Caracol Mayan Ruins Rio On Pools and Rio Frio Cave Tour in Belize

Hopkins , Belize

Caracol Mayan Ruins Rio On Pools and Rio Frio Cave Tour in Belize

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(2 reviews)

12h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

One of the best Mayan sites in Belize, Caracol, is deep in the heart of the Chiquibul Forest Reserve. The reserve is located at the base of the Maya Mountains in the Cayo District in Western Belize.

Covering an area of nearly 25,000 acres, Caracol is one of the largest Mayan sites. Impressive not only in size, it also has an immense agricultural field system and elaborate city planning. Caracol is one of the most pristine and well-kept Maya sites in Belize. If you want to see an incredible piece of our history, head to Caracol in Belize.

Numerous carved monuments establish that Caracol was a major player in the geopolitics of the Maya civilization. Caracol was an ally of Calakmul in Campeche, Mexico and engaged in several wars with neighboring polities, such as Tikal, Naranjo and Ucanal in Guatemala.

Available options

Caracol Mayan Ruins Rio On Pools and Rio Frio Cave Tour in Belize

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Bottled water

Lunch

All Fees and Taxes

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Situated at 1600 feet above sea level (one of the highest located sites of the southern uplands region) with no natural water body close by, it remains a mystery why such a huge population centre like Caracol evolved where it is. However, the close proximity to both extremely hard stone and copal, two commodities highly prized by the Mayas may help explain this enigma.

The drive to the site in the early morning occasionally allows guests to take a glimpse of tapirs, jaguars or ocelots, as they break their forest cover to cross the road. The sprawling site contains huge Ceiba, Mahogany and Sapodilla trees and is superb for birding (the rare Keel-billed Motmot is one of the many residents of the site). Wildlife such as Howler and Spider monkeys, the Oscellated Turkey, Coatimundi, Gibnut and Grey Fox are often sighted while quietly wandering along the site’s causeways or along trails connecting the plaza groups.

Getting here is only part of the fun! Located within the magnificent Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve, the Rio On Pools is scenic, with its granite rocks and ledges that form the most aesthetic waterfalls and fresh-water pools. The river-banks feature the perfect picnic locations with excellent views of the area. Make sure to take your cameras and bathing suits!

Stop 3

The Rio Frio Cave is considered one of the best caving systems throughout Belize. With a length of around a quarter mile, there is no shortage of natural wonders along the way. Explore the many natural fresh-water pools, waterfalls and stalactite formations. This is one of the top attractions within the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve and is easily accessed at the entry point of the reserve.

The view of the entry of the cave is in itself amazing, standing 65 feet tall. What awaits inside is nature at its most spectacular forms. Take a trip here and be captivated by the pristine wonders of Belize.

What's not included

Alcoholic Beverages

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Specialized infant seats are available

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

**Please note that travel time from Hopkins to Caracol Mayan Ruins is 2.5 hours each way

About Hopkins

Hopkins is a charming coastal village in Belize known for its rich Garifuna culture and stunning Caribbean beaches. It offers a unique blend of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and adventure activities, making it a perfect destination for travelers seeking an authentic experience.

Top Attractions

Hopkins Beach

A beautiful stretch of white sand and turquoise waters, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Beach Half day to full day Free

Garnett's Pastries and Bakery

A local bakery famous for its delicious pastries and bread, offering a taste of traditional Garifuna cuisine.

Cultural 1-2 hours Budget

Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary

A unique wildlife sanctuary and the world's first jaguar reserve, offering hiking trails, waterfalls, and wildlife spotting.

Nature Full day Moderate

Sockton's Pines

A local craft shop and art gallery showcasing traditional Garifuna art and crafts, including handmade drums, jewelry, and textiles.

Cultural 1-2 hours Budget

Marie Sharp's Farm

A local farm and factory producing Belize's famous habanero hot sauce and other spicy sauces.

Food and Drink 1-2 hours Budget

Must-Try Local Dishes

Hudut

A traditional Garifuna dish made with fish cooked in a coconut broth, served with mashed plantains.

Main dish Contains fish and plantains, may contain allergens.

Johnny Cakes

Fried dough balls, often filled with cheese or sweet fillings, a popular local snack.

Snack Contains flour and may contain dairy or sugar.

Coconut Buns

Sweet buns made with coconut, a popular breakfast item in Hopkins.

Breakfast Contains flour, sugar, and coconut, may contain dairy.

Popular Activities

Hiking Fishing Wildlife spotting Beach activities Sunbathing Swimming Garifuna drumming and dance Local craft workshops

Best Time to Visit

November to April

This is the dry season with plenty of sunshine and lower humidity, ideal for beach activities and cultural events.

24-30°C 75-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish, Garifuna, Creole
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Belize Dollar (BZD)

Time Zone

GMT-6

Electricity

110VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Hopkins is generally safe for travelers, with a low crime rate and friendly locals. However, standard precautions should be taken to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Use reputable tour operators and taxis.
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.

Getting there

By air

Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport • 130 km (80 miles)
Dangriga Airstrip • 5 km (3 miles)

By bus

Belize City Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are available to nearby towns but not within Hopkins itself. They are an affordable but less convenient option.

Taxis

Available • Apps:

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Hopkins Village Sittee River

Day trips

Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary

90 km (56 miles) • Full day

A unique wildlife sanctuary and the world's first jaguar reserve, offering hiking trails, waterfalls, and wildlife spotting.

Sittee River

15 km (9 miles) • Half day to full day

A scenic river offering tours, fishing, and wildlife spotting.

Dangriga

5 km (3 miles) • Half day

A nearby town with a rich cultural heritage, offering local markets, historical sites, and cultural experiences.

Festivals

Garifuna Settlement Day • November 19 Hopkins Seafood Festival • June

Pro tips

Visit Garnett's Pastries and Bakery for a taste of traditional Garifuna pastries.
Explore the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary for a unique jaguar spotting experience.
Try local seafood dishes, such as Hudut, at Innie's Restaurant and Bar.
Support local artisans by purchasing handmade crafts at Sockton's Pines.
Attend a Garifuna drumming and dance performance for an authentic cultural experience.