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If you’re planning a trip to Belize, don’t miss these breathtaking waterfalls, perfect for swimming, hiking, & jungle adventures. Located near top attractions like the Hummingbird Highway, Cockscomb Basin, & Mountain Pine Ridge, these falls offer an unforgettable moments.
Why visit these Waterfalls in Belize?
What makes these cascades so special? Unlike the crowded tourist spots you might find elsewhere, Belize’s waterfalls often reward you with peaceful solitude. Imagine having a crystal-clear natural pool all to yourself, surrounded by nothing but jungle sounds and breathtaking scenery.
Let’s explore the best waterfalls you should visit during your Belize vacation:
1. Davis Falls
Ever stood beneath a waterfall taller than a 50-story building? Davis Falls offers exactly this experience cascading at more than 500 feet (150 meters), but you’ll need to work for it. The adventure begins 8 miles off the Humming Bird Highway in Alta Vista Village on the Sittee River Wildlife Reserve, with an exciting off-road journey crossing 8 rivers in a 4WD vehicle before a two-mile hike through pristine rainforest.
What makes Davis Falls special isn’t just its impressive height, but the journey to reach it. As you navigate river crossings and jungle trails, you’ll feel like a true explorer. When you finally arrive, the reward is sweet – a series of crystal-clear pools at the base of the thundering cascade, perfect for a refreshing swim after your trek.
📍 Location: Sittee River Nature Reserve (8 miles off Hummingbird Highway)
💧 Height: 500 feet | 🥾 Hike: Moderate (2 miles + river crossings)
Tips:
- Best visited in the dry season (Feb–May) for safer river crossings.
- Wear sturdy water shoes—rocks can be slippery!
- Local guides recommended (ask at Untame Belize Tours).
2. The Thousand Foot Waterfalls
Don’t let the name fool you, Thousand Foot Falls actually drops an incredible 1,600 feet, making it the highest waterfall not just in Belize but in all of Central America! Located in the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve, this majestic cascade creates a striking contrast against the surrounding pine forests.
Most visitors enjoy the falls from a well-maintained observation deck that offers spectacular panoramic views. If you’re feeling adventurous, guides can take you on a challenging hike to the base of the falls, but be prepared for a strenuous journey.
What I love about this spot is how the mist from the falls creates rainbows on sunny days, making for absolutely magical photos. The viewing area also has picnic facilities, so pack a lunch and make a day of it.
📍 Location: Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve (Cayo District)
💧 Height: 1,600 feet | 🥾 Hike: Easy (viewpoint accessible by car)
3. Tiger Fern Double Waterfall
Have you ever had a waterfall completely to yourself? That’s often the experience at Tiger Fern Double Waterfall, hidden within the world’s first jaguar preserve at Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary. The moderate 2-mile hike each way keeps the crowds away, rewarding those who make the effort with not one, but two gorgeous cascades flowing into pristine pools.
The trail itself deserves mention – as you climb through the rainforest, you’ll enjoy breathtaking mountain views and might spot colorful tropical birds or other wildlife. After working up a sweat on the hike, nothing feels better than slipping into the cool, refreshing pool beneath the lower falls.
Wildlife bonus: Keep your eyes open as you hike – the sanctuary is home to jaguars, ocelots, tapirs, and hundreds of bird species. While the big cats are elusive, you might get lucky with other wildlife sightings.
📍 Location: Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary
💧 Height: 50 feet (two-tiered) | 🥾 Hike: Moderate (3 miles round-trip)
Tips:
- Entrance fee: $10 USD (supports conservation).
- Avoid rainy season—trails get muddy!
4. Big Rocks Waterfalls
Looking for the ultimate natural swimming experience? Big Rock Falls might just be it. This impressive cascade tumbles over massive boulders into a deep, wide pool that’s perfect for swimming. The name couldn’t be more appropriate as enormous rocks surround the falls, creating natural diving platforms and sunbathing spots.
Located deep inside the Mountain Pine Ridge Reserve, getting to this waterfall involves a short but somewhat challenging descent down wooden and stone steps. The effort is quickly forgotten when you see the falls, with a wide curtain of water dropping into a gorgeous swimming area surrounded by granite boulders and lush vegetation.
What makes this spot special is how accessible the pool is, you can swim right up to the base of the falls to feel the power of the water, or simply float in the refreshing pool while gazing up at the surrounding forest canopy.
📍 Location: Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve
💧 Height: 150 feet | 🥾 Hike: Easy (10-min walk from parking)
Tips:
- Bring a picnic—there are shaded rocks to relax on.
- Combines well with Rio On Pools (nearby swimming spot).
5. Butterfly Falls
If you’re looking for that perfect waterfall photo for your Instagram, Butterfly Falls might be your best bet. This 80-foot cascade drops in a single, graceful ribbon into a circular pool surrounded by ferns and wildflowers. The setting is almost too picturesque to be real.
There’s one catch however, Butterfly Falls is located on private property and is only accessible to guests of the property or through arrangement with the resort. The exclusivity means you’ll often have this magical spot all to yourself.
The hike to reach the falls is relatively easy, following a well-maintained trail through pine forest that suddenly gives way to tropical vegetation as you approach the falls. The contrast makes the reveal of the waterfall even more dramatic.
📍 Location: Hidden Valley Inn (Private Property)
💧 Height: 80 feet | 🥾 Hike: Easy (for guests only)
Tips:
- Fantastic for photography—morning light is magical.
6. Antelope Falls
Want to combine a serious workout with an unforgettable waterfall experience? Antelope Falls delivers both. The challenging hike to reach these falls isn’t for the faint of heart, but those who persevere are rewarded with one of Belize’s most unique waterfall experiences.
What makes Antelope Falls special is the incredible view from the top is that on clear days, you can see all the way to the Caribbean Sea! The falls themselves cascade down in multiple tiers, with a perfect natural pool at the top for cooling off after your climb.
The trail includes some steep sections with rope assists, so proper footwear and a reasonable fitness level are recommended. That said, the bragging rights and stunning photos are worth every drop of sweat.
📍 Location: Bocawina National Park
💧 Height: 1,000 feet | 🥾 Hike: Challenging (1.5-hour steep climb)
Tips:
- Start early to avoid midday heat.
- Wear hiking boots—trail is rocky and steep.
7. Mayan King Waterfall
Not every great waterfall requires an expedition to reach it. Mayan King Waterfall, just 20 minutes from Placencia, offers all the tropical waterfall experience with minimal effort. This makes it perfect for families with young children or anyone who wants to enjoy a refreshing cascade without a challenging hike.
The falls flow over smooth rock formations, creating natural water slides in some sections. Multiple pools of varying depths mean everyone from toddlers to adults can find a comfortable spot to enjoy the cool, clear water.
What I love about Mayan King is how it combines accessibility with authentic jungle atmosphere. Despite being easy to reach, you’re still surrounded by tropical forest and massive boulders, creating that magical rainforest waterfall experience.
- 📍 Location: Mayan World Adventure Park (Near Placencia)
- 💧 Height: 40 feet | 🥾 Hike: Easy (5-min walk)
Tips:
- Great for families (shallow pools for kids).
- Combine with a Belize zipline & River Tubing Combo Tour at the park.
8. Rio Blanco Waterfall
Want to experience local culture alongside natural beauty? Rio Blanco Waterfall, managed by nearby Maya villages in the Toledo District, offers this unique combination. Though not the tallest cascade in Belize, what Rio Blanco lacks in height, it makes up for in swimming opportunities and cultural significance.
The falls drop into a deep, wide pool that’s perfect for swimming, jumping, and even diving from the surrounding limestone cliffs (if you’re brave enough!). Local Maya families often visit on weekends, giving travelers a chance to experience how Belizeans enjoy their own natural wonders.
The park facilities include changing rooms, picnic areas, and sometimes food vendors selling local snacks and drinks. This makes Rio Blanco perfect for a full day of relaxation and cultural immersion.
📍 Location: Rio Blanco National Park (Toledo District)
💧 Height: 20 feet | 🥾 Hike: Easy (10-min walk)
Tips:
- Pack lunch—there are covered picnic tables.
- Visit weekdays to avoid crowds.
Planning Your Belize Waterfall Adventure
When to Visit
The best time to see Belize’s waterfalls depends on what you’re looking for:
- Rainy season (June-November): Falls are at their most powerful and impressive, but access roads and trails can be muddy and challenging.
- Dry season (December-May): Easier hiking conditions and clearer water for swimming, though some smaller falls may have reduced flow.
What to Bring
For most waterfall visits, pack:
- Quick-dry clothing and swimwear
- Sturdy water shoes or hiking sandals
- Waterproof bag for electronics
- Insect repellent
- Sunscreen
- Small towel
- Water and snacks
Transportation Tips
Most waterfalls require a vehicle to access, with many needing 4WD capability, especially during the rainy season. Consider booking with Untame Belize Tours & Shuttles that provides transportation and knowledgeable guides who can enhance your experience with information about the local ecology & culture.
The Waterfall Less Traveled
What makes Belize’s waterfalls truly special isn’t just their beauty, but the adventure of discovering them. Unlike more developed tourist destinations, many of these natural wonders still retain an untouched quality that’s becoming increasingly rare in our well-traveled world.
Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping expedition to a remote cascade or a relaxing day at an accessible swimming hole, Belize’s diverse waterfalls offer something for every type of traveler. Pack your swimsuit, lace up your hiking boots, and prepare to be amazed by the hidden treasures of this Central American paradise.
