Belize it or not

Oct 30, 2026

After a 100 m rappel down one of the largest sinkhole systems I've seen so far, we have a long ways to go with our ropes, prusik loops, and caving gear. The massive chamber opens with crystal calcite pool terraces, each the size of a Texas swimming pool. If you look closely on some of the formations, you'll find evidence of Mayan designs and chiseled-out foot holes for the civilization to climb in and out of the sinkhole. What lies at the bottom is a glimmering pool of freshwater with well-rounded fluvial sediment and pebbles forming point bars and cutbanks. Following the underwater river system, we find it has carved up old Cretaceous carbonate like butter with considerable flow and waterfalls. Swimming against the current proved to be a challenge. As I turned around, I considered that my primary light could falter at any moment. For 30 minutes, I clawed my way along the wall until I recalled what we learned from whitewater canoeing to navigate the current and conserve energy. What lies beyond this system is a void that can funnel A LOT of discharge.