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Observing
the impressive entrance |
The massive mouth of the Rio Frio cave is its signature.
Belize potentially has the largest cave system in Central
America, with the dome of Rio Frio the largest in the country.
Belize has an abundance of limestone rock, hence an abundance
of caves. Caves are formed when the relatively soft limestone
rock is eroded by water over millennia.
Rio Frio Cave is located in the Mountain Pine Ridge area,
in Augustine, about five miles past the Douglas de Silva
Forest Station. Upon arrival at Rio Frio Cave, visitors
can park not too far from the entrance, and a short walk
reveals the massive 65-foot arched entrance.
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Anticipation
abounds |
Large boulders, some covered with moss, allow for climbing
high up along the side near the wall of the cave, and stepping-stone
stairs have also been set to make the hike easier. When
inside the cave, the other large entrance (or exit) can
also be seen, as the entire cave is less than half-mile
long. A river runs through the cave, and in the dry season,
it is possible to hike through to the other side. This less
traveled path reveals another trail outside the cave, and
some smaller caves are accessible from here. Flashlights
are always a good idea, but are not necessary, as the cave
has natural light filtering through most of the day, since
both entrances are not far from each other.
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Well-lit
interior |
The large boulders and rock formations inside Rio Frio are
strange and unusually colored. The walls are smoothed by
water erosion of thousands of years. Stalactites also hang
from the ceiling. Vines and ferns grow at the entrance of
the cave, giving it life. There is also a bat population,
which can be easily detected by your sense of smell if you
get too close to their favorite spots. An unusually sandy
area exists down near the river, and it is worth the short
walk down the rocks to this “beach”.
A visit to the enormous Rio Frio Cave is highly recommended,
when in the Mountain Pine Ridge area. This is probably one
of Belize’s least strenuous cave tours, so if you
have a specific interest in caves, and enjoy adventure,
consider this your first of many, all with varying degrees
of difficulty.
Places nearby: 
Interests:
