There was once a point in my life when, if anyone were to mention the place called Mountain Pine Ridge, my brain would struggle to conjure up what I thought was an accurate image. “Pine Ridge”, as we affectionately called it, felt like a faraway land, ethereal and utterly unknowable despite being just about an hour and a half away from Belize City by car. All I could ever envision was a place with rushing water, where green peaks touched the sky, and where it actually got “cold” in the “winter”.
I’ve now visited the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve quite a few times, though. And I’m happy to report that it is just as magical as little me imagined, maybe even more so.
Getting There: The Chiquibul Road
Sure, the Hummingbird holds the title of Belize’s prettiest highway. I won’t argue that. But there’s no doubt that the Chiquibul Road could give it a run for its money. Stretching from Georgeville all the way to Caracol, the road (which is now practically fully paved) is flanked by green hills and breathtaking vistas where it reaches higher elevations.
With plenty of stops and sites along the way to Mountain Pine Ridge, it’s an underrated choice for a road trip, too.
Getting onto the Chiquibul is fairly easy: if you’re driving from Belize City, it’s about an hour and fifteen minutes to Georgeville. From there, keep an eye out for the intersection with a bunch of resort and restaurant signs pointing where you should turn left (I promise it’s hard to miss).
Once you’re on the Chiquibul, it’s a scenic 40-minute drive before arriving at the Mountain Pine Ridge entrance.
Fun Fact: You can also reach the Chiquibul Road and MPR via the Cristo Rey Road if you’re coming from San Ignacio. This route will take you through San Antonio village (a must-visit)!
The Most Picturesque Night Sky
If anyone were to ask me what my favorite part of Mountain Pine Ridge was, it undoubtedly would be the night sky. Free from light pollution, and with nothing but pine trees to block your view, it is nothing short of mesmerizing. That alone is reason enough to spend an overnight. (Camping, anyone?)
I remember the first time I looked up and found myself utterly amazed by how many stars there were, and by how clear the sky was. Combined with the serenity of being in such a secluded area of Belize, it was unforgettable.
Things to Do in Mountain Pine Ridge
Camping at San Miguel
My first ever Mountain Pine Ridge experience was a camping trip at San Miguel Campgrounds (which I highly recommend if you don’t mind getting up close and personal with the great outdoors). It’s fun. It’s casual. And, most importantly, it’s pretty affordable.
The folks at San Miguel are very accommodating, and while you can bring your own gear, they do offer tent and blow-up bed rentals. You also pay a small overnight fee. In addition to roughing it, you can enjoy easy access to nearby Big Rock Falls. And if you’re like me and can’t swim, there are also plenty of rocks and shallower areas to just kick back and relax.
Rio Frio Cave
Even if you’re not much of a cave person, Rio Frio is a must. The main cave has a wide, gaping entrance that photos do no justice. Meanwhile, the inside is a massive chamber illuminated by light trickling in from both sides. Again, it’s a great escape into nature and one that’s fairly accessible. (Though depending on the weather, a part of the road may be closed, which just means some hiking will be involved.)
1,000 Foot Falls
One of my favorite things about visiting 1,000 Foot Falls (which is actually 1,600 feet tall) is the J.R.R Tolkein quote displayed at its entrance. The cascade itself, of course, is breathtaking. The dusty clay road that leads to the waterfall can get a bit bumpy, but the view alone is worth it. In addition to the waterfall, there is also a lookout point where, on a clear day, you can see both Belmopan and Spanish Lookout (if you look closely enough).
If you’re a birder, keep an eye out for the Orange-breasted Falcon. It’s one of the region’s rarest birds, but luckily, there are a few of them residing in the Mountain Pine Ridge area.
Visit San Antonio
I mentioned this earlier, but San Antonio Village is definitely a great detour when you’re going to or leaving Mountain Pine Ridge. There’s so much to do and see. A stop at the San Antonio Women’s Co-op is great for souvenirs, but they also offer pottery, tortilla making, and slate carving classes. And, for the foodies, Upe Nai and U Janal Masewal are both places to put on your radar.
Places to Stay in Mountain Pine Ridge
In case you want to enjoy the Mountain Pine Ridge area for more than just a day (highly recommended), here are just a few places you can stay.
San Miguel Campgrounds
Budget: $
Crystal Paradise Resort
Budget: $$
Hidden Valley Wilderness Lodge
Budget: $$$
Gaia Riverlodge
Budget: $$$
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