Discover the Wild Beauty of Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve

Explore the tranquil beauty and diverse landscapes of Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve in Belize, where waterfalls, wildlife, and ancient ruins await your discovery.

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Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve

Nestled in the heart of Belize, the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve offers a breathtaking escape into nature. This vast protected area is renowned for its rolling pine-covered hills, stunning waterfalls, and unique flora and fauna. As you explore the reserve, you will be captivated by the diverse landscapes, from dense forests to open savannas, each teeming with wildlife. One of the highlights of the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve is the awe-inspiring Thousand Foot Falls, the highest waterfall in Central America. Visitors can marvel at the waterfall from a lookout point and enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding forest. Another must-see is Rio On Pools, a series of natural swimming holes and cascading waterfalls where you can cool off and relax. For those seeking adventure, the reserve offers numerous hiking and biking trails that wind through the pine forests and along riverbanks. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the variety of species that call this area home, including the endangered orange-breasted falcon. The reserve is also home to ancient Mayan ruins, such as the Caracol Archaeological Reserve, adding a historical dimension to your visit. Whether you are an avid adventurer or simply looking to unwind in nature, the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve provides a unique and memorable experience. Its serene environment and natural beauty make it a top destination for tourists visiting Belize.

Local tips in Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve

Plan your visit during the dry season (February to May) for the best weather conditions.
Wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring plenty of water, as some trails can be challenging.
Hire a local guide to enhance your experience and learn more about the flora, fauna, and history of the reserve.
Don't forget to pack insect repellent, especially if you are visiting during the rainy season.
Bring a swimsuit to enjoy a refreshing dip in the Rio On Pools.
Respect the natural environment by following Leave No Trace principles.

File:Big Rock Falls Belize.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Flickr - archer10 (Dennis) - Belize-1145.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:1,000 foot water fall at Mountain Pine Ridge in Belize.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Panorama atop Caracol.png - Wikipedia

File:BartonCreekBZE.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

When is the best time to go to Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve?

Unmissable attractions to see

Nohoch Che'en Caves Branch Archaeological Reserve

Explore the breathtaking Nohoch Che'en Caves Branch Archaeological Reserve, a perfect blend of adventure and ancient Maya history in Belize.

Falcon Field Park

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Guanacaste National Park

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Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary

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Jaguar Reserve Nature Center

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Belize Raptor Center

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Billy Barquedier National Park

Discover the lush landscapes and diverse wildlife at Billy Barquedier National Park, a must-visit destination for nature lovers in Belize.

Belize Botanic Gardens

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Dreaming Giant waterfalls

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Mike's Place

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Benque Viejo House of Culture

Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Belize at the Benque Viejo House of Culture, a key attraction showcasing local heritage and traditions.

Garcia Maya Musuem

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Jungle Pontoon Waterfall Adventure tour

Experience the ultimate blend of adventure and relaxation at the Jungle Pontoon Waterfall Adventure in Belize's lush eco paradise.

Sak Tunich

Sak Tunich: A captivating blend of natural beauty and rich Mayan heritage awaits you in the heart of Belize.

Davis Falls

Experience the serene beauty of Davis Falls in Belize, a hidden gem perfect for hiking and nature lovers seeking tranquility and adventure.

Essential places to dine

Bird's Isle Restaurant

Discover authentic Belizean flavors at Bird's Isle Restaurant with stunning waterfront views and an inviting atmosphere.

Friendship Restaurant

Discover delightful Chinese and fast food dishes at Friendship Restaurant – a favorite among locals and tourists in Belize City.

Sahara Grill

Experience authentic Lebanese cuisine at Sahara Grill in Belize City—where every dish tells a story of flavor and tradition.

Sumathi

Experience authentic Indian cuisine at Sumathi in Belize City—where every dish tells a flavorful story.

Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve

Explore the natural wonders of Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve - a pristine paradise filled with lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and vibrant wildlife.

Nerie's

Discover authentic Central American cuisine at Nerie's in Belize City - where every dish tells a story of flavor.

The Bluffs

Experience the rich flavors of Belize at The Bluffs – a must-visit grill offering fresh dishes in a stunning outdoor setting.

Trey's Barn & Grill

Discover delicious Belizean cuisine at Trey’s Barn & Grill in Teakettle - perfect for families and food lovers alike.

Sisters Diner

Experience authentic Belizean cuisine at Sisters Diner in Spanish Lookout - where every meal is a celebration of local flavors.

Atlantic

Experience the best of Chinese cuisine at Atlantic in Belize City - where tradition meets modern fast food flair.

Bahay Fiesta Restaurant & Bar

Discover authentic Filipino cuisine at Bahay Fiesta Restaurant & Bar in beautiful Hopkins, Belize—where every meal tells a story.

Warrie Head Restaurant

Discover authentic local flavors at Warrie Head Restaurant, where stunning views meet delicious cuisine in Ontario Village.

Obsidian Restaurant

Discover exquisite flavors at Obsidian Restaurant in San Ignacio – where local ingredients meet culinary artistry amidst breathtaking views.

Running W Restaurant

Experience authentic Belizean flavors at Running W Restaurant in San Ignacio - a must-visit culinary destination for travelers.

3 Senses - Restaurant and Lounge at Vanilla Hills Lodge

Experience exquisite dining at 3 Senses - Restaurant and Lounge in San Ignacio; where culinary artistry meets breathtaking views.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Art Box - Belize Artisan Store & Cafe

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Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve, a national treasure in Belize filled with natural wonders and rich biodiversity.

The Orange Gallery

Explore The Orange Gallery in Belize for exquisite handcrafted art, jewelry, and unique souvenirs that celebrate local culture and creativity.

Back To My Roots - Art From The Heart

Discover unique artistic handicrafts and local culture at Back To My Roots - Art From The Heart, a charming gift shop in San Ignacio.

Marleny's Store

Explore the flavors of San Antonio at Marlene's Store, your local grocery hub for fresh produce and unique Belizean products.

JEM's Jewelry & Gifts

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Fernando's Grocery Store

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Caribbean Spice Belize

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Tanah Clothing Plus

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Madeline’s Secret World

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Magaña's Mayan Art Shop

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Zyan's Belize Gift Shop

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Nora's Gift Shop

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Cayo Artisanal Market

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Belizean Made Gifts

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Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Barefoot Beach Bar

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Mike's Cue Club.Bar & Restaurant

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The Bluffs

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Smokeez Seaside Restaurant & Bar

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La Cabana Restaurant and Bar

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Hidden Valley Wilderness Lodge

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Pine Ridge Lodge

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Remo's Roadhouse

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Gilly's Landing

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One Barrell Bar

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Chill Out Restaurant & Bar

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Black Orchid Bar& Grill -Bullet Tree

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Play Bar

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Revolution Nightclub

Discover the lively atmosphere of Revolution Nightclub in San Ignacio, blending dancing, dining, and hookah for an unforgettable night out.

The Malfunction Junction

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Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide to Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve

Discover Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve with Evendo, a 100% free app-based local travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Local Phrases about Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve

- HelloHail
  [hayl]
- GoodbyeLata
  [lah-tah]
- YesYa
  [yah]
- NoNoh
  [noh]
- Please/You're welcomePor favor
  [pohr fah-vohr]
- Thank youGracias
  [grah-see-ahs]
- Excuse me/SorryDisculpe
  [dees-kool-peh]
- How are you?¿Cómo estás?
  [koh-moh ehs-tahs]
- Fine. And you?Bien. ¿Y tú?
  [byen. ee too]
- Do you speak English?¿Hablas inglés?
  [ah-blahs een-glehs]
- I don't understandNo entiendo
  [noh ehn-tee-ehn-doh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMe gustaría ver el menú, por favor
  [meh goos-tah-ree-ah behr ehl meh-noo, pohr fah-vohr]
- I don't eat meatNo como carne
  [noh koh-moh kahr-neh]
- Cheers!¡Salud!
  [sah-lood]
- I would like to pay, pleaseMe gustaría pagar, por favor
  [meh goos-tah-ree-ah pah-gahr, pohr fah-vohr]
- Help!¡Ayuda!
  [ah-yoo-dah]
- Go away!¡Vete!
  [veh-teh]
- Call the Police!¡Llama a la policía!
  [yah-mah ah lah poh-lee-see-ah]
- Call a doctor!¡Llama a un médico!
  [yah-mah ah oon meh-dee-koh]
- I'm lostEstoy perdido
  [ehs-toy pehr-dee-doh]
- I'm illEstoy enfermo
  [ehs-toy ehn-fehr-moh]
- I'd like to buy...Me gustaría comprar...
  [meh goos-tah-ree-ah kohm-prahr]
- I'm just lookingSólo estoy mirando
  [soh-loh ehs-toy mee-rahn-doh]
- How much is it?¿Cuánto cuesta?
  [kwan-toh kwehs-tah]
- That's too expensiveEso es demasiado caro
  [eh-soh ehs deh-mah-syah-doh kah-roh]
- Can you lower the price?¿Puedes rebajar el precio?
  [pweh-dehs reh-bah-hahr ehl pree-syoh]
- What time is it?¿Qué hora es?
  [keh oh-rah ehs]
- It's one o'clockEs la una
  [ehs lah oo-nah]
- Half past (10)Media hora (10)
  [meh-dee-ah oh-rah (dheez)]
- MorningMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
- AfternoonTarde
  [tahr-deh]
- EveningNoche
  [noh-cheh]
- YesterdayAyer
  [ah-yehr]
- TodayHoy
  [oy]
- TomorrowMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
- 1Uno
  [oo-noh]
- 2Dos
  [dohs]
- 3Tres
  [trehs]
- 4Cuatro
  [kwah-troh]
- 5Cinco
  [seen-koh]
- 6Seis
  [says]
- 7Siete
  [syeh-teh]
- 8Ocho
  [oh-choh]
- 9Nueve
  [nweh-veh]
- 10Diez
  [dyehs]
- Where's a/the...?¿Dónde está el/la...?
  [dohn-deh ehs-tah ehl/lah]
- What's the address?¿Cuál es la dirección?
  [kwal ehs lah dee-rehk-syohn]
- Can you show me (on the map)?¿Puedes mostrarme (en el mapa)?
  [pweh-dehs mohs-trahr-meh (ehn ehl mah-pah)]
- When's the next (bus)?¿Cuándo es el próximo (autobús)?
  [kwan-doh ehs ehl proh-ksee-moh (ow-toh-boos)]
- A ticket (to ....)Un boleto (a ....)
  [oon boh-leh-toh (ah)]

History of Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve

Long before the creation of the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve, the area was a part of the vast Maya civilization. Archaeological findings indicate that the Maya people inhabited this region, utilizing its resources for agriculture, hunting, and gathering. The remnants of Maya settlements and artifacts provide a glimpse into their sophisticated society and its relationship with the natural environment.
The Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve was officially established in 1944 by the British colonial administration. The primary goal was to protect the unique pine forest ecosystem from over-exploitation and to manage the area's natural resources responsibly. This move marked the beginning of a concerted effort to conserve Belize's natural heritage.
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the Mountain Pine Ridge area was a significant site for the extraction of chicle, a natural gum used in making chewing gum. Chicle harvesting became a lucrative industry, attracting workers known as 'chicleros.' The industry had a considerable impact on the local economy and led to the development of settlements within the reserve.
In the mid-20th century, the timber industry became prominent in Mountain Pine Ridge. The extraction of valuable hardwoods like mahogany contributed to the local economy but also posed a threat to the forest's sustainability. This led to stricter regulations and the implementation of forest management practices to balance economic interests with conservation.
In the early 2000s, the construction of the Chalillo Dam on the Macal River sparked significant controversy. Environmentalists and local communities opposed the project due to concerns about its impact on wildlife and the loss of natural habitats. Despite protests, the dam was completed in 2005, highlighting the ongoing tension between development and environmental conservation in the region.
Today, the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve is a testament to modern conservation efforts. Various initiatives have been undertaken to restore damaged ecosystems, protect wildlife, and promote sustainable tourism. Organizations and local communities work together to ensure the area's natural beauty and biodiversity are preserved for future generations.

Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve Essentials

Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve is located in the Cayo District of Belize. The nearest major town is San Ignacio. The easiest way to get to the reserve is by flying into Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport (BZE) in Belize City. From there, you can rent a car or take a taxi to San Ignacio, which is approximately a 2-hour drive. From San Ignacio, it's about 30 miles to the reserve, and the journey typically takes around 1.5 hours by car due to the rugged terrain.
The best way to explore Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve is by renting a 4x4 vehicle from San Ignacio, as the roads within the reserve are often unpaved and can be challenging. Guided tours are also available and can be arranged through various tour operators in San Ignacio. Public transportation options are limited within the reserve, so having your own vehicle or booking a guided tour is highly recommended.
The official currency in Belize is the Belize Dollar (BZD). While some larger establishments in San Ignacio may accept credit cards, it is advisable to carry cash, especially when traveling to rural areas like Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve. ATMs are available in San Ignacio, but it's wise to withdraw sufficient cash before heading into the reserve.
Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve is generally safe for tourists. However, it is always advisable to take standard precautions such as avoiding isolated areas after dark and keeping an eye on your belongings. There are no specific high-crime areas within the reserve, but staying aware of your surroundings is always a good practice. Consult with local guides for the most up-to-date safety information.
In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The nearest medical facilities are located in San Ignacio, so it is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in San Ignacio where you can purchase over-the-counter medications. It's also a good idea to carry a basic first aid kit while exploring the reserve.
Fashion: Do wear lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for hiking and outdoor activities. Always wear sturdy hiking boots. Avoid flashy jewelry. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Public Transport: Do use private transportation or guided tours; public transport options are limited. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'good day.' Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and drink plenty of water. Don’t litter; always carry your trash out of the reserve.
To experience Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve like a local, visit the Rio On Pools and swim in the natural rock pools. Take a guided tour to discover hidden waterfalls such as Big Rock Falls. Engage with local guides who can provide insights into the flora and fauna of the area. Don't miss visiting the ancient Mayan ruins of Caracol, which offer a glimpse into the region's rich history. For an authentic experience, try to visit during the week when the reserve is less crowded.

Discover the Wild Beauty of Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve

Local tips in Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve