CARACOL MAYA RUIN AND MOUNTAIN PINE RIDGE:

Leave Black Rock Lodge at 8:00am and head to Caracol with a 4X4 and an experienced driver/tour guide. Journey through mountains, pine forest, across the Guacamallo (gua-ka-maa-yo) River and into dense jungle. Caracol is the largest Mayan ruin in Belize and believed to be one of the largest in Central America. Discovered in the 1930’s by a log hunter, it was not explored until the 1950’s when Linton Satherwaite of the University of Pennsylvania began to uncover its splendor. Due to its difficult accessibility, excavations were delayed until 1985, when Drs. Arlen and Diane Chase of Central Florida University took on the challenging task. At over 145 feet high, Caana (sky palace) towers above the rainforest. Caracol is famous for conquering the megalopolis Tikal when Tikal was at its peak. After exploring the main area of Caracol, drive to the Rio Frio (cold river) Cave. Hike through the cave along side the Rio Frio River. Then drive to the Rio On pools and cascades where guests can swim and cool off. Slide down a natural water slide or get a hydro-massage under a waterfall.
Tour duration: full day (does not include entrance fees or lunch).