Discover the ATM Cave from San Ignacio with sit down lunch

4.8 (72 reviews) 7 hours Free cancellation

out of 5

72 reviews

4.8

ATM Cave Entrance — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Skeletal remains inside ATM Cave — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

Prepare for the experience of a lifetime on this exclusive ceremonial cave exploration tour. Step into the ancient past as you immerse yourself in a spectacular, hidden cave system once used by the Maya to perform sacred rituals and blood sacrifices.

Led by a professionally trained, licensed guide, your expedition takes you deep into Xibalba—the Maya underworld. To uncover this sacred site, you will hike through subterranean waters, navigate winding stone tunnels, and explore monumental burial chambers. Along the way, you'll stand face-to-face with breathtaking stalactites, towering stalagmites, and pristine, centuries-old Maya pottery.

This tour begins at 7:00am and concludes around 3:00pm.

Dining Experiences Extreme Sports Caving Lunch Best Conversion Top Product Low Last Minute Supplier Cancellation Rate Short term availability

At a glance

Duration: 7 hours
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Up to 32 people
People per booking: 1–30
Guide: English
Operated by: Cayo Inland Expeditions

Ages: Children (6–17 years) · Adults (18–85 years)

What is included

Included

Included: Equipment
Included: Carbonated beverages: Soda/Pop
Included: Bottled water
Included: Professional guide
Included: Snacks
Included: Towels
Included: In-vehicle air conditioning: Air-conditioned vehicle
Included: Park Entrance Fees
Included: Lunch and refreshments are included. Do let us know if there are any dietary restrictions or preferences we should know about.
Included: Transportation
Included: Hotel pickup and drop-off (selected hotels only)

Not included

Not included: Gratuities

Itinerary

Hidden deep within the Tapir Mountain Nature Reserve, the legendary ATM Cave sits roughly an hour's drive southeast of San Ignacio in Teakettle Village. Your journey begins with a scenic 30-minute hike through lush jungle trails and refreshing river crossings to reach the cave's hidden entrance. From there, a brief 15-foot swim grants you entry into Xibalba—the mysterious Maya underworld. Guided by the glow of your headlamp, you will navigate winding chambers to reach the main plaza's ancient burial grounds. Along the way, your expert guide will unveil the secrets of the sacrificial ceremonies that took place in this sacred sanctuary thousands of years ago. Witnessing intact calcified remains, ancient pottery, and altars where Maya kings made blood offerings brings history vividly to life. You will return to your resort by mid-afternoon, carrying unforgettable memories and stories of an adventure that will last a lifetime.

Stop 1
Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM)

Belizean BBQ Chicken — BBQ Chicken, served with the traditional Belizean Rice & Beans, Fried Plantains, Flour Tortillas, and Cole Slaw.

Meeting point and pickup

You can be picked up from your accommodation or go straight to the meeting point.

Meeting point

The Cayo Welcome Center. Your driver/guide will have a sign with your name for easy recognition. He will meet you outside of the Cayo Welcome Center's office

End point

The Cayo Welcome Center. Your driver/guide will have a sign with your name for easy recognition. He will meet you outside of the Cayo Welcome Center's office

Pickup points

Home Hill Apartments/Vacation Rentals
VILLA CAYO
Rosa's Hotel
Parrot Nest Lodge
Santa Cruz Cabins

and 79 more pickup points

We provide complimentary pickup at place of accommodation within a 10km radius of San Ignacio Town.

Using your ticket

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended (Xunan)
Dress comfortably (Xunan)
Shorts and Tank tops
Strapped on Sandals or River Shoes
Change of Clothes for the ride back.

For ATM Cave tour you will need to wear closed toe shoes with good traction, we recommend wearing light comfortable clothing (quick to dry), sport shorts and tank tops/t-shirts work well. You will need a pair of socks for when you’re inside the cave.

We will supply towels and there are changing rooms at the site where you will be able to change.

N.B. Cameras (of no sort) are allowed at all inside the cave. No cellphones, no GoPro, nada.

Hotel pickups commence approximately 15 to 30 minutes prior to this time, exact pickup time will be advised on reconfirmation.

Cancellation

Free cancellation

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

If you cancel	You get back
At least one day before	100%
Less than a day before	0%

Good to know

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Child rate applies only when sharing with 2 paying adults
Children must be accompanied by an adult
A minimum of 2 (two) people per booking is required
Subject to favorable weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you will be given the option of an alternative date or the option to do a different tour (surcharges may apply)
Not available for children shorter than 40" in height.