San Ignacio is a popular home-base for travelers who plan to explore Belize’s Maya ruins and jungles. But don’t just pass through – take a tour to get to know the culture of everyday life in this bustling part of the Cayo district. On this tour, you’ll also get to know the history of San Ignacio, which dates back to the days when it served as a center for British trade.

Your guide can tell you more about the chicle plants and mahogany trees that put this town on the map for foreign powers. You’ll also see landmarks like the Hawksworth Bridge, which is Belize’s only drivable suspension bridge. It crosses over the Macal River and leads to the town of Santa Elena.

After some sightseeing, you’ll stop for lunch at a local restaurant, and then round out the afternoon with a visit to a local chocolatier that follows traditional Mayan recipes and uses age-old cooking techniques. They start by grinding cacao with a stone, and then add spices to create a complex flavor. This is a hands-on experience, and you’ll get to sample the chocolate you make at the end of the class.