Visit Belize’s Cayo District: 7 Reasons This Should Be Your Next Destination
Instead of states or provinces, Belize is divided into six different districts. The Cayo District of Belize is the biggest district in the country and compromises the central and western part of the country, including the border crossing with Guatemala.
Below are 7 great reasons to visit Cayo District:
It's the "Wild West"
Often known as the "Wild West" more for its abundance of pristine nature and exotic wildlife rather than the presence of cowboys, Cayo District is the eco-tourism heartland of the country. It is home to enormous national parks, animal sanctuary, pristine rivers, and spectacular waterfalls.
Ancient Maya Sites
The ancient Maya civilization once dominated Central America from Mexico in the north to El Salvador in the south. Belize was the heartland of the ancient Maya culture, and today is home to more Maya sites than anywhere else in the world.
Some of the most impressive Maya sites can be found in Cayo, including the ATM Cave, Caracol, and Xunantunich. The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Tikal is located just a few miles from Cayo District across the border in Guatemala.
Hand-Powered Ferries
One of the unique attractions in Belize is the use of hand-cranked ferries that ferry visitors and locals alike across rivers. Many of these ferries connect to ancient Maya sites as well as traditional Mennonite farming communities.
A Diverse Population
Although only approximately 75,000 people live in Cayo District, it has one of the most diverse populations in the country. Spanish-speaking Latinos, Creoles/Kriols, Chinese, Maya, Lebanese, and German-speaking Mennonites all live in Cayo District.
The City and Town
The national capital of Belmopan and the town of San Ignacio, the second-largest municipality in Belize, are both located in Cayo District. Belmopan is one of the smallest national capitals in the world and was founded in 1970.
San Ignacio is the gateway to Cayo District and is most famous for its bustling riverside open-air market where farmers and artisans from around the region gather to sell their wares.
National Parks
One of Belize's largest national parks, the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve, is located in Cayo District. Measuring more than 300 square miles in diameter, Mountain Pine Ridge is home to hundreds of bird species, broadleaf trees, exotic wildlife like jaguars, endangered animals like Morelet's crocodiles, and the tallest waterfalls in Central America.
Hawksworth Bridge
The longest suspension bridge in the country, the beautiful Hawksworth Bridge connects the town of San Ignacio with its twin Santa Elena.
The Macal River
The Macal River was a vital transportation route for the ancient Maya and today remains one of the most beautiful and pristine waterways in all of Central America.
Adventures in Belize
Travelers interested in exploring the Cayo District can rely on the professional Adventures in Belize team – the premier travel company in the country.
For more than 20 years, Adventures in Belize team has been crafting unique & unforgettable vacations in Belize for travelers from around the world. Whether you want an intrepid tour or a thrilling adventure holiday, Adventures in Belize will work with you to create the perfect itinerary, including handling transportation, accommodations, and vacation packages. We specialize in customizing vacation plans to suit your budget and your dreams.
For all of your Belize vacation needs, rely on Adventures in Belize. The name says it all!
