If you’re heading inland in Belize, San Ignacio is where the adventure really starts! It’s a whole other side to the country. Whether you are keen to explore ancient ruins and jungle caves or even wildlife encounters and local markets, these are the best things to do in San Ignacio.
If you’re heading inland in Belize, chances are you’ll find yourself in San Ignacio. This little town is basically the adventure capital of the country, with Mayan ruins, jungle caves, waterfalls, wildlife, and some pretty epic day trips nearby.
Honestly, for a small town, there’s a surprising amount of things to do in San Ignacio. You may have a hard time working out what’s actually worth your time, especially if you only have a few days.
Nevertheless, that’s where I come in. I’ve done multiple trips to Belize and have checked out the highlights in San Ignacio. I did love the islands here, but there was something special about this town that really made it a standout memory.
These things to do in San Ignacio aren’t listed in any particular order, though I’ve included my personal must-dos and tips throughout to help you decide what is actually worth adding to your itinerary.
25+ Best Things To Do In San Ignacio For Travelers


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1. Take A Day Tour To ATM Cave: A San Ignacio Must-Do
Doing a tour to the Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) Cave is no doubt the BEST thing to do in San Ignacio and my #1 choice! Though, prepare yourself because it’s not cheap, but I can confirm it’s definitely worth it, even if you’re backpacking Belize on a budget.
You’ll head out to Tapir Mountain Nature Reserve and head on a 45 minute walk with a few river crossings thrown in as well. Then, once you get to the entrance of the cave you’ll swim inside, wade through the water, and make your way deeper and deeper.
Check out my full ATM Cave tour guide!
The highlight for sure is the Mayan artifacts and the skeletal remains, including the famous Crystal Maiden. It was such a fascinating experience, and honestly I would’ve done it again the next day if I could afford it!
Belize Caving Expeditions offers a tour through GetYourGuide with over 500 positive reviews! You’ll head out with one of their guides on a full day adventure checking out the ATM cave and it’s highlights. It’ll set you back BZ$280.00 / US$140.00, so set some money aside before you come here because it’s a must-do.


2. Cahal Pech Mayan Ruins
Okay, for me, the Cahal Pech Mayan Ruins were honestly one of the most memorable Mayan Ruins I visited in Central America. And that’s including those in Guatemala, Mexico, and Honduras, which is saying something.
It’s a short walk away from the town up a little hill, and honestly it feels like a well-kept secret. I had this place nearly to myself for a couple of hours! It was one other guy and me, which honestly seems crazy, but that’s what made it so special.
I have a full guide on visiting Cahal Pech if you’re looking for a bit more detail.
The site is pretty huge, so I’d recommend spending a couple of hours here. If you can bring a packed lunch and extra drinks, so you don’t have to rush. There’s also a little museum at the entrance with artifacts worth checking out as well.


3. San Ignacio Market
Right in San Ignacio town, the San Ignacio Market is an easy one to add to your itinerary, especially if you are already staying nearby. It’s open daily, though Saturday is the main day when it really comes alive with vendors from surrounding villages also joining.
This is one of those places that gives you a decent look at everyday life in San Ignacio. You’ll find local fruit and veges, crafts, clothing, snacks, and little food stalls cooking up Belizean dishes right there.
I definitely recommend stopping by for a cheap nibble and have a little wander. It may be a bit basic comapred to caving, but it’s one the best things to do in San Ignacio if you want to experience the life here.

4. Go Cave Tubing Through Ancient Maya Caves
Okay, I love a good tubing adventure, though this takes the river tubing in Laos to a whole other level, this time it’s through caves! And with caves that means darkness, so prepare yourself.
You’ll float along an underground river in a tube, passing through limestone caverns, rock formations, stalactites, and stalagmites along the way. Honestly, it’s such a fun way to experience the region and learn a bit more about the caves here.
This is a good option if you want a cave experience that is adventurous but not quite as intense as the ATM Cave. It’s a solid pick for families, groups, or anyone who wants something a little more chill.

5. Visit The Green Iguana Conservation Project
The Green Iguana Conservation Project is one of the easiest things to do in San Ignacio, especially if you’re already planning to visit Cahal Pech since it’s located nearby at the San Ignacio Resort Hotel.
This project was started to help protect Belize’s green iguanas. During a guided tour you’ll learn about their life cycle, from incubation and hatching through to release back into the wild. It’s a pretty hands-on experience as well, so you’ll see the iguanas up close.
I stopped in here on my way to Cahal Pech and honestly had such a good time. My hostel in San Ignacio was a bit dead, so it ended up being a great way to meet a few other travelers.
Tours run hourly from 8 am to 4 pm, so it’s easy enough to fit into your day. I wouldn’t say you need to plan your whole itinerary around it, but it’s definitely worth adding if you love wildlife and have an hour to spare.
Read about my experience at the Green Iguana Conservation Project


6. Day Trip To Xunantunich
Xunantunich is one of the best and easiest day trips from San Ignacio, especially if you want to visit an impressive Maya site without spending the whole day on the road. It’s only around 12 kilometers from town, and you can get there by taxi, local bus, or as part of a guided tour.
One of the fun parts of visiting Xunantunich is the journey itself. You’ll need to cross the Mopan River on a small hand-cranked ferry before making your way up to the ruins.
Then, once you arrive, the highlight is El Castillo, the huge pyramid that towers over the site. You can climb to the top for views over the surrounding jungle and even across toward Guatemala on a clear day.
Xunantunich is usually open daily from 8 am to 5 pm, and the entrance fee is pretty affordable as well. You can explore on your own, hire a guide at the entrance, or book a guided tour from San Ignacio.

7. Make Chocolate At AJAW Chocolate & Crafts
Okay, to satisfy that sweet tooth and keep those energy levels up, check out AJAW Chocolate & Crafts in San Ignacio town. This locally owned business is run by Adrian and Elida Choco, and the chocolate-making experience gives you a hands-on look at the traditional processes used.
During the tour, you’ll learn how cacao beans are turned into chocolate and sample different chocolate drinks, similar to how cacao would have been enjoyed centuries ago. Honestly, it’s a really nice, wholesome way to learn more about the importance of cacao in Maya culture.
Tours run hourly from Monday to Saturday, cost BZ$20.00 / US$10.00, and last around an hour. It’s another easy activity to fit into your San Ignacio itinerary.
There’s also a longer cacao farm tour if you want to see more of the process, from growing and harvesting the cacao through to making the chocolate back at the workshop.
8. Visit The Belize Botanic Gardens
If you’re after something a bit more chill, the Belize Botanic Gardens are a nice nature escape from San Ignacio. Near the Macal River, the gardens are home to tropical plants, fruit trees, palms, medicinal plants, and plenty of birdlife.
You can wander through areas like the tropical fruit orchard, palm collection, and Maya Medicinal Trail, which show how different plants were traditionally used for healing and everyday life.
This is a good one to add between bigger adventure days, especially if you are into plants, birds (hell yeah!), or just want somewhere peaceful for a picnic.

9. Jungle Pontoon Waterfall Adventure
The Jungle Pontoon Waterfall Adventure is one of the more unique day trips you can do from San Ignacio, and a good option for a mix of jungle, waterfalls, swimming, and relaxing. This is one thing I missed here, and when I come back I’ll 100% be booking it!
Basically, you’ll jump on a pontoon boat and cruise along the Macal River. On the way, you’ll head deeper into the jungle, stopping at different waterfalls, tubing, and even cliff jumping if you are feeling brave. Mmmm, I will personally pass on that last one.
Most tours visit a few different waterfalls, including Sandpaper Waterfall and Rio Frio Waterfall. A Belizean BBQ lunch is also cooked onboard, which is always delicious.
It isn’t the cheapest activity in San Ignacio, costing around BZ$290.00 / US$145.00, so I would probably save this one for if you have a bit of extra room in the budget.
10. Visit The Belize Raptor Center
If you are into wildlife, the Belize Raptor Center is a cool little stop just outside of San Ignacio. This non-profit focuses on the rescue, rehabilitation, and conservation of birds of prey, so it’s a good one to add if you want to support a local project, or simply are a birdie lover like me!
During my visit, I learnt about different raptors, their role in the environment, and the challenges they face in the wild. There is an educational show where you can see some of the birds up close, which was pretty cool.
The center is open Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 1:30 pm. This isn’t a zoo, so the timings are limited, but entry is free. Just keep in mind they are a non-profit, so please try to donate to support the work they do.


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11. Go Ziplining Through The Jungle
For a bit of adrenaline, ziplining is another fun activity near San Ignacio. Instead of exploring the jungle from the ground, you’ll be flying through the rainforest canopy with views over the trees and valleys.
One of the popular places to go ziplining near San Ignacio is Calico Jack’s, which has a few different courses depending on how adventurous you’re feeling. Their longer options include multiple runs and platforms, plus extras like a cable walk, rope ladder, and rappel descent!
12. Explore The Caracol Ruins
If you’re keen to visit one of the most impressive Maya sites in Belize, Caracol is definitely the spot. Hidden deep in the Chiquibul Forest Reserve, this is the largest site in the country and was once a major political and military center.
The main highlight here is Caana, also known as the Sky Palace, which is still one of the tallest man-made structures in Belize. You can climb to the top for views over the jungle, and honestly, it’s pretty wild to think how remote and powerful this city once was.
That being said, Caracol isn’t the easiest place to visit from San Ignacio. The drive usually takes around 2.5 to 3 hours each way, and the road can be rough. This is one where I recommend booking a guided tour or going with a proper 4WD.
The tours also include stops in the Mountain Pine Ridge area, including Rio Frio Cave and Rio On Pools, helping break up the day. It’s a long one, but if you’re into Maya history and want something more adventurous than the ruins near town, Caracol is a pretty epic choice.

13. Check Out The Butterfly Farm
If you’re heading out toward Mountain Pine Ridge, Green Hills Butterfly Ranch is worth a stop. It’s the largest butterfly farm in Belize and is home to around 30 native species, including the famous Blue Morpho with its bright blue wings.
You’ll walk through the flight area and learn about the butterfly life cycle, from eggs and caterpillars through to adult butterflies. The property is also surrounded by jungle, so it’s a good spot for birdwatching. The hummingbirds here are so cool!
It’s about a 30-minute drive away from the township so you will need to take a taxi, otherwise if you have hired a car in Belize this makes a perfect stop!
14. Day Trip To Tikal
If you have an extra day, you can actually cross the border into Guatemala and do a day trip to visit Tikal from San Ignacio, one of the most impressive ancient Maya sites in Central America. For sure, it’s a big day out, but if you love ruins and are keen to tick off another country, it’s definitely worth considering.
Tours leave San Ignacio pretty early in the morning and take care of the transport, border crossing, entrance fees, and guide, which makes the whole process a lot easier. After crossing into Guatemala, it’s another 1.5 to 2 hours to reach Tikal National Park.
You’ll explore huge plazas, temples, and ancient structures hidden among the jungle. I felt this site was more touristy than those in Belize, though it’s also more grand and impressive. There’s a lot of work going on to restore the temples to their former glory.
A guided tour is definitely the way to go here, especially due to the border crossing. I have a guide on getting to Tikal from San Ignacio and recommended tours if you’re looking for more information.


15. Go On A Night Hike For Nocturnal Wildlife
If you’re keen for a bit more of a unique experience, a night hike is a fun thing to do in San Ignacio. Once the sun goes down, the rainforest comes alive with all sorts of nocturnal creatures you can’t spot during the day.
You can book the Critters of the Night tour at San Ignacio Resort Hotel, which takes you through the jungle in search of wildlife like tarantulas, snakes, frogs, and other creepy crawlies. I know, not everyone’s cup of tea, but you don’t have to get too close!
Black Rock Lodge also offers guided night hikes through the Belizean rainforest, where your guide will help point out animals along the trails.
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16. Eat And Drink Around San Ignacio
One of the easiest ways to experience San Ignacio is simply by eating your way around town. Start at San Ignacio Market, where you’ll find cheap local eats like pupusas, panades, salbutes, fry jacks (a popular Belizean breakfast staple), and fresh juice.
In the evening, wander around Burns Avenue for casual food spots and a few places to grab a drink. You’ll find a fun nighttime vibe here, and I found it a great way to meet other travelers.
For something a little more polished, the Lobby Bar at San Ignacio Resort Hotel is a good option for cocktails in a quieter, air-conditioned setting after a big day of exploring.
Check out my recommendations for where to eat in San Ignacio


17. Explore Barton Creek Cave
If you want to experience one of Belize’s caves without doing anything too crazy and intense, Barton Creek Cave is a great option. Instead of swimming, climbing, or squeezing through narrow spaces, you’ll explore this cave by canoe.
As you paddle through the cave by headlamp, you’ll pass limestone formations, underground chambers, and areas that were once used by the Maya.
Barton Creek Cave tours are half-day trips from San Ignacio and include transport, a guide, a canoe, and safety gear. It’s a good pick for families and anyone who wants a more chill adventure.


18. Check Out Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve
If you’re keen on a fun day out with waterfalls, swimming holes, caves, and a change of scenery from the town, Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve is one of the best day trips. It’s quite different from the rest of Belize, with pine forest, cool air, and rocky rivers.
The main highlights are Rio On Pools and Rio Frio Cave. Rio On Pools are natural swimming holes formed by the river flowing over smooth granite rocks. Rio Frio Cave is another easy stop, with a huge cave entrance, impressive formations, and a river running through it.
You can also visit a couple different waterfalls in the area, such as Big Rock Falls and Thousand Foot Falls.
Mountain Pine Ridge is around 1.5 to 2 hours from San Ignacio, depending on the state of the roads, which aren’t always the best. You’ll need a 4WD for the journey, though I recommend booking a guided tour and doing it as one big day trip.

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San Ignacio Travel Tips
Now you know the best things to do in San Ignacio, here are a few extra little tips so you can have a stress-free time. This is one of Belize’s main adventure hubs, so it’s definitely worth thinking about transport, tours, and where you want to stay before you arrive!
Read my 1 week in Belize itinerary!
- Book ATM Cave in advance: You can only visit with a licensed guide, so this is one activity you do need to organize ahead of time.
- Bring cash: Smaller markets, local buses, food stalls, and some taxis may not accept cards.
- Plan your big days carefully: Activities like Caracol, Tikal, and Mountain Pine Ridge can be long days, so don’t pack too much in.
- Stay near town if you don’t have a car: This makes it easier to walk to restaurants, the market, tour offices, and bus stops.
- Pack for adventure: Good shoes, insect repellent, sunscreen, swimwear, and quick-dry clothes will make a massive difference.
How To Get To San Ignacio
San Ignacio is in western Belize, close to the Guatemala border. Most travelers arrive from Belize City, the islands, Mexico, or Flores over in Guatemala.
If you’re flying into Belize, you’ll arrive at Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport near Belize City. From there, the drive to San Ignacio from Belize City takes around 2 hours via the George Price Highway. You can book a shuttle, rent a car, or take a taxi if you want everything taken care of.
For budget travelers, public buses also run between Belize City and San Ignacio. They’re much cheaper than shuttles, though slower and less comfortable.
You can also reach San Ignacio from Mexico by traveling via Chetumal or Bacalar, connecting through Belize City before continuing west. From Guatemala, shuttles run between Flores and San Ignacio, making it a super easy journey.

Where To Stay In San Ignacio
If you want to make the most of San Ignacio without hiring a car, I recommend staying close to town. This makes it easy to walk to the market, restaurants, tour offices, and bus stops.
I have a full hostel guide for San Ignacio if you want to check out my top choices.
For backpackers, Bella’s Backpackers is a popular option, and this is where I stayed. It was actually pretty quiet when I visited, to the point where I had an entire dorm room to myself. At least in the evenings people would come together in the kitchen to cook and hang out.
Another budget option is The Old House Hostel, which is also located close to town and has dorm rooms and a shared kitchen. I heard it was a lot more social here if you’re looking to meet people.
San Ignacio also has guesthouses, jungle lodges, and more comfortable hotels if you want something a little less budget backpacker. Just keep in mind that staying further out can be beautiful, but can make getting around difficult.
A chill family-style hostel in the center of town. Dorms start at $12.00 per night. BOOK NOW |
The most popular hostel in the town. Dorm rooms start from $12.00 per night. BOOK NOW |
Another lovely hostel in a great central location. Dorms here start for around $12.00 per night. BOOK NOW |
A beautiful countryside farm stay for a unique experience. Private rooms here start at $60.00 per night. BOOK NOW |


FAQs about San Ignacio
Is San Ignacio Belize worth visiting?
Yes, San Ignacio is definitely worth visiting, especially if you want to see a different side of Belize beyond the beaches. You’ll find Maya ruins, jungle caves, wildlife, markets, and some of the best adventure activities in the country.
How many days should you spend in San Ignacio Belize?
I recommend spending 3 to 4 days in San Ignacio if you can. This will give you enough time to do one big adventure like ATM Cave or cave tubing, visit nearby ruins such as Xunantunich, and still have time to relax a bit and enjoy small town life.
Is it safe to walk around San Ignacio Belize?
Yes, San Ignacio is generally safe to walk around, especially during the day and around the main town area. As with anywhere, just use common sense: watch your belongings, avoid poorly lit streets at night, and take a taxi if you’re unsure.

Wrap Up: Best Things To Do In San Ignacio
San Ignacio is for sure one of the best places for a mix of history, adventure, nature, and local culture, and is well worth adding to your Belize itinerary. From ruins and jungle caves to waterfalls, wildlife, markets, and day trips, there is a lot more to this little town than you might expect.
Hopefully, this guide has helped you narrow down the best things to do in San Ignacio, so you can plan your time properly and make the most of your visit. I know I had a great time as a solo female traveler in Belize and thoroughly enjoyed this pretty quaint town.
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Photo credit: “Belize-1145” (CC BY 2.0) by Dennis Jarvis. “Caracol” (CC BY 2.0) by John Wilson. “Tubing, Belize” (CC BY 2.0) by Samantha Beddoes.
