Exploring Cayo District: Mayan Ruins and Jungle Waterfalls on a Budget
A muddy four-wheel drive bumps down the forest tracks of western Belize , carrying you toward stone pyramids that rise higher than the surrounding canopy while spider monkeys chatter overhead. You can easily spend your mornings staring at ancient plazas and your afternoons swimming in limestone pools without spending a fortune. Best Budget Day Trips # If you are watching your wallet while exploring the western side of the country, you will find that the pricing tiers cluster tightly together, meaning you get extensive full-day itineraries without massive price jumps. When you want to combine archaeology with water activities, the San Ignacio Caracol Rio Frio Cave and Big Rock Falls Tour costs $119 USD and pairs the massive expanse of ancient plazas with cool cave systems and swimming spots. For the exact same price of $119 USD, the Explore Caracol Belizes Largest Maya Site and Rio on Pools focuses heavily on the archaeological complex itself while trading the cave walk for time at the natural rock pools. If you prefer deep jungle ruins and want to skip cave exploration entirely, go for the Rio on Pools option; if you want a diverse mix of underground geology and cascading water, pick the Rio Frio and Big Rock combination. For a practical tip, always pack a change of dry clothes in a waterproof bag because the humidity and jungle mist will soak through your daypack long before you reach the swimming areas.