Caracol Maya Ruins Tour Including Rio On Pools, Rio Frio Cave and a Picnic Lunch

San Ignacio , Belize

Caracol Maya Ruins Tour Including Rio On Pools, Rio Frio Cave and a Picnic Lunch

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(236 reviews)

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

Adventure through Belize on this tour of the Maya Ruins in the ancient city of Caracol. This guided tour explores jungle archaeological sites including pyramid temples, plazas and monuments. Journey to the Mountain Pine Ridge with stops at Rio On Pools and Rio Frio Cave for a refreshing swim in the crystal waters. Enjoy a homemade Belizean style picnic lunch with soft drinks and rum punch. This tour includes guide, entrance fees, lunch with drinks and round-trip transportation.

Available options

CARACOL MAYA RUINS

Visit the ancient city of Caracol and tour the pyramid temples, plazas, and monuments of this Maya civilization hidden in the jungle. Swim and picnic lunch at Rio On Pools. Explore the Rio Frio Cave<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Round-trip transportation

Picnic lunch with a drink

All taxes, fees and handling charges

National Park fees

Guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

We embark on a 1.5-hour drive from our office up rough dirt roads and through small Maya Villages and scenic countryside.

Stop 2

Rio Frio cave is a must see cave while in Belize especially if you are looking for a reduced mobility cave to explore This amazing cave has the largest cave entrance in Belize and was once a sacred burial site for the ancient Maya.

Stop 3

Revel at the engineering and architectural sophistication of the Maya people as you climb up the temple pyramid structure of Caana (Sky Temple), the highest man-made building in Belize still to this day. Once at the top, nearly 135 feet above the plazas, you will get impressive panoramic views of Belize and neighboring Guatemala.
Caracol is a major and dominant site in Maya history. It is a fantastic site to visit, and it is an expansive city covering nearly 80 square miles and rivaling the ancient metropolis of Tikal in size, power and riches. The histories of the inhabitants of Caracol are documented by scribes of the past in hieroglyphics and carvings on the monuments, stelas, and altars that are found throughout the site.Your guide will illuminate the rich and complicated past of this glorious civilization with a fully guided tour of the excavated portions of the Caracol site.
You might get lucky and see a family of howler monkeys in the trees over the ancient Maya ball-courts.

After touring the ruins, refresh yourself with drinks and a picnic lunch. We then continue back through the Pine Ridge area where we take a break at the Rio On Pools, a series of natural swimming holes, to cool down and relax in the clear water.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

60 reviews

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Tripadvisor 4.9

176 reviews

5★

165

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Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Difficulty: Easy to moderate

What to bring: Hiking sandals or trainers, towel, small backpack, liter of water, bug spray, snacks, swim wear with shorts, camera

There is no minimum age. All are welcomed

Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there is not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended

Meeting point

Tours departs and returns to our office located on #19 burns avenue san ignacio.
Directions: MayaWalk Tours Main Office located between Tandoor Restaurant and Belize Bank

Return point: Returns to original departure point

Important notes

• Please note: entrance tickets and transport included. This voucher will not be accepted if presented directly at the venue.
• Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there is not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended

Hotel pickups commence prior to this time, you must contact the local service provider to verify your exact pickup time.

What to Bring/Wear:
Hiking sandals/trainers
towel
small backpack
Bring reusable water bottles
liter of water
bug spray
snacks
swim wear w/ shorts
camera

About San Ignacio

San Ignacio is a vibrant town nestled in the Cayo District of Belize, known for its rich Maya heritage, lush jungles, and proximity to incredible natural wonders. It's a hub for adventure travel and cultural exploration, offering a mix of outdoor activities and historical sites.

Top Attractions

Cahal Pech Village Resort

A beautifully restored Maya site in the heart of San Ignacio, offering a glimpse into ancient Maya civilization.

Historical 1-2 hours Moderate (entry fee around $10 USD)

ATM Cave (Actun Tunichil Muknal)

A challenging but rewarding cave system with ancient Maya artifacts and human remains.

Adventure Full day Expensive (tours around $150-200 USD)

Green Hills Butterfly Ranch

A sanctuary for butterflies and other wildlife, offering a peaceful and educational experience.

Nature 1-2 hours Budget (entry fee around $5-10 USD)

Big Rock Falls

A stunning waterfall in the Mountain Pine Ridge area, perfect for swimming and picnicking.

Nature Half day to full day Free

San Ignacio Market

A bustling market offering local produce, crafts, and street food.

Cultural 1-2 hours Free to browse, budget for purchases

Must-Try Local Dishes

Stewed Chicken

Chicken cooked in a rich, spicy sauce with tomatoes, onions, and peppers.

Main dish Contains meat

Tamales

Corn dough filled with meat or vegetables, wrapped in banana leaves and steamed.

Snack Vegetarian options available

Rice and Beans

A staple dish of red beans and rice, often served with fried plantains.

Side dish Vegetarian

Garnaches

Small fried tortillas topped with refried beans, onions, and pickled onions.

Snack Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Caving Hiking Zip-lining Birdwatching Nature walks Spa treatments Visiting Maya sites Local markets

Best Time to Visit

November to April

The dry season offers the best weather for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Days are warm and sunny, with cooler evenings.

20-28°C 68-82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish, Maya languages
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Belize Dollar (BZD)

Time Zone

GMT-6

Electricity

110VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

San Ignacio is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken to avoid petty theft and scams.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Use reputable tour operators
• Avoid walking alone at night in less populated areas

Getting there

By air

Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport • 120 km (75 miles)
Maya International Airport • 25 km (15 miles)

By bus

San Ignacio Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Local buses are affordable and frequent. They are a good way to get around town and to nearby attractions.

Taxis

Available • Apps:

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown San Ignacio Bull Falls Area San Jose Succotz

Day trips

Caracol

50 km (31 miles) • Full day

One of the largest Maya sites in Belize, featuring impressive ruins and a rich history.

Mountain Pine Ridge

60 km (37 miles) • Full day

A scenic area with waterfalls, hiking trails, and lush forests.

Xunantunich

13 km (8 miles) • Half day

A well-preserved Maya site with a towering pyramid and beautiful views.

Festivals

Battle of San Jose Succotz • September 10 Cayo Cultural Festival • Annual, dates vary

Pro tips

Hire a local guide for a more authentic and informative experience.
Visit the ATM Cave for a unique and adventurous experience, but be prepared for a challenging hike.
Try local specialties like stewed chicken, tamales, and coconut candy.
Explore the local markets for unique souvenirs and crafts.
Be prepared for both hot and rainy weather, especially during the wet season.