A black dog sits in front of an old stone structure with a decorative metal grate, surrounded by greenery, ending the sentence.
The image shows a large, ancient, round stone structure with a flat top, possibly used as a table or an altar, situated in a cave or earthy environment.
The image shows an underground cave or tomb with several ancient pottery vessels placed on the ground.

    Chechem Ha Cave

    *TEMPORARILY CLOSED*

    Located beyond the towns of Cayo and high into the lush primary growth jungle of the Vaca Plateau is Chechem Ha Cave (“Cave of the Poisonwood Tree”).  Discovered by the local land owners and their hunting dog a number of years ago, this cave is a sacred Maya burial site containing artifacts that date back two millennia.  A variety of ancient pots and a carved stela used for ceremonial purposes can be viewed up close, and visitors are surprised by the final chamber of the cave which opens into a cathedral-like cavern where Mayan ceremonies were once held.  This cave rivals ATM, but without the water element, and is typically used as a substitute for ATM when it is closed.

    Drive Time from Table Rock: 1 hour

    Adventure Level: Strenuous.  To examine some of the pottery you’ll have to climb ladders and hold onto ropes, and getting to the cave entrance requires a scenic, yet mildly challenging, 35-minute hike through the jungle.

    What to Wear & Bring: Shorts or lightweight long pants, shirt, and comfortable walking or hiking shoes. You should also bring along extra water, sunscreen, and insect repellent for the hike.

    *Restrictions: Adventurers must be in at least moderate physical condition to enjoy this excursion

    Duration: Half-day tour

    Combinations: Make this adventure a full day by combining it with Xunantunich.

    Rates

    • Includes licensed guide, transportation to and from the lodge, gear, and entry fees. When booked as a full-day combo tour, it also includes lunch.
    • Minimum two persons
    • A 50% cancellation fee applies to any tours booked and then cancelled by the guest less than 24 hours in advance
    • Prices subject to change without notice