,CAVING Portofino Resort, Exclusive Lodging on Ambergris Caye, Belize

CAVING

Because of it's geology, Belize has lots of spectacular caves. The ancient Maya’s that associated them with the underworld used them mainly for religious and sacrificial purposes. Their remains are still there; skeletons, pots, altars, and tools. Many caves have rivers running through them, so you can explore them by kayak, or on an inflatable tube, and because of the last option, the word "Cavetubing" was invented in Belize; just lay back and let the river carry you through the spectacular cathedral like chambers, and enjoy the incredible geological formations on your way.

Actun Tunichil Muknal
Actun Tunichil Muknal "Cave of the Stone Sepulcher" is one of the most impressive caves in the Maya lowland. Located in the heart of the Belizean rainforest, this cave was a sacred place to the prehistoric Maya of Belize, who first began to use the entrance during the early classic period (300-600 A.D.). It was not until the late terminal classic period (700-900 A.D.) that the Mayas traveled deeper into the cave to conduct their ceremonies. The cave system consists of a series of chambers, ending in a 300 by 50 meter cathedral where sacrificial ceremonies once took place. Here you will be exposed to the individuals sacrificed to the gods of the underworld.

Visitors to this cave have the unique opportunity to travel into the Maya past and witness a living museum where the human sacrifices and artifacts can be viewed in their original context.

About the Tour: Visitation to this site is limited to 5 persons per guide. At the end of an exciting drive, you'll trek for 45 minutes though dense jungle in the Tapir Mountain Nature Reserve and wade across three streams before reaching the cave entrance. At the entrance to the cave you'll be outfitted with the necessary equipment and some swimming will be required. This is a premier, world-class caving and archeology experience that is unexploited and generally restricted to limited visitation.

Chechem Ha Cave and Falls
Chechem Ha Cave sits in the Maya Mountains, deep in the rainforest of the Vaca Plateau. The cave is considered one of Belize’s premier cave destinations to visit, with rich archeological finds inside. Archeologists believe that the Maya used this place for ceremonial purposes some 2,000 years ago. On this fascinating journey through time you will see the many chambers and artifacts used by the ancient people of the underworld. Later, a home cooked meal prepared on a fire hearth will satiate your appetite, and then enjoy a short hike to Chechem Ha Falls. This waterfall tumbles 200 feet in the jungle creating a refreshing swimming pool at the bottom!

Xunantunich / Barton Creek Cave
This active trip combines canoeing/kayaking and cave exploration through Barton Creek Cave with a visit to Belize's second largest beautifully excavated Maya City. Our expert guides provide keen insight into the world of ancient Maya civilization, leading our clients on an unforgettable tour.

Within the last 5 years, intense archeological work has revealed and preserved the ancient structures once hidden beneath the jungle floors. Today visitors have the privilege of climbing El Castillo, which at 130 ft. above plaza level, is the second tallest man made structure in Belize. 360-degree panoramic views from El Castillo offer a remarkable vantage point revealing the Ancient Macal River Valley and neighboring Guatemala.

After enjoying a healthy lunch, we continue to Barton Creek Cave in Amish territory. Equipped with canoes/kayaks and high-powered lights we gently paddle into Xibalba (she-bal -ba), Maya for underworld. Stalactites and Stalagmites hang high overhead as we float past impressive calcite crystals. Our knowledgeable guides will discuss the use of this cave by the ancient Maya, while some artifacts can be seen high above the alcoves. For the free spirited adventurer, the option for excellent swimming in the far chamber is a treat. Great mud baths to cleanse your skin is an added option.

Belize Zoo & Cave Tubing
Enjoy a boat ride along the barrier reef and through different cayes while traveling to the Belize River, where you shall take a thrilling ride through downtown Belize City to Manatee Outpost near Ladyville.
There your private air-conditioned van is waiting to transport you to the Belize Zoo where you will enjoy the view of over 100 different species of Belizean wildlife. Afterwards, you will embark on an unforgettable adventure into the dense rainforest of the Sibun Caves Branch area. River tube through the sacred Mayan caves system and explores streams and rainforests to your hearts’ content.