Horseback Riding and Waterfall Tour from San Ignacio

Horseback Riding and Waterfall Tour from San Ignacio
Rating: 5.0/5 (3 reviews)
Location: San Ignacio, Belize
Price: $170 per person
Duration: About 8.5 hours
Supplier: St Leonard’s Tours

A quick glimpse into this adventure
Imagine starting your day with a horseback ride through Belize’s lush countryside, followed by a visit to a magnificent waterfall for a refreshing swim. For just $170, this full-day experience offers a blend of scenic riding, local culture, and nature’s best — all within roughly 8.5 hours.

What we love most? First, the personalized feel of riding on a family-owned farm, which ensures a genuine and relaxed atmosphere. Second, the opportunity to swim beneath a towering 150-foot waterfall—a highlight that’s both exhilarating and perfect for cooling off in Belize’s crisp mountain waters.

One potential consideration? The short hike down to Big Rock Falls involves uneven terrain, so a moderate level of physical fitness and appropriate footwear are recommended. This tour suits those who enjoy a mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and culture, especially if you’re eager to experience Belize’s natural wonders up close.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Ride through private farmland and riverside jungle trails on well-trained horses.
• Stunning Highlights: Swim in the pools of Big Rock Falls, a breathtaking cascade over 150 feet tall.
• Local Flavor: Enjoy a hearty Belizean lunch at a local restaurant after your ride.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Transportation, guide, helmet, snacks, and lunch are included, making for a hassle-free day.
• Suitable for Many: Moderate physical fitness needed; not recommended for pregnant women or those with certain health issues.
• Group Size: Up to 15 travelers, ensuring a personal touch without feeling crowded.

The Experience in Detail

Starting Your Day with a Personal Touch

Your adventure begins early, with hotel pickup in San Ignacio at 8 am. The transport is private and air-conditioned, making the 1.5-hour drive comfortable as you head toward the ranch. The journey itself offers a glimpse into Belize’s rural life, passing through local villages and scenic farmland.

The Horseback Ride: An Authentic Encounter

Once at the ranch, you’ll meet your guide and saddle up for about 1.5 hours of riding. The trail winds through rolling farmland, with views of open fields and distant mountains, and then dips into quiet riverside jungle trails. For those unsure about horseback riding, don’t worry—reviews suggest even novice riders find this experience accessible and fun.

Riding helmets are provided, ensuring safety, and the horses are described as well-trained, which adds to the comfort level. As one reviewer put it, “Toby the horse was a very good boy, totally aware of the job he was doing—I was not even telling him much what to do.” The scenery and scents of Belize’s countryside make this a sensory treat, with opportunities to spot local flora and birdlife.

A Local Lunch: A Taste of Belize

Following the ride, you’ll hop into a vehicle for a short hour-long drive to a local restaurant. This is your chance to sample Belizean cuisine—simple, hearty, and satisfying—before heading to the waterfall. The inclusion of lunch adds excellent value, turning this tour into a true full-day outing rather than a quick excursion.

The Waterfall: Big Rock Falls

After lunch, a short drive brings you to the stunning Big Rock Falls, a cascade over 150 feet tall. The descent involves a 10-minute hike down a steep slope—prepare for uneven terrain and a bit of effort—but it’s absolutely worth it. Once there, you can swim in the natural pools, do some daring rock jumps, or just relax in the cool water with friends.

The clarity and temperature of the water are praised for revitalizing tired legs and cooling hot skin, especially after a day in Belize’s tropical sun. One reviewer called it a “gorgeous cascade,” and many appreciated the unscripted sense of adventure that comes with swimming at the base of such a mighty waterfall.

End of the Day and Reflection

The tour wraps up with a brief return drive, dropping you back at your hotel in San Ignacio. It’s a full day, but one packed with memorable sights and experiences.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Knowledgeable Guides and Personal Touch

Reviews consistently highlight the friendly, knowledgeable local guides who make the day both fun and informative. “Our guide was so knowledgeable and we learned so much,” said one guest, emphasizing that the human element adds depth to what would otherwise be just a sightseeing trip.

Stunning Natural Beauty

From the tranquil farmland and jungle trails to the spectacular waterfall pools, the scenery is a highlight. The chance to swim beneath a 150-foot cascade is a unique experience that you’ll remember long after the trip ends.

Value and Comfort

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transport in a private air-conditioned vehicle, use of helmets, snacks, and a local Belizean meal—offering good value for a full day of adventure. The group size is limited to 15, keeping things intimate yet social.

Authentic Cultural Interaction

Travelers often praise the chance to experience Belize’s local hospitality and rural landscapes firsthand — not just touristy spots but real places that reveal the country’s character.

Potential Drawbacks to Consider

This tour involves some walking on uneven surfaces and a steep descent to the waterfall. If you have back problems, heart conditions, or are pregnant, it might not be suitable. Weather-dependent, heavy rain could make the trail slippery or the ride uncomfortable. It’s also worth noting that hotel pickup outside San Ignacio is not included, so plan accordingly.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This adventure is perfect for active travelers who enjoy a combination of outdoor activity and scenic beauty. It’s well-suited for those with moderate fitness levels, given the hiking involved. Nature lovers who appreciate local culture and authentic countryside will find it particularly rewarding. Families with children should note that children need to be accompanied by an adult, and the tour has a maximum group size of 15—helping ensure a friendly, personalized experience.

If you’re looking for a full-day Belizean experience that blends riding, sightseeing, and swimming in waterfalls, this tour hits the mark.

Final Thoughts

This full-day horseback riding and waterfall adventure offers a compelling mix of scenic riding, culture, and natural beauty. The knowledgeable guides and breathtaking waterfall swim stand out as highlights, making it a memorable choice among Belize’s outdoor activities. With good value, comfortable transportation, and an authentic local vibe, it’s suited for those wanting a balanced day of adventure and relaxation.

While it does require a modest level of physical activity, the tour’s friendly atmosphere and stunning scenery make it worth the effort. It’s a wonderful way to see Belize beyond the usual tourist spots, especially for travelers eager to experience the country’s wild, beautiful landscapes on a horse and in the water.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included if your hotel is in San Ignacio.

How long is the horseback ride?
The horseback ride lasts approximately 1.5 hours through farmland and jungle trails.

What should I wear?
Long pants and closed-toe shoes are recommended for horse riding. A change of clothes is a must after swimming.

What is the maximum weight for riders?
The weight limit for horse riding is 250 lbs per rider.

Can children participate?
Children must be accompanied by an adult; specific age restrictions aren’t mentioned, but physical activity and terrain mean adult supervision is key.

Is it suitable for non-experienced riders?
Yes, many reviewers mention that even those with little to no riding experience find the tour enjoyable and manageable.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is subject to weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you can reschedule or choose an alternative tour.

This tour offers a well-rounded, authentic Belize experience—ideal for adventure lovers eager to combine scenic riding with the thrill of swimming beneath a towering waterfall.