/countries/show/belize/1.rss en-us Follow in the path taken by the Mayan people over a millennium ago as you journey deep into the tunnels of Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave, Belize one of the most amazing archaeological sites in the world. Long ago it was believed to be a portal to another world, the Mayans called this place by several disheartening names such as Xibalba, Place of Fright, or hell and regularly carried out human sacrifice rituals in its many chambers. Today there are 14 known skeletal remains that lay exactly where they were left along the floors of the ATM Cave, along with several ceramic and stonewear artifacts. One of the most famous remains is that of a teenage girl now called the Crystal Maiden, embedded in the cave the skeleton is perfectly preserved and covered in calcite which creates a glistening appearance. No easy feat to view, this ATM Cave requires you to trek through the Amazon Forest, swim through a 15 foot entry pool, followed by several shimmies and waist high wading efforts to reach the main chamber known as the Cathedral. Once here you must remove your shoes for two reasons, one as it is sacred ground and two to preserve artifacts that are strewn around Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave. The average cost is $100 - $125 for a guided trip including transport to and from San Ignacio Cayo. Not recommended for those that feel the confines of claustrophobia in small spaces. Sun, 25 May 2008 19:25:27 +0000 http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/actun-tunichil-muknal http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/actun-tunichil-muknal