Things to see in San Ignacio

Heritage & monuments

Xunantunich

Xunantunich is a Maya archaeological site set on a ridge above the Mopan River in western Belize, near the Guatemalan border. It flourished as the center of the Belize Valley region during the Late Classic period.

Heritage & monuments

Cahal Pech

A Maya archaeological site atop a hill near San Ignacio, Belize. Its history dates back to 1200 BC, making it one of the oldest Maya sites in western Belize.

Zoos & aquariums

Belize Botanic Gardens

Belize Botanic Gardens is set in a valley along the Macal River, showcasing both native Belizean plants and a variety of exotic species. Surrounded by the foothills of the Maya Mountains, it's a relaxing spot for a walk through nature.

Nature

Belize River

A river that crosses the heart of Belize, running along the northern foothills of the Maya Mountains to the sea near Belize City. Most of its watershed is covered in tropical rainforest.

Nature

Macal River

A river flowing through the Cayo District in western Belize, with the ancient Maya site of Cahal Pech and the Belize Botanic Gardens along its banks. Its waters feed into the Belize River, making the route a great way to take in nature and history together.

Heritage & monuments

Pacbitun

A Maya archaeological site in the Cayo District of Belize, known to have been inhabited from around 900 BCE to about 900 CE. Visitors can explore traces of ancient Maya civilization firsthand.

Nature

Mopan River

A river flowing through the Cayo District of Belize, joining the Macal River to form the Belize River before reaching the Caribbean Sea. It's a pleasant spot to relax while taking in the natural scenery along its banks.

Heritage & monuments

Actuncan

An ancient Maya archaeological site along the Mopan River in western Belize. Traces of habitation spanning roughly 2,000 years, dating back to before the Common Era, can be seen here.

Views & landmarks

Hawkesworth Bridge

Hawkesworth Bridge is a suspension bridge spanning the Macal River, connecting the towns of San Ignacio and Santa Elena. It is known as the only suspension bridge in Belize that vehicles can cross.

Heritage & monuments

Baking Pot

A Maya archaeological site along the Belize River near San Ignacio, where you can see traces of an ancient settlement and farming life. It's a good place to walk through the excavation grounds and take in remnants of Maya civilization.

Temples & religious sites

St. Andrew's Anglican Church

An Anglican church built in 1905, located on Burns Avenue in downtown San Ignacio. It remains a modest, active local church that still holds regular services.

Nature

Billy White Creek

A popular and landmark attraction with rich history and picturesque surroundings, highly recommended for visitors.