Belize Caracol Mayan Ruins Tour from San Ignacio Belize
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Duration
5+ Hours
Departure
San Ignacio
Transportation
4x4 vehicle
Group Size
Small groups
Special Offer
Limited-time 15% off! Book now to save US$31 on this amazing tour!
About This Tour
Caracol Mayan Ruins Expedition
Departure: 6:30 AM | From: San Ignacio & Surrounding Areas
Prepare for the ultimate jungle odyssey. Caracol is not just a ruin; it is a sleeping giant deep within the Chiquibil Forest Reserve. This is the largest Mayan city in Belize, a superpower that once defeated the mighty Tikal, and today, it remains one of the most pristine and remote archaeological sites in Central America.
Your Adventure Begins at 6:30 AM We make the start of your day effortless. We provide complimentary pickup at 6:30 AM from All Hotels and AirBnB's in San Ignacio Town and Santa Elena.
Because you are departing from San Ignacio, you are already at the gateway to the adventure. We will head straight into the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve, trading the town for the rugged beauty of the pine forests as we journey deep into the Chiquibil.
The Sky Palace Upon arriving at Caracol, you will be struck by the sheer size of the city. Covering 75 square miles, this ancient metropolis was once home to over 100,000 people. You will walk the ancient causeways and explore massive plazas surrounded by the jungle.
- Climb Caana: The highlight of the day is standing at the foot of "Caana" (The Sky Palace). Rising 140 feet into the air, it remains the tallest man-made structure in all of Belize. The climb is a challenge, but the reward is a 360 degree view of the jungle stretching endlessly into Guatemala.
- Ancient History: Your guide will reveal the history of the Caracol kings, their wars, and the intricate carved stelae that tell the story of their dominance.
Mountain Pine Ridge Pools After the heat of the expedition, the return journey offers a refreshing reward. We stop in the Mountain Pine Ridge to visit the stunning Rio On Pools or Big Rock Falls. Here, you can swim in natural granite pools and waterfalls, washing off the dust of the ancient city in the cool, mountain waters before we have you back in San Ignacio for dinner.
Conquer the Sky Palace and swim in the mountain waterfalls on this unforgettable expedition.
Tour Highlights
- Climb Caana pyramid - tallest man-made structure in Belize at 143 feet
- Explore vast complex larger than modern-day Belize City
- Learn about Caracol's victory over Tikal
- Spot howler monkeys and scarlet macaws in the jungle
- Visit the ancient E-Group observatory complex
- Marvel at intricate hieroglyphic inscriptions and carved stelae
What's Included
What's Not Included
Itinerary
Departure from San Ignacio Cayo District
Early morning pickup from all San Ignacio hotels, resorts, Airbnbs, and vacation rentals. Begin epic journey deep into Chiquibul National Park and Forest Reserve.
Enter Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve
Drive through stunning Mountain Pine Ridge with granite outcrops, pine forests, and cascading waterfalls. Spot colorful toucans, wild turkeys, and king vultures soaring overhead.
Journey Through Remote Jungle Roads
Continue on rugged jungle roads through pristine Chiquibul rainforest, the largest protected forest in Belize. Pass military checkpoints securing this remote wilderness area.
Arrive at Caracol Archaeological Reserve
Enter Caracol (ancient name: Oxwitza'), the largest Maya site in Belize sprawling over 75 square miles. Once home to 150,000+ people, more than twice modern Belize City's population.
Explore Northeast Acropolis Royal Complex
Visit site of groundbreaking 2025 archaeological discovery - founder Te K'ab Chaak's royal tomb with jade death mask and Teotihuacan artifacts revealing city's mysterious origins and power.
Climb Caana Sky Palace - Tallest Structure in Belize
Ascend the magnificent 143-foot Caana pyramid complex with multiple temples and royal palaces. Experience breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views over endless Chiquibul jungle canopy.
Walk Ancient Sacbeob Causeways
Explore the 75-kilometer network of raised stone causeways (sacbeob) connecting ceremonial core to residential areas. Learn about sophisticated Maya water management and agricultural terraces.
Study 562 AD Star War Victory Monuments
Examine carved stelae and hieroglyphic texts documenting Caracol's stunning 562 AD military victory over mighty Tikal superpower, changing Maya political landscape forever.
Traditional Belizean Lunch
Enjoy freshly prepared authentic Belizean meal at Caracol visitor area to refuel for return expedition through jungle.
Begin Return Journey Through Mountain Pine Ridge
Comfortable 3-hour drive back through Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve and Cayo District to San Ignacio with more wildlife spotting opportunities.
Arrive San Ignacio Cayo District
Drop-off at your San Ignacio hotel or vacation rental with memories of Belize's greatest and most remote Maya kingdom deep in the jungle wilderness.
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Information on Belize
→ Official Belize Travel Information (travelbelize.org)Customer Reviews
Elmer Martinez
Phoenix, Arizona
Impressive remote ruins
Caracol from San Ignacio was excellent! Shorter drive than from Belize City. The ruins are spectacular - Caana is the tallest structure in Belize. Much of the site remains unexcavated under jungle. Guide was very knowledgeable about Caracol's history. Saw wildlife on the drive. Less crowded than other sites. Highly recommend!
November 5, 2024
Hattie Wilson
Seattle, Washington
Outstanding Maya site
Loved Caracol! The drive through Mountain Pine Ridge from San Ignacio is beautiful. The ruins are massive and impressive. Caana pyramid is enormous - views from the top are breathtaking. Guide explained Caracol's role as a major power. Very few tourists. Excellent tour for archaeology enthusiasts!
October 20, 2024
Elbert Garcia
Portland, Oregon
Spectacular ruins
Caracol is amazing! From San Ignacio, the drive is manageable and scenic. The site is huge with most still unexcavated. Caana is spectacular - tallest man-made structure in Belize. Guide was excellent, very knowledgeable. Much less crowded than other sites. Great tour!
October 8, 2024
Sadie Rodriguez
Calgary, Alberta
Must-see Maya ruins
Caracol from San Ignacio was fantastic! The ruins are extensive and impressive. Caana pyramid is massive with incredible jungle views from the summit. Guide was knowledgeable about the site's military history. Drive through the jungle was beautiful. Less touristy. Highly recommend!
September 28, 2024
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per person
Was US$206 (15% off)
Exclusive vehicle and guide for your group only - move at your own pace
+$30/person (+$60 total)
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Balance payable in cash at pickup
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