Belize is known for the health of its environment and wildlife, and Cayo - with its lush tropical forests and wealth of flora and fauna - probably epitomizes this health more than anywhere else in the country.

The largest of Belize's six districts, Cayo lies in the Western part of the country. San Ignacio Town, built on seven hills in the heart of the Cayo District, sits on the left bank of the Macal River. It is located 72 miles from Belize City, 22 miles from Belmopan and 9 miles from the Guatemalan border.

Caves, waterfalls and towering trees carpet the landscape. The Cayo District boasts of opportunities to experience Mayan Ruins, rich wildlife, spectacular views and countless caving, canoeing, hiking, and birding adventures.

But Cayo is probably known more for its rich Mayan heritage then anything else. One of the tallest man-made structures in the country, Xunantunich (left), lies but a few miles from the towns center. And numerous smaller sites such as Cahal Pech, and El Pilar lie dotted about the country-side. Probably the greatest and most well-known Mayan ruin in the world - Tikal - lies just to the west in neighboring Guatemala. Then, there is, the largest ceremonial center in the country, Caracol, just a day trip from San Ignacio and reputed to have defeated Tikal in numerous battles. during ancient Mayan times.