Jungle adventures in San Ignacio – Belize
Bite-sized trip
Day 1 – Arrival in San Ignacio
You will arrive in the vibrant town of San Ignacio after a scenic bus journey through lush countryside, rural villages and rolling hills. Your accommodation is on a hill overlooking the Belize River Valley, just a short taxi ride from the bus station. There is a swimming pool with a spacious deck where you can relax and recharge before your adventures tomorrow. The rooms have private bathrooms and air conditioning and are decorated with Caribbean features. Just a short walk from your hotel are the ruins of Cahal Pech, one of the oldest Maya sites in Belize, where you can explore the ruins and enjoy panoramic views over San Ignacio.
Day 2 – Canoeing in Barton Creek
Today, you’ll be collected from your hotel and taken to Barton Creek for a canoeing experience, driving through orange groves and passing locals living a traditional life growing fruits and vegetables. Alongside a knowledgeable guide, you will be exploring Barton Creek Cave, an ancient Mayan site that is only accessible by canoe. As you quietly paddle through the cave, you’ll see a huge variety of stalactites and stalagmites in all different shapes and sizes, with only the occasional sound of water dripping…it’s a magical experience. The cave was once a Mayan ceremonial site and pieces of pottery, jewellery and even some human remains have been spotted on the natural ledges along the river. After a tasty lunch, you will be taken back to your accommodation to enjoy the rest of the afternoon as you wish.
If you’re keen for more adventure we can arrange a cave-tubing experience or an ATM cave tour where you can swim and climb through the caves. See the optional add-ons below.
Day 3 – Departure from San Ignacio
After a few days of exploring the natural beauty of San Ignacio, it’s time to continue on your Belize journey. You could take the bus to Belize City, and from here you can catch a boat from the harbour and relax on Caye Caulker. Or, if you’re looking to head to the border you could get a bus to Flores and visit the largest Mayan ruins in Latin America – Tikal.
Accommodation
For this bite-sized trip we offer the following options
San Ignacio - Special Stay upgrade
If you’re looking to be completely immersed in the jungle, we can arrange for you to stay in a tranquil eco-lodge on the banks of the Mopan River. The lodge is nestled within a lush tropical landscape, surrounded by rainforest with direct access to the river. You’ll stay in a charming thatched-roof cottage or tree house with a private veranda where you can relax in a hammock and take in the surroundings. All activities are included with this stay including guided night walks, canoeing, and river tubing. If you fancy taking a dip to cool off you have a choice between a natural bath in the river or in the swimming pool surrounded by rainforest. This accommodation is a great option for those who want to connect with nature, spot wildlife and escape the buzz of the town in an upscale secluded retreat.
San Ignacio - cave tubing experience
If you’re feeling adventurous we can arrange for you to drift down the river in San Ignacio on a cave tubing experience. You will float along a calm river, winding through a maze of ancient limestone caves, once sacred to the Maya, where you’ll spot glistening stalactites and fascinating rock formations. You will be accompanied by a knowledgeable guide who will tell you all about the history of this area, with stories of Maya rituals and the unique geology of this ancient underground world.
San Ignacio - Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave experience
For a more adrenaline-fueled experience, we can arrange for you to venture into the Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave, which is one of Belize’s most iconic Mayan sites. Along with a knowledgeable guide, you’ll trek through the jungle, crossing multiple rivers until you reach the cave’s entrance. From here you will be swimming and climbing your way through the chambers, exploring deep into the cave. This tour is physically demanding, requiring a moderate level of fitness to have a safe and enjoyable experience as you will be swimming, wading, climbing and navigating tight spaces. If you’re up to the challenge, taking part in this experience is extremely rewarding and a great way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and history of these magnificent Mayan caves.
