Best Hikes in Belize

When you think of Belize, you generally think of paradisical islands, seafood, glorious sunsets and cocktails, however the country has a number of different activities on offer. Hiking in Belize, allows travellers to the country to take in the full natural prowess of this central American destination, from the Caribbean Sea, to the crystal caves, to lush, tropical jungles. Here are a host of hikes, from nature walks in the national parks to high-peak climbs.  

Belize jungle

Maya Mountains Black Hole Drop 

Adventurous travellers will already have this on their list if they are looking for a Belizean adventure. The Black Hole Drop excursion into Actun Loch Tunich at Ian Anderson's Caves, involves a hike up the Maya Mountains to the cave mouth, before rappelling down a 90-metre drop, into the cave below. Explore the impressive rock formations and the spectrum of light and colours that reflect off the walls of the cave's walls before hiking back into the lush jungle, where you began.  

Mayan Mountains

Victoria Peak Climb 

Climbing Victoria Peak, Belize's highest mountain at 1120 metres elevation, is not as easy as it first sounds!  Reaching the summit requires carrying all of your equipment and an overnight camp, but you will be rewarded with astonishing views once you reach the peak, the perfect reward for this challenging climb! 

Victoria Peak

Crystal Cave Hike 

The Blue Hole National Park is abundant with beautiful forests and clear blue waters, to explore. The Crystal Cave Tour hikes through the tropical forest before exploring the gorgeous Crystalline Cave, deep in the jungle. You will notice that the caves are the real deal in Belize and well worth the effort to explore, especially when the interior looks like a crystal ball! Go with a guide to make the most out of this trip as rappelling is involved, as well as more technical aspects of climbing. They also offer incredible insight into understand a local culture. 

Cristal caves 

Cockscomb Basin 

 One of Belize's nature parks, is the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary and Jaguar Reserve is a fantastic place for travellers to explore on a self-guided hike through this impressive wilderness on Ambergris Caye. The self-guided nature walk is for intrepid explorers of all fitness levels, and takes about an hour, on a walk through the rivers and cacao trees of the Belizean wilderness. Cockscomb Basin is a must-visit destination for the adventurous traveller looking to escape from the beaches of Belize and be at one with nature. 

cockscomb National park

Guanacaste National Park Nature Trails 

There are many national parks in Belize, all blessed with impressive hiking trails. Head to Guanacaste National Park in the Cayo District of Western Belize and enjoy 3.5 km of well-defined nature trails for hikers to follow. The trails are not too difficult and the hikes are great for adventurous families, visiting Belize. 

Guanacaste Nature trail

Ben's Bluff Trail 

The Ben's Bluff Trail is an intermediate hike through the reserve. The four-kilometre trek takes you through Cockscomb Basin Reserve and is open to adventurers all year-round. Check out the stunning wildflowers and tropical forests on this hike through great Belizean outdoors. 

Ben Bluff trail

Monkey River Loop 

The Monkey River Loop is an off the beaten track, 1 km hike that will take you into a remote region of the jungle. You will probably have the trail to yourself, to enjoy the serenity of the forest. If you are lucky, you can spot manatees swimming in Monkey River. Belize is one of the lowest-inhabited countries in the world, so you're likely to enjoy blissful solitude on many of these amazing treks. 

Monkey River Loop 

Panti Medicinal Trail 

The Panti Medicinal Trail is one of the main tourist attractions in Cayo, Belize, located in The Don Elijo National Park. The Park is named after the noted Maya Shaman Elijio Panti, and where visitors can walk along the path through many medicinal plants and herbs. Visitors will pay a $5 dollar fee for a self-guided walk, but it is better to splash out on a professional guide who can explain all about the plants and their medicinal properties.  

Panti jungle trail

Tiger Fern Trail 

The Tiger Fern Trail, is also located in the Cockscomb Basin  on Ambergris Caye and can  be found near Quam Bank, in Stann Creek. The 4.3-kilometre trek is popular so expect some light human traffic on your hike. It is also an uphill ascent, however the view of the magnificent waterfall at the end, will make this journey well worth the effort! 

Tiger fern trail