Overview:

Barton Creek Cave is a spectacular underground river located in the Cayo District of western Belize. Part of the Barton Creek Cave system, the depth and length of the cave has still not been explored fully, though it is estimated to run for miles underground. Its main passage follows the otherwise dry Barton Creek through the Maya Mountains, dropping several hundred feet from its entrance. Exploring Barton Creek requires special permits from the Belize government, and guides are necessary for any journey in the cave due to its complexity and the dangers posed by the occasional strong currents. It is possible to wade, swim, and canoe through various parts of the cave, discovering stunning geological formations all throughout its interior. There are many points of interest such as stalactites and stalagmites, pits, and numerous Mayan artifacts scattered among the chambers. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Belize
Prominent Features:

Barton Creek Cave is a large, spectacular cave system located within the Caves Branch River and its tributaries in the Tapir Mountain Nature Reserve in the Cayo District of Belize. The cave system features dramatic underground river passages, massive cathedral chambers, huge columns, gour pools, and impressive formations of stalactites and stalagmites. Three large network rivers can partially be explored by boat which adds to the adventure of exploring the cave system. Unique fauna and ancient artifacts have also been discovered in the cave system which is occasionally visited by adventure seekers, divers, and cavers. This national monument of Belize portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

Barton Creek Cave, located in the Cayo District in Belize, is an ancient Mayan ceremonial site and archaeological site that has been used for thousands of years. The river running through the cave was used as a form of spiritual pilgrimage and spiritual healing. The area and cave was only made widely known in 1822 by an explorer, who was the first non-Mayan to witness the area. In the 1890s, the underground river was excavated by British archeologist Thomas Gann, who discovered remains of ancient Mayan pottery, stone tools, and other artifacts. Many of the artifacts found in the cave are related to the Mayan religion and pre-conquest period. The Barton Creek Cave was a popular tourist destination for many years, but was eventually closed to the public in 1992 due to the increasing pollution of the water system. In the late 2000s, the Belizean government opened the cave to the public again, specifically allowing recreational activities such as canoeing and swimming, to encourage tourism and education on the area's rich cultural history. You must visit one of these historical places in Belize on your Belize tour

Interesting facts:

1. The Barton Creek Cave Underground River is one of the longest recorded underground rivers in the world, stretching over four and a half miles, with some parts still unexplored. 2. It’s part of the Barton Creek Cave system in Belize, which is a part of the larger Maya Mountain Caves system. 3. The Barton Creek Cave Underground River is home to numerous species of bats and other fascinating creatures, making it a sought-after destination for scientists. 4. The cave system also contains various pre-Colombian Mayan artifacts, artifacts from the colonial period, and more recently, even human remains. 5. The water level of the Barton Creek Underground River can be both low or high, according to the season. 6. In 2000, the Barton Creek Cave Underground River System was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit one of the famous monuments of Belize with your friends and family.