A short hike from the trailhead along a one-lane jungle track brings you to an awe inspiring canyon vista of the upper Macal River and the tropical forest that lies beyond.  You will arrive at Chechem Hah, the "bush farm" of Antonio and Leah Morales.  They welcome guests to share the tranquil yet wild beauty of their farm and to experience their traditional way of life. Chechem Hah is also an entryway into "Xibalba" (the Maya Underworld)!   Another short but much steeper jungle trail leads you to Chumpiate Cave where you will descend into the darkness that will reveal intact pottery that dates back to 300 BC and has never moved from the exact spot where their Maya owners last placed them. A return to the light of day and a downhill hike brings you back to Leah's open fire-hearth kitchen and a delicious traditional Belizean lunch.

The rushing waters of the Macal River far below beckon you and the trail will lead you back into the darkness of the rainforest as you move downward into the river canyon.  Towering cliffs will surround you as you make your way upriver over huge granite boulders to reach the "world class" swimming pools beneath Vaca Falls where you can take a refreshing swim. Did I mention that the birding is excellent?

Optional treks on Vaca Plateau include a guided hike from an easterly approach starting at the Maya village of San Antonio and ending at Black Rock.  Another, more adventurous "rock hopping" trek starts farther up the Macal River and follows the river course as it tumbles, rushes and falls through the jungles and canyons.

Rates