Caving in Belize
Caves Branch is a jungle lodge offering thrilling tours beneath and around its 50,000-acre property, sitting atop a foundation of soft limestone perfect for spelunkers. Mayan artifacts have been found deep in the system, and evidence suggests the caves have been used for centuries. Guests can choose from a variety of caves to explore. The Big Hole lets you abseil 200ft into a sinkhole where you can camp overnight. Opt for the Waterfall Cave, which involves a one-hour hike through stunning caverns to a series of underground waterfalls. Here you can take rock jumping to a whole new subterranean level.
Length of Trip : Overnight at the lodge after your all-day underground waterfall adventure.
Cost :
You can find updated rates and packages for Caves Branch tours here.
Best time to go : Tours run year-round.
Wheelchair friendly : No
Family friendly : The Waterfall tour is recommended for kids 10 and up. Other cave tours are better suited for younger kids.
Where to eat :
Delicious meals are served buffet-style at the lodge restaurant. The hot sauces of Belize are a wonder to behold. The restaurant also caters to vegetarians and gluten-free travellers.
Official Site :
Ian Anderson's Caves Branch
Where to Stay :
Overnight in one of the lodge's beautiful treehouses with views of the surrounding jungle. Sleeps up to 6.
Getting There :
Caves Branch can be accessed by rental car, driving 12 miles south from Belmopan on the Hummingbird Highway. Alternatively, you can take a public bus from Belize City, which drops you at the entrance (be aware there's a 15-minute walk up the jungle driveway), or you can arrange with Caves Branch a private shuttle from the airport or elsewhere.
Note from Robin :
I love a good caving adventure, especially the type that doesn't feature crowded boardwalks lit by spotlights. Hardcore spelunking is certainly not for everyone, but here is a perfectly safe adventure that even the nervous nellies can appreciate. The jungle and orange grove are teeming with life, enjoy the walk and surroundings before you head underground. Ask your guide if he can find peanut bugs and scorpion spiders, both completely harmless. Enjoy the hot sauces at the buffet, and the warm social environment at the lodge.
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