El Pilar (Pillar)

El Pilar, an archaeological reserve for Maya plants and animals, sits adjacent to the Belize-Guatemala border.

“El Pilar,” Spanish for “pillar,” is named after an army camp in the area  You can find more information from Belize’s official archaeology website. Located just 6.2 miles (10 kilometers) north of San Ignacio, the El Pilar site is not fully excavated, primarily for conservation reasons. The nature trails near the dozen or so large pyramids and buildings are an excellent location for bird watching in Belize.

El Pilar in its heyday was more than three times the size of the better-known Xunantunich Maya site.

When you go …

There are caretakers who live close to the site. They will provide you a trail map and happily show you around.  Also, the Cayo Tour Operators and Tour Guides Association have been trained on all aspects of the reserve so you gain maximum enjoyment from their time on the grounds. Any licensed guide can arrange a visit and tour for you.

Visit the official Maya 2012 website to learn more about El Pilar.