Cave Tubing and Altun Ha Mayan Ruin from Belize City with Lunch

Float through a cave system the Mayans used, then walk among their ruins

This 6-hour tour from Belize City combines cave tubing through Nohoch Che'en Archaeological Reserve, the Mayan underworld known as Xibalba, with a visit to Altun Ha Mayan ruins. You float through the cave system on a tube with a headlamp and life vest, hike a 35-minute trail through rainforest, and explore the archaeological site with a guide who speaks English or Spanish. Airport or hotel pickup from Belize City is included, as are lunch, all tubing gear, and transport by private vehicle.

The experience

Nohoch Che'en Archaeological Reserve sits in rainforest where the Mayans once traveled underground through cave systems they believed were the entrance to the underworld. You'll tube through that same system on a float with a headlamp, life vest and tube provided. The operator carries your gear so the hike stays hands-free. A 35-minute trail through the forest leads to the cave entrance, and once inside you drift through passages the Mayans used centuries ago.

After the caves, the tour moves to Altun Ha, one of Belize's most visited Mayan sites. A guide walks you through the ruins and explains the history and way of life of the people who built them. Lunch happens between the two stops, featuring local dishes and fresh produce. The whole day runs 6 hours from pickup to drop-off.

Airport pickup from Belize City or a hotel in the city is included at no extra charge. Pickups from other towns and villages carry a surcharge. The guide speaks English or Spanish. You'll want old sneakers, water shoes or crocs (flip-flops won't work), and a change of clothes and towel, since changing rooms and restrooms are on site. The difficulty level is moderate, and you need at least a moderate level of fitness for the hike and the water.

What’s included

• Airport or hotel pickup and drop-off from Belize City.
• lunch with local dishes.
• a knowledgeable guide in English or Spanish.
• all tubing gear (tube, life vest, headlamp).
• private vehicle transport.
• access to Nohoch Che'en Archaeological Reserve and Altun Ha Mayan ruins.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery day

AgesAdult (13 and older) · Child (4 to 12 years) · Infant (under 4)

GroupPrivate

Live guideEnglish and Spanish

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup is optional; you can also go straight to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.You can choose from 18 pickup points.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.

Paid on siteUS$ 35

Prices and times updated 9 days ago

Good to know

Moderate physical effortPublic transport nearbyNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problems

Operated by Cave Tubing R Us

Is this one for you?Book this if you're flying into the international airport or docking at a cruise port: included pickup means you start the tour directly without coordinating separate transport.

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Top questions

What languages is the tour guided in?

Live guide in English and Spanish.

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (4 to 12 years); Infant (under 4).

What exactly is Nohoch Che'en Archaeological Reserve and why did the Mayans use these caves?

Nohoch Che'en is a cave system in the rainforest that the Mayans called Xibalba, or the underworld. They traveled through these caves as part of their spiritual and daily life, and you'll float through the same passages on a tube with a headlamp to see how they moved through the system.

Do I need to be a strong swimmer to tube through the cave?

You don't need to swim. You float on a tube the whole way. A life vest is provided, and the guide leads the group through. You do need moderate fitness for the 35-minute rainforest hike to reach the cave entrance and to walk around the Altun Ha ruins.

What's included in the lunch, and when does it happen?

Lunch features local dishes and fresh produce and is served between the cave tubing and the Altun Ha ruins visit. It's included in the tour price.

Is airport pickup really free, or does it cost extra?

Airport pickup from Belize City is included at no charge. Hotel pickup in Belize City is also free. If you're staying in another town or village, a surcharge applies.

What should I bring or wear for this tour?

Wear old sneakers, water shoes or crocs, flip-flops don't work. Bring a change of clothes, shoes and a towel since you'll be wet after tubing. Changing rooms and restrooms are available on site. A headlamp and life vest are provided as part of the tubing gear.

Can I buy drinks or souvenirs during the tour?

Gift shops on site sell wood and stone products. Alcoholic drinks are available to purchase during the tour.