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Guide
at Tiger Cave |
As the story goes, Tiger Cave got its name when a group
of locals followed a large jaguar (or tiger as it was locally
called) into a dark cave. The cave is also referred to as
San Miguel Cave, as it is accessed from the Kekchi Maya
village of San Miguel in the Toledo district. A local guide
can be found in San Miguel, and visitors can either hike
there and back, or arrange to hike there, and canoe back.
The hike from San Miguel to the cave is about an hour and
a half through plantations. The experience is different
in the dry season, as the river is low, and the entire hike
is dry.
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Cave
Entrance |
Before reaching the cave, the trail passes a crystal clear
spring. The water may be covered with leaves, but a closer
look will reveal sparkling clean water underneath. The massive
rock formations will appear as the cave entrance approaches.
It is quite likely that you will not encounter other visitors,
as this cave is not very well known. You will pass a lovely
swimming spot in the river, but not to worry – a swim
can be fitted into the schedule on the way back.
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Rock
Formations |
The cave is comprised of two sections. The first section
is relatively well lit during the day, and a short hike
inside will reveal an even more impressive entrance, leading
to a ledge. This is the area where the “tiger”
was said to have fallen when running from the locals, later
giving the cave its name. Inside this section, it is necessary
to carry lamps, as light quickly fades. The rock formation
is impressive, and worthy of an extended visit.
After leaving the cave, a refreshing swim is a welcomed
option. During the dry season, the river is low, and a dip
in the river is a treat. The rocks on the riverbank make
a perfect resting place for a snack and a cool drink. Butterflies
rest carefully on the riverbanks, and the only people in
sight are you, your companion and your guide. It truly feels
like the dreamer’s interpretation of a hidden paradise.
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Preparing
for canoe ride back to village |
If you elected to have a canoe ride back down the river
(prearrangement necessary), a short walk from the swimming
spot will lead you to the rendezvous point. A wooden canoe,
with its captain (most likely a teenager from San Miguel)
will take you home. The ride along the river is slow, and
quiet, with lots of birds (including the Ringed Kingfisher
and the Violacious Trogon). In the dry season, some areas
along the river are too shallow for the canoe, and it is
necessary to get out, and help to push it over the rocks.
When getting closer to the village, you may see locals fishing
in the river, or women washing on traditional rocks. If
school is out, children may very well be seen playing in
the river. The trip ends at the bridge in San Miguel, just
about the same place the trip started, maybe five hours
prior.
Places nearby: 
Interests:
