Caving

Location:
Utila, Honduras

Hiking

By Mike Karanicolas

Visiting some of the island's freshwater caves is one of the most pleasant activities on Utila, especially after several days of saltwater diving. There are two sets of caves, one located on Pumpkin Hill and the other near the airport.

The Pumpkin Hill caves are exceedingly difficult to get to; a multiple-hour walk is required from Utila Town. V!VA requested directions from several people, but was repeatedly told they would “never find it.” Best to hire a guide, local kids will usually take you there for a nominal fee.

On the other hand, the airport caves are recommended as an easier, quicker alternative to the Pumpkin Hill caves. To get to these caves, simply head north along Cola de Mico Road. The road will branch off –just keep following the power lines. It should be about 45 minutes walk, mostly uphill, so if you were considering renting a scooter this would be a good time –it will make the trip a lot faster. Eventually the road will branch off into the airport (you'll see the runway). Straight ahead you should see a smaller, rougher track. Follow that track. Then, take the first right and then the first left. A small footpath will branch off, marked by red paint. Follow that to find a pure, clean, natural freshwater pool. There's also a second pool in a deep cave located under the ladder. You'll need candles or flashlights to access it. This is definitely not a place for the claustrophobic. But, it's definitely a cool experience to hear the bats buzzing around your head.