Things to Do
Altun Ha Maya Ruins and Cave Tubing from Belize City
Tour Overview
Travel comfortably in a climate-controlled vehicle into Belize's lush countryside. At the Altun Ha archaeological reserve, step back over a millennium as your guide unpacks the rich ceremonies, architecture, and trade networks of the ancient Maya civilization—with the rare opportunity to climb directly to the top of ancient plazas and stone temples for sweeping jungle views. The journey continues into the rainforest at the Nohoch Che'en cave system. Gear up with headlamps, helmets, and life jackets before slipping into your tube to drift along gentle river currents. As you glide beneath towering limestone ceilings, stalactites, and cathedral-like caverns, learn how the Maya viewed these mysterious caves as Xibalba, the entrance to the underworld. Complete your day with an authentic local lunch before an easy return transfer timed to your cruise or travel schedule.
What to Expect
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Depart Belize City on a narrated scenic drive through rural coastal plains and rainforest to the ancient ceremonial site of Altun Ha. Once a bustling Maya trade hub during the Classic Period, this archaeological reserve is famous for the discovery of the world’s largest carved Maya jade object, the Jade Head representing the Sun God, Kinich Ahau. Walk across expansive plazas flanked by ancient stone temples and limestone structures. Unlike many archaeological parks, Altun Ha permits visitors to climb the stone steps of the grand Temple of the Masonry Altars. Reach the summit for panoramic views overlooking the canopy and surrounding jungle plazas while your guide details the sacred ceremonies, burial chambers, and daily life of the ancient Maya elite.
1h 30m - 2
Head inland toward the Maya Mountains to the Nohoch Che'en Caves Branch Archaeological Reserve, Belize's premier cave-tubing destination. At the base facility, gear up with your provided helmet, headlamp, and life jacket. Follow your guide on a scenic shaded rainforest hike across the riverbed, learning about native wildlife and medicinal plants. At the launch site, settle into your tube and drift into the Caves Branch limestone caverns. As your guide steers through gentle currents, illuminate cathedral chambers filled with towering stalactites, stalagmites, and crystal formations while discovering why ancient Maya priests revered this subterranean realm as Xibalba- the portal to the underworld. Exit into the sunny open river and float back to base to rinse and change before your air-conditioned return transfer to Belize City, timed with ample buffer for your cruise or travel.