Activities & Tours - Hidden Valley Inn

Mayan Ruins, Caving, Waterfalls, Horse Back Riding, Nature

ANCIENT MAYAN CITIES

Caracol Tour, Rio Frio Cave & Rio On Pools Tour
35 miles from the Inn, deep in the Chiquibul Wilderness lies one of the largest sites of the Ancient Mayan world with over 4000 structures spread over 55 square miles: Caracol. Cloaked in a jungle shroud, it is difficult to appreciate the extent of this mighty city. Excavation to date has revealed amongst others the towering temple of Caana (the Sky Palace), Belize's tallest manmade structure. The view from the top over the pristine jungle is breathtaking. Trails have been cut through the surrounding jungle for those interested in observing the wealth of fauna, flora and birdlife that inhabit the area. Included in the day trip to Caracol is also a visit to the Rio Frio Cave, which is open at both ends and arches to 65 feet in its center. A crystal clear stream runs through the cave and glittering stalactites decorate the interior. This is one of the least physically challenging caves in Belize. On the journey back a stop at Rio On Pools, with its numerous clear pools and waterfalls for swimming, makes a refreshing break.
Price per person: $100 (2 people min.) / Available Mon, Wed & Sun

Macal River Canoeing & Cahal Pech and Xunantunich
This is a most relaxing way to spend the day drifting down the Macal River to the town of San Ignacio catching sight of huge dragon-like orange and black iguanas hanging in the trees and swimming off the sandy shoals. 22 miles from the Inn on a hill above the town of San Ignacio lies the small but very well restored site of Cahal Pech which you will also be visiting on your trip. The site had provided important information on the earliest Mayan settlers of Western Belize. Judging from their decorative artwork and architecture, it is believed that they were quite sophisticated. About 25 miles from the Inn on the banks of the Mopan River and 3 miles from San Ignacio lies Xunantunich. A unique hand cranked ferry takes you over the Mopan on the way up to the entrance. The main temple, the 130 ft high El Castillo, is the second tallest temple in Belize and is surrounded by a stone and stuccoed frieze, decorated with Mayan glyphs. Some of these friezes have been restored and others are in their original state.
Price per person: $116 (2 people min.)
(*Macal River Canoeing only: $105)

Tikal Tour
Approximately 3 hours across the border into Guatemala lays one of the greatest of all Classic Mayan cities with its spectacular temples penetrating through the thick jungle canopy. The flora and fauna are almost as spectacular as the temples themselves. Howler monkeys, spider monkeys and coatimundis are seen regularly as well as an abundance of exotic birds.
Total Price: $325 (1-4 pers.), $540 (5-8 pers.); Transport & guide at Tikal only (border crossing fees, guide gratuities and entrance fees not included)


CAVES AND RIVERS

Spelunking is fast becoming one of the most popular activities in Belize. There are caves suitable for visitors of any age or physical capability. The Maya believed that caves were the entrance to the underworld and many sacred ceremonies were performed here. Ancient pottery, much of it still intact, skeletons and other artifacts can still be found today. Both experienced and first time cavers will gaze in awe at sparkling stalactites and stalagmites formed over thousands of years. The nearby Chiquibul cave system has yet to be fully explored and undoubtedly there are many caves deep in the jungle, still waiting to reveal their secrets.

Barton Creek Cave Canoeing & Green Hills Butterfly Farm
Drive through a rural Mennonite settlement and traverse several creeks to reach Barton Creek Cave. Here embark on a canoe and glide through the darkness, armed with a spotlight. Your guide will point out various magnificent formations and ancient relics and explain some of the beliefs and rituals of the ancient Maya. A peaceful and relaxing journey into the underworld. Afterwards visit the Green Hills Butterfly Farm where you can observe the life cycle of a butterfly and view close-up the stunning blue-morpho butterfly. This farm exports to all over the world and is one of the most established in Belize.
Price per person: $98 (2 people min.) / Available Tue, Thu & Sat

Actun Tunichil Muknal
This cave is more physically challenging and can only be visited with one of the local operators. Start with a 45 minute hike, followed by a swim into the cave. An Aladdin's cave of ancient pottery, calcified skulls and skeletons and spectacular formations make the effort worthwhile.
Price per person: $30 (transport) + $79 (full day caving tour); 2 people min.

Cave Branch Tubing
Caves Branch offers a tube ride within an extensive cave system. Paddle and hike your way past Mayan artifacts and gaze in wonder at vast chambers adorned with stalactites, stalagmites and wall carvings.
Price per person: $85 (transport) + $88 (cave tubing tour and lunch); 2 people min.


OTHER ACTIVITIES

Hidden Valley Inn Property Tour
This is a guided tour of the different waterfalls and viewpoints within the private reserve and may include 1000 ft falls. The tour is tailor made to suit the individual and includes the 6 stops of your choice.
Price per person: $65 (2 people min.)

Horseback Riding
Arrangements can be made to provide horseback riding at a number of nearby establishments. The rides vary in length from one hour to full day excursions and visit waterfalls, caves and Mayan ruins in the jungle.
Price per person: Half day: $48 / Full day: $63 (2 people min.) + $32 for transport

Birding/Nature/Night Walks
Morning or evening birding or nature walks can be organized with a resident guide.
Price per person: $12

Belize Zoo
An excellent introduction to the indigenous wildlife of Belize. The natural vegetation has been incorporated into the enclosures and even those not enthusiastic about zoos will be impressed by the space and design. Situated halfway between Belize City and Hidden Valley Inn, a tour of the zoo provides an ideal break in the journey.
Price: $38 per person extra (based on 1-4 pers.) if added to your transfer to or from Belize City
The Village Experience
Approximately 8 miles from the Lodge explore the modern day Mayan village of San Antonio. The Garcia Sisters have also established a museum and handicraft shop here. Visitors can see traditional household tools and agricultural implements, and buy slate carvings, baskets and other crafts.
Price: $25 per person extra (based on 1-4 pers.) if added to your transfer to or from Belize City