It was our first full day at Pook’s Hill Lodge and we were ready for our excursion. I had spent months hearing about how amazing the ATM (Actun Tunichil Muknal) Cave was from my travelers and I knew I needed to try it out for myself. Nick and I woke up to the sound of birds chirping and got dressed. The ATM Cave has strict regulations for what you should wear and what you can and cannot bring. We both wore quick dry clothes and close toed shoes with socks. We also made sure to leave our camera behind. We later learned that the reason cameras have been banned is due to travelers accidentally dropping them in the cave and causing damage to the remains.
My outfit for the ATM Cave (Katie Thies)
Nick modeling his outfit at for the ATM Cave. Don't forget your socks! (Katie Thies)
After breakfast and a 20 minute bumpy van ride we arrived at the start of the trail. We were the first people to get there and the only ones in our group. We met our guide and he supplied us with head lamps and helmets and we were on our way. We crossed three rivers and walked along the trail to get to the mouth of the cave. Our guide spent the walk telling us about the history of the Mayans in Belize and what the ATM Cave was used for – sacrifices to the gods. It started as sacrificing pots and grew to human sacrifice. After a few well-placed jokes about us being the next sacrifice we made it to the cave. We got into the water and swam on in. Shortly after we were walking through the water and climbing over rocks. Our guide explained all the different kinds of rock formations we were seeing and continued to explain the history behind the cave. After a while we reached a large rock that we climbed up. When we reached the top we were asked to remove our shoes and keep our socks on to protect our feet. Our guide then took us deeper into the cave showing us pottery and the remains of three Mayans. It was fascinating! After we had seen everything we made our way back out of the cave. It wasn’t until we were almost all the way out before we saw another tour group. Pook’s Hill has a wonderful relationship with the ATM Cave and therefore their travelers get to the cave before anyone else. As we walked back to the van I knew that this excursion would be a hard one to beat.
Tony and Shannon were always quick to answer my questions and requests. They booked my Upper Mississippi cruise perfectly. They made sure that my dietary needs were met which is a big deal for me. I have the utmost confidence with their assistance.
Code
1 day ago
Third trip we have book with Adventure Life. Like the last two, we have had a quick response to all inquires
Carol Borland
1 day ago
Angela was fantastic! She was thoughtful, helpful, and prompt in her responses without being intrusive. She accommodated our large group and was genuinely excited for us when it all worked out. Can't say enough good things! This is our second trip booking through Adventure Life and we will definitely do it again.
Emily
2 days ago
Jessica was extremely helpful and generous with her time. She was very responsive to our questions and comments and in a very timely fashion. She worked with us in partnership to plan a trip specifically for us and our wants and needs.
Linda Coleman
2 days ago
Mary Curry found right trip for my budget and the best date that I liked. She made
that reservation when other company's agent could not do it.
Thank you so much!