Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve Tours and Activities

Awaken your inner archaeologist as you explore the sprawling Mayan ruins of Caracol. Departing from San Ignacio, you’ll journey deep into the jungles of Belize to the Chiquibul Forest Reserve — home to one of the largest Mayan sites in the country. Your expert guide will illuminate the fascinating history of Caracol, which was once a mighty city and a rival of neighboring Tikal in Guatemala. Explore magnificent plazas, temples, palaces, and an observatory while learning about the social and religious practices of the ancient Mayans. Round-trip transport from your San Ignacio hotel is included on this full-day tour.

Discover pristine forests, limestone caves and scenic waterfalls on a full-day trip to the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve from San Ignacio. Visit the hidden source of the Rio Frio river, then slip into the water at a series of natural pools and rock slides. Pause for a picnic lunch before continuing to Big Rock Falls, a 150-foot (46-meter) waterfall that gives off a cooling spray of mist as it tumbles into a clear, deep swimming hole, then return to San Ignacio through the rugged mountain terrain.

Follow the footsteps of the ancient Maya on a full-day trip to Caracol from San Ignacio, and go deep into the jungle to discover a remarkable archeological site. Watch for bright tropical birds and howler monkeys as you explore the sprawling ruined city, and take in views of rolling forest canopy from the top of the Caana pyramid. Trace the history of the site in a vivid series of carved stelae and stone altars, then visit a natural swimming pool in the Mountain Pine Ridge before returning to the city.

Step back in time at one of Belize’s most impressive Mayan sites, the ancient city of Xunantunich. Cross a hand-cranked ferry to reach the hilltop ruins, where you can explore former palaces, plazas, and ball courts with a guide and climb to the top of a ceremonial stone temple. After this archaeological adventure, head to the Mountain Pine Ridge region for a refreshing swim in Big Rock Falls.

Experience two Belizean cultures on a full-day trip from San Ignacio to a Maya village and Barton Creek, a conservative Mennonite community. Browse local handicrafts at a trio of women’s collectives, learn about Maya farming techniques, and enjoy a traditional local lunch. Continue to Barton Creek, where the Mennonites maintain a simple way of life using horse-drawn buggies, conservative religious clothing and few modern amenities. Learn the stories behind this German-speaking tropical culture, and get an insider’s look at Belize’s remarkable diversity.   

Explore the ancient Maya city of Caracol with a full-day tour from San Ignacio that includes the Río On pools and the Río Frio caves. Follow your guide through the vast archaeological site, stand in the field of the ball court, and take in sweeping views of the jungle from the peak of the sky temple pyramid. Follow the history of Caracol in the glyphs, stelae, and carvings throughout the site, and then finish your day swimming in natural pools and visiting a vast limestone cave system in Pine Ridge.

Romance and waterfalls just go together, particularly the bountiful beauty of Hidden Valley Inn & Reserve’s private waterfalls. The only private waterfall picnic lunch with sparkling wine experience!

The Mountain Pine Ridge Reserve is a unique tour for both adventure seekers and relaxation lovers of all ages, its natural habitat is easily accessible to be explored and enjoyed. During the tour guests will enjoy a delicious Belizean Cuisine picnic style surrounded by nature. The tour is a day filled with swimming, sunbathing, hiking and relaxation.Guests can climb boulders and plunge into the pool below or relax under the water fall and enjoy a water massage. Three places that will be explored are the Rio Frio Cave, Rio On Pools and Big Rock falls. MINIMUM 2 person