Maya Mountains
The Mayan Mountain region beckons the outdoor adventure seeker. Recognizing the value of healthy ecosystems, the Belize government has set aside much of this region as protected areas. As a result, the environment here remains very healthy and untouched, with abundant wildlife and native vegetation. The Mayan Mountain region of Belize spans the west of the Hummingbird Highway, and the area that borders the Western Highway.
Xunantunich
Home to the second largest Mayan pyramid in Belize, Xunantunich is one of the most impressive Mayan sites in Belize. The site is composed of three major ceremonial plazas surrounded by numerous temples, palaces, and house mounds. Xunantunich is located 8 miles (13 km) southwest of San Ignacio on the Western Highway.
Explore PlaceBarton Creek Cave
Barton Creek Cave is one of the most fascinating wet caves in Belize. A tour of Barton Creek Cave involves gently paddling a two-man canoe across the cave’s still water, guided only by headlamps that light up the intricate stalactites and stalagmites that make up the limestone walls. It is one of the few wet caves in Belize where exploring doesn’t require swimming or tubing. Please note that the cave ceiling is quite low in places, and all visitors should be comfortable in dark.
Explore PlaceCahal Pech Ruins
Less than a 10-minute drive or a 25-minute uphill walk from the town of San Ignacio, the 2-acre Mayan ruin site called Cahal Pech makes for pleasant morning or afternoon trip.
Explore PlaceSan Ignacio
San Ignacio, often referred to as Cayo, is a laid back town in the western foothills of the Mayan Mountains. Located right along the Western Highway, San Ignacio is popular among travelers as it provides modern tourist amenities while retaining its authenticity. The town sits directly on the meandering Macal River and is surrounded by green rolling hills where adventure awaits.
Explore PlaceBelmopan
Belmopan became the capital of Belize in 1961 after a hurricane destroyed the government buildings in Belize City. Today, this commuter hub is home to approximately 20,000 residents and sits at the crossroads of the Western Highway and the Hummingbird Highway. Most of the people here work for the government in some capacity.
Explore PlaceMore about Maya Mountains
This region of Belize has many plants and animals that you won’t find anywhere else in Central America. It is home to elusive wildlife, including the jaguar, tapir, and howler monkey. There is also an extensive cave system, and the tallest waterfall in Central America. The variety of activities and attractions in the region can leave travelers almost overwhelmed by all the options. Build an itinerary around cave tubing, birding, horseback riding, hiking, and exploring ancient Mayan ruins.
Most people visiting this region stay in the tourist hub of San Ignacio. This town has an extensive selection of tour operators and accommodations. Located just 8 miles (13 km) west of the Guatemalan border, activities here can also be combined with a side trip to Tikal, one of Central America’s largest and most famous Mayan ruins. For those looking to go deeper into the jungle, dozens of isolated eco-lodges provide visitors a chance to be in the center of the action. These accommodations range from rustic to luxury. While you can access most of the main attractions in the Maya Mountain region from San Ignacio, some of the more remote attractions can only be accessed from the southern coastal towns of Dangriga, Hopkins, Placencia, and Punta Gorda.
Culture in the Maya mountain region is a melting pot of Creole, Maya, Mestizo, and Garífuna influences. A majority of the region’s residents reside in Belmopan, Belize’s capital, which is 26 miles (42 km) east of San Ignacio on the Western Highway. Also along the Western Highway is the town of Spanish Lookout. Known as the home of the largest German-speaking Mennonite community in Belize, Spanish Lookout is one of the most agriculturally productive areas in the country. No tourist infrastructure exists in Spanish Lookout, but if you want a complete picture of Belize’s culture you will find a drive through the area to be quite interesting.
Browse some of our favorite itineraries
Get excited and browse our selection of our favorite hand made tours including Maya Mountains. From romantic honeymoons to family-fun; these are completely flexible and arranged to your needs.
We Traveled All Over Belize
Belize seems to take sustainability quite seriously. For the most part it is a very clean country.
Adventure, Relaxation, & Mayan Explorer
Our entire trip in Belize was flawless. Drivers and tour guides met us on time every day. All details with transportation and hotels were great. Any future trip I take to Central America will be booked with Anywhere.com
A Family Relaxation Vacation
Our two-week vacation was extremely laid-back and fun. It was nice to experience the Belize way of life as we explored the different coastlines and mingled with the locals. It is definitely an ideal destination for families!
A Grand Family Anniversary Trip
Belize is beautiful and completely exceeded our expectations. This special 50th wedding anniversary celebration trip for the 10 of us went flawlessly, and we all couldn’t wait to come back!
Senior’s Vacation from Islands to Jungles
Belize is a good place to go if you want to stay in a resort or be in nature, like Pooks HIll and snorkeling and diving at Ambergris Caye. It's also a wonderful place to learn about and see Mayan culture from long ago.
It's more than just having a good time or visiting beautiful places (although that's absolutely a part of it!), it's about being part of a unique experience that stays with you.
