Plizio Visual Lab

Blue Hole National Park

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

kid-landmark

Weather…

Blue Hole National Park, officially renamed St. Herman's Blue Hole National Park in 2005, spans 575 acres in the Cayo District of Belize. The landscape is dominated by an extensive limestone karst system and dense subtropical broadleaf forest. The park's centerpiece is a natural sapphire-blue cenote formed by the collapse of an underground limestone cave, fed by the subterranean segments of the Sibun River. The park provides sanctuary to over 200 species of birds, including the colorful motmot and various toucans, as well as mammals such as jaguars, ocelots, and tapirs. In addition to the Blue Hole, the reserve encompasses St. Herman's Cave, a historically significant site used by the ancient Maya for ceremonial purposes. The park's geology is vital for research, offering insights into the hydrological processes of central Belize. Hiking trails navigate through the thick canopy, allowing for the observation of diverse flora and fauna.

Location: Belize
Nearby: Biscayne (4 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	21	22	24	26	26	25	25	25	25	24	22	22
Rain mm	110	66	58	40	127	240	175	197	225	251	200	137

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

Blue Hole National Park is open to visitors and provides access to a turquoise cenote and St. Herman's Cave. Both attractions are reachable on foot via a marked trail from the entrance.

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Typical hours

The park is typically open daily from morning until late afternoon, with usual hours around 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. It is advisable to check current times on the official website before traveling.

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Photography

Photography is allowed throughout the park, especially at the cenote and cave. In the cave, a flash is useful as natural light is limited - but watch your footing on slippery surfaces.

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Time needed

Most visitors spend about 1-2 hours in the park, depending on whether they just visit the cenote or also explore the cave. Allow an extra 30-45 minutes for the cave walk.

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Combine with

Blue Hole National Park is near the St. Herman's Cave system and the Hummingbird Highway. Combine your visit with the nearby Inland Blue Hole or a trip to the Belize Zoo.

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Getting there

The park is about 20 kilometers south of Belmopan along the Hummingbird Highway. It is best reached by rental car or taxi, with public buses stopping nearby.

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Insider tip

Bring swimwear and a towel to take a dip in the refreshing cenote. A flashlight is recommended for the cave - the paths are wet and can be slippery.

Geography

Coordinates

17.23600, -88.40200

Facts

The park was officially established as a national park on November 23, 1986.
The grounds cover an area of approximately 2.32 square kilometers.
St. Herman's Cave within the park extends for over 2 kilometers in length.
The water in the Blue Hole maintains a constant temperature of about 22°C (72°F).
Maya artifacts from the Classic Period have been discovered within the park caves.
Management of the protected area is overseen by the Belize Audubon Society.