Overview
Take a trip to Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve on your Belize Vacation
While on Belize vacation, you might want to consider a visit to Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve, a nature reserve in the Cayo District of southern central Belize that is estimated to cover an area of 430 square kilometres (166 square miles).
While little is known about the early history of the region, historians know that a city was established at Caracol, situated on the borders of the modern reserve dating back to around 1200 BC. Modern times saw the area designated as a national park in October of 1944 in an attempt to control the increasing forestry activity. A fire just five years later nearly destroyed the park and as a result, many new trees had to be planted.
One of Belize’s most heavily visited national parks, it is home to many large mammals including cougars, jaguars, ocelots, white-nosed coatis and Baird’s tapirs. There are also various bird species, however, they are often hard to spot due to the many trees. The area has many white water rivers, cave systems and waterfalls including the Thousand Foot Falls, a national monument in Belize believed to be the highest falls in Central America. Other notable destinations within the park are Barton Creek which hosts a large river cave where numerous Mayan artefacts have been uncovered and Rio On Pools, various small pools connected by waterfalls that provide a great area for swimming and hiking on a Belize vacation.
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The Garifuna Settlement Day (November 19) is a powerful celebration of music, dance, and drumming that honors the Garifuna people’s arrival to Belize. It’s one of the most vibrant cultural events in the country.
Belize combines the Caribbean’s laid-back vibe with Central America’s cultural richness. You can snorkel the second-largest barrier reef in the world in the morning and explore ancient Mayan temples in the afternoon. Few destinations offer that contrast so seamlessly.
Globetrotters should look to visit Hopkins Village — a coastal community with strong Garifuna roots. It’s less touristy than Ambergris Caye but offers beautiful beaches, authentic culture, and easy access to both reef and rainforest.
Many assume Belize is only about the beach and reef. In reality, its inland adventures are just as extraordinary — lush jungles, hidden caves with Mayan artifacts, and wildlife encounters rival Costa Rica.
Mountain Pine Ridge National Park Tours
Mountain Pine Ridge National Park Vacations
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Mountain Pine Ridge National Park Trip
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