Information
Landmark: Mountain Pine Ridge Forest ReserveCity: Belmopan
Country: Belize
Continent: North America
Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve, Belmopan, Belize, North America
Overview
Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve offers sweeping views of rolling pine-covered hills and is among Belize’s most beautiful and ecologically rich protected areas.Founded in 1944, this reserve stretches across about 430 square kilometers-roughly the size of scattered pine forests-in Belize’s Cayo District.Visitors will find a striking change from the lush tropical lowland rainforests Belize is known for, trading dense green canopies for rolling pine forests, thundering waterfalls, shadowy caves, and rugged granite hills.The reserve’s pine forest, dominated by towering Caribbean pines, feels more like a slice of a temperate forest than Central America-a rare sight here.Orchids, ferns, and hardy shrubs thrive in its sandy soil, while ocelots, jaguars, tapirs, and birds like orange-breasted falcons, king vultures, and acorn woodpeckers move quietly through the trees.Nearby, Big Rock Falls crashes into a turquoise pool framed by thick green foliage, perfect for a refreshing swim.Rio On Pools tumbles gently over granite boulders, creating clear basins ideal for wading or a picnic.And far above, Thousand Foot Falls plunges more than 1,600 feet, the tallest waterfall in all of Central America.From a designated overlook, you can take in the sweeping reserve-home to the Rio Frio Cave with its towering entrance, natural skylights casting light on a sandy floor and stream, as well as smaller, once-sacred Maya caves; scattered Maya ruins like Caracol on the outskirts; clear rivers such as the Macal winding through pine forests; trails to waterfalls; cool pools at Rio On and Big Rock for a swim; flashes of parrots, toucans, and the rare orange-breasted falcon; and a cooler climate best enjoyed in the dry months, though the rivers surge with life in the rains-just be ready for bumpy dirt roads on the 1.5-hour drive from San Ignacio.A sturdy 4WD is your best bet for the rugged roads, and some sites ask a small entrance fee to help fund conservation.You’ll find basic comforts-restrooms, a shady picnic table here and there-but the reserve still feels wild.For the richest experience, hire a local guide who can point out rare orchids, share bits of history, and lead you to hidden waterfalls.Nearby, you can climb the towering pyramids of Caracol, paddle a canoe into Barton Creek Cave to glimpse ancient Maya pottery, or float through the winding passages of Nohoch Che’en.The Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve has weathered tough challenges, from a pine beetle outbreak in the ’90s that left hillsides bare, to dry-season fires and the strain of unregulated tourism.Ongoing efforts aim to restore the forest, guard against fire, and keep tourism sustainable.If you’re visiting, pack smart-pull on sturdy boots, tuck a water bottle in your bag, and don’t forget sunscreen and bug spray.Plan ahead, since facilities are scarce; bring a few snacks or a picnic, and make sure your car’s running well.To soak it all in, spend the night at a nearby eco-lodge.The Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve is quiet, breathtaking, and a vivid glimpse of Belize’s rich, varied landscapes.From roaring waterfalls and glassy rivers to pine-scented hills and shadowy caves, it gives nature lovers and thrill-seekers an experience they won’t forget.
