Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve

A rugged dome of granite and limestone containing some of the most ancient rocks in Central America, the 780-square-km (300-square-mi) Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve is a highlight of any journey to Belize and an adventure to reach. Along with the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary and the Mayan ruins at Lamanai, it's a sight no visitor should miss. As you leave the lush tropical forest, the road circles the western slopes of the mountains. Baldy Beacon, at just over 3,000 feet, lies to the east. After lowland Belize's heat and humidity, the cooler air is enormously refreshing. Unfortunately, some of the savanna here is marked by dead trees. A southern pine beetle infestation in 2000 and 2001 killed thousands of acres of mountain pines. The trees are regenerating, however, and new growth pines are already 6 feet to 12 feet tall.

Aside from the pines, you'll also see lilac-color mimosa, St. John's wort, and occasionally a garish red flower known as hotlips. There's also a huge variety of ferns, ranging from the tiny maidenhair fern to giants the size of coconut palms, and a fair selection of Belize's 154 orchid species. Look out for the craboo, a wild tree whose berries are used in a brandylike liqueur believed to have aphrodisiac properties. Birds love this fruit, so any craboo is a good place to spot orioles and woodpeckers.

We offer one tour that includes a visit to Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve:

#1 Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve
Early morning departure from Belize City to the Mnt. Pine Ridge Forest Reserve in the western part of
the country, through the many settlements that grew after hurricanes had hit Belize City. At
Georgeville Village, we turn in on a dirt road which leads to the mountainous areas of Belize. Visit the
1,000 ft. waterfalls (if weather permits), the Rio Frio Caves, the Rio On Natural Swimming Pools.
After lunch and sodas have been provided, tour then returns to Belize City or place of pick up.

We can also customize a tour to your needs please contact us for further information.