San Ignacio Travel Guide
Archaeology, wildlife and adventure.
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Known locally as ‘Cayo’, San Ignacio is undoubtedly the capital of tourism in mainland Belize. Teeming with Guatemala-bound travellers, archaeologists, Peace Corps workers, North American retirees and thrill seekers, San Ignacio is a unique blend of America's Old West and tropical backwater with frontier-like wooden shops on narrow streets.
The area around San Ignacio is teeming with attractions and activities, from archaeological Xunantunich to adrenaline-pumping whitewater rafting on the Macal River; and sometimes a combination of the two – such a a visit to the cave of Actun Tunichil Muknal. The focus is undoubtedly on the outdoors, and the only time you will be inside during the day is when visiting one of the many caves!
San Ignacio is a town in the west of the nation of Belize; it is the capital of Belize's Cayo District. The whole town is geared to servicing visitors, with surprisingly good and varied restaurants, late-night drinking dens, and a plethora of agencies offering tours to all the surrounding highlights. And yet it still maintains its uniquely Belizean laid-back atmosphere.
San Ignacio is on the banks of the Macal River, a branch of the Belize River, about 72 miles (115 kilometres) west of Belize City and 22 miles (35 km) from Belmopan. San Ignacio was heavily reliant on river transportation prior to the construction of the highway, and gained its importance from being at the confluence of the Macal and Mopan rivers.
The population is largely Maya Indian and Mestizo, with some Lebanese. San Ignacio also boasts a fairly large Chinese population, most of whom emigrated from Guangzhou in waves in the mid-20th century.
Attractions in San Ignacio
San Ignacio has something for everyone and is a veritable Paradise for outdoors lovers, naturalists and archaeologists.
There are a number of Mayan sites in the area, both urban centres – Xunantunich, Cahal Pech, Pacbitun and El Pilar – and ceremonial sites in caves, such as Actun Tunichil Muknal. They are all set in stunning landscapes, which are a highlight in themselves.
San Ignacio is also the gateway for all the natural and archaeological delights found in the Maya Mountains, to the South of the town.
Activities in San Ignacio
For white water enthusiasts, the Macal and Sibun rivers offer world class rafting and kayaking; for those who like their aquatic pleasures more sedate, there are more laidback canoeing and inner-tubing opportunities, sometimes with the added bonus of being in a cave.
San Ignacio is also a great place to go horse-riding, with plenty of outfitters offering trips, and bicycles can easily be rented.
Relaxing
A picnic overlooking San Ignacio and the surrounding valley at Cahal Pech.
Getting Around
San Ignacio can easily be negotiated on foot. Otherwise, taxis are a very economic option.
San Ignacio is a stop on the Western Highway between Belize City and Guatemala.
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