Actun Tunichil Muknal | ATM

Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM TOUR)

The Actun Tunichil Muknal, also known as the ATM cave, is an ancient Maya archaeological site that is one of the most popular Mayan burial sites in Western Belize. This natural museum is full of mystery and untold stories of the ancient Mayan underworld. Fourteen human remains have been found inside and 1100 ceramic objects. All bones and most ceramics have been completely covered by calcite from the drip water which has left them with a sparkling appearance especially the full extended skeleton called the ‘Crystal Maiden’. The hike from the starting point to the cave entrance is intense, with three stream crossings and passes through the Tapir Mountain Nature reserve. The hike through the lower part of the caves lasts about 45 minutes. This adventure will allow you to get up close to Mayan artifacts that were left hundreds of years ago by Mayan elites who ventured into this sacred place to conduct rituals on behalf of their community. Come indulge in the history of this mysterious cave and gain insight on ancient rituals and ceremonies performed by the ancient Mayas. Visitors are advised that in the upper chambers of the cave, you are required to take off your shoes to prevent damage to the artifacts, plus you’ll need to swim through deep water to enter the cave and wade through more water both inside and outside of the cave. Cameras are not allowed inside the caves by order of the Department of Archaeology, but the mental movies will be incredibly worth it.