Cahal Pech

Been there recently?

Cahal Pech (Place of Ticks in Yucatec Mayan) is an archaeological zone located within the town of San Ignacio. It is situated on the ridge of a high hill overlooking the Macal River. This vantage point allowed the site to control not only the trade on the river, but the rich, fertile valley to the north.

The site has a long settlement history beginning in the Early Pre-Classic (1300-1000 B.C.). The site encompasses 22 acres/8.8 hectares, with the core area much smaller. It is set up on a SW/NE axis. It has 8 interconnected plazas containing pyramids, temples, stelae, ballcourts, and elite residences, counting 34 structures so far detected. The site and surrounding area reached a peak population of 10-15,000 inhabitants during the Late Classic (600-900 A.D.).

To reach the site take the Western Highway from Belmopan towards the Guatemala border. In San Ignacio continue on the Western Highway (Buena Vista Road) until one reaches a roundabout and take the road to the south (left) off of it. The road then splits, take the right fork up to the site.

Cahal Pech is often overlooked by the groups headed to “big name” Mayan sites – which gives you a great opportunity to quietly wander among the artifacts and ghosts of the ancient Maya.

The site is noted for its many doorways, the only known moat associated with a Mayan city, and its many staircases.

Your Belize Nature Travel guide can tell you about the excavations here – and the way the city fit into the ancient Maya world.