Why San Ignacio makes a good base for Belize day trips

November 3, 2026
by Belize Hub +

For travelers who want to see as much of Belize as possible without packing and unpacking, San Ignacio is emerging as the ideal home base. The Cayo District town sits within easy reach of ancient Maya sites, caves, rivers, waterfalls and even neighboring Guatemala, and San Ignacio Resort Hotel puts guests right in the middle of it all.

Located in town yet surrounded by jungle, the resort lives up to its tagline as “the only jungle in town.” It was recently named Belize’s Leading Hotel 2026 at the World Travel Awards, its fifth consecutive win, in the same year it celebrates its 50th anniversary.

Ancient Maya sites in every direction

Xunantunich is about 15 minutes from town, reached by a hand cranked ferry across the Mopan River. Cahal Pech sits on the edge of San Ignacio, while Caracol, Belize’s largest ancient Maya city, makes for a full day trip into the Chiquibul Forest. Tikal in Guatemala is also within reach, making a two country vacation easy.

Caves, rivers and waterfalls

The famous ATM cave, Actun Tunichil Muknal, is one of the most popular day trips from San Ignacio. Visitors can also explore the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve, home to Big Rock Falls and the Rio On Pools, or paddle and tube along the Macal and Mopan Rivers.

Expert guides on hand

San Ignacio Resort Hotel arranges tours with experienced local guides, including Carlos for Caracol, Renan for the ATM cave and Santos for Xunantunich, so guests can head out each morning with someone who knows the sites well.

Adventure right on property

Guests don’t have to leave the resort for a memorable experience. The Green Iguana Conservation Project, the Medicinal Jungle Trail, the Creatures of the Night Walk and bird watching all take place on the property.

Come back to comfort

After a day of exploring, guests can unwind with massage and spa services and dinner at the award winning Running W Restaurant, then rest up for the next adventure.

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Getting there

San Ignacio is easier to reach than ever. WestJet serves Belize from Toronto and Calgary and launches a weekly nonstop from Winnipeg on December 14, 2026. Discover Airlines will begin Frankfurt service in December 2027.

To book a stay or arrange day trips, call +501 824 2034 or visit www.sanignaciohotel.com.