Tour Description
Situated high on the Vaca Plateau deep in the Chiquibul Forest Reserve, Caracol is the most extensive Mayan site in Belize and was only rediscovered as recently as 1936. The site of Caracol covers over 80 square miles with 30,000 structures, and at its peak supported a population in excess of 150,000. Situated at 1600 feet above sea level (one of the highest located sites of the southern uplands region) with no natural water body close by, it remains a mystery why such a huge population center like Caracol evolved where it is. However, the close proximity to both extremely hard stone and copal, two commodities highly prized by the Mayas may help explain this enigma.
At the heart of the site lies the massive pyramid of Caana (Sky Palace) which is now almost fully restored and reaches a height of over 135 feet. From the top, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views over the forest-clad mountains.
The drive to the site in the early morning occasionally allows guests to take a glimpse of tapirs, jaguars, or ocelots, as they break their forest cover to cross the road. The sprawling site contains huge Ceiba, Mahogany, and Sapodilla trees and is superb for birding (the rare Keel-billed Motmot is one of the many residents of the site). Wildlife such as Howler and Spider monkeys, Ocellated Turkey, Coatimundi, Gibnut, and Grey Fox are often sighted while quietly wandering along the site’s causeways or along trails connecting the plaza groups.
Cost: US$100.00 per person
