5 Things to do in San Ignacio

From your home base at Casa Maruka

Cayo is known for its adventure tours and jungle excursions — but there’s plenty to enjoy right in town, at your own pace. When you stay at Casa Maruka, you’re perfectly located to experience San Ignacio’s charm, food, and culture without needing a guide.

Here are five fun, easy things to do nearby — perfect for a relaxed day of exploring (in no order of preference).

1. VISIT THE SAN IGNACIO FARMERS MARKET & EXPLORE DOWNTOWN

No visit to San Ignacio is complete without a stop at the San Ignacio Farmers Market. Located right by the river, it’s the town’s social heart — open daily, but busiest and most colorful on Saturdays when farmers, food vendors, and artisans come in from surrounding villages.

What to expect:

• Fresh local produce, tropical fruits, herbs, and spices.
• Food stalls serving Belizean breakfasts, tacos, pupusas, and juices.
• Handmade crafts, woven goods, and souvenirs made by local artisans.
• A warm, bustling atmosphere full of color and friendly conversation.

Afterward, take time to wander downtown San Ignacio — the market flows right into the main streets. Browse local shops, cafés, and boutiques, or grab ice cream and stroll across the Hawkesworth Bridge for river views and photo spots.

If you’d like to explore a bit more, Casa Maruka offers mountain bike rentals so you can pedal around town and discover more local corners at your own pace.

2. FEED THE IGUANAS

Just a short walk or drive from downtown, you’ll find one of San Ignacio’s most charming attractions — the Green Iguana Conservation Project at the San Ignacio Resort Hotel, a project dedicated to protecting the endangered green iguana.

Here, you can learn about Belize’s native green iguanas and see them up close in a shaded habitat. It’s a fun and educational stop, especially for families or animal lovers. It allows you to learn about the life cycle of these prehistoric-looking creatures, and most excitingly, to carefully hold and interact with them. It’s a wonderful experience for all ages and a great way to support local conservation.

3. EXPERIENCE CHOCOLATE MAKING AT AJAW CHOCOLATE & CRAFTS

If you have a sweet tooth, don’t miss Ajaw Chocolate, located right in San Ignacio. This local, family-run shop offers a hands-on look at how chocolate was made by the ancient Maya — using traditional tools and roasted cacao beans.

You’ll get to grind the cacao yourself, learn the history behind the process, and of course, taste fresh, rich Belizean chocolate made right in front of you.

It’s a short, informal experience you can walk into during the day and it’s one of the most memorable cultural experiences in town.

4. RELAX (OR PADDLE) ALONG THE MACAL RIVER

The Macal River flows peacefully through San Ignacio, offering a quiet place to unwind, enjoy the view, or cool off after a morning of exploring.

The riverbank is a perfect spot for a peaceful picnic, an afternoon of bird watching, or simply relaxing to the sound of the flowing water. It’s a hub for local wildlife, so keep your eyes peeled for iguanas sunning themselves on the rocks and tropical birds in the canopy.

And even better, Casa Maruka guests can rent kayaks directly from us. Glide down the river at your own pace, surrounded by trees and birdsong. It’s a peaceful way to take in the natural beauty of Belize without leaving town. Just let us know, and we’ll have your gear ready.

5. STEP BACK IN TIME AT CAHAL PECH MAYA RUINS

Perched on a small hill overlooking San Ignacio, Cahal Pech is one of the oldest Maya sites in Belize — and it’s only a few minutes from Casa Maruka.

You can walk through ancient plazas, climb the small pyramids, and explore shady courtyards that were once home to a royal Maya family. Unlike larger archaeological sites, Cahal Pech is quiet and compact — perfect for a peaceful hour of exploration on your own.

Bring some water, your camera, and sturdy shoes, and enjoy the mix of history, jungle, and scenic views.

Your Day, Your Way

We hope this guide helps you create a perfect and personalized itinerary during your stay at Casa Maruka. After a day of adventure, there’s nothing better than coming home to your own comfortable retreat. Enjoy your exploration 😊