Top 17 Things to Do in San Ignacio Belize for First Timers
I recently took a 10 day girl’s trip to Belize with time split between the island town of San Pedro and the jungle of San Ignacio. This was a great way to see the diversity of the country.
San Ignacio is incredible if you’re into adventure and history. The must-do is the ATM Cave tour—it’s an underground trek where you swim, hike, and see ancient Mayan artifacts. It was a huge highlight of my trip.
Another top choice is a day trip to Tikal in Guatemala, where you’ll explore massive Mayan ruins and take in amazing jungle views from the top of the temples.
For some thrill, try ziplining over the jungle canopy or go river tubing, which is super relaxing with a bit of excitement from a small waterfall at the end.
And if you’re up for an early start, bird-watching is fantastic—you’ll likely spot toucans and other exotic birds.
San Ignacio is a great hub to explore Belize’s jungle area, with a ton of adventure and nature activities. Keep reading for a full list of the best things to do in San Ignacio and other travel tips for visiting.
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1. ATM (Actun Tunichil Muknal) Cave Tour
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
✅ Thrilling adventure
✅ Cultural discovery
✅ Can only be done in Belize
Exploring the Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) caves was the highlight of my trip to Belize. The tour took us through miles of underground caves, where we swam, climbed, and hiked through stunning natural formations.
But it was the unique experience that made it unforgettable—towards the end of the tour, our guide had us turn off our headlamps, and we navigated part of the cave in complete darkness, holding onto the person in front of us. It was the most intense darkness I’ve ever experienced.
At the end of the cave, we reached a chamber filled with preserved Mayan artifacts, including skeletal remains, offering a powerful glimpse into ancient Mayan rituals.
If you’re only doing one thing in San Ignacio, the ATM cave tour is a must! This adventure is only accessible with a guide, so be sure to book with a reputable tour company.
Note: The caves are about an hour from San Ignacio, and the tour will take most of the day.
2. Tikal Ruins Day Trip
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
✅ See Guatemala
✅ Learn about Mayan culture
✅ Climb temples for panoramic views
Another can’t-miss experience in San Ignacio is a day trip to the Tikal ruins in Guatemala. While there are several ruins to explore nearby, Tikal’s expansive grounds, covering hundreds of acres, make it a standout destination.
The highlight for me was the 360-degree view from the final temple we visited—an incredible panorama of the jungle canopy with temple tops popping up as far as you can see.
Though located in Guatemala, Tikal is just around two hours from San Ignacio, making it a manageable day trip. I’d highly recommend taking a guided tour for both the added historical insight and the seamless logistics of getting to and from Belize.
3. Ziplining
For a bit of adrenaline paired with unforgettable views, ziplining through Belize’s lush jungles is a fantastic choice.
I’ve tried ziplining in other places, like Costa Rica and Mexico, and while the experience is fairly similar, Belize’s dense forests and river views make the scenery here truly memorable.
Most zipline tours take about half a day and are a great way to add a dose of adventure to your day.
Some tours even include cave tubing along with ziplining, allowing you to explore the jungle from above and below.
4. River Floating
If you enjoy a relaxing float, river tubing in San Ignacio offers a peaceful yet exciting way to take in the jungle scenery.
Our hotel, Black Rock Lodge, offered a complimentary 30-minute float with gentle rapids and stretches of calm water. The experience wrapped up with an optional float over a small waterfall, which was a fun thrill to end the journey.
Floating down the river with sheer rock cliffs and the lush jungle all around provided a unique perspective on Belize’s natural beauty.
5. Bird Watching
An early morning bird-watching tour at Black Rock Lodge was the perfect way to experience Belize’s incredible wildlife. We spotted multiple species of toucans and other beautiful birds I’d never seen before.
I was honestly skeptical of bird watching, but the calm of the early hours and the vibrant colors of the birds created an unforgettable start to the day. Bird watching was actually the highlight of some of my friend’s entire trip.
Other Top Activities in San Ignacio Belize
I highly recommend the above things to do in San Ignacio. But since I was only in San Ignacio for 4 nights of my recent trip, I obviously couldn’t do everything.
Below are some of the other most popular things to do. I can’t personally speak to my experience but these activities come highly recommended.
Here’s the list with the numbering in order:
6. Xunantunich Mayan Ruins
Just a short drive from San Ignacio, Xunantunich is a fantastic alternative to Tikal for those who prefer a less crowded, closer option. Visitors can climb “El Castillo,” the main pyramid, for panoramic views over the jungle and into Guatemala. The site is smaller than Tikal, making it easier to explore in a few hours, and offers a more intimate experience with Belize’s ancient history.
7. Cahal Pech Mayan Ruins
Another remarkable Mayan site near San Ignacio, Cahal Pech is smaller and more accessible, making it perfect for those who want to explore ruins without spending a full day. The site features intricate plazas, temples, and a small museum on Mayan history, giving a quieter yet enriching glimpse into the ancient civilization.
8. Barton Creek Cave Canoeing and Tubing
Located about 45 minutes from San Ignacio, Barton Creek Cave offers a serene adventure for those interested in both history and natural beauty. The tour itself isn’t strenuous but involves paddling or floating on an inner tube as you make your way through a limestone cave system with stunning rock formations and ancient Mayan artifacts. It’s a peaceful yet fascinating experience and a unique way to explore Belize’s underground landscape.
9. Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve
Spend a day exploring the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve, a unique landscape filled with pine forests, waterfalls, and swimming holes. Popular stops include Rio Frio Cave and Rio On Pools, where you can swim or relax by cascading pools. The contrast of pine forests against the tropical jungle gives this area a distinct feel within Belize.
10. Chocolate-Making Tour
Belize is known for its cacao, and several local companies offer chocolate-making tours where you can learn about the traditional process, taste fresh cacao, and even make your own chocolate. It’s a tasty way to dive into Belizean culture and learn about the ancient origins of cacao in the Mayan world.
11. Butterfly Farm Tour
Belize is home to hundreds of butterfly species, and local butterfly farms allow visitors to see these beautiful creatures up close. It’s an excellent choice for families or anyone interested in Belize’s unique biodiversity, providing a colorful, peaceful experience in the jungle.
12. Horseback Riding in the Jungle
Several companies near San Ignacio offer horseback riding tours that take you through lush jungle trails, along rivers, and even to hidden ruins. It’s a relaxing way to experience the landscape and spot wildlife while exploring some of Belize’s lesser-known paths.
13. Green Iguana Conservation Project
Visit the San Ignacio Resort Hotel to learn about the Green Iguana Conservation Project, dedicated to protecting Belize’s endangered iguana population. This interactive experience allows visitors to learn about these remarkable reptiles while directly supporting their conservation.
14. Cooking Class with Local Ingredients
Join a cooking class that focuses on traditional Belizean cuisine. Local chefs guide you through the preparation of popular Belizean dishes using fresh, local ingredients, making it a memorable (and delicious) way to connect with the culture.
15. Caves Branch River Cave Expedition
This adventurous cave tubing tour takes you deep into an ancient Mayan cave via an underground river. You’ll float through caves lined with impressive rock formations and see Mayan artifacts left behind centuries ago, creating a thrilling blend of history and nature.
16. Belize Botanic Gardens
Located just outside San Ignacio, the Belize Botanic Gardens feature beautiful trails, vibrant tropical plants, and guided tours. It’s an excellent choice for a peaceful activity, with plenty to explore for nature lovers and families alike.
17. San Ignacio Market
The San Ignacio Market is a lively hub that comes alive every Saturday with local vendors selling fresh produce, handmade crafts, and traditional Belizean foods. This bustling market is a great spot to immerse yourself in the local culture, sample authentic foods, and find unique souvenirs crafted by local artisans.
Where to Stay in San Ignacio Belize
Black Rock Lodge
Staying at Black Rock Lodge was one of the highlights of our trip. About 30 minutes from San Ignacio, this eco-lodge is right on the river, surrounded by lush jungle.
It’s perfect for anyone who wants to wake up to nature, and there’s plenty to do on-site, from river tubing and bird watching to hiking.
The lodge has standalone cabins instead of typical hotel rooms, each with a big bedroom, private bathroom, and balcony overlooking the river or jungle. Every morning, we’d hear howler monkeys nearby; before we knew what it was, we joked it sounded like a dinosaur!
The lodge’s service and food were outstanding. From day one, the staff greeted us by name and took every request seriously, always saying “it’s possible” with a smile. They really went above and beyond, and it made our stay extra special.
And the food—so good! Everything is fresh and grown right on the property. Dinner is a delicious three-course meal, and the pasta dishes were especially amazing.
Black Rock also has a few added perks, like an infinity pool, a small spa, and a yoga area for relaxing. If you’re looking for a unique stay in San Ignacio with amazing views and great hospitality, Black Rock Lodge is an unforgettable choice.
Check rates and availability at Black Rock
The Lodge at Chaa Creek
The Lodge at Chaa Creek is an award-winning eco-lodge nestled on a 400-acre private rainforest reserve along the Macal River. Known for blending luxury with environmental sustainability, Chaa Creek offers beautifully designed accommodations with views of the surrounding jungle.
Guests can enjoy a range of activities, including guided nature walks, canoeing, and wildlife spotting right on the property. The lodge also features a spa, infinity pool, and farm-to-table dining, making it an ideal choice for those seeking both adventure and relaxation.
San Ignacio Resort Hotel
Located just outside the center of San Ignacio, this family-owned boutique hotel sits on a 17-acre estate that combines luxury with a warm, personal touch. The San Ignacio Resort Hotel offers upscale rooms and suites with hillside, garden, and rainforest views.
It’s known for its excellent on-site restaurant and for hosting the Green Iguana Conservation Project, where guests can learn about and interact with Belize’s endangered iguanas. With its convenient location and unique wildlife experience, it’s perfect for those looking for luxury close to town while still feeling immersed in nature.
What to Wear in San Ignacio
Athletic Clothing: When exploring San Ignacio, you’ll want to dress for adventure. Lightweight athletic clothing is ideal for hiking, ziplining, and caving, as it’s breathable and comfortable for active days.
Bug Protection: Bug protection is a must—opt for long sleeves and pants whenever possible, and don’t forget insect repellent, especially if you’re exploring the jungle or near water.
Rain Wear: A rain jacket is also essential, as tropical showers can pop up quickly. Look for a lightweight, packable option that you can easily carry with you.
Shoes: Sturdy shoes, like hiking sandals or waterproof sneakers, will keep you comfortable and safe on rough trails and wet surfaces.
One Week Belize Itinerary
These activities in San Ignacio are very complimentary to a beach getaway in San Pedro, giving you the best of Belize’s jungle and coastal experiences.
After relaxing on the white sand beaches, snorkeling in Hol Chan, and exploring Secret Beach, you can head to San Ignacio for a totally different adventure—think caving at ATM, touring Mayan ruins, and ziplining through lush jungles.
This combination lets you enjoy both sides of Belize: the vibrant, colorful reefs and the rich history and wildlife inland.
If you want a full itinerary that seamlessly combines both, check out my 10-day Belize itinerary. It splits time between San Pedro and San Ignacio, giving you a balanced Belizean adventure!
Related Posts:
- Epic 10-Day Belize Travel Itinerary: Beach & Jungle
- 11 Best Things to Do in San Pedro Belize on Vacation
- 270 Epic Belize Instagram Captions for Your Vacation Photos
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