Belize may be small, but it delivers an extraordinary mix of landscapes. Inland, dense rainforest shelters ancient Maya cities and vibrant wildlife. Along the coast, the Caribbean Sea meets the world’s second-largest barrier reef. Few countries offer such a seamless blend of nature, history, and adventure.
While many travelers come for white-sand beaches and coral reefs, Belize’s rainforests, mountains, and waterfalls are just as compelling.
With much of the country still forested, Belize is home to some of Central America’s most beautiful waterfalls. Some tumble into deep swimming holes, others hide near ancient ruins, and many remain far from the crowds. If exploring wild places and cooling off beneath cascading water sounds appealing, these waterfalls deserve a place on your itinerary.
The Most Romantic: Big Rock Falls
Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve
Big Rock Falls is a striking cascade along the Privassion River in the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve. Water plunges roughly 150 feet into a clear pool that spills over smooth boulders into a larger basin below, all framed by lush forest.
A maintained trail leads into the gorge and down wooden stairways to the base of the falls. Despite easy access, Big Rock Falls is rarely crowded. It is an ideal place to swim, sunbathe on the rocks, or stand beneath the falling water and let nature do the work.
The reserve is open daily from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.
Insider Tip: The trail is steep in places. Take your time and use a sturdy walking stick for balance.
Best for Rappelling: Antelope Falls
Mayflower Bocawina State Park
Antelope Falls lies within Mayflower Bocawina State Park on the eastern edge of the Maya Mountains. The three-kilometer hike to the falls is challenging, with steep sections that can be slick after rain, but the reward is exceptional.
From the top, sweeping views stretch across rainforest all the way to the Caribbean Sea. At the base of the lower falls, a deep emerald pool offers a refreshing place to cool off before the return hike.
Park entry is USD $5 per person, and hours are 8:00 am to 4:00 pm daily. For those seeking an added thrill, Bocawina Rainforest Resort & Adventures offers guided waterfall rappelling and zip-lining experiences in the park.
The Hidden Gem: Davis Falls
Stann Creek District
Davis Falls sits deep in the hills off the Hummingbird Highway near Dangriga. With a dramatic 500-foot drop into a jungle-framed pool, it is Belize’s second-tallest waterfall.
Reaching the falls requires a four-wheel drive vehicle to cross multiple rivers, or a demanding half-day hike. The effort is rewarded with near-total solitude. Bring food, water, and swimwear, and plan to linger.
Entry costs USD $5 per person. ATV tours are a popular way to access the falls due to the challenging terrain.
The Tallest: Thousand Foot Falls
Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve
Despite its name, Thousand Foot Falls plunges nearly 1,600 feet, making it the tallest waterfall in Central America. The sheer scale of the drop is visible from miles away.
Most visitors view the falls from a designated lookout accessed via Chiquibul Road. A short drive leads to a picnic area and viewpoint overlooking the gorge. The reserve is open from 7:00 am to 5:00 pm daily.
Reaching the base requires a long and demanding descent that takes several hours round trip. For a memorable alternative, helicopter tours offer a dramatic aerial perspective of the falls and surrounding Maya Mountains.
Rainforest Energy: Bocawina Falls
Mayflower Bocawina State Park
Bocawina Falls is one of the most accessible waterfalls in Mayflower Bocawina State Park. A gentle two-kilometer trail leads from the visitor center to the base of the falls.
The waterfall drops about 100 feet into a deep pool ideal for swimming. Its moderate height also makes it a popular spot for first-time waterfall rappelling.
Park entry is USD $5 per person. Guided rappelling and zip-line tours are available through Bocawina Rainforest Resort & Adventures.
Insider Tip: Bring binoculars. The park is home to nearly 300 bird species.
Private Escape: Butterfly Falls
Hidden Valley Reserve
Butterfly Falls lies within the private reserve of Hidden Valley Inn in the Maya Mountains. Access is limited to guests, preserving a sense of exclusivity.
The waterfall drops roughly 80 feet into an emerald pool. A short hike leads through forest to the falls, where quiet and solitude are almost guaranteed.
Southern Highlight: Tiger Fern Waterfall
Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary
Tiger Fern Waterfall is located deep within the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, also known as the Jaguar Preserve. The two-kilometer hike is steep and demanding, but the reward is a dramatic double cascade and a large swimming pool.
The surrounding forest is rich with wildlife, including tapirs, monkeys, birds, and signs of elusive wild cats. Visitors rarely encounter crowds here.
Entry to the sanctuary is USD $5 per person, with park hours from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm.
Laid Back Favorite: Five Sisters Falls
Gaïa River Lodge
Five Sisters Falls is located on the private grounds of Gaïa River Lodge near Mountain Pine Ridge. Access is reserved for lodge guests and restaurant diners.
Five streams cascade over smooth rock into two natural pools, one above and one below. The sloping rock face makes this a relaxed spot for swimming and sunning.
Insider Tip: Book lunch at Gaïa River Lodge and spend the afternoon at the falls.
Natural Waterslides: Rio On Pools
Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve
Rio On Pools is a series of granite pools connected by smooth natural slides rather than a single vertical drop. Water flows gently through pine forest, creating an ideal place for a swim.
The area is open daily from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.
Insider Tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds.
Village Classic: Rio Blanco Waterfall
Toledo District
Rio Blanco Waterfall lies south of San Antonio in the Toledo District. A short hike leads to gentle cascades and a plunge pool at the base of a sandstone ledge.
The site is managed by the local Maya community, with a small crafts shop supporting local artisans. Park hours are 7:00 am to 5:00 pm, with a USD $5 entry fee.
If exploring rainforest trails, swimming beneath waterfalls, and spotting wildlife sounds like your idea of a perfect day, Belize’s waterfalls belong on your travel wish list. These are the places where the country’s wild heart is easiest to feel.
