Welcome to Western Belize
where adventure meets culture and nature thrives!
Discover San Ignacio and Santa Elena; the vibrant heart of Western Belize. Located in the Cayo District, San Ignacio Town is known for its warm hospitality, rich culture, excellent accommodations, delicious cuisine, and access to some of the best adventure tours in Belize. Together with Santa Elena, it forms the largest urban area in Belize, offering endless opportunities for exploration.
Getting Here
San Ignacio is easily accessible and perfectly located for exploring Western Belize and nearby Guatemala. Connected by three bridges and the well-traveled George Price Highway (Western Highway), the town serves as the ideal base for Tikal tours and other adventures across the Belize–Guatemala border.
Only a scenic 2.5-hour drive from Philip Goldson International Airport, San Ignacio welcomes visitors with seamless travel routes. The new Loma Luz Boulevard Bridge further enhances connectivity between Santa Elena and San Ignacio.
Flowing through the Cayo District, the Mopan River meets the Macal River at the beautiful Branch Mouth, a popular swimming spot. Nearby, the hand-cranked ferry at Xunantunich Archaeological Site provides access to iconic Maya ruins and offers jumping-off points for river tubing, swimming, and canoeing activities.
Accommodation in the Area
Places to Stay in San Ignacio
San Ignacio offers excellent accommodation options for every type of traveler. Two of the most popular places to stay include:
San Ignacio Resort Hotel
A top-rated luxury hotel in San Ignacio, offering modern amenities, jungle views, on-site dining, and convenient access to Belize’s major nature and adventure tours.
Bella’s Hotel
A budget-friendly hostel in San Ignacio, ideal for backpackers and travelers seeking affordable accommodations close to town attractions and restaurants.
Things To Do
Done with Belize Nature Travel
San Ignacio offers a wide range of adventures and cultural experiences for every type of traveler. Some of the most popular tours and activities:
Cahal Pech Archaeological Site
Explore ancient Maya ruins overlooking the Macal River and learn about Belize’s rich cultural heritage.
ATM Cave (Actun Tunichil Muknal)
Embark on an adventurous trek through Belize’s famous cave system, discovering archaeological treasures hidden within.
Clarissa Falls Riverside Retreat
Relax and enjoy the natural beauty of cascading waterfalls, perfect for swimming and nature photography.
