Rio Frio Cave, Rio On Pools & Big Rock Falls (GM)

Join us for an unforgettable journey through the breathtaking natural beauty of Mountain Pine Ridge. This tour takes you to a variety of stunning sites, each offering unique experiences. Families with young children or non-swimmers should keep a close eye on little ones at all locations to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.

Getting There: Our adventure kicks off at 8:00 AM as we depart from San Ignacio, traveling through the charming villages of Christo Rey and San Antonio, primarily inhabited by local farmers along the scenic Macal River. As we ascend into the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve, we'll check in with the Park Ranger before exploring three incredible destinations:

RIO FRIO CAVE: Experience the grandeur of this cave, featuring two impressive 65-foot entrances that invite natural light. Marvel at the enormous stalactites and the cathedral-like vaults as a stream meanders through, creating tranquil pools and cascading waterfalls.

RIO ON POOLS AND FALLS: A true gem along the Mountain Pine Ridge, Rio On Pools is perfect for a family outing. A short, easy walk from the parking area leads you to breathtaking pools nestled among ancient boulders. Enjoy natural whirlpools or slide into the refreshing waters. The varying depths of the pools cater to both adventurous kids and those seeking a more relaxed experience.

BIG ROCK FALLS: Discover the awe-inspiring Big Rock Falls, tucked away in the escarpment. Here, water cascades over massive 150-foot rock formations, creating a mesmerizing sight. Dive into the cool, inviting pool below for a refreshing swim—it's an experience you'll cherish, whether alone, with friends, or with family.

Departure: After exploring these natural wonders, we’ll make our way back to San Ignacio, with an anticipated return around 4:00 PM, depending on your pace.

Embark on this adventure and immerse yourself in the captivating landscapes of Mountain Pine Ridge!

Chiquibul Forest Reserve covers some of the eastern slopes of the Maya Mountains. This reserve is a habitat for endangered scarlet macaws and howler monkeys. Listen for their distinctive calls as you hike toward the Maya ruin of Caracol.

Caracol is one of the largest Maya cities in all of Belize. This site’s temples and plazas are quite intact, making it easy to imagine what this once-powerful city looked like during its heyday. Caracol also boasts a temple called Canaa. The name Canaa means "Sky Place" in the Maya language, and Canaa’s summit is the highest point in all of Belize. You can climb the face of Canaa to get a good look at the Cayo landscape. With some luck you’ll spot a few of Belize’s magnificent tropical birds as you ascend the temple. The tour stops for a picnic lunch on the scenic grounds of Caracol.

The journey continues to the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve, which was established to protect Belize’s native pine tree forest. This forest has densely forested mountains. At the foot of the mountains you'll get to see some of the rivers and limestone caves that scatter the landscape.

Río Frío rushes through a network of caves, including Río Frío Cave. This cave has an enormous mouth, and you can stand on the dry edge of the cave to see some natural formations of stalagmites and stalactites. The tour will also visit the nearby Río On Pools –a cluster of pools formed by flat, smooth rocks. Go for a splash here and you’ll feel rejuvenated during your return journey.

bathing suite, change of clothes, hiking or water shoes, sun screen, insect repellent, sun glasses, camera.

Lunch, snacks, bottled water.