A.T.M. Cave (Actun Tunichil Muknal) | From San Ignacio

The Sacred Adventure. Often voted the #1 Sacred Cave in the World by National Geographic, the ATM Cave is not just a tour; it is an expedition. This is a journey into the heart of the Maya underworld (Xibalba), where you will swim into a mountain, hike through underground rivers, and stand just inches away from ancient ceramics and crystallized human skeletal remains.

At A Glance

• Departs From: San Ignacio Town, Santa Elena, or Benque Viejo
• Destination: Tapir Mountain Nature Reserve (Teakettle Village)
• Duration: Full Day (Approx. 8 Hours)
• Intensity: High (Hiking, Swimming & Climbing)

The Experience

1. The Jungle Trek

Your adventure begins with a 45-minute drive from San Ignacio to the Tapir Mountain Nature Reserve. From the parking lot, we embark on a flat but wet 45-minute jungle hike. You will cross the Roaring Creek river three times (waist-deep water) before arriving at the hourglass-shaped entrance of the cave.

2. Into the Underworld (The Swim)

To enter the cave, you must swim across a deep pool of cool, crystal-clear water. Once inside, you will spend about 3 hours navigating the cave system—wading through water, squeezing through rock formations, and climbing ledges—until we reach the hidden dry chambers high above the water line.

3. The Cathedral & The Crystal Maiden

In the upper "Cathedral" chamber, you will remove your shoes (socks only) to protect the artifacts. Here, you will see hundreds of ancient Maya pottery pieces and the skeletal remains of sacrificial victims. The finale is the "Crystal Maiden," the intact skeleton of a young woman whose bones have calcified and sparkle in the light of your headlamp.

Itinerary Snapshot

• 7:30 AM: Pickup at your San Ignacio Resort.
• 8:30 AM: Arrive at Teakettle Village / Ranger Station.
• 9:00 AM: Jungle Hike (River Crossings).
• 10:00 AM: Enter the Cave (Swim & Climb).
• 1:00 PM: Exit Cave & Hike back.
• 2:00 PM: Picnic Lunch at the Parking Area.
• 3:30 PM: Drop-off in San Ignacio.

Trip Essentials

What to Wear: Quick-dry clothing (shorts/shirt), sturdy sneakers/hiking boots that can get wet (no sandals), and bring a pair of thick socks for the dry chamber.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I bring my GoPro or Phone?
No. There is a strict "No Camera" policy enforced by the NICH (National Institute of Culture and History) due to past damage to artifacts. No electronics are allowed inside the cave.

2. How hard is the swimming?
You must be comfortable in the water. The initial swim is short but deep. Inside the cave, the water varies from ankle-deep to chest-deep. Life jackets are available if needed.

3. Why do I need socks?
When we reach the upper dry chamber where the skeletons are, we must take off our shoes to preserve the delicate limestone floor. You will walk in your socks (this is mandatory, bare feet are not allowed).

4. Is it claustrophobic?
The ATM cave is massive—like a cathedral inside. However, there are a few tight spaces you must pass through. If you have severe claustrophobia, this may not be the tour for you.