Cave Tubing

We have been doing cave tubing since it was first introduced in 1995. At that time we worked for Jaguar Paw, a resort and restaurant in the area that monopolized the cave tubing business for almost 5 years. Then the government opened a parking lot at Nohoch Che'en Caves Branch Archaeological Reserve, and private tour guides were allowed to use the site.

Over the years we have learned a lot about the geological formations in the caves, though at first we knew little. We listened to archaeologists and experts who gave us valuable information. We learned how caves and the structures inside developed. We also learned how the river system worked, all very exciting, and every time we did a tour we learned something new. We explored the whole nine-cave Caves Branch River system.

Knowing river conditions is essential for a good cave tubing guide. We have learned the critical things about the behavior of the river, especially when it rains. It is easy for a flash flood to occur during the rainy season, and it is very important to be knowledgeable about how the river can rise. At such times we do not go inside the caves. Safety is a major consideration on our tours.

Also we never underestimate how swift the current can be when river conditions are affected by rains. Both the depth of the river and the direction of the current can change, and it can be dangerous.

All our guides are licensed tour guides and are certified in first aid and CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) as required. Each van has a first aid kit and a copy of the company's emergency plan.

We have become skilled at judging river conditions. After rains we are the first guides allowed to go into the area of the river and caves as the water recedes. We take a park warden with us so information about conditions can be passed on to the main office, where other people planning cave tubing can benefit. We have been doing this for several years.

Our guides are very well trained, and most are in the caves every day, not just once a week. We stay aware of weather conditions, and when there are rains that flood the caves, we know it, though this does not happen often. When it does, we will offer alternate tours that we believe you will be happy with.

We believe people of all ages and most physical conditions can enjoy cave tubing. Parents can hold a child in their arms if they like, and we have small inner tubes and life-jackets for children. The important thing is that everyone feel comfortable and safe. If someone needs to go a little slower or have their inner tube carried for them, our guides will assist. No one is rushed. Our aim to see that every one of every age can experience and enjoy this adventure.

Getting to Caves Branch

Pictures above and on the following pages will give you an idea of what your cave tubing adventure will be like! First you will be picked up at the designated location in an air-conditioned vehicle. You will get a free city tour on the way out of town. Then you travel down the Western Highway to Mile 37, where you turn off and head down into the rain forest. After about 5 miles you arrive at Caves Branch!

If you are driving …

Please note that this Caves Branch is located off the western highway at Mile 37 between Belmopan and Belize City. It is not Ian Anderson's Caves Branch which is located off the Hummingbird Highway..

If you are coming from San Ignacio, you will turn left off the Western Highway, and you will turn right if you are coming from Belize City.

If you have booked, or would like a tour with me, I will meet you at my place on the road down to Cave's Branch. After you turn off the highway, about a mile down the road look for my place on the right. There is a cavetubing.bz sign and a bamboo palapa, it should be very easy to find. See picture to the right, click for larger image.

For a map to help guide you click here

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