Cave Tubing in Belize: Special Report
Nancy Norris

This was my first visit to Belize, and I was looking forward to a day of cave tubing in the Belizean rain forest. After completing a significant amount of research on the Internet, I decided to use the services of Reggie’s Tours for our small group of 8. Along with our confirmed reservation, I was e-mailed directions on where to meet the “Real Reggie” once we arrived at the Belize tender port. Our group met early and we successfully secured one of the first tenders from the ship. Armed with my detailed instructions, off we went in search of Reggie. Well, we had no sooner walked out of the small cruise port terminal and Reggie was there to greet us with a big smile and a warm welcome.

Reggie and me

He escorted us to the bus where he introduced us to Jai Mai and Lionel, the 2 additional guides that would be accompanying our group. At this point, we waited a short while for a group of 6 people from our ship that would be joining us. After waiting for a few tenders, Reggie decided that he would not hold our group any longer and made arrangements for one of his vans to wait for the others while we began our journey. (Point: He made it very clear that he understood how the cruise ship tender system works and assured us that he makes every attempt to accommodate passengers who may be having difficulty getting on a tender.) We were taken on a short city tour as our bus made its way to the highway, with Reggie and his son, Jai Mai, providing entertaining, but informative, dialogue along the way. The other 6 cave tubers from the Splendour had arrived at the port, and the van was enroute to meet us. So, about halfway through our hour long journey to the Sibun River Cave Branch, we stopped at the main grocery store in this country setting to wait for the latecomers to join us. Apparently anything they could find to sell, they did. From shoes to frozen meat, they had it all. (Think Wal-Mart, housed in a local Convenient Store.) However, if you are planning to go cave tubing and interested in purchasing some of the cashew wine that is made in Belize, make a point of purchasing it here. Prices were excellent compared to the prices at the shops near the port.

With everyone in the group accounted for, we continued on our way. It was a very scenic trip, with many chances to view unexcavated Mayan ruins before we arrived at the cave system parking lot. It is here that you are outfitted with an inner tube, a headlamp and optional lifejacket. The river averages about 3-5 ft in most places, but there are a few spots where it is deeper. If you can swim, there is probably no need for the lifejacket, but they are offered to anyone who wishes to use one. Once we all had our gear and had a chance to change into whatever clothing we planned to wear, we set on foot through the rain forest. A bathing suit and some form of footwear is all that is necessary. (I suggest you wear water shoes, a pair of sandals or old tennis shoes that can get wet, but are comfortable for hiking.)

On the Way to the River

It requires a relatively mild 20-25 minute hike through the rainforest to reach the river. There are a few steep inclines, but overall it is not difficult terrain.

Descending on the pathway

Once you reach the river embankment, it is time for the “tubing” to begin. Reggie, Jai Mai and Lionel were very patient with those in the group who were a bit inexperienced and had no idea how to wear a lifejacket (hmm, where were they during the boat drill) or to get into the inner tube. It was quite funny to see all of us attempt a graceful entry, however.

Entering the River

As you float leisurely down the river, the scenery is quite lush and very serene (except for the occasional cries for help from those who have not been able to master using their arms as oars to steer themselves on course).

Tubing Down the River

You are in for a quite a visual treat as you approach the entrance to the cave system. All I can say is WOW!

The Entrance to the Cave

Upon entering the cave, the number and size of the stalactites on the ceiling is impressive. Shine your headlamp into the ceilings and you may be able to catch a glimpse of a bat hiding in his recessed cave. Once we are in the depths of the cave system, we were instructed to turn off our headlamps. The term “pitch black” has never been more clearly defined. Floating through the system, you will pass by waterfalls, around circular pools and through narrow tunnels.

Entering the Cave Tunnel

Eventually, we wound our way through the cave and back into the light of day. There were a few small rapids that you need to negotiate your way through, but overall the ride is smooth and very relaxing. I am sure our experience was made special and more meaningful by the assistance, expertise and sense of humor that our 3 wonderful guides shared throughout the excursion.

Lionel and Jai Mai, Our Guides

Our journey ended with a wonderful Belizean lunch in the small outdoor dining venue on site. Reggie had pre-ordered our lunch for us and our tables had been reserved. The well-prepared meal of barbeque chicken, rice and beans, local fruit salad and even dessert and beverage for $5 was quite a bargain.

After lunch, we re-boarded the bus for our trip back to the tender terminal, tired but exhilarated by the experience. Well, I had read the numerous reports praising Reggie’s cave tubing tour and I must concur, he and his staff are to be commended for a job well done. This 5 hour tour is definitely a “must-do” for anyone visiting Belize. When I return to Belize, I will definitely use his services again. If you are interested in learning more about this excellent excursion, visit Reggie at www.regtour.com  .

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