Besides the country’s most extensive number of Archaeological Sites, along with such natural wonders as cascading waterfalls and limestone Caves, Cayo offers the unique opportunity to encounter its physically diverse flora and fauna in a relatively intact environment. |
Geographically the Largest District in Belize, Cayo District spans more than 2,000 square miles across diverse terrain – from rolling hills and sweeping farmland devoted to citrus orchards and cattle farming, to lush river valleys and rugged mountain ridges covered in sub-tropical jungle. Over 60% of Cayo District has been set aside as a Wildlife Sanctuary, National Park, or Reserve. Much of Cayo consists of broad-leaf jungle overlying limestone formations. These formations are a result of an uplifting of ancient coral beds during the past 20 million years. Over time, flowing water has gradually dissolved the limestone, forming underwater rivers, sinkholes, and the Spectacular Caves for which Cayo is famous for. San Ignacio is the hub of commerce and tourism for western Belize, and together with its sister town – Santa Elena – make up the largest populated area in Cayo District with over 20,000 residents. Located along the banks of the Macal River, on a series of bluffs, San Ignacio and Santa Elena are at an elevation high enough to be noticeably cooler and less humid than the low-lying coastal plains. Due to it's higher elevation and lower humidity San Ignacio has few mosquitoes and none of the pesky sand flies found in the coastal regions San Ignacio visitors can actually walk to the impressive Maya site of Cahal Pech. Perched atop a hill just a mile from town, it rewards the 15-minute hike with a panoramic view of San Ignacio and the Belize River Valley. A museum and visitors center displays Maya artifacts, open 8 am. to 5 p.m. Bullet Tree Road leads to the 100 acre, archaeological reserve of El Pilar, which means “Water Basin” the site of an annual celebration of Maya culture each April. Hike or ride horseback to a pair of fascinating sinkholes. Resorts on the Benque Viejo Road, offers guided night jungle walks to observe nocturnal plants and animals. Maya guides demonstrate how sap is extracted from the sapodilla tree, source of chicle. |
You both were such great hosts. Rafe and I had an amazing time and were so grateful for the attention, kindness, and arrangements of all our tours. You made our honeymoon extra special. Thank you! |
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The fertile Cayo is the bread basket of Belize. It’s also an eco-tourism wonderland. This region is abundant with exotic birds, indigenous creatures, vibrant flowers and magnificent trees. Belize’s most desirable hardwood trees—mahogany, zericote and rosewood—thrive in the Cayo. |
Things to Do in Cayo District
With so many activities and tours to choose from in Cayo District …. where do you begin? Maya Ruins You can visit some of the best Mayan Ruins anywhere, Paddle down lush jungle rivers, explore spectacular Caves or set off on Horseback across the Cayo countryside. And that’s just for starters … Cave Canoeing at Barton Creek Cave Zip-lining has gained immensely in popularity and there are now two to choose from in the Cayo District. And now you can combine zip-lining with Cave Tubing or Cave Canoeing. Cave Tubing at Caves Branch The Mountain Pine Ridge Reserve encompasses a spectacular range of rolling hills, peaks and gorges, covering nearly 300 square miles of unpaved roads and nature trails, which means there is a lot to do in this area, including some fun water options. Rio On Pools – Mountain Pine Ridge Reserve Along the way stop at Green Hills Butterfly Ranch and view the largest live-butterfly collection in Belize. |