Caracol's Giants: Exclusive Mayan Jungle Odyssey from San Ignacio

Our trip to Caracol was a true highlight of our visit to Belize. Elio was the kindest, most knowledgable guide you could ever wish for. He was amazing with our 9 year-old, knew so much about local history, plants, and animals, and went above and beyond to make sure we had a great time. Caracol was amazing. There were so few people there, it felt like we had the place to ourselves. Climbing and exploring was fun for everyone. We learned so much history and saw such a wide variety of birds and other wildlife. We highly recommend this trip - the road is definitely rough, but the rewards are worth it. If you are lucky enough to be able to go with Elio, you will be in such good hands.

We had a lovely tour with Elio at Caracol. The ride to the park was long and bumpy as the road is under construction, but the benefit was that we had nearly the whole park to ourselves. The views and history are remarkable, the food was delicious, and elio is full of knowledge about Mayan and Belizean history and culture

I have traveled extensively and taken tours around the world (including 6 other Mayan sites) and this was one of the best tours and companies I have used! Caracol is a little out of the way for most tourist but as the largest Mayan site in Belize, it’s a must see. It's a 2 and half hour drive from San Ignacio down mostly ruff dirt/muddy roads. You technically can drive it yourself if you have a 4-wheel drive but don't unless you are used to driving in adverse conditions. While there are few turn offs, there are even fewer directional signs. For this reason, we booked this tour. We decided to leave the driving to an expert. Don't let the road scare you away from this once in a lifetime trip, it's worth every moment. Before the trip, I did my research and read the reviews. St Leonard's had the best review I could find. I emailed and Carla quickly responded, answering all my questions. As the trip got closer, I emailed with other travel/Covid concerns and Carla again eased my mind and was very helpful. Once in country, I called Carla and hammered out the details. Early the next morning, Elio picked us up at the hotel and off we went into the jungle. He was a fantastic and knowledgeable guide. He not only knew his Mayan history but also knew the flora and fauna. He truly made our day exciting and educational. We made many wonderful memories that day that will last a lifetime. After a wonderful homemade picnic lunch, we started the long trek back. Along the way we stopped at Rio Frio Cave and Rio On Pools. Both spots were impossibly gorgeous and a great side trip. Just FYI, there are changing facilities at the Rio On Pools so you don't have to ride back in your wet bathing suit. You spend a lot of money getting the San Ignacio and have traveled many miles, so don't miss out on this amazing world wonder. Book a guide to make the most out of your travels. I can honestly say that St Leonard's Tours has been one of my best travel experiences. I WILL l travel with them again. At this point, I would take any trip they offered. They treated us friends and not another tourist. We took 2 tours with St Leonard’s - Caracol and the combined tour of Xunantunich & Cahal Pech (see separate review). I highly recommend both.

Such a fun activity!! We rode horses around the property and along the river for 1.5 hours and heard all kinds of history and information from our guide (Kendall was with us). The horses had quite the personality but I never felt intimated or unsafe on top of the horse. Beautiful views, great conversation, and a relaxing ride - this should be on your list of things to do while visiting. Also - Carol, who owns the business, is so full of energy, passion, and love for what she does.

I would recommend St. Leonard's to anyone, particularly for Caracol. Corresponding with them was easy and our guide was excellent. I definitely recommend including Rio Frio Cave and Rio On Pools as part of your trip.

<p>The drive to Caracol is not easy........there is only one road filled with lots of holes.<br/> Be prepared for a long day.</p> <p>Our guide from St Leonards Tours, Carla was fantastic!<br/> She was aware that the tour time was very early so picked up breakfast at a local restaurant in San Ignacio.<br/> Best flour tortillas we have ever had!<br/> Carla is most knowledgeable about the history of the Mayas and eager to share the information.<br/> Had a wonderful picnic lunch experiencing some of the local flavors.<br/> Most impressed by the concerns locals have about their environment.</p>

<p>Very good tour company and tour. I felt like guide's friend.</p>

<p>The tour was awesome. Carla was our guide and she was great! She was very knowledgeable and made us feel like she had known us for years. She also gave us great advice on another outing we were taking on our own the next day.</p>

<p>Our tour guide, Peter, was very knowledgeable. This tour included a home cooked lunch which was amazing and really helped to make the day wonderful! The road is bumpy and long but the car was comfortable and air conditioned.</p>

<p>Carla with St Leonard's Tours is fantastic! Be ready for an adventure! The drive is long and rocky, so be prepared for a long day. Caracol site is worth the trip. On the way back, the gorgeous water falls stole my heart! Carla was professional and very accommodating! Worth every penny!</p>