Horseback Holidays in Belize

Belize offers riders two very different types of landscapes. Thanks to being a small country, you can go from riding along Caribbean beaches to venturing into its dense tropical jungle in just minutes.

Belize: Jungle and Beach in Perfect Harmony

Belize is a small country on the east coast of Central America, with Caribbean beaches to the east and dense jungle to the west. It borders Mexico and Guatemala.

It was the last country in the Americas to gain independence, in 1981. As a member of the Commonwealth, it maintains historical ties with the United Kingdom and is officially under its sovereignty.

Its current capital is Belmopan, which replaced Belize City after the damage caused by Hurricane Hattie in 1961.

Caracol Mayan Ruins

Belize was home to one of the world’s most mysterious civilizations, the Maya. In the Cayo and Toledo districts, there are archaeological sites from the golden age of the Maya (250-1000).

Geography

The northern half of the country is a natural extension of the Yucatán Peninsula, a low and often swampy area. The southern half is dominated by small mountain ranges, such as the Maya Mountains, whose highest point is Victoria Peak at 1,122 m.

The coast is preceded by numerous atolls and coral reefs.

This is the second largest barrier reef in the world, after Australia’s.

Its most important rivers are the Belize River, the Hondo River (which forms part of the border with Mexico), and the Sarstoon River (which marks the southwestern border with Guatemala).

Belize enjoys a subtropical climate, refreshed by sea breezes along the entire coast. The average annual temperature is 26.1°C.

The jungle covers only half of the country’s surface. The coast is lined with mangroves. Jaguars, deer, tapirs, and numerous species of birds and reptiles make up the region’s fauna.

You’ll be amazed by everything this small, English-speaking Central American country with a Black heritage has to offer. A country where the jungle reaches the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean Sea.

The Best Horseback Riding Routes in Belize

Below, we inform you about the equestrian routes offered by Banana Bank Horses so you can enjoy your horseback holidays in Belize.

Banana Bank Horses & Belize Jungle Lodge

Located on the peaceful Belize River and surrounded by many acres of natural broadleaf palm forests, they offer miles of varied trails to explore.

They have 35 years of experience, more than 80 horses, and thousands of rides completed.

Jungle ride

Banana Bank Lodge emphasizes safety for both riders and horses. Riding with them will be an experience that provides both learning and a challenge.

Their guides are prepared to help all riders, from 3 to 90 years old. Whether you are male or female, experienced or not, you will be welcome and have a great time with them.

How do they train their horses? Focused on gentling young colts, they apply the basic concepts of \"Horse Whispering\" in the round pen. Then they take them straight into the jungle for some fun challenges.

Their Routes

Your horseback holidays at Banana Bank can last days or weeks, it’s up to you. The offer is varied and the experience is very rewarding.

Here are some of their equestrian adventures:

• Jungle and river ride: Horses love the river and you’ll be surprised at how well they respond. If you are a more experienced rider, you can do the route at a fast pace. Enjoy the lush jungle, birds, howler monkeys, and the landscapes along the way.
• Night ride and barbecue: Horses see very well at night and will take you along the trail safely as your confidence grows. Experience the jungle at night as the animals do. At the end of the ride, a campfire and barbecue await you: the perfect ending to this exciting horseback route.
• Full-day ride through the nation’s capital: Belmopan is only three miles from Banana Bank on horseback. The ride begins at the Belize River, where you can swim with the horses. Then, you’ll explore the surroundings of Belmopan and get to know the capital of Belize in a unique way.
• Full day at Tom's Place: To visit Tom's Place, you must ride about 8 miles from Banana Bank, passing through different types of landscapes and agricultural areas. You’ll visit the village of Valley of Peace and discover how hundreds of people seeking survival turned this place into a thriving community.

If you want to know more about their horseback rides, visit their website: www.bananabank.com.

On horseback between the Central American Jungle and the Caribbean Sea, Belize is a small country but full of culture and adventure. Exploring the jungle and Mayan ruins on horseback is a spectacle not to be missed.