Located in western Belize, bordering with Guatemala, the Cayo District is one of the most-visited parts of the country.
Known as the Highlands of Belize, this is where visitors will find lush jungle and pine forests, cave systems, enigmatic Mayan ruins, waterfalls and emerald pools. A centre for adventure activities, spend your days tubing down the river, zip-lining through the jungle canopy or exploring rainforest trails on foot, by bike or on horseback. We recommend a trip to Barton Creek, where you can propel yourself through steep-sided cliffs in a kayak or a visit to Rio Frio Cave and its refreshing pools. For thrill-seekers, explore the Actun Tunichil Muknal caves, one of the most popular Mayan burial sites in western Belize, as you delve deep into this extensive underground cave system uncover the mysteries and secrets of the Maya.
The Cayo District is a nature lovers paradise; blanketed in lush jungle Belize’s rainforest is home to more than 500 bird species. Listen to the eerie calls of the howler monkeys up in the trees, spot iridescent butterflies and keep your eyes peeled for the elusive jaguar. Rise with the sun and head out for a dawn bird-watching expedition or watch a new world unfold within the forest under the cover of darkness. A trip to the Cayo District’s Botanical Gardens offers an insight into the abundance of tropical plants native to Belize.
Holidays to Cayo District can uncover the secrets of one of the world’s most mysterious ancient civilisations – the Maya – dotted with ancient archaeological sites, visit incredible ruins such as Xunantunich, El Pilar, Cahal Pech and of course, Caracol; the mother of all Belizean Mayan sites. Scale enormous stone steps to peer down from the top of temples dating back to the Maya’s heyday, and enjoy 360-degree jungle views. Many of the tombs have been excavated and have been found to contain well-preserved hieroglyphics, with murky depths containing the remains of sacrificial altars used to appease the gods of the underworld.
Call our South America Travel Specialist for more information on holidays to Cayo District and to plan your adventure to Belize now.
Nicola
Travel Specialist
Where to go in Belize
Belize travel information
- Time zone: -6 GMT
- Flight time: 22 hours
- Recommended airlines: American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United
- Currency: Belize Dollar, US Dollar
- Tipping guideline: 10-15% of total bill
- Health considerations: There is a risk of dengue. There is a risk of Zika virus.
- Capital: Belmopan
- Population: 416,656
- National languages: English, Spanish, Creole
- Electricity and plugs: Type B (120 V) and Type G (220 V), 60 Hz
- Mobile phone coverage: Good
- UK passport visa requirements: You don't need a visa for Belize if you have a British passport - for a maximum of 30 days
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For the latest travel advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office check www.gov.uk/travelaware
