Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
5
Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary
You'd be lucky to see any of the jaguars that
roam the jungles here, but the wilderness trails
are exhilarating in their own right.
See p.193
6
Placencia
This relaxed and very likeable
resort boasts the finest beaches on mainland
Belize.
See p.196
7
Lubaantun
The most impressive ancient site
in southern Belize is the supposed home of the
legendary Crystal Skull.
See p.213
8
Maya villages
Many of the remote
settlements where the Maya of rural Toledo still
live now welcome overnight visitors.
See p.220
9
Punta Gorda
This sleepy port, served by
regular boats to and from Guatemala and
Honduras, boasts a vibrant market.
See p.204
THE WILD, WONDERFUL WEST
Allow a week to explore the rivers and rainforests
of western Belize, and you'll have time to visit
remarkable ancient sites and sample Cayo
District's renowned jungle eco-lodges.
1
Caves Branch
To experience the natural
splendour of the rainforest, spend a night or two
at the riverside
Caves Branch Lodge
, or simply
join one of its tours.
See p.125
2
AT M
Wherever in Cayo you're staying, it's easy
to arrange an adventurous day-trip to this
extraordinary subterranean Maya site.
See p.125
3
Mountain Ridge Pine Forest Reserve
Home to luxurious eco-lodges, this vast wild
area is a wonderland of rivers, mountains and
waterfalls.
See p.131
4
Caracol
Standing atop the multi-tier temple
of Caana, looking out over the endless jungle, is
an unforgettable experience.
See p.135
5
San Ignacio
Bursting with hotels, restaurants
and activity operators, this lively little town makes
the perfect base in western Cayo.
See p.137
6
Macal River
Along the banks of this remote
river lie rainforest lodges, fascinating nature trails
and botanical gardens.
See p.146
7
Xunantunich
Reached via a hand-winched
ferry across the Mopan River, this exquisite Maya
site holds some amazing carved friezes.
See p.147
8
Tikal
Don't miss the chance to cross the border
into Guatemala - even if it's just for a day - to see
the magnificent Maya city of Tikal.
See p.160
9
Flores
It's well worth spending an extra night
or two in Guatemala to visit this delightful little
lakefront colonial town.
See p.168
MEXICO
8
MEXICO
2
3
7
6
4
CARIBBEAN
1
SEA
5
8
2
1
5
7
6
3
2
9
1
4
3
4
5
GUATEMALA
6
7
8
THE BARRIER REEF AND CAYES
BEACHES AND WILDLIFE OF SOUTHERN BELIZE
THE WILD, WONDERFUL WEST
9
GULF OF
HONDURAS
