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Mountain Pine Ridge & Beyond
San Ignacio, located near the confluence of the Macal and Mopan rivers, is the gateway to Belize’s western wilderness. This region offers a rich blend of hospitality, adventure, and archeological intrigue. Riverside lodges and forest hideaways provide access to ancient Maya cities, ceremonial caves, and the pristine landscapes of the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve.
Above San Ignacio, the hillside Maya site of Cahal Pech features seven plazas, restored ball courts, and temples. Xunantunich, located southwest of San Ignacio, is one of the most accessible and well-excavated Maya sites in Belize. Its largest temple, El Castillo, rises 130 feet above the central plaza, offering views of the Guatemalan border.
Just south of San Ignacio, the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve spans nearly 300 square miles of protected pine forest, rivers, and waterfalls. This rugged region is home to parrots, motmots, toucans, and some of Belize’s finest birdwatching.
Further south lies Caracol, one of the most important cities of the ancient Maya world. At its height, Caracol rivaled Tikal and other major cities. The site is home to over 40 monuments, including Canaa (“Sky Place”), a pyramid towering 140 feet above the surrounding plaza.
What to do in The Cayo & Mountain Pine Ridge
Cayo and Mountain Pine Ridge offer an exceptional blend of ancient history, natural beauty, and active exploration. Over the years, we’ve built a network of trusted guides and naturalists who help open this region to our travelers.
LANDED can arrange privately guided excursions and tailored experiences such as:
- Guided tours to ancient Maya cities, including Xunantunich, Caracol, and Cahal Pech
- Visits to ceremonial caves, such as Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM), Chumpiate Cave, and Barton Creek Cave (via canoe)
- Birdwatching excursions in the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve
- Cultural shopping tours to San Ignacio’s open-air markets
- Horseback rides to caves and waterfalls, including the turquoise Rio On Pools and golden Rio Frio Cave
- Visits to Thousand Foot Falls (Hidden Valley Falls), one of Central America’s tallest waterfalls
- Canoeing and kayaking along the region’s scenic rivers
- Mountain biking on forested trails and lodge properties
What is the Weather Like?
The Cayo District and Mountain Pine Ridge experience relatively stable temperatures year-round, with highs in the mid-80s and lows in the 70s. The best time to visit is from December through May, when the weather is typically dry and sunny. Rainy season extends from June through November, with hurricane risk peaking between July and mid-November.
These averages are changing, please check extended weather forecasts using your favorite weather app prior to departure.
Getting There
San Ignacio is located 72 miles west of Belize City (approximately 90 minutes by car), and nine miles east of the Guatemalan border. The Mountain Pine Ridge can be accessed by road from San Ignacio; drive times to most lodges in the reserve are between 1.5 to 2 hours. Charter flights to nearby airstrips can also be arranged from Belize City or other domestic airports.
Start your journey today
LANDED delivers the finest in custom, private travel to Central America, South America, and Antarctica. These regions are our passion; we know them first-hand and by heart. Speak with one of our travel designers and let us create a tailored itinerary for you in The Cayo & Mountain Pine Ridge.
How to combine The Cayo & Mountain Pine Ridge
Have some extra time? Here are some options for you to combine with.
