In San Ignacio you can admire the faded remnants of the ancient Mayan civilization at the ruins of Xunatunich, hike through the lush mountain pine ridge forest, relax in a resort far out in the dense jungles to the south, canoe in the calm waters of the Macal or explore the network of caves in the south hills.

If you’re into adventure sports and holidays mean action and activity, this is the place to visit. The hills, rivers and archaeological sites provide enough thrills to please even the most jaded travellers.  

San Ignacio in Belize,  is the capital of the Cayo district and is often referred to as ‘Cayo’. The main attraction of San Ignacio is the pull of its strategic position that offers possibilities for a number of adventure sports. There are several tour agencies in San Ignacio that offer adventure package tours. If you want to do it yourself, there are numerous agencies that rent canoes. You can also hire a guide.

The calm waters of The Macal River run through the verdant jungle and are great for canoeing. Besides plenty of exercise and fresh air, you can admire the bountiful wildlife - black vultures, iguanas - and vegetation. If it’s the animals you’ve come for, then try to organise a night trip. You can explore the Rainforest Medicine Trail – an interesting introduction to the medicinal uses of the flora and fauna of the area – by Canoe tours. A 2 – 3 hour row upstream from San Ignacio will bring you to the riverbank that runs into the Medicine trail.

The caves in the south hills are interesting to explore. The ghost of the Mayan civilization lingers in these caves that were used for ceremonial purposes. You’ll come across relics and pieces of pottery – you might even discover one. The stalactites and stalagmites are also very impressive.  Ask around if a cave tubing excursion can be arranged.

An interesting way to explore the district is riding a horse around, a common mode of transportation.

If it’s the ruins of the mysterious Mayans that intrigue you, then trek to the Cahal Pech ruins, a 20 minute walk or 10 minute drive from San Ignacio. The ruins are some of the earliest evidence of Mayan civilization. There is an admission fee.

The ruins of a sprawling Mayan metropolis (88 acres), Caracol has revealed many secrets about the ancient civilization. There are more than 4000 structures that have been excavated on the site. Travelling to the ruins can be slightly difficult, situated as it is, deep in the jungles. You’ll need a car – rent a car or hire a taxi – but be warned that the ride is likely to be a bumpy one.

Another impressive Mayan site are the ruins of the city, Xunantunich (Maiden of the Rock). The ruins include an impressive pyramid and the usual temples and residential areas. El Castillo as the pyramid is known, rises high and the top offers spectacular views. The masks devoted to the Sun God and the Moon God are very impressive. Getting to ruins can be a complicated process if you’re not going through a tour operator. From San Ignacio, you can take a bus to San Jose Succotz village. Catch a ferry across the Mopan River and then trek or drive up the potholed road (about a mile) that leads to the ruins.  

For nature lovers, an excursion to the Mountain Pine Ridge is recommended. Far away from the city (a two-three hour drive down Chiquibul Road) the park is full of tall conifers, waterfalls and magnificent views. You can camp at Augustine, the only official camping grounds on the reserve. There are numerous marked trails that you can follow.

San Ignacio is about 65 miles from Belize City.  You can cover the distance by a bus or a taxi.  If you’ve rented a car for your stay, you can drive down to San Ignacio.

The concept of a ‘shared cab’, a single vehicle shared by a couple of tourists heading in a particular direction, is quite common.

The wide tourist appeal has not gone unnoticed and you’ll see a number of resorts, hotels and lodges. Some are set in scenic settings in the jungles. San Ignacio also offers a number of options for the budget traveller. Budget accommodations are better than offered in most other regions.

You’ll be surprised at the varieties of cuisines that are offered. The main street is lined with inexpensive restaurants that set an appetizing table. Dance the night away in any of the numerous clubs. Live bands perform on certain nights.

If you need to change your money, do so at any bank.  ATMs accept international cards. The US dollar is accepted at most stores, hotels and restaurants. If you need to keep in touch with people back home, there are cyber cafes you can use for a small fee. 

For detailed country information, click on Belize.