Make a Big Splash by Visiting Rio on Pools

December 10, 2024
by Belize Hub +

A trip to Belize can be an exciting adventure: dive, sail, tour ancient Mayan ruins and partake of the cultural vibe that fans across the nation like a finely prepared ethnic stew of art, music, history and fun. But sometimes, travelers need to slow down and smell the roses! Okay. So you won’t find roses growing around Belize’s Rio on Pools, but if you set aside a day to do nothing but visit this relaxing place with a picnic lunch, swimsuit and towel, you might discover that this modest outing turns out to be your favorite Belize memory.

Rio on Pools

Imagine stumbling into a huge pine forest within a land known for its palm trees and exotic flowers. That’s what you can expect on your way to an idyllic enclave of naturally-formed swimming pools fed by dramatic waterfalls hidden within this forest of evergreen trees. Visit Rio on Pools to indulge your inner spirit in an atmosphere of water, water everywhere, including streams that feed this aquatic oasis. If you long for a place to sun, splash, frolic and relax, this destination belongs near the top of your Belize itinerary.

Why you should visit

The primary reason to visit is to grab a respite from your on-the-go schedule! You conquered the Big Blue Hole and tested your scuba diving prowess along Belize’s barrier reef; perhaps you visited enough Ambergris Caye hot spots to satisfy your inner party animal. Find tranquility at Rio on Pools and indulge all of your senses. Start by standing on the riverbank overlooking Rio on Pools before reaching your destination. The sound of water falling from great heights alone will quiet your racing pulse, and this Belize paradise is a photographer’s dream.

Where Rio on Pools is located

This diverse natural area is located in Cayo amid the evergreen trees and granite rock of Mountain Pine Ridge. Drive here yourself or book a tour via your resort concierge and let your tour guide handle logistics.

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When is the best time to visit?

Expect a grand time splashing in the pools, zipping over granite boulders and experiencing area waterfalls year-round. You’re going to stay perpetually wet anyway, so rain showers won’t spoil your fun. That stated, you could encounter muddy roads, so if you’re not a skilled driver, making this trip in a downpours could offer more adventure than you bargained for! Dare we again mention the wisdom of taking a guided tour?

How to get to Rio on Pools

Whether your only goal is to visit Rio on Pools or you’re combining it with a stop at Caracol Mayan ruins, take the main road to the Mountain Pine Ridge Reserve and you’ll encounter a parking lot and picnic site. If you reach Augustine Village, you’ve gone too far. Turn around, park and take a short hike to the pools.

Best way to experience Rio on Pools

Ideally, make this your relaxation destination rather than just one more stop on your long list of “things to do in Belize.” Perch atop the oldest rocks in the nation to take in surrounding pine trees that smell fresh and sweet. Turn rocks into natural water slides as you explore the periphery of as many pools as time allows. Bring a dry shirt so you don’t get chilled at this higher elevation. If you can’t recharge your batteries after one visit here, keep coming back until you find your bliss.