Belize's Tube Cave Tours: An Adventure Underground

Belize is home to a number of cave tubing tours, which involve floating on tubes through ancient caves once traversed by the Mayan people. One of the more popular destinations for tourists and cruise ship passengers is the Nohoch Che'en Caves Branch archaeological site near Jaguar Paw. The Caves Branch Stream, which flows through the cave system, is one of Belize's more attractive national parks. The caves are believed to have been used for over two thousand years as a ceremonial centre by the ancient Maya.

There are various tour operators offering cave tubing experiences in Belize, including Butts Up and MayaWalk.

The history of tube cave tours in Belize

Belize is a small country in Central America, renowned for its natural beauty, cultural diversity, and vibrant ecosystems. It is also known for its cave tubing, which involves floating above underground rivers inside caves using specially designed inflatable tubes or tire inner tubes. This activity has become a national pastime and a popular tourist attraction.

The first modern reported use of the caves in Belize was in the late 1800s when a logging family from the village of Lemonal used them to float lumber through to the port of Belize City. Over time, local kids started using old motor vehicle inner tubes to float down the smaller rivers, and eventually, cave tubing evolved into the sport it is today.

Today, cave tubing in Belize has become a popular adventure activity for tourists, offering a unique and surreal experience. The Caves Branch River (Nohoch Che'en Caves Branch Archaeological Reserve) is the most well-known site for cave tubing, located in Belize City. The river flows through the Cayo District in the western part of the country and is known for its extensive cave systems. The Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) Cave, in particular, is a popular destination for cave exploration and archaeological adventures.

The tube cave tours in Belize typically last around four hours, including transportation, hiking, and the actual tubing experience. Tour companies provide all the necessary equipment, including professional-grade tubes, life vests, helmets, headlamps, and refreshments.

The experience of floating through the caves, surrounded by stalactites and stalagmites, with only your headlamp illuminating the way, is both thrilling and serene. It offers a glimpse into the ancient Mayan underworld and provides an opportunity to explore archaeological and geological heritage firsthand.

What to expect on a tube cave tour

Cave tubing in Belize offers a unique adventure, floating through ancient caves that were once used by the Mayan people. Here's what you can expect on a tube cave tour:

Getting There

The journey to the caves can take around two hours from Belize City, with some companies offering hotel pick-up services. The drive takes you through scenic routes, including the Hummingbird Highway, and you'll pass by small villages like Frank's Eddy.

The Hike

Before entering the caves, you'll embark on a hike through the lush rainforest. This trek can last around 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the tour operator and the cave system you're visiting. It's recommended to wear comfortable hiking attire and bring insect repellent.

Cave Tubing Experience

Once you reach the cave entrance, you'll gear up with a life vest, helmet, and a headlamp. Then, you'll hop into the water with your tube and float towards the cave passages. The current will gently carry you through the cave system, with some sections involving more active floating or swimming.

Exploring the Caves

As you glide through the caves, you'll be surrounded by incredible geological formations, including stalactites and stalagmites, some of which resemble human and animal figures. The lack of light in these ancient caverns, some of which have remained untouched for centuries, adds to the intrigue. Your guide will illuminate the way and share insights about the geology and history of the caves, including their significance to the Mayan culture.

Auxiliary Activities

Some tour operators offer auxiliary activities to enhance your cave tubing experience. These can include zip-lining through the rainforest canopy, exploring archaeological sites, or partaking in additional water activities like kayaking or swimming in natural pools.

Practical Information

Cave tubing tours typically last around four hours, including the travel time to and from the caves. Tour companies usually provide all the necessary equipment, refreshments, and snacks. It's recommended to bring a swimsuit, a towel, sunscreen, insect repellent, and cash.

Safety

While cave tubing is generally considered a laid-back adventure, it's important to follow the instructions of your guide and stay with your group. Some sections of the caves may involve climbing, swimming, or navigating through tight spaces, so a basic level of fitness is recommended.

A Serene Adventure

Floating through these ancient caves, you'll be immersed in a serene atmosphere, taking in the beauty of nature and the mysteries of the Mayan underworld. It's an adventure that combines history, culture, and the thrill of exploring hidden wonders.

What to bring on a tube cave tour

Belize's cave tubing tours are an increasingly popular attraction, especially for cruise ship passengers. The tours involve floating above underground rivers inside caves, using specially designed inflatable tubes or tire inner tubes. The activity is suitable for all levels of adventure and fitness, and there are packages that can be tailored for families with children.

• Swimwear or lightweight clothing that can get wet
• Sneakers or water shoes (water shoes can be rented at the park)
• A waterproof camera
• A towel
• Sunscreen
• Insect repellent
• Cash

Tour companies will provide the rest of the necessary equipment, including tubes, headlamps, and life vests. They will also cover refreshments and park fees.

The best tube cave tour companies in Belize

Belize is home to the largest cave system in Central America, and cave tubing is a popular activity for tourists. The most popular place for tubing in Belize is the Nohoch Che'en Caves Branch Archaeological Reserve, also known as the Caves Branch System.

• Butts Up Cave Tubing: This company is Belize's first tour operator dedicated to cave tubing adventures. They provide top-notch equipment and transportation, ensuring your safety and comfort. They also offer a Zipline Adventure add-on to your cave tubing experience.
• Cave-Tubing.com: With over 15 years of experience, this company specialises in cave tubing tours inside the Nohoch Che'en Caves Branch Archaeological Reserve. They offer great value for money, providing a similar experience to cruise-ship-booked tours at half the price.
• Tuff E Nuff Tours: This award-winning tour company offers a range of packages, including the ATM Mayan underworld Belize Mayan ruins tour, which involves exploring one of the top 10 caves in the world.
• Vital Nature and Mayan Tours: This top-rated company pioneers cave tubing and offers educational tours at the Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) Cave. They provide comfortable tubes, well-maintained vans, and certified Belizean guides, ensuring a safe and enjoyable adventure.
• Belize Food Tours: This company offers culinary adventures, including the Belizean Bites Lunch Tour, where you can savour the diverse flavours of the region by visiting local kitchens and immersing yourself in the culture.

These companies provide a range of exciting experiences, from cave tubing and zip-lining to exploring ancient Mayan ruins and enjoying local cuisine.

Other activities to do in Belize

Belize is a small country, but there's plenty to do beyond tube caving. Here are some other activities to do in Belize:

Explore the country's rich history

Belize is home to numerous Mayan ruins, including the country's largest, Caracol, which is also one of the most well-preserved ancient Maya cities in Belize. Other Mayan ruins include the Lamanai Archaeological Reserve, Altun Ha, and the Maya Ruins of Caracol.

Discover the wildlife

Belize is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including howler monkeys, keel-billed toucans, scarlet macaws, coral snakes, and Belize's beloved howler monkeys. The Green Iguana Conservation Project in San Ignacio is a great place to learn more about these fascinating reptiles. The Belize Zoo is also a great place to see a variety of animals, including jaguars, toucans, and tapirs.

Enjoy the beaches

Belize is known for its beautiful cayes and beaches, such as Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker, which offer plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkelling, and scuba diving. The Hol Chan Marine Reserve is a popular spot for divers and snorkelers, with its crystal-clear waters and abundant sea life.

Adventure activities

In addition to tube caving, Belize offers a range of adventure activities, such as zip-lining, ATV tours, and horseback riding. The Rio Frio Cave in the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve is a great place for a dry cave tour, and the Great Blue Hole is a popular spot for diving and snorkelling.

Food and festivals

Belize is famous for its festivals, including the three-day Lobsterfest, which marks the start of the lobster season. It's a great opportunity to try grilled lobster, lobster ceviche, and other local delicacies.

Frequently asked questions