Cayo, a district in western Belize, the largest in the Central American country by area, known for its lush subtropical and mountain forests, which are popular for eco - tourism and adventures, featuring a diverse landscape of rivers, waterfalls, and cave systems, home to important Maya ruins like Caracol and Xunatunich was selected among Green Destinations’ 100 best stories for 2025.
The announcement was made during the Green Destinations Global Conference held in Montpellier, France, where more than 300 delegatesd from more than 60 countries gathered to celebrate leadership and innovation in sustainable tourism.
Created in 2014, the Green Destinations Top 100 Stories feature showcases inspiring sustainable tourism initiatives from around the world highlighting projects that address the environment, climate, culture, and community.
Destinations are selected Top 100 list based on their commitment to sustainability and winning stories are awarded in categories like Destination Management, Nature & Scenery, and Culture & Tradition.
The program offers benefits to participating destinations, including increased visibility, recognition and opportunities for networking and leadership.
The Green Destination Top 100 Stories contest rewards destinations that demonstrate measurable achievements in sustainable tourism practices. Each story is evaluated based on its effectiveness, innovation, and transferability, recognizing models that can inspire and be replicated around the world.
Cayo was recognized for its commitment to sustainable tourism and unique attractions, eco - tourism opportunities, including ancient Maya archaeological sites like Caracol and Xunanunich, the mystical Actun Tunichil Mukanl (ATM) cave and for Belize’s story, “Loving Cayo : A Harmonious Blend of Conservation and Culture for a Vibrant Future” that was recognized among the world’s best stories of good practices.
The story highlights how communities and tourism businesses are working together to protect natural resources and foster economic growth. This recognition reflects the collective efforts of conservationists dedicated to preserving biodiversity and empowering communities through tourism.
In addition this recognition underscores Belize’s growing reputation as a destination that not only offers breathtaking natural beauty, but also places sustainability and collaboration at the heart of its tourism model.
From indigenous artisans and local entrepreneurs to conservation organizations and eco - conscious hotel brands, Cayo District is an example of how progress and preservation can coexist.
This success has been made possible through the joint efforts of Belize Karst Habitat Conservation, Itzamna Society, Bulridge Ltd., Lucky Dreamer Lodge, Sak Tunich and the Green Iguana Conservation Project of San Ignacio Resort Hotel.
About Cayo District :
Cayo, a Belize western district, home to the capital Belmopan features a mix of adventure, nature and history boasting many parks, lush jungles, cave systems, ecological reserves and mountains.
Once the heart of the Belizean Maya world, it’s rich with pre - Columbian archaeological sites, Cayo is known for the ruins of Xunantunich, with its 39m - high El Castillo pyramid, Caracol, the country’s largest Maya ruin, Cahal Pech, one of the oldest Mayan sites, located near downtown San Ignacio, famous for its bustling market, and El Pilar, a more secluded and less developed site near the Guatemalan border.
Further highlights are vast cave systems include the Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) Cave, also known as the “Cave of the Crystal Sepulchre”, a significant Maya archaeological site, Barton Creek, a river and cave system known for its large, cathedral wet cave, and lush rainforests with waterfalls and rivers such as the Macal and Mopan.
The district offers fascinating outdoor activities like cave tubing, hiking, horseback riding, kayaking, camping and more.
In Cayo, each site tells a story of heritage, creativity, and natural splendour. Whether exploring ancient temples, ruins, or savouring local delicacies influenced by Maya and Creole traditions like the hudut, a fish - based dish, the tamale, a corn - based dough filled with various ingredients, fried plantain or the typical rice and beans, each location promises an unforgettable experience.
For this prestigious recognition the Belize Tourism Board congratulated all partners and agents who have participated to obrain this relevant achievement, highlighting their dedication that continues to reinforce the country's position in regenerative and community - driven tourism, and celebrating together another milestone in Belize’ sustainable tourism journey.
Link
https://infoturlatam.com/cayo-belize-destaca-entre-las-100-mejores-historias-del-mundo/
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