caving in Belize
Hidden among Belize lush jungle, Belize has an incredible underground system worth exploring. The underground cave system is so complex it is longer than paved highways in the county. These natural wonders, not only have beautiful natural beauty but also historical significance.
To the ancient Maya, caves were where rituals and sacrifices were done. Caves were believed to be the refuge of evil gods who expected humans to offer them gifts, and in return the gods would provide to life and mankind.
With just a helmet and a small headlamp as you enter the dark caves your encounter with adventure and mystic begins. Walk through sacred ground exploring ceremonial chambers. Pottery shards and remnants of the Maya are profound.
EXPLORE BELIZE'S CAVES BY DISTRICT
Caves in Cayo District
Actun Tunichil Muknal
Located in the Tapir Mountain Nature Reserve, Actun Tunichil Muknal is one of the most sacred caves in the world. First explore in 1989, it holds considerable evidence of Maya sacrifice. Over 5km long you will find pottery throughout, while just 600 meters into the cave you’ll find evidence of human remains, the “Crystal Maiden.”, a fully crystalized skeleton believed to be a human sacrifice by the ancient Maya.
Barton Creek Cave
Explore the ancient Maya underworld by canoe. Barton Creek cave, located in the Cayo district is the largest river cave in Belize and accessible only by canoe. Believed to be used by the Maya for agriculture ceremonies and human sacrifice you can spot different artifacts and pottery that date back to the Early Classic period (200 to 600 AD).
Nohoch Che'en Caves Branch
Not too far from Belize City, located 37 Miles on the George Price Highway followed by 6 miles in is Nohoch Che'en Caves Branch Archaeological Reserve. One of the most popular cave tubing sites due to its proximity to the city, it offers great spelunking. You can explore Belize’s cave system by floating through an inner tube along Caves Branch River which flows through nine caves including the Crystal Cave. On route spot remnants of the Maya from pottery to ancient paintings carved on the limestone walls.
Che Chem Ha Cave
Che Chem Ha Cave, located in the Cayo District outside of Benque Viejo del Carmen is roughly 800ft long and worth exploring. Walk through narrow passageways and spot ceremonial artifacts.
St. Hermans Cave
Located within the Blue Hole National Park, 12 miles south of Belmopan on the Hummingbird Highway this cave was once a sacred site for the Maya. This is one of the few sites you can visit without a guide.
Rio Frio Cave
Rio Frio Cave, located in the Mountain Pine Ridge in the Cayo district was once a sacred burial site for the Maya. The front cavern is the most impressive natural feature of the cave as it is over 70 feet tall. Sunlight beams into this magnificent entrance giving a spectacular view of the stalactites that hang from above. Trekking to this site is not overly strenuous with a well maintained pathway leading to this ancient cave.
Actun Chapat and Actun Halal
Enjoy a private caving tour as you visit Actun Chapat, also known as the Centipede Cave, and Actun Halal, also known as the Dart Cave. Located 19 miles south of San Ignacio in the Cayo District, these caves are only accessibly though private property which require a booked tour. Huge ceremonial chambers with artifacts are visible with evidence dating back to around 4400 B.C.
Ready to go caving?
Caves in Toledo District
Hobek Ha Cave
Hobek Ha Cave is located in the Toledo district in close proximity to the village of Blue Creek. The interior and exterior of this cave is quite phenomenal. Roughly a 20-minute hike into the jungle, you get to the entrance of the cave where fresh water cascades over limestone boulders. At this cave you can find ceremonial remnants of the Maya.
Tiger Cave
Getting to Tiger Cave, located in the Toledo district, requires an hour and a half hike to the entrance. Once inside walk through narrow corridors into wide chambers with tall ceilings spanning 500-foot high. The view inside is spectacular as beautiful stalactites hang above.
Explore other adventures
Need help planning your adventures?
Comments are closed.