Cave Branche Day Trip with Picnic from San Ignacio

The day begins with a pick-up from San Ignacio and a short transfer to the heart of the Caves Branch cave system, nestled in the lush rainforest. Upon arrival, you will receive a helmet, waterproof headlamp, waistcoat and inner tube, and after a 45 minute level walk through the vegetation, you will arrive at the first cave entrance.

Once in the water, you will climb into the tube and let the river current take you through three fascinating underground passages, where stalactites and stalagmites shape an underwater landscape of surreal beauty. Along the way, your guide will share insights into karst geology and the ceremonial importance of the caves to ancient Mayan communities.

As you emerge into the light, you'll have time to swim and cool off in clear pools of water before continuing the tour on dry land, where you'll admire more rock formations and discover how the indigenous inhabitants used these caverns for sacred rituals.

At midday, you'll arrive at a clearing by the river to enjoy a picnic lunch that includes local dishes - rice and beans and stewed chicken for example - and your favourite drink. It's the perfect time to recharge your batteries and talk about the wonders you've seen so far.

The experience concludes with a final tube ride back to shore and a transfer back to San Ignacio, leaving you with the memory of an unforgettable day in the Mayan jungle.