Belize Tours & Adventures with Trained Jungle Guides
Belize Tours & Adventures with Trained Jungle Guides
Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) is one of the most extraordinary caves in the world — a living Maya archaeological site filled with artifacts, skeletons, and sacred history. Because of its fragility and cultural importance, only specially licensed guides are allowed to take visitors inside.
Every Pacz guide is first certified through the Belize Tourism Board (BTB) as a national tour guide. But ATM requires something more. To enter this sacred cave, guides must complete additional specialized training and hold a separate ATM Cave Guide License.
When ATM first opened for tourism, only 22 guides in the entire country were granted this special license. Pacz Tours has been part of that story from the very beginning — and continues to lead the way today.
One of the first to receive the special ATM license, Emilio was also part of the early exploration and documentation team that helped reveal the cave’s significance. From 1998 onward, Emilio guided countless travelers into ATM, setting the standard for professionalism, safety, and respect.
Although Emilio retired from active guiding after contracting COVID-19, he remains deeply involved with Pacz, mentoring the next generation and ensuring the company holds to its roots.
San Ignacio native Oscar was also among the original ATM-licensed guides. Beyond his BTB certification, he earned the second, specialized ATM license that allows him to lead visitors through the cave. With more than 14 years of experience, Oscar is known for his calm presence and respect for the Maya underworld.
Guests highlight his guiding year after year:
“Oscar was fun, informative, and friendly. He kept us safe while making the ATM journey unforgettable.” – SeanR, 2019
“Oscar was excellent! Answering questions, giving us Mayan history and keeping us safe the whole way.” – Mark G, 2020
In 2023, Belize expanded the number of ATM guides, but under stricter rules:
At Pacz, this moment became a way to keep guiding in the family, passing the legacy on to Emilio’s younger relatives.
Carrying forward the Awe family tradition, Bryton earned his ATM license in 2023. Guests consistently describe him as attentive, enthusiastic, and respectful.
“ATM Cave tour with Bryton was FANTASTIC.” – Guest review
Also licensed in 2023, Jahir quickly became a guest favorite. His patient, welcoming style helps visitors of all ages feel comfortable on the demanding cave journey.
When you book your ATM Cave tour with Pacz, you’re not just booking a guide — you’re walking with history. From Emilio’s early role in ATM exploration, to Oscar’s steady leadership, and now Bryton and Jahir carrying the torch, Pacz has been part of ATM since the beginning.
“Alvin and the whole Pacz tours group were phenomenal to work with. Very communicative, knowledgeable, and professional.” – John H, 2024
👉 Reserve your ATM Cave tour direct with Pacz Tours — and experience Xibalba with guides who hold the licenses, history, and heart of Belize.
The story of Pacz at ATM is just one part of our larger journey. For over 25 years, we’ve been leading travelers into the heart of Belize through our Belize adventure tours — from caves and rivers to Maya ruins and the Caribbean coast.
