Hopkins , Belize

Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) Cave

Active

(7 reviews)

9h - 10h

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

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

The ATM Cave is one of the most historical sights in the world. It is an incredibly beautiful underground world filled with glittering stalactites and stalagmites.

Available options

Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) Cave

Pickup included

What's included

Bottled water

Lunch

All Fees and Taxes

Air-conditioned vehicle

Parking Fees

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

- Located a short drive from our office in southern Belize, the tour begins with a drive to the ranger post in the Tapir Mountain Nature Reserve.
- From there, proceed on foot, hiking through the jungle for approximately 45 minutes, crossing three jungle streams along the way with your Belizean tour guide.
- Once at the mouth of the Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave, swim across a spring-fed pool, using a rope for guidance.
- And then the adventure truly begins, wading through the knee-high water until a network of vast tunnels, chambers, and passageways is reached.
- Only after climbing up and into a remote ledge deep in the rear of the cave will you reach the sacred chamber once used by Mayan priests.
- The ceremonial chamber still contains pottery, obsidian objects, bowls that once contained food offerings, and the famous skeleton of the Crystal Maiden. It takes approximately three hours to explore everything in this cave.
- After exiting the cave, there will be a return hike through the jungle followed by a delicious picnic lunch.

What's not included

Gratuities

Towels

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

6 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

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 a high level of physical fitness

About Hopkins

Hopkins is a charming coastal village in Belize known for its rich Garifuna culture and stunning Caribbean beaches. It offers a unique blend of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and adventure activities, making it a perfect destination for travelers seeking an authentic experience.

Top Attractions

Hopkins Beach

A beautiful stretch of white sand and turquoise waters, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Beach Half day to full day Free

Garnett's Pastries and Bakery

A local bakery famous for its delicious pastries and bread, offering a taste of traditional Garifuna cuisine.

Cultural 1-2 hours Budget

Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary

A unique wildlife sanctuary and the world's first jaguar reserve, offering hiking trails, waterfalls, and wildlife spotting.

Nature Full day Moderate

Sockton's Pines

A local craft shop and art gallery showcasing traditional Garifuna art and crafts, including handmade drums, jewelry, and textiles.

Cultural 1-2 hours Budget

Marie Sharp's Farm

A local farm and factory producing Belize's famous habanero hot sauce and other spicy sauces.

Food and Drink 1-2 hours Budget

Must-Try Local Dishes

Hudut

A traditional Garifuna dish made with fish cooked in a coconut broth, served with mashed plantains.

Main dish Contains fish and plantains, may contain allergens.

Johnny Cakes

Fried dough balls, often filled with cheese or sweet fillings, a popular local snack.

Snack Contains flour and may contain dairy or sugar.

Coconut Buns

Sweet buns made with coconut, a popular breakfast item in Hopkins.

Breakfast Contains flour, sugar, and coconut, may contain dairy.

Popular Activities

Hiking Fishing Wildlife spotting Beach activities Sunbathing Swimming Garifuna drumming and dance Local craft workshops

Best Time to Visit

November to April

This is the dry season with plenty of sunshine and lower humidity, ideal for beach activities and cultural events.

24-30°C 75-86°F

Practical Information

Language

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

Currency

Belize Dollar (BZD)

Time Zone

GMT-6

Electricity

110VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Hopkins is generally safe for travelers, with a low crime rate and friendly locals. However, standard precautions should be taken to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Use reputable tour operators and taxis.
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.

Getting there

By air

Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport • 130 km (80 miles)
Dangriga Airstrip • 5 km (3 miles)

By bus

Belize City Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are available to nearby towns but not within Hopkins itself. They are an affordable but less convenient option.

Taxis

Available • Apps:

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Hopkins Village Sittee River

Day trips

Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary

90 km (56 miles) • Full day

A unique wildlife sanctuary and the world's first jaguar reserve, offering hiking trails, waterfalls, and wildlife spotting.

Sittee River

15 km (9 miles) • Half day to full day

A scenic river offering tours, fishing, and wildlife spotting.

Dangriga

5 km (3 miles) • Half day

A nearby town with a rich cultural heritage, offering local markets, historical sites, and cultural experiences.

Festivals

Garifuna Settlement Day • November 19 Hopkins Seafood Festival • June

Pro tips

Visit Garnett's Pastries and Bakery for a taste of traditional Garifuna pastries.
Explore the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary for a unique jaguar spotting experience.
Try local seafood dishes, such as Hudut, at Innie's Restaurant and Bar.
Support local artisans by purchasing handmade crafts at Sockton's Pines.
Attend a Garifuna drumming and dance performance for an authentic cultural experience.