Cave Canoeing at Barton Creek Cave — Underground Canoe Tour Near San Ignacio, Belize
Glide into a cool, silent world on a guided canoe trip through Barton Creek Cave. Two hours of subterranean paddling reveal crystalline formations, Maya artifacts and a living cave ecosystem — all within easy reach of San Ignacio.
The Experience
Before You Go
Wear closed, grippy shoes
The cave entry and exit are rocky and slippery; shoes with traction make getting in and out of the canoe much safer.
Bring a small dry bag
Protect phones and wallets from splashes — your guide will handle any group camera shots, but personal electronics are at risk.
Respect archaeological features
Do not touch or remove any bones, ceramics or formations; they are culturally sensitive and legally protected.
Hydrate beforehand
Although bottled water is provided, drink up before you start — the cave is humid and the tour includes transport time.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Ask your guide to stop near a small side chamber where light reveals calcite draperies — it makes an excellent low-light photo spot.
- •The final snack stop near the parking clearing often yields the best chance to hear howler monkeys in the trees at dawn or dusk.
Wildlife
- •Common vampire and insectivorous bats
- •Howler monkeys (heard more often than seen)
Conservation Note
The cave is ecologically and archaeologically sensitive; local operators follow rules to minimize disturbance and encourage visitors not to touch formations or remove artifacts.
Barton Creek Cave served as a ritual site for the Maya; archaeologists have recovered ceramics, offerings and human remains that speak to centuries of ceremonial use.
Photographer's Notes
- • Entrance where daylight skims the water surface
- • A side chamber with thin calcite draperies
- • Near the central column where guide lights accent textures
What to Bring
Closed-toe water shoesEssential
Grip and toe protection for rocky entry/exit points.
Small dry bagEssential
Keeps phone, wallet and small items dry while paddling.
Lightweight, quick-dry clothing
Dries quickly in humid conditions and won’t weigh you down if splashed.
Spare headlamp or small LED
Provided lights are included, but a personal backup helps for photography or emergencies.
Common Questions
How long is the cave canoeing portion?
The canoeing portion is about two hours inside the cave; the full activity is roughly four hours including pickup and return to San Ignacio.
Is this suitable for children?
Yes — tours often accept older children able to sit still in a canoe; check with the operator for minimum age and supervise closely.
Are helmets and life jackets provided?
Yes. The operator supplies helmets, headlamps, personal flotation devices and paddles.
Can I take photos inside the cave?
Yes, but flash photography can disturb wildlife and damage delicate formations; long exposures with steady hands or guide-assisted shots work best.
What should I do if I’m claustrophobic?
Certain passages have low ceilings requiring crouching; if you are claustrophobic, discuss specific route details with the operator before booking and consider a surface-only option.
How do I get to the meeting point?
Most bookings include hotel pickup in San Ignacio; otherwise the meeting point is the Belize Caving Expeditions office (Unit #2) where the tour departs.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4 hours (approx.; ~2 hours inside cave)
Location
San Ignacio, Cayo District
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels — must be able to sit in a canoe and perform light paddling; some crouching required.
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