Cayo Travel Guide
Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and how to get around in Cayo, Belize with our comprehensive travel guide.
- Introduction to Cayo
- List of Places to Visit in Cayo
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Cayo
- Best Things to Do in Cayo: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Cayo
- Food and Drink Scene of Cayo
- Where to Stay in Cayo: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Cayo: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Cayo
- Best Time to Visit Cayo
- Do’s and Don’ts of Cayo
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Cayo: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Cayo
- Where to Go Next from Cayo: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Cayo
If you’re looking for a unique and adventurous vacation in Central America, look no further than the Cayo district of Belize. Located in the heart of the country, Cayo offers visitors a blend of natural beauty, ancient history, and cultural heritage.
List of Places to Visit in Cayo
To help you get the most out of your Cayo adventure, we’ve put together a list of must-see attractions, divided into Culturally Important Attractions and Natural Attractions.
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
Cayo is home to some of Belize’s most significant and well-preserved Mayan ruins, including Xunantunich and Cahal Pech. Visitors can also explore the rich history of the region at the San Ignacio Museum and the Actun Tunichil Muknal cave, which contains ancient artifacts and crystal clear water for swimming.
Natural Attractions of Cayo: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
From hiking and climbing to cave tubing and zip-lining, Cayo offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventure. Visitors can explore the lush jungle scenery at the Green Hills Butterfly Ranch, take a relaxing dip in the cool waters of the Rio Blanco Waterfall, or float through the ancient limestone caves of Barton Creek.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Cayo
For those looking to get off the beaten path and explore the natural beauty of Cayo on foot or by bike, there are many excellent hiking and biking trails throughout the district. Some popular routes include the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve, the Cahal Pech Archaeological Reserve, and the Chiquibul National Park.
Best Things to Do in Cayo: Activities and Tours
For those seeking a more structured itinerary, there are many organized tours and activities available in Cayo. Visitors can take a horseback riding tour through the jungle, explore the Blue Hole National Park and see a beautiful natural sinkhole, or take a scenic riverboat tour down the Mopan River to the Guatemalan border.
Week-Long Itinerary for Cayo
For those with a full week to explore Cayo, we’ve put together a suggested itinerary to make the most of your trip:
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| 1 | Explore San Ignacio, visit the San Ignacio Museum |
| 2 | Visit Xunantunich Mayan ruins, climb to the top of the hill |
| 3 | Hike through the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve |
| 4 | Take a cave tubing tour in Barton Creek |
| 5 | Visit the Rio Blanco Waterfall |
| 6 | Go horseback riding through the jungle |
| 7 | Relax and take it easy, order local cuisine in San Ignacio |
Food and Drink Scene of Cayo
No trip to Cayo would be complete without exploring the local cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and beverages:
Must-Try Dishes
- Rice and beans
- Chimole (a chicken soup with a tomato and onion base)
- Tamales
- Stew chicken
Local Beverages
- Belikin beer
- Cashew wine
Where to Stay in Cayo: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
From budget-friendly hostels to luxury resorts, Cayo has accommodations to suit every taste and budget. Some popular options include the San Ignacio Resort Hotel, the Windy Hill Resort, and the Bella’s Hostel.
What to Buy in Cayo: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Looking for a unique souvenir or gift? Cayo is home to many local artisans producing high-quality handmade crafts, from pottery and textiles to traditional wooden carvings and jewelry.
Local Culture and Customs of Cayo
Belizean culture is a unique blend of different ethnicities and traditions from across the region. Visitors to Cayo can experience this vibrant culture through dance, music, and festivals throughout the year.
Best Time to Visit Cayo
The best time to visit Cayo is between December and April when the weather is dry and cool. However, travelers can visit Cayo year-round, and each season offers something unique.
Do’s and Don’ts of Cayo
To make the most out of your trip to Cayo, here are some important do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:
Do:
- Try the local cuisine and beverages
- Be respectful of local customs and traditions
- Take time to explore the natural beauty of the area
Don’t:
- Leave your belongings unattended in public places
- Ignore local customs or laws
- Swim in areas where signs indicate it’s prohibited or dangerous
Safety and Health
As with any travel destination, it’s essential to keep safety and health in mind when visiting Cayo.
Safety in Cayo
Overall, Cayo is a safe and welcoming destination for travelers. However, visitors should take standard precautions such as keeping their belongings secure and being aware of their surroundings.
Health in Cayo
It’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider before making international travel plans. Visitors to Cayo should bring insect repellant and sunscreen, stay hydrated, and be cautious of food and water contamination.
Getting to Cayo: Transportation Options and Logistics
Cayo is easily accessible from several nearby airports and bus stations.
Airports Near Cayo
- Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport in Belize City
- Maya Flats Airport in San Ignacio
Bus Stations Near Cayo
- Belize City Bus Terminal
- Santa Elena Bus Terminal in San Ignacio
Other Options
Visitors can also rent a car or hire a driver to take them to Cayo from any location in Belize.
How to Get Around in Cayo
Renting a car or hiring a driver is the most convenient way to get around Cayo. However, visitors can also take local buses or taxis to reach their desired destination.
Where to Go Next from Cayo: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
After exploring Cayo, travelers can discover other exciting destinations nearby, such as the Belize Barrier Reef or the ancient Mayan ruins of Tikal in Guatemala.
Conclusion
With its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and welcoming culture, Cayo is an unforgettable destination for any traveler looking to explore Central America. We hope this travel guide has helped you plan your adventure in Cayo and make the most out of your visit.