Considered to be the heartland of a civilization that once was, Belize boasts a rich heritage of archaeological sites. Its Cayo District, one of the last unspoiled places on earth and once the epicenter of the Maya, is dotted with ancient cities and ruins.
Travel across one of the last hand-cranked chain ferries which leads to Xunantunich, “Maiden of the Rock” – one of the region’s most legendary and popular archaeological sites frequented by a multitude of adventure travelers. Perch atop “El Castillo” which rises above the jungle canopy and witness panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, valleys as well as villages. Stop on the way back at a traditional market in the village of San Jose Succotz on the Mopan River, offering local crafts made from cloth, fabrics, slate, wood and other natural products.
With a myriad of spectacular natural attractions, there are plenty of adventures – archaeological sites being only one of them – to discover and explore Belize as a diverse destination!
An early morning departure from Belize’s Twin Town of San Ignacio to Flores, El Petén’s Capital City, will have you at Tikal where you can explore one of the most impressive Maya Pyramids. The Temple Of The Jaguar is sure to be the highlight of your trip as its stone walls, standing at forty-seven metres, rise above the rainforest canopy and allow you a panoramic view of the surrounding expanse of growth. The haunting sounds of Howler Monkeys and sightings of other exotic wildlife will only add to this unparalleled experience. Contact us to customize your tour of Guatemala’s City of Echoes!
Located between the Caribbean Coast, Guatemala and Mexico, Belize is ideal for adventure, exploration and relaxation. Seamlessly combining the best of both worlds – rainforest and reef – visitors can experience the magic that makes it a favorite return destination! When you’re not diving with nurse sharks in limpid blue bays where colourful fish swim above the coral reefs or lounging on palm-fringed white-sand beaches, discover the dense jungles inland, embrace and interact with the melting pot of cultures that this tropical paradise has to offer while exploring alluring caves as well as ancient cities. Even though Belize is famous as a dive destination there’s more to this small Central American country than what’s underwater!
Dotted with ancient Mayan caves and cities, azure waters, exotic wildlife, largest barrier reef, lush rainforests, melting pot of cultures, as well as palm-fringed, white-sand coastlines – Belize in a nutshell.
Adventurers, beach and history lovers – they all head to Belize, a small yet diverse Central American country sandwiched between captivating jungles and the Caribbean Sea. Listed as one of the top ten hottest destinations in the world by Travel & Leisure Magazine, its attractions lure tourists year after year to discover and experience this truly spectacular destination!
Being an extrovert by nature and an enigma by choice, I’m an individual who holds firm to very conservative beliefs. Akin to those traits I believe in the existence of one Supreme Being who governs all things on Earth and who ultimately guides our destiny. Having gotten the opportunity to meet with Rosario Panti, Belize’s Last Mayan Shaman I have to admit that it was only my incredulous curiosity that had urged me to do so. I was a true skeptic of her insight and “healing” prowess – until I experienced it firsthand.
As skeptical as I was, I laid there on a comfortable massage table at Ka’ana Boutique Resort’s Personal Spa and didn’t utter a word as Rosario began our session. After twenty minutes or so of an intense deep tissue massage to detoxify and release incensed energy, she told me that I carried something in my heart that is affecting my happiness; I was intrigued and had asked her to speak more of it. Rosario then blew me away with her insight into feelings I thought were tucked away too deeply for anyone but myself to ever discover. I laid there trembling with sweaty palms and cold feet as she reiterated what she saw in her sastun- the means of divination and spiritual power for the Mayan H’mens since ancient times. It was at that point that I became convinced that my most hidden inner feelings had suddenly been publicized.
During the latter half of that massage I listened keenly as she told me of health issues, remedies, and other methods I needed to undergo to ensure that I remain a self-composed and well-rounded individual, while impacting the lives of those around me. Having completed that treatment, I have to admit that Rosario has a very special gift, one that intrigues me but yet terrifies me! I can now testify that Rosario does possess the ability to capture human energy and dissect its components to have individuals gain a better knowledge of their lives. Rosario is a spiritually gifted woman.
Hidden in the heart of the Tapir Mountain Nature Reserve and deep within the jungle, discover one of the most impressive caves – Actun Tunichil Muknal. After an exciting drive, trek for 45 minutes along with your guide through densely-vegetated trails teeming with flora and fauna, and wade across stream beds – all on your hike to this alluring spelunk. Upon arrival you will be outfitted with the necessary equipment in preparation for the journey that awaits you. Its hourglass-shaped entrance beckons you to travel back in time and unveil the mysteries and secrets of the Mayan Underworld. Witness Burial Chambers and Sacrificial Caverns with calcified remains, ceremonial vessels and other artifacts these esoteric ancients left near the end of their empire. Spend approximately 3 hours in this truly spectacular cave which exposes visitors to a natural museum where culture, geology and history merge to form an unrivaled Adventure Trek which many refer to as the highlight of their Belize experience!
Immerse yourself in Belize – Caribbean and Central American at once – a tropical paradise nestled between the Caribbean Sea at its East, Guatemala at its South and West, as well as Mexico at its North. Its westernmost region, the Cayo District, is the epicenter of inland touring. There are countless adventures you can partake in – some easy, others energetic, but all memorable.
Drive to the village of San Antonio and partake in ceramic pot-making with the Women’s Group to experience the local culture of the region.
Hike through tropical trails and wade across shallow, jungle-lined rivers to cave tube. Float along cool waters illuminated by headlamps, gently pushed by a current. Plunge into the darkness while listening to the sounds of bubbling rapids and cascading waterfalls.
Soar through the subtropical jungle canopy – a thrilling adventure. Zip Lining allows you to gain a bird’s eye view of the lush rainforest below.
Trek through the rainforest to Actun Tunichil Muknal and Crystal Caves – two of the most exhilarating caves in the greater region. View artifacts such as ceremonial stoneware and vessels; burial chambers and sacrificial caverns with calcified remains including the skeletal remnants of the Crystal Maiden – one of the youngest victims to be sacrificed.
Visit the most legendary Maya Ruins in the region – Cahal Pech, Caracol and Xunantunich – the former in the Twin Town of San Ignacio, the centermost in the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve, the latter in the Village of San Jose Succotz. Stop at the Rio On Pools after your trip to Caracol to refresh and relax after a long day of exploring.
Travel across the border to climb Tikal – the most prominent archaeological park in Guatemala where you can also Zip Line through the jungle canopy while listening to the haunting sounds of Howler Monkeys.
The above mentioned are only a few of the exciting activities and tours that Belize as a destination has to offer to the adventure enthusiast so contact us to customize your Belize experience!
We are proud to announce the release of our new Archaeology Package with Belize’s premier jungle lodge in the Orange Walk District. Situated on the banks of a 28 mile long spring-fed lagoon, the Lamanai Outpost Lodge is set amid the remnants of one of the region’s most famous archaeology sites. Tour inland Belize and explore two legendary Maya Cities – Lamanai in the north (Orange Walk) and Xunantunich in the west (Cayo) – or trek through diverse habitats in the jungle while listening to the haunting sounds of Howler Monkeys.
Cayo is the westernmost district bordering Guatemala. Nestled between the hustle and bustle of Belize City and the serenity of Stann Creek, Cayo fuses the best of both worlds. Accessibility meets Zen. There’s a distinct reason why Cayo is a famous tourist destination: it offers an intriguing jungle atmosphere to complement seeing Belize through local lens.
An hour’s drive from Belize City, Cayo is Belize’s largest district. Covering almost 2,000 square miles, it comprises farmlands, lush valleys, and mountain ridges. Much of the district is covered in dense vegetation, boasting secrets our Mayan ancestors left behind as their legacy. Trekking to the ancient Mayan ruins can be done in the morning and cave tubing at Jaguar Paw in the afternoon. With the Macal River flowing though the twin towns of San Ignacio and Santa Elena, canoeing down the river while watching nature refresh itself is another option for a half day.
The people are friendly, diverse, hospitable, and inviting. A true melting pot, residents are eager to exhibit the wealth nature bestowed on them. Smiling faces greet visitors as they enter and warm farewells bid on departure.
Ka’ana Boutique Resort is the newest luxury 5-star resort located ten minutes from downtown San Ignacio. Operating in the most ecotouristic district in the country, we strive to strike the perfect balance between rustic and luxury. A stone’s throw from Cahal Pech and Xunantunich, two renowned Belize Mayan ruins in the Mayan civilization, Ka’ana allows adventurers of varying intensities the chance to explore Cayo at one’s own pace. From all-inclusive packages to unique adventures, Ka’ana and Cayo caters to every traveler who wants to throw the cookie-cutter vacation out the window.
ATM is the most impressive and ultimate cave adventure in the country of Belize! This cave is full of excitement and challenges that promise to be an unforgettable experience. You will be hiking through the tropical forest of Tapir Mountain Reserve until you reach the crystal clear waters at the entrance of the cave. You will encounter stunning stalagmites & stalactites, hidden chambers, untouched Mayan artifacts and human remains that reveal Mayan ancient rituals from thousands of years ago.
Inside the cave, visitors climb and swim, while passing through tight spaces adding more excitement to the tour. The guide will be explaining to you the history of the cave and about the Mayan rituals that will leave you amazed!! This four hour tour is an great value for those that are up for an amazing caving adventure.
