Cayo

Cayo is Belize's largest district, spanning about a million acres, and is located on the western side of the country, bordering Guatemala. Travellers flock to the twin communities of San Ignacio and Santa Elena. Many Mayan settlements can also be found in Benque Viejo del Carmen, a border town. The Cayo District, in terms of culture, is one of Belize's most diversified areas. Mestizos, who are of mixed Mayan and Spanish ancestry, used to be one of Cayo's most populous ethnic groups. Today, Maya Mennonites, Creales, and even Lebanese and Chinese communities can be found.

When it comes to Cayo, Altun Ha is one of Belize's most well-known ruins, and it's easy to get to from Belize City. Altun Ha, which means "Rockstone Pond" or "Water of the Rock" in Mayan, was an important trading post, ritual place, and agricultural hub. In addition, Xunantunich, which is 38 kilometres from the Cayo district's headquarters, is a must-see. Thousands of tourists visit Xunantunich, an ancient Mayan archaeological site near the Mopan River, throughout the year. There are much more can not miss if you pay a visit to this destination.

Location: Cayo, Belize

Highlights: Altun Ha Archaeological Site, Caracol Natural Monument Reservation, Barton Creek Cave, Calico Jack’s, Blue Hole National Park, ...

Best time to visit: December to May