Ten Things to Do in San Felipe Archaeological Reserve, Orange Walk, Belize
Nestled in the heart of Orange Walk District in Belize, the San Felipe Archaeological Reserve offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore ancient Mayan ruins, experience the local culture, and enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the area. From exploring the ancient Mayan ruins to indulging in local cuisine, here are ten things to do in San Felipe Archaeological Reserve, Orange Walk, Belize.
1. Explore the Ancient Mayan Ruins
The San Felipe Archaeological Reserve is home to the ruins of an ancient Mayan city, which was once the capital of the Maya kingdom of Chetumal. Visitors can explore the ruins, which include a pyramid, plazas, and a ball court. The site also features a museum that houses artifacts uncovered during archaeological excavations, as well as a replica of a Mayan village.
2. Visit the Local Markets
The San Felipe Archaeological Reserve is located near the town of San Felipe, which is known for its vibrant markets. Here, visitors can find a variety of local goods, such as traditional food, handicrafts, and souvenirs. The markets are a great place to pick up a few unique items to take home as a souvenir.
3. Enjoy Local Cuisine
The local cuisine of Orange Walk District is a unique blend of Mayan, Mexican, and Caribbean flavors. Visitors can sample the local dishes at one of the many restaurants in the area, such as the popular San Felipe Restaurant.
4. Go Bird-Watching
The San Felipe Archaeological Reserve is home to a wide variety of bird species, including toucans, parrots, and macaws. Visitors can take a guided bird-watching tour to get a closer look at the colorful and exotic birds that inhabit the area.
5. Take a Boat Tour
One of the best ways to explore the San Felipe Archaeological Reserve is to take a boat tour along the nearby Rio Hondo River. Here, visitors can spot a variety of wildlife, including crocodiles, monkeys, and iguanas.
6. Go Hiking
The San Felipe Archaeological Reserve is surrounded by lush jungles and is a great place to go hiking. Visitors can explore the trails, which offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
7. Visit the Local Villages
The San Felipe Archaeological Reserve is home to a number of small villages, where visitors can get a glimpse of traditional Mayan life. Here, visitors can learn about the local culture, meet the friendly locals, and sample traditional dishes.
8. Go Fishing
The San Felipe Archaeological Reserve is located near the Rio Hondo River, which is a popular spot for fishing. Visitors can hire a boat and try their luck at catching a variety of fish, such as tarpon, snook, and barracuda.
9. Go Swimming
The nearby Rio Hondo River offers visitors a chance to cool off with a refreshing swim. The river is also a great spot for snorkeling, as it is home to a variety of colorful fish and other aquatic life.
10. Take a Tour of the Ruins
Visitors can take a guided tour of the ancient ruins located in the San Felipe Archaeological Reserve. The tour will take visitors through the ruins, explaining the history and significance of the site.
The San Felipe Archaeological Reserve is a great destination for those looking for a unique and exciting experience in Belize. From exploring the ancient ruins to sampling local cuisine, there are plenty of activities to keep visitors busy.