Barton Creek Cave

Barton Creek runs underground through a limestone hill in the Cayo district, and the only way in is by canoe: guides paddle visitors nearly two kilometres into the darkness on the river itself, with headlamps picking out formations, ledges and, on shelves above the water, Maya ceramics and human remains left where they were placed more than a thousand years ago. The Maya regarded caves as entrances to the underworld and used them for ritual and burial rather than habitation. It is easier than the better-known Actun Tunichil Muknal, which requires swimming and scrambling, and it is suitable for people who could not manage that.

What you actually see

• The canoe passage - nearly two kilometres in on an underground river.
• Maya ceramics and remains - on ledges above the water.
• The formations - stalactites and columns picked out by headlamp.
• The cave mouth - a wide opening in the limestone hillside.

When to go

December to April is the dry season and the water level manageable; heavy rain raises the river and closes the cave. Trips run through the day with licensed guides from San Ignacio. Bring something warm; the cave is cool.

Honest expectations

The cave closes when water is high, which happens quickly after rain. Photography rules vary and have tightened after damage at other Belizean caves; follow the guide exactly and never touch anything. The access track is rough. It is dark, cool and enclosed, which does not suit everyone. Guides are compulsory.

Nearby

San Ignacio is 45 minutes; Actun Tunichil Muknal is in the same district.