With the mantra: the “west is the best” the inhabitants of the Cayo District have a lot to brag about. It’s about dense jungles, Mayan ruins, amazing cave systems that you can explore for days and some of the most breathtaking waterfalls in Belize. This is truly where most of the country’s “action” takes place. Visitors can zipline over top the lush jungles, take a tube through the caves, swim in the many “pools” dotting the landscape or explore on foot—or horseback if you so choose.
The true center of the Cayo District, San Ignacio offers a ton to do and serves as a great base for the many adventures that tourist love to go on. With its affordability and lively Mayan and Garifunan culture, it really is a wonderful region to explore. One of the oldest Mayan sites, Cahal Pech is located just outside of the town, and you can also visit the House of Culture for an immersion into the art and culture of the region.
Accessible only by guided tour via canoe, the trip through Barton Creek Cave is truly one you cannot miss if staying in the Cayo District. Visitors have spotted everything from limestone formations, to skulls, to ancient pottery pieces—remnants of the Mayan era.
Just outside of Augustine Village, visitors come across this gorgeous spot. Through a series of ledges and rocks, the river spills over and thus creates a number of waterfalls as well as small pools. It makes for an amazing day as you experience a natural water slide and relax in the overlooking picnic area.
The winter season in Cayo District and Western Belize is generally warm and dry, with temperatures ranging from the 60s to 80s Fahrenheit. It's a popular time to visit this region as it offers pleasant weather for outdoor activities. Winter is an excellent time to explore the ancient Mayan ruins at Xunantunich and Caracol, surrounded by lush jungle. Visitors can also enjoy cave tubing along the underground river systems or go birdwatching in the diverse ecosystems of the region.
Spring in Cayo District and Western Belize brings slightly warmer temperatures, with highs in the 70s to 80s Fahrenheit. The landscape is lush and green due to the previous winter's rains. Spring is an ideal time for outdoor adventures like hiking in the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve and canoeing along the Macal River. Visitors can also immerse themselves in the local culture by attending the San Ignacio Agriculture and Trade Show.
The summer season in Cayo District and Western Belize is hot and can be humid, with temperatures in the 80s to 90s Fahrenheit. Despite the heat, this season attracts tourists who want to experience the lively festivals and events held in the area. Summer offers opportunities for exploring the natural wonders of the Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) cave and Barton Creek Cave. Visitors can also enjoy traditional celebrations during the Costa Maya Festival in San Pedro Columbia.
Fall in Cayo District and Western Belize is a transitional period, with temperatures ranging from the 70s to 80s Fahrenheit. The weather is generally pleasant with occasional rains, contributing to the lush greenery of the landscape. Fall is an excellent time for wildlife spotting in the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary and visiting the ancient ruins of Cahal Pech. It's also a time for local celebrations, such as Belize's Independence Day on September 21st, which includes parades and cultural events.