Mountain Pine Ridge Adventure Guide

Mountain Pine Ridge in Belize is a nature lover's paradise, with pine forests, granite hillsides, waterfalls, and natural swimming pools. There is plenty to see and do in this large protected area, which covers over 1,000 square miles of the Cayo District in Western Belize. Here are some of the top attractions and activities to enjoy during your visit:

- Rio Frio Cave: One of Belize's best caves, with a striking 65-foot arch opening and an underground river system flowing through it.

- Rio On Pools: A series of natural swimming holes and waterfalls in the On River, with pools of varying depths and sizes offering something for everyone.

- Big Rock Falls: An impressive 45-metre waterfall with a small pool at the bottom and a larger cenote. Visitors can swim, cliff jump, or simply relax and enjoy the surroundings.

- Birdwatching: The reserve is home to a variety of bird species, including the rufous-capped warbler, crossbill, pine siskin, stygian owl, and eastern bluebird. It is also one of the best places in Belize to spot orange-breasted falcons.

- Caracol Mayan Ruins: Belize's largest and most important Mayan ruins, with a rich history dating back to the Classic Period. The tallest structure, Caana or Sky Place, rises over 140 feet above the jungle floor.

- 1,000 Foot Falls: The tallest waterfall in Central America, this impressive sight is accessible via a viewing platform. However, the road to the falls is in very poor condition and requires a proper 4x4 vehicle.

Explore the Barton Creek Caves

The Barton Creek Cave is a natural cave in Belize, located in the upper Barton Creek area near San Ignacio in the Cayo District. It is a popular tourist destination and archaeological site, with evidence of use by the Maya people. The cave is accessible by canoe, and visitors can explore the various stalactites, stalagmites and pillars that have been created by water dripping through the limestone over millennia. The cave is also home to bats and the remains of at least 28 humans have been found within it.

To get to the Barton Creek Cave, it is recommended to drive a 4x4 vehicle as the roads can be bumpy and you will need to cross a stream. Alternatively, you can book a tour that includes transportation to and from the cave. Tours typically last around half a day and are led by licensed guides who are knowledgeable about the natural history and cultural heritage of the cave.

When visiting the Barton Creek Cave, it is important to wear suitable clothing such as short or long pants and comfortable walking footwear. It is also recommended to bring a hat, extra clothes, water, insect repellent, and raingear if needed.

The Barton Creek Cave offers a unique and educational experience, allowing visitors to explore the natural beauty and cultural significance of the site. It is a peaceful and meditative experience, ideal for those seeking a slow-paced and relaxing activity.

Swim in the Rio On Pools

The Rio On Pools are a series of natural swimming holes in the rocky, granite On River. There are pools of varying depths hidden all around the river, with small waterfalls and some fun natural slides. The water in the river is cold, but the granite rocks heat up in the sunshine, so you can switch between the two. This is a great spot for a picnic—you can spread out on one of the large flat rocks by the river.

There are two entrances to the pools from the main road, which is actually just one road that loops around. One of the entrances is very steep and not graded, but the second entrance is in better condition. You can park anywhere along this access road, and you’ll see signs pointing towards a short trail that leads to the river. If you continue along the road away from the riverbed, elevated on a small hill, you'll find a large wooden building that contains a picnic area and a lookout.

The Rio On Pools are located just off the main road in Mountain Pine Ridge, before reaching Augustine Village. The river spills over large granite ledges and rocks, making small waterfalls and cool round pools. On the bank of the river is a picnic area where you can relax and watch swimmers enjoying the troughs, pools and natural waterslides.

The pools are a popular stop on the way back from Caracol, and they can get busy with local families at the weekend. It's a good idea to plan your visit for during the week if you want to avoid the crowds.

Visit Big Rock Falls

Big Rock Falls is a must-see destination in Belize, often compared to the likes of Niagara Falls and Victoria Falls. This 150-foot waterfall is located in the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve of the Cayo District, about 45 minutes to 2 hours away from San Ignacio. The Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve was designated as a protected area in 1944 to preserve the native Belizean pine forest. The landscape is notably different from the rest of the country, with a cooler, dry climate and a rocky, granite terrain.

Getting There

The best way to get to Big Rock Falls is by booking a guided tour with a 4WD vehicle. The roads within the reserve are mostly unpaved and can be very rough, so a 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended. If you're an experienced driver and confident in challenging road conditions, it's possible to rent a 4x4 car in Belize City or San Ignacio and drive yourself to the reserve.

What to Expect

Big Rock Falls is a spectacular sight, offering fabulous photo opportunities. The powerful waterfall cascades over rock formations from a great height, creating a soothing sound as it replenishes the pool at its base. Visitors can swim in the pool, snap photos, and enjoy a picnic while taking in the beauty and majesty of nature.

The trail to the falls includes a steep hike at the end, leading down to the riverbank. There are also wooden stairs to descend, which can be slippery after rain, so take caution.

Nearby Attractions

Big Rock Falls is often included in tours of the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve, along with other natural attractions such as:

• Rio Frio Cave: A striking limestone cave with a vast 65-foot opening and an underground river system.
• Rio On Pools: A series of natural swimming holes in the rocky, granite On River, with small waterfalls and natural slides.
• Caracol Mayan Ruins: Belize's largest and most important Mayan ruins, located deep within the reserve.

When to Visit

The reserve is open daily from 7 am to 5 pm. To avoid crowds, it's best to visit during the week as the attractions can get busy with locals on weekends. Spring is a great time to visit, with favourable lodging rates and fewer crowds in San Ignacio, making it an ideal time for a romantic getaway.

See the Thousand Foot Falls

The Thousand Foot Falls is a must-see destination in Belize. It is located in the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve, a protected nature area that spans more than 430 square kilometres (106,000 acres) and is home to a diverse array of wildlife and avian species. The reserve was established in 1944 to protect the native pine forests of Belize, including Honduras pine and broadleaf species.

The Thousand Foot Falls is a breathtaking waterfall that sends water plummeting nearly 1,600 feet into a deep gorge below. It is known as the highest waterfall in Central America and offers a spectacular sight with its mist-filled plunge pool. To fully experience the falls, visitors must embark on a long and challenging hike down the side of the mountain. The trail can be steep and slippery, so sturdy shoes and caution are essential.

The nearest town to the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve is San Ignacio, which is about a 2-hour drive away. From there, visitors can access the reserve through several official entrances. Well-marked trails and signs guide visitors to the official viewing site for the falls. While the hike down to the base of the falls is strenuous, it offers a rewarding experience with unobstructed views and a refreshing swim in the cool waters of the receiving pool.

The Thousand Foot Falls is located near other popular destinations within the reserve, such as Barton Creek and Rio Frio Cave. Barton Creek is a large river that passes through a series of underground passages, while Rio Frio Cave was once a ceremonial site for the ancient Maya. The reserve is also home to a small community of Mennonites who live adjacent to Barton Creek.

Avid birdwatchers will delight in the variety of avian species that inhabit the reserve, including the endangered ocellated turkey, red-lored parrot, keel-billed toucan, acorn woodpecker, orange-breasted falcons, and Lesson's motmot.

When planning a visit to the Thousand Foot Falls, it is important to consider the weather conditions. While the falls are open year-round, rainy or overcast days may hinder the visibility and impact the hiking experience.

Discover the ancient city of Caracol

Deep in the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve lies Caracol, one of the largest and most important ancient Mayan archaeological sites in Belize. This ancient city is located about 40 kilometres (25 miles) south of San Ignacio and the town of Xunantunich. It rests on the Vaca Plateau in the foothills of the Maya Mountains, at an elevation of 500 metres (1,600 feet) above sea level.

Caracol was first reported by a native logger named Rosa Mai in 1937, who came across its remains while searching for mahogany trees. The site was then visited by the archaeological commissioner, A. Hamilton Anderson, in 1938, who gave it the name 'Caracol', meaning 'snail' or 'shell' in Spanish, referring to the winding access road that led to the site.

Caracol was a powerful ancient Mayan city, covering an area of approximately 200 square kilometres (77 square miles) and supporting a population of more than 150,000 people. At its peak in AD 650, it was one of the most important regional political centres of the Maya Lowlands during the Classic Period. The city boasted impressive structures, including the tallest man-made building in Belize, the 'Caana' or 'Sky Place', a massive pyramid rising over 40 metres (140 feet) above the jungle floor.

Today, Caracol is a popular tourist destination, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the ancient Maya. The site features three plaza groups surrounding a central acropolis and two ball courts, along with smaller structures. Visitors can explore the many hieroglyphic inscriptions found on stelae, altars, and wall facades, and admire the intricate design and construction of the ancient city.

To get to Caracol, it is recommended to drive from San Ignacio, a journey of about 2 hours. The roads within the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve can be rough and challenging, so a 4x4 vehicle is advised. Alternatively, guided tours are available, offering a more comfortable and informative experience.

Frequently asked questions