“If the world had any ends, British Honduras [Belize] would certainly be one of them” (Jacques Cousteau) – and what better place to witness its end than atop a centuries-old Maya City in what was once the center of the Maya Empire?
The piece, written by Jamie Moore – author and freelance writer, describes the experience as an amazing “bucket-list trip to see the last page of the Maya calendar” and highlights features of the experience including the Caana Temple climb, Ka’ana room replica, Maya gourmet dinner, and private-guided, torch-lit tour.
Perhaps the only thing better than visiting a waterfall on a hot summer day, is visiting and having the entire place to yourselves. We think Big Rock Falls is one of the treasures of the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve because if you don’t know where you’re going you could literally drive past it. Set at the bottom of a semi-steep hill, you’ll know you’re close when the rush of water becomes a roar. Today, we’re sharing images from past guests Whitney and William whose recent private tour to the Big Rock Falls has us falling in love with this site all over again.
Renowned for its plethora of bellowing waterfalls and natural pools, the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve is home to one of the region’s most sought after cascades – Big Rock Falls.
After a scenic drive along the Cristo Rey Road en route to the Five Sisters Falls, a feeder road to the left leads you to a small clearing. Followed by a path downhill, the journey becomes steeper as the trail descends into the ridge, hinting at the view that awaits you. Fifteen minutes of carefree hiking later, the Privassion River comes into sight and the roaring sound of the fall resonates across the valley. An easy climb over the granite boulders along the banks of the river brings you to the base of the waterfall. The pristine water rushing over the forty-five-meter rocks and plummeting into the emerald green pool below is a breathtaking scene which provides a rush of excitement and caters to a refreshing swim.
Imagine standing atop a cliff looking at a cascading waterfall below, hypnotized by the sight, the feel of the mist as it gently clings to you, listening to the sounds of the lush tropical forest tinged with silence… This is the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve.
Wander through landscapes of rolling pine forest that enhance the granite bases and hillsides which transform into a verdant broadleaf forest. Revere in the astounding and captivating scenery offered by the oldest landmass in Central America.
Referred to by the locals as “Pine Ridge”, it is renowned for its plethora of bellowing waterfalls and idyllic pools. The area also boasts an array of exotic and native wildlife: Orange-Breasted Falcon, Rofous-Capped Warbler and Stigion Owl to name a few. If fortunate, one might catch glimpses of the Chirping Sparrow and Hepatic Tanager during autumn and spring. Another of the most sought after attractions in this region are the Rio Frio Caves as it’s the largest accessible cavern in the country, complete with undisturbed remnants of an ancient civilization carpeting its limestone bed. Experience and explore this remarkable landmark filled with vivid sights and sounds that are sure to create lasting memories.
