Anyone out there who has done the cave tubing in Belize that can tell me if it is possible for someone who can't walk too far to do the Cave tubing in Belize??? I have read it takes 30-45 minutes by walking to get to the cave tubing site. I am wondering if it would be possible to push a wheelchair there??? I know it sounds crazy to attempt this but this person is a good swimmer. Any guidance??
There is no way, you are walking over rocks, down narrow paths, climibing rock stairs. A wheelchair would not make it. Then once you get to the mouth of the cave you actually hold onto a rope and drop backwards into the tubes.
Thanks for that info. I may try to have my dad just walk it slowly. The tour guide said he could take his time. I am open to any suggestions on this one.
We just came back from our cruise on the Valor to Belize and went Cave Tubing. We took my father-in-law (68 yrs. old) with us. The hike getting there took at least 45 minutes and he did very well on this. However it is rough, uneven terrain and there are steps. It is important to note that once in the water Cave Tubing is hard work. You don't just float down stream you have to paddle and work at it. My father-in-law got very tired and ended up walking part way (the water is inches deep in some parts) and not only tough to float on it is tough to walk on. Also, we ended up separated from our group in the dark caves and couldn't find them until the end. We booked this trip through carnival and had a good guide. However, the Cave-Tubing.com groups came through and literally ran over everyone else. It was not fun.
While I'm glad we did the trip I wouldn't do it again and would not necessarily recommend it. There are other things to do in Belize that are more fun.
You are correct about Carnivals cave tubing, they do just let you free float out there. You will find that the independent tours hook the people together and lead them through the caves, plus they have more guides for the amount of people. Also, most of the independent tours take through more cave systems then the tours with Carnival.
I agree though, that anyone that has a problem walking should not due this tour..it is a rough walk. And remember these tours are on a time schedule to get everyone back to the ship.
Okay, I think you guys convinced me that I shouldn't take my Dad on this excursion. I will have to cancel mine and his excursions and I will be greatly disappointed because this is the one tour that I wanted to do. I will send the rest of my family on this one though because I think it is too good to miss. Any recommendations for other tours in Belize- going to any islands, etc.??? I have seen quite a few of you with the travel tickers out there that go on numerous cruises. Are you independently wealthy or do you just have the good fortune to work in the business? I would love to have your jobs if that is what you do for a living!! Thanks for any help with my questions!
We were in Belize last week and there were a group of 14 of us on the cruise. 4 of our group did the Zoo tour and really liked it. My husband and I have done snorkling in Belize on one of the tours a couple of years ago and liked it.
I personally think you made the right decision. I wouldn't do the Cave Tubing Tour again.
THanks Hotcruiser! Anyone else out there done any other tours. I read something about going to different Keys there. Does anyone know anything about that?
Howler monkeys? One of the only places in the world you can see them. All water related activities there are great. Just stay in a group and don't venture out on your own there.
Neil, Do you suggest taking a cruise tour then? What water activities are pretty mild? I have decided to take my dad somewhere(that is why I am asking) and let my family enjoy the cave tubing. I need to find something that won't require a great deal of walking. The tour guide for the cave tubing has suggested that we wait for them while they tube but my dad won't be able to sit still for that long. I need to find somewhere that is safe since I will be alone with him and we will look vulnerable. I really want to see the rainforest and do more beach or natural outings than shop. Boy, sorry for the long winded explanation!
Look through the cruiselines excursion choices to see if there is something with light physical exertion required for your dad. Definately don't get too adventurous on your own and stray from the tourist areas in Belize or Jamaica. You say he's a swimmer. If he's interested in snorkeling and capable, it's a great place with great reefs.