Crystal Cave (Mountain Cow Cave)
Blue Hole National Park, Belmopan, Belize
Crystal Cave, also known as Mountain Cow Cave, is located within the Blue Hole National Park near Belmopan, Belize’s capital city. Sacred Mayan rituals and important ceremonies were once performed here, and visitors today will see remnants such as ceremonial bowls, pots, and even skeletal remains from sacrificial victims. It is also full of natural wonders including rock formations, massive stalagmites, and crystal clusters.
The basics
Ancient Mayans believed Crystal Cave to be the domain of their gods, earning it the name of Xibalba. Mayans said that this is the portal between the tangible human world and the invisible world of the gods, making it a significant site for ceremonies. Some tours include the opportunity to explore Crystal Cave in the water, as you can embark on a refreshing cave tubing journey, meandering along the waters of Xibalba and through an impressive Gothic chamber with hidden pottery dating back to AD 300. Calcite formations cover the floors, walls, and ceiling of the cave.
Things to know before you go
- Visitors should be in moderate physical health and able to withstand a lengthy hike over varying inclines.
- Crystal Cave may not be suitable for travelers who suffer from claustrophobia or have a fear of the dark and tight passages.
- Bring bug spray, sunblock, and a change of dry clothes, as you may get wet.
How to get there
To get to Crystal Cave, you may have to start with a moderately challenging, 50-minute hike through lush rainforest and steep terrain. Depending on your entrance point, you then descend by rope for 15 feet (4.5 meters) to drop into the mouth of the cave. Guided tours offer round-trip transportation from San Ignacio, which is about an hour away by car.
When to get there
Early December to mid-April is the dry season in Belize, making it the best time to visit if you plan to take part in outdoor adventures. But if you travel during the rainy season, Crystal Cave is usually open, even if Actun Tunichil Muknal (another popular caving excursion) is closed due to flooding.
Belmopan
The capital of Belize, Belmopan, which is located about 20 minutes away from Crystal Cave, is a good home base for those travelers interested in participating in outdoor activities. Guided tours offering spelunking, cave tubing (floating down the river in a tube), horseback riding, and more are available from here.
What should I wear to Crystal Cave?
Travelers should wear long pants with a long-sleeve shirt for protection to explore Crystal Cave in Belize’s Blue Hole National Park. Also, wear sturdy sneakers, hiking boots, or waterproof hiking sandals, and be sure to bring a change of dry clothes if you plan to swim afterward; there are on-site changing facilities. Bring bug spray and wear sunblock, too.
Is Crystal Cave worth it?
Yes. Travelers say that Crystal Cave is one of the highlights of their trip to San Ignacio. It’s the former site of sacred Mayan rituals and ceremonies, where remnants such as ceremonial bowls, pots, and even skeletal remains from sacrificial victims have been left behind. Plus, impressive stalactites and stalagmites form an otherworldly underground setting.
Is it cold in Crystal Cave?
No. Because of its location, Crystal Cave is relatively warm compared to others in colder climates. The air temperature is typically around 75℉ (23℃) and usually is stable throughout the year. Physical activity will keep your body temperature up, so remember to drink plenty of water.
What do you see on a Crystal Cave tour?
During a guided tour of Crystal Cave in Belize, travelers will be able to witness giant stalactites and stalactites, sparkling limestone formations, and ceremonial artifacts left behind by the ancient Maya, including shards of pottery, obsidian, beads, and fire pits with charcoal ash, as well as evidence of sacrificial human remains.
How long does it take to go through Crystal Cave?
Once you reach the Blue Hole National Park, the hike to Crystal Cave is about 45 minutes to an hour, mostly uphill, while exploring the cave typically lasts 1.5–2 hours, but some tours allow more time. Most guided tours from San Ignacio are 8–9 hours, including an hour's drive to and from Blue Hole National Park.
Is it dark in Crystal Cave?
Yes. Visitors are equipped with headlamps, as Crystal Cave has no light source. Guides often instruct visitors to turn off their lights for a moment to experience the total darkness. Because of this, the adventure may not be suitable for travelers with claustrophobia or fear the dark and tight passageways.
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