This is the muddy, bouncy way to see the Cayo countryside. The tour starts at a meeting point on the Cristo Rey Road, about four and a half miles along the road, where a guide gives a safety briefing and issues helmets and eyewear. You then ride ATVs through the villages of Cristo Rey and San Antonio and over rugged terrain in Elijio Panti National Park, with stops to look at the landscape. The goal is a waterfall that can be reached only by ATV or four-wheel drive, followed by a hike of around fifteen minutes to the falls according to reviews, and a swim and jump into the natural pools. The tour page describes a tour of about four hours, with meals, bottled water, gear, fees and gratuities included.
What you do. The ride is guided, and the guide leads at a pace suited to the group, with instructions on how to handle the machines on dirt tracks, mud and hills. The villages add a human dimension to the ride, with farms, homes and children waving as you pass, and the national park gives a taste of the forest and the hills.
The waterfall is the climax, a scenic spot where you can cool off after a dusty ride, and reviewers describe it as a highlight. The trip is a fun, active way to see a part of Belize that most visitors never visit.
Who it suits. The tour is rated for a moderate level of physical fitness, it has a maximum group size of eighteen, and it is not recommended for people with back problems, pregnant travellers or anyone with heart problems or other serious medical conditions. It is not wheelchair accessible. The tour page does not state a driving licence or age requirement, so ask the operator about rules for young riders and passengers before you book. Some reviewers mention a steep descent on the walk to the falls, so wear secure shoes.
Practical tips. Wear clothes that can get muddy or wet, closed shoes with grip and a swimsuit under your clothes, and bring a towel and a change of clothes for the ride back. Use sunscreen and repellent, and leave valuables in the car or hotel. The ride is dusty in the dry season, roughly February to May, and muddier and more slippery in the wet months, which also affect river levels at the waterfall.
Combine it with a visit to San Ignacio and a Maya site on another day, because the ride is physical and you will want a rest. If you prefer something calmer, Barton Creek Cave canoeing or the Mountain Pine Ridge pools offer an easier outdoor day.
A practical point on safety
Listen carefully to the briefing, keep your distance from the machine ahead, and ride at the pace your guide sets, since dirt tracks change quickly after rain. Operators provide helmets and eyewear, and you should wear them throughout. Done sensibly, the ride is more fun than frightening, and the waterfall swim is a satisfying finish to a dusty morning. Because the group size can reach eighteen, ask whether the operator splits larger groups, since smaller groups tend to mean more time at the waterfall and less waiting on the trail.
What to expect
The experience
A guided ATV ride from the Cristo Rey Road through villages and Elijio Panti National Park to a waterfall reached only by ATV or four-wheel drive, with a swim at the end.
Best time
The dry season, roughly February to May, for firmer tracks; wetter months are muddier.
How long
About four hours, according to the tour page.
Tips
Wear clothes that can get muddy, closed shoes with grip and a swimsuit, and bring a towel and a change of clothes.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Active travellers who like a dusty, muddy adventure with a swim at the end.
- Families
- Check minimum ages and rules for passengers with the operator; teens usually enjoy it.
- Couples
- A fun, active half day that ends with a cool swim.
- Pair with
- A San Ignacio rest day and a Maya site such as Cahal Pech or Xunantunich.
- Time needed
- About four hours.
Good questions
How long is the tour?+
The tour page describes a tour of about four hours, including the ride, the walk to the falls and the swim.
What is included?+
The tour page includes the ATV, helmet, eyewear, fees and taxes, bottled water, meals and gratuities.
Do I need a driving licence?+
The tour page does not state a licence or age requirement, so ask the operator about rules for drivers and passengers.
Who should avoid it?+
It is not recommended for people with back problems, pregnant travellers or those with heart problems or other serious medical conditions.
Will I get wet and muddy?+
Yes, so wear clothes you do not mind getting dirty and bring a swimsuit, a towel and a change of clothes.
