Actun Tunichil Muknal cave has long been one of the most popular tourist destinations in Belize. If you are planning on taking a trip to this sacred site, there are a few things that you should be aware of:
1. You Will Need to Swim
In order to access the ATM cave, you will need to swim through the natural spring that sits in front of the cave and then walk through a shallow creek.
2. Photography is Not Allowed
To protect the artifacts on display in the cave, visitors are banned from taking photographs or recording video.
3. It is the Number One Ranked Sacred Cave in the World
The Discovery Channel ranked Actun Tunichil Muknal as the best sacred cave anywhere on earth.
4. You Will See Skeletons
When you visit the ATM cave, you will see the skeletal remains of the victims of the sacrificial ceremonies which took place there between 700 and 900 AD.
5. It is Filled With Stalagmites and Stalactites
If you have never seen a stalagmite or stalactite, you will be able to do so in the ATM cave.
6. You Can See Authentic Maya Tools
You can get a glimpse of the tools used by this ancient civilization when you visit the ATM cave.
7. Shoes are Not Allowed
To protect the contents of the cave, visitors are not allowed to wear shoes.
8. It is Sometimes Called “The Cave of the Crystal Maiden”
The ATM cave is sometimes called “The Cave of the Crystal Maiden” because the bones of one of the skeletons in the cave has fused with the crystals, causing it to emit a somewhat unearthly glow.
9. It is the Subject of a Number of Documentaries
The Discovery Channel, The Travel Channel, National Geographic, and The History Channel have all created documentary films about the ATM cave.
10. It is Home to Lots of Animals
Wildlife inside this sacred cave includes bats, crabs, crayfish, and spiders.
Whether you want to see the Crystal Maiden or just take a look at some ancient tools and artifacts, the ATM cave is a must-visit on any trip to Belize. To book a tour, simply visit www.unchartedjewelbelize.com and let the Uncharted Jewel team take care of the rest.
