Full-Day Tour to the ATM Cave: A Sacred Cave for Ancient Mayas

Placencia , Belize

Full-Day Tour to the ATM Cave: A Sacred Cave for Ancient Mayas

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(1 reviews)

13h - 14h

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Step into the mysterious world of the ancient Maya with a full-day adventure to Actun Tunichil Muknal, the legendary ATM Cave in the Tapir Mountain Nature Reserve. After a scenic drive and a jungle hike with river crossings, you’ll swim and wade into a cave filled with breathtaking limestone formations. Inside, your licensed guide will reveal sacred chambers where rituals took place nearly 2,000 years ago. Discover intact artifacts, ceremonial tools, and the famous “Crystal Maiden,” a glittering skeleton preserved in time. With limited guides licensed to lead this tour, visiting ATM is a rare privilege and one of Belize’s most awe-inspiring experiences. Prepare for adventure, history, and wonder in this unforgettable journey into the heart of Mayan spirituality.

Available options

Full-Day Tour to the ATM Cave: A Sacred Cave for Ancient Mayas

Pickup included

What's included

Lunch

Entrance fee to the ATM Cave

Air-conditioned vehicle

Certified tour guide

Detailed itinerary

We leave Placencia at 05:30 am to meet up with the specialist guide in the village of Teakettle. The specialist guide will drive you to the Tapir Mountain Nature Reserve. The Belize Tourism Board, in coordination with the Belize National Institue of Culture and History, Institute of Archaeology, hs granted licenses to a small group of agents to conduct tours to this cave, in an attmept to balance its protection against tourist revenue. The Splash driver will wait for you in Teakettle. Expect to be back in Placencia at around 7:00 pm.

Stop 2

When we arrive at Teakettle Village - Entrance to the Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave, we will start our nature walk. This hike will last between 30-45 minutes until we reach the cave.

The entrance to the cave is actually a little natural pool inside the cave that we must jump into when we arrive and swim in for around 30 seconds.

Once you enter the cave you will have to pass through passages, climb large rocks, and walk and swim inside the cave. There are parts of the cave where you will find different Mayan artifacts including pottery, stone tools, and the remains of human sacrifices, this is the highlight of the tour. As you explore the ATM Cave, you'll also see a variety of stunning geological formations, including stalagmites and stalactites, which are created when water dripping from the cave ceiling mixes with minerals in the rock.

Lastly, we'll return to Placencia.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

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1 reviews

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Important information

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

We suggest you wearing a swimsuit and on top a long sleeve shirt

Bring sun protection, repellent, hiking shoes. Also bring hiking sandals or water shoes

You MUST bring socks. This is the only way you are allowed to be in sacred Maya places

Bring one extra set of dry clothing and shoes + a towel

About Placencia

Placencia is a charming coastal village in southern Belize, known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and proximity to both the Caribbean Sea and the Belize Barrier Reef. With its laid-back atmosphere and stunning natural surroundings, it's a perfect destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.

Top Attractions

Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary

This is the world's first jaguar reserve and a stunning area of waterfalls, hiking trails, and wildlife. It's a must-visit for nature lovers.

Nature Half to full day Moderate

Laughing Bird Caye National Park

A beautiful marine reserve with snorkeling and diving opportunities. The island is known for its pristine beaches and abundant marine life.

Nature Full day Moderate to Expensive

Placencia Village

The village itself is charming, with colorful houses, local shops, and a vibrant atmosphere. It's a great place to stroll, shop, and dine.

Cultural A few hours to a full day Free to Moderate

Must-Try Local Dishes

Stewed Chicken

A Belizean classic, often served with rice and beans, plantains, and coleslaw.

Main Dish Contains poultry and spices.

Lobster

Freshly caught lobster, often grilled or fried, and served with a variety of sides.

Main Dish Contains shellfish.

Rice and Beans

A staple in Belizean cuisine, made with red kidney beans and rice, often cooked with coconut milk.

Side Dish Vegetarian option available.

Popular Activities

Snorkeling Diving Hiking Beachcombing Sunbathing Spa treatments Local markets Art galleries

Best Time to Visit

December to April

This is the dry season with warm, sunny weather and lower humidity. It's the most popular time to visit, with plenty of activities and events.

24-30°C 75-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish, Creole
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Belize Dollar (BZD)

Time Zone

GMT-6

Electricity

110VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Placencia is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Avoid walking alone at night
• Use reputable tour operators

Getting there

By air

Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport • 200 km (124 miles)
Placencia Airstrip • 1 km (0.6 miles)

By bus

Belize City Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are affordable but may not run on a strict schedule. They are a good option for getting to nearby towns and villages.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Not widely available

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Placencia Village Savannah

Day trips

Silk Cayes

20 km (12.4 miles) • Full day

A beautiful group of islands with pristine beaches and excellent snorkeling opportunities.

Gladden Spit and Silk Cayes Marine Reserve

25 km (15.5 miles) • Full day

A marine reserve known for its diverse marine life, including whale sharks and various fish species.

Festivals

Garifuna Settlement Day • November 19 Lobster Fest • June to February

Pro tips

Visit the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary for a chance to see jaguars in the wild.
Try the local seafood, especially lobster, which is a specialty in Placencia.
Book tours and accommodations in advance, especially during peak season.
Explore the village on foot to discover hidden gems and local shops.
Respect the environment and wildlife by following sustainable travel practices.