"The Cayo District is home to many of Belize ’s ancient Maya sites, including one of the largest, Xunantunich. Located atop a ridge near the Mopan River and the Guatemala border, Xunantunich’s "El Castillo," the main pyramid, is certainly the most impressive. Visitors who brave the steep steps to the top are rewarded with unsurpassed views into Guatemala and neighboring areas of Belize . While the climb up can be pretty steep and rough, there are other routes to get down along the backside that make the descenta little easier. It took me multiple visits to finally gather the courage to climb to the top, but I’m grateful I did, as the views were absolutely worth it! Organized tours to Xunantunich often combine with other activities like zip-lining, cave tubing, or even trips to the Belize Zoo. Travelers who wish to explore all of Xunantunich’s six plazas, which contain more than 26 temples and palaces, shouldplanto book a private tour or visit on their own."

"Barton Creek Cave, near San Ignacio in the Cayo District, was long used by the Maya for ceremonial purposes; today it also attracts adventure travelers. Instead of climbing up pyramids like you might at other Mayan sites, Barton Creek Cave is explored only via canoe with a guide. You’ll paddle up the river while a guide shines a spotlight toward the ceilings with their cathedral-like heights and impressive stalagmites and stalactites. The Mayan artifacts visible from your canoe make history feel as close as ever. The cave is a staggering seven miles long, though tours typically only travel a mile or so—a reminder that there is so much to explore in Belize. S&L Travel and Tours can organize the transfer and tour. To learn more about the many adventures waiting in the seven regions of Belize, visit travelbelize.org . Sponsored by Belize"

"Inside Mayflower Bocawina National Park, you'll find the longest zip-line course in Belize. With 14 platforms and nine runs, the entire course is 2.5 miles long, with the longest run 2,300 feet. Soar through the trees as guides show you the art of zip-lining safety and technique. You can also learn about jungle life as your guide shows you wildlife and medicinal plants, and if you are feeling adventurous, you might find yourself tasting termites straight from a tree. The entire course takes about an hour and a half, and you can book an excursion with Bocawina Rainforest Resort & Adventures . To learn more about the many adventures waiting in the seven regions of Belize, visit travelbelize.org . Sponsored by Belize"

"While much of Belize is tropical, at a slightly higher altitude in the west of the country, you can also find an idyllic pine forest with naturally formed swimming holes fed by crystal-clear waterfalls. Located in the Cayo District, the area is noteworthy for its evergreen trees and the granite Mountain Pine Ridge. It is also home to wildlife, including cougars, jaguars, ocelots, white-nosed coatis, and Baird's tapirs. Spend the afternoon sunbathing on the rocks or cooling off by exploring the different pools. The Rio On Pools are accessed by a short walk from the designated parking area off the main road. Signage and directions can be a bit tricky, and you may want to arrange for a driver or guide who is knowledgeable about the area to lead you to this surprising corner of the country. To learn more about the many adventures waiting in the seven regions of Belize, visit travelbelize.org . Sponsored by Belize"

"The premier site for jaguar preservation in the world, the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Stann Creek District in southeast Belize and includes 150 square miles of protected park. With several walking and hiking trails, Cockscomb is a lush reserve full of wildlife and remarkable flora; it was also once home to Mayan villages tucked in its foothills. You can hike to a refreshing waterfall with no one else in sight, head to viewpoints that overlook the jungle canopy, or simply be awed by the biodiversity that is thick at every turn. For an interesting detour, look for the trail that leads to an old plane wreck by a small creek located a short walk from the main road. Whether you want to embark on a serious jungle trek or take it easy and on a bird-watching walk, Cockscomb has experiences for all levels and interests. After a long day of adventure, rest easy at the stylish 20-room Ka’ana Resort . To learn more about the many adventures waiting in the seven regions of Belize, visit travelbelize.org . Sponsored by Belize"