Nowhere in Belize are waterfalls more pristine (and dramatic) than in the Maya Mountain region. Here, underground rivers push their way to the mountain tops and then descend, carving their way down over bluffs and ridges before scaping over the escarpment. Here are some of the best waterfall excursions to enjoy in Belize.
Thousand Foot Falls – Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve
Intensity: Easy
Located in the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve, this is the tallest waterfall not only in Belize but in all of Central America. This natural wonder is a splendor to watch as a cascade of water plummets 1,600 feet into pristine natural pools below. A beautiful green pine forest surrounds this majestic waterfall, offering a spectacular panoramic view of the Mountain Pine Ridge valley. Thus, this waterfall is one of the easiest to enjoy as you can set your sights on it from an accessible viewpoint.
Waterfall Rappelling – Mayflower Bocawina National Park
Intensity: Advanced
Covering 7,000 acres of tropical rainforest, Mayflower Bocawina National Park is the perfect playground for adventure seekers and nature lovers. Those looking for a challenge, start the journey with a hike along a jungle trail 1000 ft up to the top of Antelope Falls. After that, take a minute to catch your breath and enjoy the breathtaking views of Belize’s lush rainforest.
You can spend some time cooling off in emerald pools at the top of the falls before making your exhilarating descent. Accompanied by a licensed guide, you’ll descend 250 ft over two rappels. The hiking and waterfall rappelling is completed within half a day, but you are sure to get your adventure’s worth.
Big Rock Falls – Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve
Intensity: Moderate
Located in the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve, this picturesque waterfall is one of a few waterfalls in the area worth visiting for a swim. Getting right to the base of this 150-foot waterfall requires a 15 to 20-minute hike, which is marginally steep, making it a less-trafficked waterfall. Nevertheless, visiting this striking waterfall will be well worth it, especially when you have a good chance of having it all to yourself!
Five Sisters Falls – Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve: (Gaia Riverlodge)
Intensity: Easy
This unique waterfall is located onsite at the magnificent Gaia Riverlodge. One of the first things you’ll see (and hear) when you step out onto the deck at Gaia’s eponymous Five Sisters Restaurant are these five gorgeous gushing falls. Take a trip down stone stairs for the full up-close experience. And when you’re done, enjoy a relaxing ride back up to the lodge in the property’s tram.
The Five Sisters Falls onsite at Gaia Riverlodge in the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve.
