Located within the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve, the Rio Frio Cave is one of the most easily accessible and most visited caves in Belize. It is a must-visit spot for anyone visiting western Belize.
Visiting Rio Frio Cave
Rio Frio Cave is a popular attraction for tourists visiting Moutain Pine Ridge for a day or for those returning from Caracol. The tour typically leaves San Ignacio at 7 or 8 AM and it includes tons of opportunities to hike, swim, and spot wildlife.
When entering the cave, tourists will notice huge stalactites hanging from the massive cathedral-like vault, which is part of a cave system the Maya used to bury their dead. Room-size boulders are strewn throughout the cave and a stream flows through, forming pools with cascading falls.
Openings at both ends of the cave make flashlights unnecessary for viewing the cave’s formations during daylight hours. There is a beach area with a foot bridge for crossing the stream and getting to the other side, which leads to the exit opening.
It is a quarter mile through to the other side, another equally impressive opening. At the exit opening, look for a well-maintained nature trail, one of which leads to a nearby cave, Cuevas Gemelas. A second trail leads back to the parking lot.
Since Rio Frio Cave is about 2 hours by car from San Ignacio, most people visit on day trips. However, there is the option of staying nearby at eco-lodges located within the reserve.
