08/03/2026
ATM Caves with Belize Caving Expeditions
As a Belizean, I’ll admit this was one of the best adventures I’ve experienced in my little country.
To prepare I packed a towel, water bottle, dry change of clothes & wore comfortable hiking/swimming wear with sneakers and socks. We left Villa Cayo just before 8am which was pickup time, the van from Belize Caving Expeditions pulled up right on time, not a minute early not a minute late.
Our driver was friendly and professional, before we took off, he made sure we had everything we needed. We drove about 45 minutes until we finally arrived at the ATM caves.
Our Guide, Francisco Itza introduced himself and explained what we could expect throughout, he handed us protective helmets with headlights and life jackets, then also reminded us that no electronics or cameras were allowed beyond that point.
From there the real adventure began, we had to cross the same river 3 times- the roaring river- and hiked about 30 minutes through the jungle, along the way our incredibly knowledgeable guide shared interesting facts about the local flora and fauna in the reserved area. When we finally got to the cave entrance, the excitement really kicked in, we had to swim, mind you I can’t swim but the life jacket was more than helpful throughout the tour.
Inside the cave, our guide explained so vividly, from the stalactites, stalagmites, ancient pottery, baby and adult human bones, ceremonies and sacrifices that once took place there. The way he described everything was phenomenal!
On our way back, I found it even more exciting, we had to squeeze or swim through small crevices, which was both thrilling and nerve-wrecking but so much fun.
After exploring we had light snacks, and once we exited the cave, a delicious lunch of rice and beans, chicken & salad was waiting for us. We had lunch together with our small group of 6 which is the maximum allowed and chatted about our experience, by then everyone was happily exhausted.
Then we made our way back home, tired but completely amazed, it was beautiful & unforgettable!
You can always trust Luis at Villa Cayo to professionally arrange your tours. He will make sure you're with a reputable group with reliable & clean vehicles.
-Vanessa, tour consultant