Cayo is the largest of the six districts that make up Belize ....

Geographically the largest and most fertile district in Belize, Cayo spans more than 2,000 square miles across diverse terrain - from rolling hills and sweeping farmland devoted to citrus orchards and cattle farming, to lush river valleys and rugged mountain ridges covered in sub-tropical jungle.

Tourism ....

With an estimated population of about 40,000 people ,
one of Cayo Districts most important industries is ecotourism. Besides the country's most extensive number of Archeological Sites and a growing number of comfortable accommodations, Cayo offers visitors the unique opportunity to encounter its physically diverse flora and fauna, with such natural wonders as cascading waterfalls and limestone caves in an intact and relatively undisturbed environment. In fact over 60% of Cayo District has been set aside as either a Wildlife Sanctuary, National Park, or Forest Reserve.

To experience Cayo you can Hike, Canoe, travel by Horseback, or tour in the comfort of an air-conditioned van. Whatever your preference, prepare yourself for the ultimate in an "up close and personal" experience.

The Land ....

Much of Cayo consists of broadleaf jungle overlying limestone formations. These formations are a result of an uplifting of ancient coral beds during the past 20 million years. Over time, flowing water has gradually dissolved the limestone, forming underwater rivers, sinkholes, and the Spectacular Caves for which Cayo is famous.

Above 2500 feet, granite rock formed from molten intrusions create a landscape of great pine forests, canyons and valley, waterfalls, and vistas of stunning beauty. 

The Mountain Pine Ridge was formed in this way. 

Agriculture in Cayo is concentrated in the Belize River valley, where the soil is kept fertile with flood waters from the highlands. Most settlements in Cayo District were founded in these areas, because their rich soils produced plentiful harvests and their waterways provided a means of traveling and transporting goods.

Today, it is not an uncommon site to see villagers along the river banks swimming, bathing and doing the family laundry.

Cayo, a region once rich with logging and chicle farming, today boasts citrus groves and cattle ranches. Cayo farmers also raise poultry, corn, sorghum, beans, fruits, and various vegetables for both domestic consumption and export.

Significant amounts of pine, rosewood, Santa Maria, cedar and mahogany are still harvested by local timber interests.

Climate & Weather ....

See Cayo Weather for typical seasonal weather patterns, annual rainfall and current conditions.

Towns & People ....

San Ignacio is the hub of commerce and tourism for western Belize, and together with its sister town - Santa Elena - make up the largest populated area in Cayo District with12,000 residents.  Located along the banks of the Macal River, on a series of bluffs, San Ignacio and Santa Elena are at an elevation high enough to be noticeably cooler and less humid than the low-lying coastal plains.
Belmopan, the "new" capital of Belize, was established in 1965, following devastation to the former capitol, Belize City, by Hurricane Hattie.  The geographical center of the country - Belmopan - lies near Cayo District's eastern edge, 50 miles west of Belize City and 22 miles east of San Ignacio.

In between are wild rivers and tropical hardwood forests where the indigenous jaguar, tapir and scarlet macal reside. Along the rivers an easy-going people, living in modest villages, traditionally have earned a living from working the land.

Cayo's diverse and hospitable residents have long attracted a vast spectrum of people and cultures - Maya refugees from Guatemala and Mexico, Lebanese, East-Indian and Chinese entrepreneurs, as well as Mennonite farmers and adventure-seekers from North America and Europe.

Getting Around ....

Easy to reach on the Western Highway, the Cayo District is approximately a one-hour drive from Belize City.

Cayo Business Services includes information about email, phones, money exchange, health facilities and other services for those interested in visiting Cayo District.

From the budget-minded to the discriminating traveler, Cayo appeals to any visitor looking for high-spirited adventure, while enjoying some of natures finest handiwork.

Where to Stay in San Ignacio

Where to Stay in Belmopan