Cave Kayaking and Ziplining at Nohoch Che'en — Belize Caves Branch Adventure
Slip from Belize City into a karst wilderness where LED beams reveal caverns and a braided river carries you through five caves, then trade silence for speed on seven rainforest ziplines up to 150 feet high. This six-hour combo blends subterranean geology with aerial adrenaline—perfect for cruise stopovers and short-stay travelers.
The Experience
Before You Go
Arrive Early from the Ship
Cruise tenders run limited early; to avoid missing the tour, take the first tender and check in immediately at Terminal 1 (REEF).
Footwear That Can Get Wet
Wear sturdy water shoes or thick-soled sandals for walking gravel paths and paddling; flip-flops are not recommended.
Bring a Waterproof Camera
LED lighting makes cave photography possible but wet conditions demand a waterproof case or dry bag to protect electronics.
Mind Weight and Harness Limits
Zipline waist and tube weight limits apply—ask guides if you’re near the limits to confirm safe participation.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Swim hole in the fourth cave—a calm pool with crystalline water ideal for a short float
- •Nearby roadside stands selling fresh coconut water and cassava bread near the park entrance
Wildlife
- •insectivorous bats in cave chambers
- •tropical birds—motmots and toucans in the canopy by the zipline platforms
Conservation Note
Operators discourage single-use plastics in the park, enforce weight and gear limits, and follow protocols to minimize light and noise impacts inside delicate cave systems.
The caves in Belize were historically significant to the Maya as ceremonial spaces; many cave systems show evidence of ancient offerings and hold archaeological value.
Photographer's Notes
- • At the mouth of the largest cave for wide interior shots
- • Midpoint zipline platforms for overhead river-and-canopy panoramas
- • Riverside after the final cave for reflections and lunch scenes
What to Bring
Sturdy water shoesEssential
Protects feet on gravel approaches and offers grip in wet caves.
Dry bag (small)Essential
Keeps phone, camera, and extras dry during kayaking and transfers.
Biodegradable sunscreenEssential
Protects skin without harming park waterways and coral-fed systems.
Quick-dry clothing and swimwearEssential
Dries fast after paddling and is comfortable under a harness for ziplines.
Common Questions
How long is the tour and what’s included?
The tour is approximately six hours and includes park entrance, guided cave kayaking, seven ziplines, lunch, helmets, lights and all kayaking and zipline equipment.
Can cruise passengers join if tenders are slow?
Yes, but it’s recommended cruise passengers take the earliest tender—operators start tours as vans fill and availability drops after the first hour.
Are there weight or harness limits for ziplines?
Yes. Tube weight limit is 250 lbs and zipline waist harness limits are enforced (waist up to 46 inches); check with the operator if you have specific concerns.
Is the cave kayaking suitable for beginners?
Yes—guided trips accommodate beginners, though participants should be comfortable with basic paddling and navigating low-ceiling passages.
Can pregnant travelers or people with back/heart problems participate?
This tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious back or cardiovascular conditions for safety reasons.
What happens if water levels are too high?
On rare high-water days the operator may switch kayaking to tubing for safety; the company monitors conditions and will advise in advance where possible.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
6 hours
Location
Belize City, Belize District
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate cardiovascular fitness and comfort with paddling; some climbing in and out of kayaks and walking on uneven, sometimes wet surfaces.
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