Cave Exploration in Belize
Belize's ancient Mayans believed that caves served as an entrance to the underworld. Many of Belize's caves contain ceramics and human remains. Some are wet caves, with a river or a creek that flows through the subterranean complex. In addition to exploring the caves, you'll also get to go canoeing or tubing.
How can we help?
Click and read long-form guides
Calico Jack's Jungle Expedition: Cave Tubing & Zipline Adventures
This is a unique experience, with spectacular views that you will not get anywhere else in Belize!
@ Calico Jack’s (Explorer): This tour is offers 1,135 feet of cable and takes 45 minutes from start to finish. It entails 4 runs and 7 platforms. You hone your skills as you explore the jungle canopy overhead and end this tour with the exciting jungle lift run.
@ Calico Jack’s (Intermedio): Here you will find Maya artifacts just the way they were left by the Mayas hundreds of years ago. The cave is ranked as one of the Top Ten Caves Of The World by the National Geographic Society. National Geographic and the Discovery Channels and History have done documentaries on this spectacular cave. Allow us to unveil the secrets of “Xibalba” the Mayan underworld to you.
@ Calico Jack’s (Ultimo Explorer): This 1-1.5 hour tour is for zip line enthusiasts. It combines the Explorer and Intermedio in over 2,900 feet of zip line comprised of 9 runs and 15 platforms that take you over and through the jungle.
@ Calico Jack’s CJV (Extreme): This 2-hour tour combines the Ultimo Explorer zip line tour with a cable walk over a canyon, a climb down a rope ladder and subsequent rappel of approximately 50 feet. Return to the starting platform via a 500 foot run from our jungle lift with the option of returning superman style.
For the zipline, there is no maximum weight limit as long as the person fits into the harness, which accommodates up to a 48-inch waist.
For cave tubing, there is also no maximum weight limit. Participants just need to be able to complete the trail hike, which takes approximately 35 to 45 minutes.
Explore TourJewels of the Underworld: Exploring Crystal Cave
Embark on a spellbinding journey deep into the heart of Belize's natural wonders with our exclusive Crystal Cave Exploration tour. Step into a realm of awe-inspiring beauty as we venture into the depths of this ancient underground labyrinth. Led by expert guides, you'll navigate through winding passageways, marveling at the ethereal beauty of crystal formations illuminated by soft, flickering light. Along the way, immerse yourself in the rich history and folklore surrounding this sacred site, as tales of the ancient Maya civilization come to life. Prepare to be captivated by the otherworldly allure of Crystal Cave, where every twist and turn reveals a new marvel waiting to be discovered.
Explore TourCave Tubing and Xunantunich Maya Ruin
We begin by making our way to the mainland & up the Belize River. Along the way as we serve breakfast keep an eye out to spot crocodiles, iguanas & possibly manatees.
Explore TourCave Tubing and Zip-Lining
This is an adventurous tour of the jungles of central Belize. You’ll see the treetops on a zip-line ride and the depths of the caves in an inner tube.
Explore TourCave Tubing & The Belize Zoo
Cave tubing and a visit to the Belize Zoo will bring you face-to-face with Belize’s incredible outdoors. First you’ll visit the Belize City Zoo, which is known for its rehabilitation programs for endangered animals. Then you’ll head to the Caves Branch River, where you will ride on an inner tube through the ancient caves of the Maya
Explore TourCave Tubing & Xunantunich Maya Temples
This tour will bring you to the top of a Maya temple, and then to the entrance of the Maya underworld. The temple is inside the Maya city of Xunantunich, which is located near the border of Guatemala. Its name translates to “Maiden of the Rock.” After you ascend the walls of its temple, you’ll continue the tour to the Cave Branch River, where you’ll follow the river into a series of caves that had intense spiritual significance for the Maya.
Explore TourActun Tunichil Muknal Caves
Actun Tunichil Muknal cave (usually referred to as “ATM”) is the doorway to Xibalba, the Maya underworld. This cave contains ceramics and human skeletons that have fused with the walls of the cave. The most famous of these remains is the Crystal Maiden, a skeleton of a young woman believed to have been a sacrifice. Her bones are now partially covered with the sparkling build-up of cave sediment.
Explore TourSt. Herman's Cave & Blue Hole National Park
This 6-hour tour takes you two of Belize’s most interesting inland nature attractions – St. Herman’s Cave and the Inland Blue Hole. In addition to sightseeing, you’ll also get in some hiking through the forest and a swim in one of Belize’s prettiest swimming holes.To reach these spots, you’ll make your way through a lively jungle, where you’ll have the chance to see a huge variety of birds. Keep in mind that this hike is on the more challenging side, so make sure you’re ready for an active day.
Explore TourCave Tubing & The Belize Zoo
Cave tubing and a visit to the Belize Zoo will bring you face-to-face with Belize’s incredible outdoors. First you’ll visit the Belize City Zoo, which is known for its rehabilitation programs for endangered animals. Then you’ll head to the Caves Branch River, where you will ride on an inner tube through the ancient caves of the Maya
For cave tubing, there is no maximum weight limit. Participants just need to be able to complete the trail hike, which takes approximately 35 to 45 minutes.
Explore TourBarton Creek Cave Canoe Tour
Take this tour into depths of the mysterious and enchanting Barton Creek Cave. Barton Creek flows through the cave, allowing you to paddle through its interior. This tour also introduces you to some interesting archeological remains.
Explore TourBarton Creek and Butterfly Farm Tour
The Barton Creek Tour is good for people of all ages. You’ll get go caving in a canoe and see Mennonites, Maya ruins, and some stunning Belize jungle. It also includes a visit to Green Hills Butterfly Farm, which is research orientated. The main flight area makes it possible to study interactions between different butterfly species.
Explore TourExplore the Mystery of Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave Tour
Step into the mesmerizing world of Actun Tunichil Muknal, famously known as the Cave of the Crystal Sepulchre, and uncover the secrets of the ancient Maya. This extraordinary cave is home to numerous skeletal remains, including the renowned “Crystal Maiden,” an 18-year-old sacrifice victim whose calcified bones sparkle like crystals.
Ranked as one of the Top Ten Caves in the World by National Geographic, ATM is a breathtaking journey into the Maya underworld, "Xibalba." The cave has been featured in documentaries by National Geographic, the Discovery Channel, and History, making it a must-see for adventurers and history enthusiasts alike.
Important Notes:
Difficulty Level: Active
This tour is suitable for physically fit individuals comfortable with hiking for 4+ hours, walking in water, and navigating small spaces. It is not recommended for those with disabilities, heart conditions, back or leg problems, or claustrophobia.
Explore TourBarton Creek and Big Rock Falls -GM
Barton Creek Cave is a dynamic, living cave, continually expanding with 10 feet of water flowing through it. The ancient Mayans believed that their gods dwelled in such sacred places, particularly Barton Creek Cave because of its abundant water. They revered the cave as the dwelling of Chaac, the Mayan God of Water. During times of drought or when rain was needed for their crops, the Mayans would enter Barton Creek Cave to offer sacrifices, believing that young virgins were the most suitable gifts to appease the gods. The cave was deeply respected and feared, seen as a gateway to the underworld.
Nearby, Big Rock Falls, a magnificent 150-foot waterfall on the Privassion River, cascades within the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve in Belize's Cayo District.
Explore TourIncredible Barton Creek Tour
Embark on an unforgettable journey with Barton Creek Tour Operator, your gateway to the hidden treasures of Belize. Dive into the heart of adventure as we guide you through the untamed beauty of this tropical paradise. Traverse ancient caves adorned with mesmerizing stalactites, paddle through tranquil waters surrounded by lush jungles, and discover the rich cultural tapestry woven into every corner of Belize.
Explore TourBarton Creek Private Tour
This is a canoe tour that takes you through the dark passageway of the Barton Creek Cave. The Maya believed that this cave served as a home for their water god, Chaac. It also served as an entranceway to the underworld, and is the final resting place for some Maya. Experts believe that these skeletons may have belonged to sacrifice victim.
Explore TourXunantunich and Cave Tubing Expedition
This tour takes you to one of Belize’s most well-known and thoroughly studied Maya sites in Belize, before continuing to a cave tubing adventure – splashing around in an inner tube is a great way to cool off after exploring a fascinating site. First, you’ll spend 3 to 4 hours exploring the site of Xunantunich. In the afternoon, you’ll leave on a 5-hour tubing trip down the swift moving water that passes through Jaguar Paw Cave.
For cave tubing, there is no maximum weight limit. Participants just need to be able to complete the trail hike, which takes approximately 35 to 45 minutes.
Explore TourXunantunich and Barton Creek Cave Tour
On this tour, you’ll get to see two very different Maya sites. The first, Xuanantinuch, is the ruins of a compact but impressive Maya city. Here visitors can stroll around multiple plazas and temples. At the nearby Barton Creek Cave, you’ll see a cave that served as an entrance to Xibalba, the Maya underworld.
Explore TourCave Tubing and Zipline Experience
Embark on an adventure like no other as you delve into the heart of Belize's lush rainforest with our Cave Tubing and Jaguar Paw experience. Traverse through ancient underground caverns adorned with stunning stalactites and stalagmites, all while floating gently along the crystal-clear waters of the mysterious caves.
Feel the thrill of discovery as you uncover the secrets of these natural wonders, guided by knowledgeable local experts who will regale you with fascinating tales of the region's rich history and biodiversity. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature as you meander through the serene landscapes of the Belizean jungle, keeping an eye out for exotic wildlife including the elusive jaguar.
Whether you're seeking an adrenaline-fueled escapade or a tranquil retreat into nature, our Cave Tubing and Jaguar Paw adventure promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of Belize's untamed beauty. Join us and experience the magic of this extraordinary destination like never before
For the zipline, there is no maximum weight limit as long as the person fits into the harness, which accommodates up to a 48-inch waist.
For cave tubing, there is also no maximum weight limit. Participants just need to be able to complete the trail hike, which takes approximately 35 to 45 minutes.
Explore TourCave Tubing & Zip Lining
Take this adventurous tour to combine zip lining and cave tubing, so you can get the most out of Belize’s lush inland rainforest. Neither of these activities require any experience, but they do offer a lot of excitement. That being said, this tour is best suited for travelers who are prepared for moderate physical demands.
Explore TourXunantunich and Barton Creek Cave Tour
On this tour, you’ll get to see two very different Maya sites. The first, Xuanantinuch, is the ruins of a compact but impressive Maya city. Here visitors can stroll around multiple plazas and temples. At the nearby Barton Creek Cave, you’ll see a cave that served as an entrance to Xibalba, the Maya underworld.
Explore TourArcheology
Best
Cave Exploration
Guided Tours
Zip Lines
This is a unique experience, with spectacular views that you will not get anywhere else in Belize!
@ Calico Jack’s (Explorer): This tour is offers 1,135 feet of cable and takes 45 minutes from start to finish. It entails 4 runs and 7 platforms. You hone your skills as you explore the jungle canopy overhead and end this tour with the exciting jungle lift run.
@ Calico Jack’s (Intermedio): Here you will find Maya artifacts just the way they were left by the Mayas hundreds of years ago. The cave is ranked as one of the Top Ten Caves Of The World by the National Geographic Society. National Geographic and the Discovery Channels and History have done documentaries on this spectacular cave. Allow us to unveil the secrets of “Xibalba” the Mayan underworld to you.
@ Calico Jack’s (Ultimo Explorer): This 1-1.5 hour tour is for zip line enthusiasts. It combines the Explorer and Intermedio in over 2,900 feet of zip line comprised of 9 runs and 15 platforms that take you over and through the jungle.
@ Calico Jack’s CJV (Extreme): This 2-hour tour combines the Ultimo Explorer zip line tour with a cable walk over a canyon, a climb down a rope ladder and subsequent rappel of approximately 50 feet. Return to the starting platform via a 500 foot run from our jungle lift with the option of returning superman style.
For the zipline, there is no maximum weight limit as long as the person fits into the harness, which accommodates up to a 48-inch waist. For cave tubing, there is also no maximum weight limit. Participants just need to be able to complete the trail hike, which takes approximately 35 to 45 minutes.
