San Ignacio

Belize, Central America

San Ignacio, nestled in the lush Cayo District of Belize, is a unique blend of cultural richness and natural beauty. Known for its incredible access to Mayan ruins like Xunantunich and Cahal Pech, as well as the nearby Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve, it invites adventure seekers. The vibrant local market, thrilling cave tubing, and wildlife spotting in the surrounding jungles make it ideal for the explorer in you. Experience the warmth of Belizean hospitality and indulge in authentic cuisine in this enchanting town.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

Town

Vibe

Active

Airport

Philip S W Goldson

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

8 Best Things to Do in San Ignacio

1

Est. 4 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Explore the ATM Cave

Venture into a breathtaking cave with ancient Mayan artifacts.

Booking required
2

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Xunantunich Ruins

Discover stunning Mayan ruins with panoramic views.

No booking required
3

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Cave Tubing at Nohoch Che'en

Float through caves on a tube while enjoying nature.

No booking required
4

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Cahal Pech Ruins

Experience an ancient Mayan city with beautiful gardens.

No booking required
5

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Go Bird Watching in Mountain Pine Ridge

Spot diverse bird species in a scenic reserve.

No booking required
6

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Belize Botanic Gardens

Wander through a beautiful collection of native plants.

No booking required
7

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Taste Local Cuisine at a Food Market

Savor authentic Belizean dishes at local stalls.

No booking required
8

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a Horseback Riding Tour

Explore beautiful landscapes on horseback.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~15%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

No data

LGBTQ+ safety score

-3 (#70 globally)

Cost

Standard

Currency

Belize Dollar

Majority religion

Christian

Language

English

(50-80% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Rice and Beans

VE

Coconut rice with red beans. (National dish)

Fry Jacks

V

Fried dough, often served with breakfast.

Stewed Chicken

Chicken stewed in a flavorful sauce.

Tamales

Corn dough filled with meat or vegetables.

Johnny Cakes

VE

Cornmeal cakes, often served with meals.

Phrases to learn

English

English

Hello

Hello

(Hel-loh)

Yes/No

Yes / No

(Yes / No)

Thank you

Thank you

(Thang-k yoo)

Excuse me

Excuse me

(Ex-kyoos mee)

How much?

How much?

(How much)