Rio Blanco National Park

Rio Blanco is one of the smallest national parks in Belize, around a hundred acres in the Toledo hills, and it exists around a single feature: a waterfall of about six metres dropping into a deep pool that is one of the best swimming holes in the district. It is managed by the surrounding Maya villages and the entry fee goes to them. Short trails run through the forest above the falls.

The landscape

• The waterfall - a six-metre drop into a deep swimming pool.
• The pool - deep enough to jump into from the surrounding rock.
• The forest trails - short walks through broadleaf forest above the falls.
• The community management - the park run by the neighbouring Maya villages.

When to go

December to April is the dry season and the best for swimming. Water rises fast after rain and the pool becomes dangerous. Weekends bring local visitors.

Things to know

The park is very small and the visit takes two hours. The rocks around the pool are slippery and jumping has caused injuries. Facilities are basic and staffing is intermittent.

Nearby

Blue Creek is east, and San Antonio village is nearby.

Key facts