San Ignacio in 1 Day for Friends - Guided exploration of Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM Cave) with local expert guides
In Collaboration with Ruwa Travels. Updated on February 18, 2026.
Small-group, woman-led full-day adventure from San Ignacio to Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM Cave). Includes hotel pick-up in San Ignacio, guided hike and river entry into the archaeological chambers of the ATM Cave, a Belizean picnic lunch, and return transfer. Expect hiking, shallow river crossings, and climbing inside the cave; guides provide historical context including the site’s Maya artifacts.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Ruwa Travels, inspired by the tour Actun Tunichil Muknal ATM Cave Adventure from San Ignacio. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Guided exploration of Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM Cave) with local expert guides
- Hike, river crossings, and cave climbs to reach Maya ceremonial chambers and the ‘Crystal Maiden’
- Small-group experience with Belizean picnic lunch and round-trip transfer from San Ignacio
Itinerary
Day 1
Full-day guided visit to Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM Cave) starting with hotel pick-up in San Ignacio, transfer to the trailhead, an on-site safety briefing, guided cave exploration, picnic lunch, and return transfer to San Ignacio.
Hotel pick-up and transfer from San Ignacio
Meet at your hotel front desk or arranged pickup point on George Price Highway in San Ignacio for a private transfer to the ATM Cave trailhead. Vehicles are air-conditioned for the transfer portion of the journey.
Tips from local experts:
- Be ready in the hotel lobby or at your arranged pickup point 5–10 minutes before the scheduled time (07:30). If pickup is delayed or changed, Ruwa Travels will contact you via their Belize WhatsApp (+5016305538).
- Wear quick-dry clothes and bring a small daypack with sunscreen, insect repellent, and any personal medication you may need during the day.
- Leave non-essential valuables at the hotel; carrying a small waterproof bag for phone/camera is recommended for the cave sections.
Arrival, safety briefing & gear preparation at trailhead
Short orientation and safety briefing with your local guide. You'll be fitted with any shared safety gear, instructed on river crossings and cave rules, and given time to secure belongings before the hike to the cave entrance.
Tips from local experts:
- Listen closely during the safety briefing—guides will cover strict rules about touching artifacts, photography, and how to move inside the cave.
- Secure shoes with straps or wear closed-toe water shoes; loose sandals are not recommended for wet, uneven surfaces.
- Bring only essential items forward from the vehicle; cameras and phones should be in waterproof protection and left on shore if advised by the guide.
ATM Cave exploration (hike, river crossings, cave chambers)
Guided descent into Actun Tunichil Muknal involving hiking, shallow river crossings and some climbing into the cave’s main chambers. Guides explain the archaeological features and the context of artifacts such as the calcified remains known as the ‘Crystal Maiden’. Group size is kept small for a personal experience.
Tips from local experts:
- Expect wet walking and some hands-on scrambling; the route includes river crossings—if you have limited mobility, notify your operator in advance.
- No flash photography or touching of archaeological features is allowed; follow the guide’s instructions at all times to protect the site.
- Carry only essential waterproofed gear into the cave; any non-waterproof items left in the vehicle or shore bag are safer.
Exit, change and Belizean picnic lunch
After exiting the cave, you'll have time to dry off and enjoy a Belizean picnic lunch with refreshments prepared by the operator before returning to San Ignacio.
Tips from local experts:
- If you have dietary restrictions or allergies, notify the operator in advance so the picnic can be adjusted where possible.
- Bring a lightweight towel and a change of clothes to be comfortable for the return transfer.
- Refill your water bottle after the cave; staying hydrated after the exertion is important—the picnic includes refreshments.
Return transfer and drop-off in San Ignacio
Return drive to San Ignacio with drop-off at your hotel or the arranged meeting point on George Price Highway. The operator keeps groups small to maintain comfort and timing.
Tips from local experts:
- Expect a return to San Ignacio mid-afternoon; keep a light layer in case the vehicle is cool after being wet.
- Carry small local cash if you wish to tip guides or drivers (gratuities are optional and not included).
- If you plan to continue exploring San Ignacio after drop-off, keep wet/used items separate from dry luggage to avoid dampening other belongings.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 3 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Friends |
| Transfers | 2 |
| Restaurants | 1 |
| Total Activities | 3 |
| Total Places | 3 |
| Activities Types | Transfer, Break, Attraction, Meal |