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Caracol

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Historical site
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Caracol (Belize)

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Caracol is the largest Maya archaeological site in Belize, set deep within the Chiquibul Forest Reserve on the Vaca Plateau. At its peak around 650 AD, the city was a colossal metropolis supporting a population of over 140,000 people, significantly larger than modern-day Belize City. The site's most impressive structure is 'Caana' (Sky Place), a massive temple complex that remains the tallest man-made structure in Belize at 140 feet (42 meters). Caracol holds a prominent place in Maya history for its military prowess, most notably its decisive victory over the superpower Tikal in 562 AD, an event recorded on Altar 21. The urban center was supported by an incredibly sophisticated system of agricultural terraces and an extensive network of causeways (sacbeob) stretching for miles. Discovered by a mahogany logger in 1937, Caracol continues to be a focal point for archaeological research into Maya urbanism and political hierarchy. Its remote location near the Guatemalan border preserves a rich surrounding ecosystem of jaguars, scarlet macaws, and tapirs.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C212224262625252525242222
Rain mm110665840127240175197225251200137

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The Caracol ruins are open to visitors and represent Belize's most important Maya archaeological site. You can explore the extensive grounds on foot and climb the impressive temples.
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Typical hours
The site typically opens daily from morning until late afternoon, roughly 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Exact hours should be confirmed beforehand.
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Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the site. Please refrain from using flash in more sensitive areas.
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Time needed
Plan at least half a day for your visit as the area is very extensive. Exploring all major structures takes several hours.
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Combine with
It's worth combining with other Maya sites like Xunantunich or the archaeological museum in Belmopan. Many operators offer combined tours.
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Getting there
Caracol is accessible only with a 4x4 vehicle or as part of a guided tour. The drive on gravel roads takes about two hours from San Ignacio.
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Insider tip
Arrive early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds. Bring plenty of water and insect repellent.

History & landmarks

Classical

600

Geography

Coordinates
16.76310, -89.11780

Facts

  • The Caana pyramid is Belize's tallest structure at 42 meters.
  • Peak population estimated at more than 140,000 residents.
  • Conquered the city of Tikal in a major war in 562 AD.
  • Site covers roughly 77 square miles (200 square kilometers).
  • Discovered in 1937 by a logger named Rosa Mai.
  • Includes over 35,000 documented archaeological features.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Bullet Tree FallsBullet Tree Falls<1 km · EExplore →
Benque Viejo del CarmenBenque Viejo del Carmen2 km · SExplore →
JalacteJalacte2 km · SWExplore →
Vaca Forest ReserveVaca Forest Reserve2 km · NExplore →
Moho RiverMoho River2 km · NWExplore →
Melchor de MencosMelchor de Mencos4 km · SExplore →
Cerro El PitalCerro El Pital4 km · WExplore →
Copán Coffee ProductionCopán Coffee Production4 km · SWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Is Caracol the largest Maya site?
Yes, it is the largest ruined city in Belize by area.
Do you need a special car?
A 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended due to rough roads.
Is there a military escort?
Yes, tourists often join a convoy starting at 9 AM.
How high is Caana?
The main temple, Caana, is about 43 meters high.
How long is the drive from San Ignacio?
The drive takes about 2 to 3 hours depending on road conditions.
Caracol: where is it located?
Caracol is located in Belize.
Caracol: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
Caracol: why is it worth visiting?
Caracol is the largest Maya archaeological site in Belize, set deep within the Chiquibul Forest Reserve on the Vaca Plateau.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
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Nearby cities

Belize City — Caracol (Belize)
Belize City
The country's largest city and a historic port.
San Pedro — Caracol (Belize)
San Pedro
The only town on the island of Ambergris Caye.
Belmopan — Caracol (Belize)
Belmopan
The small, inland capital city of Belize.
San Ignacio — Caracol (Belize)
San Ignacio
A town in the Cayo District, base for eco-tourism and Maya ruins.
Dangriga — Caracol (Belize)
Dangriga
The cultural center of the Garifuna people in Belize.
St. George&#39;s Caye — Caracol (Belize)
St. George's Caye
St.
Tobacco Caye — Caracol (Belize)
Tobacco Caye
A tiny, idyllic island situated directly on the Belize Barrier Reef.
Rendezvous Caye — Caracol (Belize)
Rendezvous Caye
Rendezvous Caye is a tiny, picturesque private island on the Belize Barrier Reef, ideal for exclusive snorkeling and relaxing beach days.
Ambergris Caye — Caracol (Belize)
Ambergris Caye
The largest island in Belize, known for its water sports, scuba diving, and proximity to the Belize Barrier Reef.
Turneffe Atoll — Caracol (Belize)
Turneffe Atoll
Turneffe Atoll is the largest and most biologically diverse coral atoll in Belize, famous for its extensive mangrove forests and world-cl…
Glover&#39;s Reef — Caracol (Belize)
Glover's Reef
Glover's Reef is a remote, partially submerged atoll known for its central lagoon dotted with hundreds of patch reefs and secluded island…
Half Moon Caye — Caracol (Belize)
Half Moon Caye
Half Moon Caye is a crescent-shaped natural monument in Lighthouse Reef, famous for its protected red-footed booby colony and spectacular…

History & landmarks

Big Rock Falls — Caracol (Belize)
Big Rock Falls
A stunning waterfall with a large natural pool perfect for swimming.
Actun Tunichil Muknal — Caracol (Belize)
Actun Tunichil Muknal
A cave that houses human remains and ancient Maya artifacts.
Belize Zoo — Caracol (Belize)
Belize Zoo
A small but famous zoo that houses exclusively native animal species.
Placencia — Caracol (Belize)
Placencia
A popular coastal village known for its beautiful beaches and narrowest street.
Belize Barrier Reef — Caracol (Belize)
Belize Barrier Reef
The second largest coral reef system in the world (UNESCO World Heritage).
Hol Chan Marine Reserve — Caracol (Belize)
Hol Chan Marine Reserve
Popular marine reserve for snorkeling near Ambergris Caye.
Ambergris Caye — Caracol (Belize)
Ambergris Caye
The largest island of Belize, famous for its beaches and water sports.

Nature

Macal River — Caracol (Belize)
Macal River
A scenic river flowing through the Cayo District.
Five Blues Lake — Caracol (Belize)
Five Blues Lake
A beautiful inland lake surrounded by limestone hills.
New River — Caracol (Belize)
New River
An important waterway in northern Belize leading to the Lamanai ruins.

More places

Xunantunich — Caracol (Belize)
Xunantunich
Maya ruin near the Guatemalan border featuring the El Castillo pyramid.
Doyle&#39;s Delight — Caracol (Belize)
Doyle's Delight
The highest point in Belize, located in the Maya Mountains.
Mountain Pine Ridge Forest — Caracol (Belize)
Mountain Pine Ridge Forest
A vast forest area featuring pine trees, waterfalls, and caves.
Lubaantun — Caracol (Belize)
Lubaantun
Maya site known for its unusual construction without mortar.
Mountain Pine Ridge — Caracol (Belize)
Mountain Pine Ridge
A national park featuring pine forests and spectacular waterfalls.
Lamanai — Caracol (Belize)
Lamanai
Maya ruins in the jungle that are best accessed by boat.
Cerros — Caracol (Belize)
Cerros
An ancient Maya site located directly on the coastline.
Altun Ha — Caracol (Belize)
Altun Ha
Well-known Maya site near Belize City, where the Jade Head was found.