Barton Creek Cave Canoe Tour: Maya Caves, Zipline & Big Rock Falls Near San Ignacio
Glide by headlamp into Barton Creek Cave’s cool chambers, where ancient limestone formations and Maya history meet optional zipline, butterfly garden or waterfall add-ons. This half-day canoe tour from San Ignacio mixes easy paddling with cultural context and flexible adventure.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring a dry bag
Protect phone, wallet and a spare layer from splashes during the canoe approach and possible swims.
Wear close-toed water shoes
Cave entry and exit are slippery; sturdy water shoes improve stability on rocks and in the canoe.
Pack insect repellent
Mosquitoes can be active at river edges and around the botanical areas—apply before boarding the canoe.
Reserve morning slots
Morning departures avoid heavier afternoon rains in the wet season and are cooler for added hikes or zipline options.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Visit the Mennonite community of Upper Barton Creek for handcrafted cheeses and simple farm life sights
- •The Butterfly Farm’s orchid collection offers quieter photo opportunities outside peak visitor hours
Wildlife
- •Bats (inside the cave)
- •Howler monkeys (in surrounding canopy)
Conservation Note
Do not touch speleothems and stay on guided routes—park fees and guided tours fund local conservation and archaeological protection.
Barton Creek Cave was used by the Maya for ritual access to the underworld; archaeological material in regional caves documents ceremonial activity over centuries.
What to Bring
Waterproof dry bagEssential
Keeps electronics and spare clothes dry during canoeing and any swims.
Sturdy water shoesEssential
Provides traction on wet rocks and in the canoe.
Quick-dry clothing and light rain jacketEssential
Dries fast after splashes and protects from tropical showers.
Reusable water bottle and electrolyte mix
Stay hydrated in the jungle heat, especially if you choose the zipline or waterfall hike.
Common Questions
Do I need canoeing experience?
No prior experience is required; guides provide instruction and strong paddlers handle direction while guests can assist paddling.
Are cave lights provided?
Yes—guides supply headlamps or handheld lights for the cave portion to view formations and archaeological features.
Can children join the tour?
Children can join but must be accompanied by an adult; infants are required to sit on a lap per operator policy.
What happens in bad weather?
Tours may operate in light rain, but the operator reserves the right to cancel for safety; cancel at least 24 hours for a full refund.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4 hours
Location
San Ignacio, Cayo District
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels—able to sit in a canoe, step into/out of a small boat, and complete optional short hikes or ziplines.
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