Barton Creek Cave and Big Rock Falls Day Trip from San Ignacio
Float through cathedral-like chambers on Barton Creek, then trade the hush of a ceremonial cave for the roar and plunge pool of Big Rock Falls in Mountain Pine Ridge. This full-day from San Ignacio blends Mayan history, geology, and a high-country swim.
The Experience
Before You Go
Wear closed-toe water shoes
The canoe and the waterfall approach are wet and rocky — shoes with grip protect toes on limestone and boulders.
Bring a dry bag and spare batteries
Headlamps and phones get damp in the cave and at the falls; keep a spare battery and electronics sealed.
Hydrate and pace yourself
Full-day tour with hiking, canoeing and boulder scrambling — drink often and take rests on the trail down to the falls.
Respect formations and artifacts
Do not touch stalactites/stalagmites and avoid moving stones; the cave is archaeologically sensitive.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Roadside Mennonite produce stands for fresh cheese and bread
- •Short pullout viewpoints on the climb into Mountain Pine Ridge for panoramic valley views
Wildlife
- •Howler monkeys
- •Toucans
Conservation Note
Cave formations and Pine Ridge ecosystems are fragile — stay on trails, avoid touching formations, and carry out all trash to reduce impact.
Barton Creek Cave served as a ceremonial site for the ancient Maya; archaeologists began modern study after the cave’s discovery in 1970 and further work in the 1990s.
Photographer's Notes
- • Inside the canoe under the cave ceiling
- • Base of Big Rock Falls near the plunge pool
- • Upper boulder ledges for a wide view of the falls
What to Bring
Closed-toe water shoesEssential
Protects feet on wet limestone, river approaches and boulder fields at the falls.
Headlamp with fresh batteriesEssential
Necessary for cave exploration; guides provide headlamps but bring a personal unit as backup.
Dry bag (small)Essential
Keeps camera, phone and extra clothes dry during canoe stretches and at the falls.
Biodegradable sunscreen and insect repellant
Protects from sun on the drive and from biting insects in forested areas.
Common Questions
How long is the cave portion of the tour?
Guides typically explore about one mile of Barton Creek Cave by canoe; total underground time depends on group pace and interpretation stops.
Is swimming allowed at Big Rock Falls?
Yes — there is a pool beneath the falls where guests can swim and jump from boulders, but follow your guide's safety briefing and check water depth before jumping.
Are helmets and life jackets provided?
Yes — helmets, life jackets, and headlamps are included and required for the cave portion of the trip.
What is the minimum group size and age restrictions?
Minimum two people per booking; the operator lists a 40-inch minimum height for cave participation and infants must sit on laps.
Do you pick up from hotels in San Ignacio?
Yes — the tour offers hotel pickups in San Ignacio and surrounding Cayo accommodations; confirm your pickup point when booking.
What should I bring for lunch and hydration?
Lunch and bottled water are included, but bring additional water if you sweat heavily and a small snack for between sites.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4–8 hours
Location
San Ignacio, Cayo
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness — comfortable with non-technical canoe balance, short steep descents, and scrambling over rocks
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