Visit Belize’s Site of the Year: Elijio Panti National Park
“Elijio Panti National Park is a living relative in our Maya kincentric worldview, reminding us that when we safeguard biodiversity today, we gift future generations healthy forests, flowing rivers, and a world still alive with wonder.
-Itzamna Society
Don Elijio Panti passed away at the age of 103 on February 4th, 1996. Even today, however, almost three decades later, his legacy still lives on. The spiritual leader and Maya healer is renowned the world over, but Belizeans here at home don’t have to look very far to witness that legacy in action. Sitting in the Cayo district, the Elijio Panti National Park is a sprawling expanse of protected forest, totaling just over 13,000 acres. It was established in February 2001, and this year the park was awarded Site of the Year at the Belize Tourism Board’s 2025 National Tourism Awards.
Things to Do at Elijio Panti National Park
Photo Credit: Elijio Panti National Park
Noj Kaax Meen Elijio Panti National Park is located just a stone’s throw away from the village of San Antonio, Cayo. As a visitor, get to walk the very paths that Don Elijio himself once walked, picking herbs and conducting healing ceremonies to treat persons from all over the world. Whether for some early morning birding and breathtaking views from the tops of mountains, or heart-pumping hikes, waterfalls, and cave exploration, the EPNP is the perfect place for nature and adventure lovers.
Hiking and Camping
The trails that crisscross their way through the Elijio Panti National Park are perfect for hiking. And for some extra adventurous Belizean travelers, the park makes for some great camping. Groups like the Belize Hiking Group occasionally plan excursions that combine both: extensive but rewarding (day and night) hikes alongside overnight camping experiences surrounded by the beauty of nature.
Birdwatching
Belize is home to hundreds of resident and migratory bird species and the EPNP is a birder’s paradise. Whether you opt for birding along the trails or setting up base at a resort like Black Rock Lodge of Crystal Paradise Resort, bird lovers visiting the park are always in for a treat.
Caving
Hidden away within the park is the Offering Cave. This natural wonder offers a challenging spelunking experience for cave lovers. Like much of the EPNP, it’s a truly off-the-beaten path experience that not many get to experience.
Waterfalls
Not many have heard of Sapodilla Falls, but this hidden gem is well worth the effort it takes to get there. Surrounded by lush greenery, it’s the perfect spot for a picnic and a swim.
Visit the Belize Site of the Year for 2025
Co-managed by the Itzamna Society and the communities that surround the park, the Elijio Panti National Park is where cultural preservation and environmental conservation come to meet. The park was honored with the 2025 Site of the Year Award by the BTB for educating the public about and championing sustainable tourism. Chairlady of the Itzamna Society, Maria Garcia had the following to say about the park’s win:
“On behalf of the Itzamna Society and our communities, I sincerely thank the Belize Tourism Board for recognizing Elijio Panti National Park as Site of the Year. This recognition represents not only a protected area, but the living continuation of our Maya livelihoods and ways of knowing. Every day, we do our best with what we have to care for 13,000 acres of standing forest so it can continue to nourish our bodies, our spirits, and our culture.”
Intrepid Belizean travelers are invited to learn more about visiting by contacting the park or sending them a WhatsApp message at +501-622-0962.
Header Photo Credit: Elijio Panti National Park