Cave World Adventures (Actun Chapat)
Cave World Adventures (Actun Chapat)
Cave World Adventures (Actun Chapat)
5
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Monday
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
About
After entering the gates of our 300-acre adventure park, you will find yourself fully immersed in nature. With numerous fauna and species such as Toucans, monkeys, and parrots. With an abundance of tours such as medicinal trail, nature walk, bird watching, butterfly watching, camping and much more! Also, we have a Mayan Shaman on site. And of course explore our 3 fantastic caves.
Duration: More than 3 hours
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
5.0
29 reviews
Excellent
28
Very good
1
Average
0
Poor
0
Terrible
0
Freddy
10 contributions
Oct 2023 • Friends
HIDDEN GEM!!
One of the best tours in Belize.
Very close to Xunantunich mayan temple.
So it just makes sense to do this tour, rather than going all the way to another cave which is farther away and less interesting.
One of the best tours in Belize.
Very close to Xunantunich mayan temple.
So it just makes sense to do this tour, rather than going all the way to another cave which is farther away and less interesting.
Written October 15, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
AAS619
229 contributions
Dec 2012 • Family
The tour with Ken to Aktun Halal and Aktun Chapat was award winning! We started our adventure on the back of his Land Rover. Ken drove us into the jungle, and it was a bumpy ride! FUN !! We arrived to a large clearing. Short, but interesting hike to the caves was next. Aktun Halal was small, shelter cave, Aktun Chapat quite the opposite. The cave is dry, and it’s warm inside. We saw plenty of amazing natural formations, remaining artifacts and signs testifying to Mayan presence in the past. All of it was accompanied by Ken’s stories from past visits by scientists and archeologists. The cave is far from explored though. Sounds like a further exploration is in the near future.
Going through vast chambers, you realize how fascinating underground can be, and wonder how deep and how far those passages reach. Also, it is impossible not to think how soon something else is going to be discovered. As the matter of fact hearing how some things were unearthed, I let myself imagine that the next big find would happen while we were in the cave I will not be surprised at all if one day Aktun Chapat will be declared the next ATM.
My favorite part of this tour was the fact that there was absolutely no rush! We could stop as often as we wanted, look at things as long as we wanted. There were plenty of opportunities to take great pictures. In a setting like that you can put your imagination to work. We actually pointed out a couple of formations to Ken, who did not catch them before. One looked like a sitting man in a conical hat, and one of what looked like a tapir. We are not explorers by any means, but certainly felt like it that day! Aktun Chapat was like a candy store, and it was even more exciting knowing that we were the only ones there!
Watch your footing as you walk through some parts. Ken will help you to navigate through tricky spots but it helps to be in relatively good shape and limber. I recommend shoes with a good grip. Food, drinks and helmets with headlamps are provided. If you have a serious case of fear of heights, entering Aktun Chapat will elevate your heart beat. Throughout the whole trip Ken shared with us Maya history, current socioeconomic situation, facts about local flora and fauna, and more. It was a fantastic trip, and I would love to go back there again!!
If you want a real deal adventure, off the beaten path, go with Ken Dart! Aktun Halal and Aktun Chapat can be visited only with Ken because he is the owner of the land surrounding these caves. That means no other tours, just yours!
Going through vast chambers, you realize how fascinating underground can be, and wonder how deep and how far those passages reach. Also, it is impossible not to think how soon something else is going to be discovered. As the matter of fact hearing how some things were unearthed, I let myself imagine that the next big find would happen while we were in the cave I will not be surprised at all if one day Aktun Chapat will be declared the next ATM.
My favorite part of this tour was the fact that there was absolutely no rush! We could stop as often as we wanted, look at things as long as we wanted. There were plenty of opportunities to take great pictures. In a setting like that you can put your imagination to work. We actually pointed out a couple of formations to Ken, who did not catch them before. One looked like a sitting man in a conical hat, and one of what looked like a tapir. We are not explorers by any means, but certainly felt like it that day! Aktun Chapat was like a candy store, and it was even more exciting knowing that we were the only ones there!
Watch your footing as you walk through some parts. Ken will help you to navigate through tricky spots but it helps to be in relatively good shape and limber. I recommend shoes with a good grip. Food, drinks and helmets with headlamps are provided. If you have a serious case of fear of heights, entering Aktun Chapat will elevate your heart beat. Throughout the whole trip Ken shared with us Maya history, current socioeconomic situation, facts about local flora and fauna, and more. It was a fantastic trip, and I would love to go back there again!!
If you want a real deal adventure, off the beaten path, go with Ken Dart! Aktun Halal and Aktun Chapat can be visited only with Ken because he is the owner of the land surrounding these caves. That means no other tours, just yours!
Written March 6, 2013
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jim R
Crestone, CO35 contributions
Feb 2015 • Couples
This is a fun experience. I wanted to explore a big cave and chose Actun Chapat rather than ATM because so fewer people visited it. We got a private tour by Ken with only a days notice. Ken is from the same state of 'Colorado as we were so we immediately hit it off. The ride out in the old Land Cruiser through the mud and mountains was actually one of the more fun parts of the trip for me. Then its about a 30 minute walk along a jungle trail to the cave entrance which Ken has worked with archeologists to document and explore. Big high ceilinged rooms followed by narrow rock climbs to the next chamber made for some fun trekking. Good thing Kens lights were good as my new REI headlamp just didn't cut it in the dark cave. You get to the end where there is welcomed opening in the roof to daylight and eat the provided lunch. Lots to see and after about 3 hours coming back out into the jungle is like being born again. Takes most of the day so don't schedule much else. Thanks Ken.
Written February 28, 2015
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
vialux
Olalla, WA88 contributions
Jan 2016 • Friends
The day trip to visit this cave operated by Belizean Sun Tours is hands down the most impressive caving experience offered in the country of Belize. I've poked around at least a dozen caves in the area and the number of artifacts combined from those other caverns can't compare to what you'll experience in this single location.
History and adventure aside, this is also a unique opportunity to be hosted by what has to be a couple of the finest guys to ever don helmets and head lamps!
The caves are located on the property of Ken Dart who's enthusiasm and commitment are unparalleled. Not once while gaping in awe at piles of pottery, fiddling with a camera or lingering over a skeletal remain did we encounter anything other than an attitude of being allowed into someone's private home. In that regard it felt far more like a genuine experience of exploration rather than a tour on a timeline.
From the second you hop into the back of the 'Rover and begin plowing through the tropical forest you know this is going to be a memorable adventure.
Four wheeling, jungle hiking and a cave so expansive there's still areas to be mapped, where else on the planet can we be provided with such a kick in the pants!?
And it just get's better.
Leo.
Where to begin describing a guide who's knowledge and passion will leave you shaking your head as to how one person has established such a library of information? It's mind blowing. Maya history, geology, wildlife, use and motivation of the people's who employed these caves in a ritual manner. There was not a single topic presented he couldn't expound upon at length. I'd pay good money just to sit in his presence and listen to him speak.
In short, seek these two guys out and be prepared for a day that will stick to your ribs like a hearty meal served up by family.
History and adventure aside, this is also a unique opportunity to be hosted by what has to be a couple of the finest guys to ever don helmets and head lamps!
The caves are located on the property of Ken Dart who's enthusiasm and commitment are unparalleled. Not once while gaping in awe at piles of pottery, fiddling with a camera or lingering over a skeletal remain did we encounter anything other than an attitude of being allowed into someone's private home. In that regard it felt far more like a genuine experience of exploration rather than a tour on a timeline.
From the second you hop into the back of the 'Rover and begin plowing through the tropical forest you know this is going to be a memorable adventure.
Four wheeling, jungle hiking and a cave so expansive there's still areas to be mapped, where else on the planet can we be provided with such a kick in the pants!?
And it just get's better.
Leo.
Where to begin describing a guide who's knowledge and passion will leave you shaking your head as to how one person has established such a library of information? It's mind blowing. Maya history, geology, wildlife, use and motivation of the people's who employed these caves in a ritual manner. There was not a single topic presented he couldn't expound upon at length. I'd pay good money just to sit in his presence and listen to him speak.
In short, seek these two guys out and be prepared for a day that will stick to your ribs like a hearty meal served up by family.
Written February 9, 2016
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Coelha S
Budapest17 contributions
Sep 2014 • Couples
Please do not miss this private tour though Actun Halal and Actun Chapat. Ken is the owner of the land where the caves' entrances are. He drove us 6 miles through the jungle on rugged terrain in his land rover. We were accompanied by probably the best local guide ever. His name is Leo. As Leo walked us through the jungle to the entrances of the caves, he identified the wildlife (hope you're not scared of spiders), and we even tasted some cringe-worthy things. He knew the medicinal properties of many plants; an endless source of information and yet so humble in his delivery. Once we got to the caves we were dumbfounded as to their sheer size and magnitude. Leo confidently led us through tunnels, armed with hardhats and headlamps. As we twisted through caverns Leo explained all about Mayan history. It was like walking through a documentary. Artifacts and signs of past life in every corner of the caves. We had never experienced anything like it. It is a once in a lifetime opportunity.
The difference between this expedition and ATM cave or others, is that Ken and Leo pride themselves on respect and conservation (price is around the same). Most of the cave has not yet been excavated by archaeologists and it is vital to preserve the history. We cannot touch, but we can look. There are no artificial paths, barriers and bannisters. This is exploration in the raw. Amazing, incredible. Thank you Leo and Ken for keeping this place sacred. Ken's wife packed us a fantastic burrito lunch!
The difference between this expedition and ATM cave or others, is that Ken and Leo pride themselves on respect and conservation (price is around the same). Most of the cave has not yet been excavated by archaeologists and it is vital to preserve the history. We cannot touch, but we can look. There are no artificial paths, barriers and bannisters. This is exploration in the raw. Amazing, incredible. Thank you Leo and Ken for keeping this place sacred. Ken's wife packed us a fantastic burrito lunch!
Written September 12, 2014
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
DrFeelAwesome
San Ignacio, Belize5,291 contributions
Sep 2010
Yes, very amazing! I've been lucky enough to have gone numerous times to see Actun Chapat and Actun Halal. Actun Chapat is an amazing cave, and has some huge chambers in it. Having been to both Chapat and ATM, I would think that ATM could easily fit in some of the chambers in Chapat.
The adventure starts out in a Land Cruiser going south of Succotz, which is 10 minutes from San Ignacio, for around 7 miles until you come to the end of the road, which is on Belize Sun Tours property. You then do some wild nature hiking, and come upon the minor cave Halal. You get to hear some great history of the cave.
Hiking a little bit more brings you to the main opening of Chapat. The opening is huge, and there are no tight squeezes. You go in around half a klick, and get to see how the water table has really filled up the cave in the past. There are some relics that you'll be shown along the way. Cave formations abound!
You eventually come to the second opening, which is above your head. Apparently the cave collapsed there, allowing sun to come in. I haven't heard yet if they will offer repelling in through that opening in the times I've gone. Near that opening is some amazing offshoots where you'll see huge stalagtites and flowstone. Take a camera!
There is a lake in the cave, and if the time of year is right, you can tube across it for some more exploring. We saw albino crabs and shrimp deep in the cave, and there were plenty of cool bats flying overhead. I can only assume the cave goes many miles back, and that there are more undiscovered openings due to the bats there. Can't wait to explore there again!
I'd recommend this for anyone who loves caves, hiking, and exploring.
The adventure starts out in a Land Cruiser going south of Succotz, which is 10 minutes from San Ignacio, for around 7 miles until you come to the end of the road, which is on Belize Sun Tours property. You then do some wild nature hiking, and come upon the minor cave Halal. You get to hear some great history of the cave.
Hiking a little bit more brings you to the main opening of Chapat. The opening is huge, and there are no tight squeezes. You go in around half a klick, and get to see how the water table has really filled up the cave in the past. There are some relics that you'll be shown along the way. Cave formations abound!
You eventually come to the second opening, which is above your head. Apparently the cave collapsed there, allowing sun to come in. I haven't heard yet if they will offer repelling in through that opening in the times I've gone. Near that opening is some amazing offshoots where you'll see huge stalagtites and flowstone. Take a camera!
There is a lake in the cave, and if the time of year is right, you can tube across it for some more exploring. We saw albino crabs and shrimp deep in the cave, and there were plenty of cool bats flying overhead. I can only assume the cave goes many miles back, and that there are more undiscovered openings due to the bats there. Can't wait to explore there again!
I'd recommend this for anyone who loves caves, hiking, and exploring.
Written April 21, 2011
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
squishme
Calgary, Canada21 contributions
Dec 2014 • Couples
Our journey started with a ride in an old Land Rover back into the jungle on a rough 4x4 road. After being thoroughly shaken, bounced and tossed, we set off walking through the jungle with Ken and Leo. Throughout the day they graciously shared their passion and knowledge and it was like going exploring with friends who were showing you a treasured place.
In this case their treasure is a very large dry cave (no swimming here) that had been used by Mayans over the years for their ceremonies. We spent many hours just walking through chamber after chamber looking at all the cave formations and pottery shards. Since it was a private tour, we could stop at any spot we found interesting with no pressure to move on. Lunch was perfectly timed and you could peek out to see some sun while you recharged.
Overall, it was one of our most memorable tours we've taken and was definitely unique. If you've got the time and the ability to hike all day then give it a go. You definitely won't be disappointed.
In this case their treasure is a very large dry cave (no swimming here) that had been used by Mayans over the years for their ceremonies. We spent many hours just walking through chamber after chamber looking at all the cave formations and pottery shards. Since it was a private tour, we could stop at any spot we found interesting with no pressure to move on. Lunch was perfectly timed and you could peek out to see some sun while you recharged.
Overall, it was one of our most memorable tours we've taken and was definitely unique. If you've got the time and the ability to hike all day then give it a go. You definitely won't be disappointed.
Written January 22, 2015
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
MAMomof3
Boston, MA85 contributions
We've just finished the San Ignacio portion of our trip and I feel as though I need to take some time to write this review while the amazement and wonder of these caves are still fresh in my mind :) Our family (myself, my husband and two daughters ages 10 and 8) had the pleasure of touring these hidden gems with Ken and Leo. It's a trip that we will never forget! Started with a ride through the jungle in the back of Ken's Land Rover. That ride by itself could have been a fabulous tour. We got to see the Belizean jungle in a way that you don't often see it... It was often untouched and felt so natural. We spotted countless blue morpho butterflies and even saw a white morpho. We saw snakes, lizards and spiders. Leo pointed out fig trees, trees with poisonous sap and many types of plants.
Getting to the caves was an easy enough hike. Leo pointed out areas of the landscape that were modified by the Maya many years ago and explained why those modifications were made. It was fascinating. Upon arriving at Actun Halal, Leo pointed out the geological features of the cave and offered us some theories on how the Maya may have used the areas.
Upon arriving at Actun Chapat we geared up with helmets and lights to start on our way. It was a bit slippery, so you'd definitely want to wear good shoes. No flip flops here. And wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty. There are definitely some areas where you need to sit your squeeze just the right way. We saw plenty of pottery shards and some bigger pieces as well. We saw a skull and some human teeth.
What really differentiates this tour from ATM is that you can see so much more of the geological modifications that the Maya made. Leo and Ken pointed out areas where the Maya cut the rocks into meaningful shapes. Where they made ledges and clipped stalagmites and stalagtites to open up passageways into chambers of the caves. I'm sure as this cave is further explored by the archaeologists that there will be more bones and more pottery. But, for now, the beauty of this cave is that it is so untouched. And as you walk through, you're alone with the guides. It's kind of serene in a way... Especially when you turn off the lights and stand in the dark for a few moments.
Lunch was also amazing. Upon reaching the sinkhole, we sat under a ray of sunlight with a pleasant cool breeze and feasted on some amazing home made chicken burritos while watching a few more blue morpho butterflies flying around us. The kids who were still full of energy enjoyed climbing atop a giant boulder while us adults sat and rested for a few moments before heading back to the starting point.
We will tell everyone we meet about this trip and encourage them not to miss it.
Getting to the caves was an easy enough hike. Leo pointed out areas of the landscape that were modified by the Maya many years ago and explained why those modifications were made. It was fascinating. Upon arriving at Actun Halal, Leo pointed out the geological features of the cave and offered us some theories on how the Maya may have used the areas.
Upon arriving at Actun Chapat we geared up with helmets and lights to start on our way. It was a bit slippery, so you'd definitely want to wear good shoes. No flip flops here. And wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty. There are definitely some areas where you need to sit your squeeze just the right way. We saw plenty of pottery shards and some bigger pieces as well. We saw a skull and some human teeth.
What really differentiates this tour from ATM is that you can see so much more of the geological modifications that the Maya made. Leo and Ken pointed out areas where the Maya cut the rocks into meaningful shapes. Where they made ledges and clipped stalagmites and stalagtites to open up passageways into chambers of the caves. I'm sure as this cave is further explored by the archaeologists that there will be more bones and more pottery. But, for now, the beauty of this cave is that it is so untouched. And as you walk through, you're alone with the guides. It's kind of serene in a way... Especially when you turn off the lights and stand in the dark for a few moments.
Lunch was also amazing. Upon reaching the sinkhole, we sat under a ray of sunlight with a pleasant cool breeze and feasted on some amazing home made chicken burritos while watching a few more blue morpho butterflies flying around us. The kids who were still full of energy enjoyed climbing atop a giant boulder while us adults sat and rested for a few moments before heading back to the starting point.
We will tell everyone we meet about this trip and encourage them not to miss it.
Written August 17, 2014
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
BENQUE R
Benque Viejo del Carmen, Belize125 contributions
May 2014 • Friends
Love doing this cave trip. It is one of the top attractions in Belize. I Especially like the fact it is so close to Xunantunich that you can fit in a cave tour and Xunantunich in the same day. Very important for travelers on a tight time frame, who want to see attractions.
Great ride through jungle in the Land Rover. Birds,butterfly's and wildlife abound along the way. Cave is spectacular, with several underground lakes and very cool caverns and Mayan artifacts inside. Proprietor Ken Dart is super knowledgable and informed, made us feel really at home and like we were visiting an old friends house. Home cooked Lunch and drinks in the cave at the cenote were greatly appreciated by all adventurers. What's really interesting is how truly big this cave is, and the fact that so much is unexplored and that no one has ever found the end of this cave! I have been to 5 different caves in Belize and this one is the best by far. I rate it 5 stars for, convenience to other attractions, uniqueness and originality, knowledge of owner,friendliness of staff, home cooked lunch, ride and jungle wildlife on the 4 wheeling adventure to get there. And for sure coolness factor.. This is a really cool must see cave .
Great ride through jungle in the Land Rover. Birds,butterfly's and wildlife abound along the way. Cave is spectacular, with several underground lakes and very cool caverns and Mayan artifacts inside. Proprietor Ken Dart is super knowledgable and informed, made us feel really at home and like we were visiting an old friends house. Home cooked Lunch and drinks in the cave at the cenote were greatly appreciated by all adventurers. What's really interesting is how truly big this cave is, and the fact that so much is unexplored and that no one has ever found the end of this cave! I have been to 5 different caves in Belize and this one is the best by far. I rate it 5 stars for, convenience to other attractions, uniqueness and originality, knowledge of owner,friendliness of staff, home cooked lunch, ride and jungle wildlife on the 4 wheeling adventure to get there. And for sure coolness factor.. This is a really cool must see cave .
Written May 23, 2014
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
AggieNYC
Brooklyn, NY43 contributions
Jun 2013 • Solo
One of the highlights of my first trip to Belize...Ken, Actun Chapat and his cave tour truly exemplify what is so cool about backcountry hiking and caving. After leaving my brand new Jeep Compass back in the town of Succotz, the tour began with some 4-wheeling up dirt roads and thru the jungle to Ken's property. Upon tumbling out of the trusty Landrover with Ken and his assistant, I can say that my tour was NOT for the physically challenged, but worth the trip if you are the type who wants to combine Maya caves with a friendly guide who is very proud and protective of the ancient caves on his property. The caves have been explored by archaeologists and continue to be part of ongoing research and exploration. The tour will be what you make of it, as Ken is a great guide and will custom the tour to your comfort level.
Expect to have a short lecture by Ken or his guides along the way on where to step safely along karst geological formations, in order to avoid potential accidents like stepping on artifacts or twisting an ankle. Also expect to do some mild bouldering to climb up to the mouth of the cave to enter chambers, ancient terraced platforms that appear endless, leading down into the Xibalba underworld!! Wear light hiking boots, clothing that you wouldn't mind getting dirty, as you will be smearing the face of a rock boulder or two to climb up to a few terraced levels. Ken provides lamps, helmets and amazingly, a delicious home made lunch made by his wife. I can't wait to visit again in a few months!
Expect to have a short lecture by Ken or his guides along the way on where to step safely along karst geological formations, in order to avoid potential accidents like stepping on artifacts or twisting an ankle. Also expect to do some mild bouldering to climb up to the mouth of the cave to enter chambers, ancient terraced platforms that appear endless, leading down into the Xibalba underworld!! Wear light hiking boots, clothing that you wouldn't mind getting dirty, as you will be smearing the face of a rock boulder or two to climb up to a few terraced levels. Ken provides lamps, helmets and amazingly, a delicious home made lunch made by his wife. I can't wait to visit again in a few months!
Written October 1, 2013
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Very interested in touring this cave but am concerned about the difficulty. My husband and I are in our mid-60's in good condition. However, I have a knee issue which sometimes affects my balance. We also wil have two 9year old grandchildren. Could you please advise?
Written March 10, 2015
We would love to visit this cave but are somewhat concerned about our physical ability. My husband and I are active healthy seniors in our mid 60s. I have minor knee issues which sometimes affects my balance. We will also have our two active 9year old grandchildren. Would this be appropriate for us?
Written February 13, 2015
please, somebody can tell me how much cost the trip and write me the contacts of Mr. Ken?
Written January 8, 2015
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