St. Herman's Blue Hole National Park
Discover a sapphire jungle pool, ancient caves, and lush trails in this serene Belizean national park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
St. Herman's Blue Hole National Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover a sapphire jungle pool, ancient caves, and lush trails in this serene Belizean national park.
"A gem for travelers seeking Belize’s raw, natural beauty without the bustle of large crowds."
Bring Your Swim Gear! :swimmer:
The Blue Hole is perfect for a cool dip after hiking. Don't forget your swimsuit!
Cave Exploration Essentials :flashlight:
A flashlight or headlamp is a must for exploring St. Herman's Cave and seeing its impressive formations.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Inland Blue Hole
Main swimming area
Dive into the crystal-clear, sapphire-colored jungle pool for a refreshing dip. Fish provide natural pedicures!
St. Herman's Cave
Cave system entrance
Explore the impressive cave system, marvel at giant stalactites, and listen to echoes. Guides are available for deeper exploration.
Hummingbird Loop Trail
Nature trails
Hike through lush jungle, spot cutter ant trails, and enjoy the sounds of nature. A great way to experience the park's biodiversity.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Essential Gear for Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Your Swim Gear! :swimmer:
The Blue Hole is perfect for a cool dip after hiking. Don't forget your swimsuit!
Cave Exploration Essentials :flashlight:
A flashlight or headlamp is a must for exploring St. Herman's Cave and seeing its impressive formations.
Wear Comfortable Shoes :athletic_shoe:
Jungle trails and cave paths require sturdy footwear for a safe and enjoyable experience.
Pack Insect Repellent :bug:
Protect yourself from mosquitoes and other insects, especially during humid periods.
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Your Swim Gear! :swimmer:
The Blue Hole is perfect for a cool dip after hiking. Don't forget your swimsuit!
Cave Exploration Essentials :flashlight:
A flashlight or headlamp is a must for exploring St. Herman's Cave and seeing its impressive formations.
Wear Comfortable Shoes :athletic_shoe:
Jungle trails and cave paths require sturdy footwear for a safe and enjoyable experience.
Pack Insect Repellent :bug:
Protect yourself from mosquitoes and other insects, especially during humid periods.
Combo Ticket Value :ticket:
Your ticket for the Blue Hole often includes access to the hiking trails and cave entrance.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise St. Herman's Blue Hole National Park for its natural beauty, refreshing swimming opportunities, and accessible cave exploration. The park offers a peaceful escape with friendly staff and affordable entry, making it a highly recommended stop for experiencing Belize's jungle wonders.
"Stopped here to kill some time. Awesome place with excellent staff. Did the cave trail first. Short hike to an amazing cave, huge ceiling entrance. The cave was much bigger than expected, well worth checking out. I did the blue hole after. Short trail to the area and it is really cool. Beatiful jungle and birds and the water felt fantastic after the hike."
Shannon Hess
"What a great place! We completed the Hummingbird loop, which was amazing. Keep your eyes peeled for the cutter ant trails. They are busy little fellas! After our hike, we cooled off in the blue hole, and we're lucky enough to have it to ourselves for almost a whole hour! There is a neat little cave to the right in the blue hole, we had fun hearing our voices echo in it. The water is crystal clear and is filled with fishies that will give you a little pedicure."
Dulcie
"Great place to cool off after hiking St Herman's Cave and it's trails. Your ticket for the Blue Hole works for the hiking trails. You'll need a guide to trek deep into the cave, but you can walk into the first 100m and see a huge stalctite."
Nathaniel Smith
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
St. Herman's Blue Hole National Park is conveniently located off the Hummingbird Highway, near Belmopan. Many visitors drive along this scenic route. Taxis and tours are also readily available from Belmopan and surrounding areas.
While not as direct as a taxi or tour, it's possible to reach the park via public bus along the Hummingbird Highway. You may need to inform the driver to drop you off at the park entrance.
The Hummingbird Highway is a well-maintained and scenic route that connects Belmopan to the coast. The drive itself is part of the experience, offering beautiful views of Belize's lush interior.
Yes, St. Herman's Blue Hole National Park is well-suited for self-guided exploration. The trails are generally easy to navigate, and the main attractions are accessible without a guide.
St. Herman's Blue Hole National Park is a short drive from Belmopan, making it an accessible day trip destination. It's located about 15-20 minutes outside the capital city.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to St. Herman's Blue Hole National Park is very affordable, making it a great value for travelers. The ticket price typically covers access to the Blue Hole, cave, and hiking trails.
The park is generally open daily, but it's always a good idea to check for the most current operating hours before your visit, especially during holidays or specific seasons.
Advance booking is usually not required for St. Herman's Blue Hole National Park. Tickets can typically be purchased upon arrival at the park's visitor center.
Yes, your admission ticket to St. Herman's Blue Hole National Park usually grants access to the main cave entrance and the hiking trails. Deeper cave exploration may require a guide.
While specific discounts aren't always advertised, the park's admission fee is already quite low, offering excellent value for the experience.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can swim in the refreshing Blue Hole, explore St. Herman's Cave, hike various jungle trails like the Hummingbird Loop, and enjoy birdwatching.
The Blue Hole is a natural swimming area and is generally safe for swimming. The water is clear and refreshing. Be mindful of your surroundings and any posted warnings.
You can explore the initial section of St. Herman's Cave, which is about 100 meters deep, without a guide. For deeper exploration, a certified guide is recommended.
The park is home to diverse wildlife, including various bird species, cutter ants, and other jungle creatures. Keep an eye out during your hikes.
The park typically has a visitor center with restrooms. Changing facilities might be basic, so it's advisable to be prepared.
📸 📸 Photography
The Blue Hole itself offers stunning shots with its vibrant blue water. The cave entrance and the lush jungle trails also provide excellent photographic opportunities.
Photography is generally allowed inside the accessible parts of St. Herman's Cave. However, be cautious with your equipment due to the damp environment.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and enhancing the jungle's atmosphere.
Drone usage policies can vary. It's best to check with park authorities or the visitor center before flying a drone to ensure compliance with regulations.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expanse of the Blue Hole and cave. A waterproof camera or phone case is advisable if you plan to swim or get close to the water.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen. The park's manageable size and the variety of activities mean that families can easily spend a few hours here without overwhelming younger children. The affordable entrance fee also makes it a budget-friendly option for family outings.
💰 Budget Travelers
Getting to the park via public bus is also a more economical option than private transport. The combination of natural beauty, swimming, hiking, and cave exploration makes this park a highly rewarding and affordable adventure in Belize.
🌿 Nature & Wildlife Enthusiasts
Beyond the trails, the Blue Hole itself is a natural wonder, and the cave system offers a unique geological experience. The park's relatively untouched feel, away from large crowds, allows for a more intimate connection with nature. It's an ideal spot for those seeking an authentic Belizean jungle experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring St. Herman's Cave
For those seeking a more in-depth adventure, hiring a local guide is highly recommended. Guides can lead you deeper into the cave system, revealing hidden chambers and explaining the geological processes that shaped this underground marvel. It's important to bring a reliable flashlight or headlamp, as the cave is dark beyond the entrance. The experience of exploring the cave, with its echoing sounds and unique formations, is often cited as a highlight by visitors.
The Refreshing Blue Hole
This natural swimming hole is an ideal spot to relax and rejuvenate after a hike or cave exploration. The serene atmosphere, punctuated by the sounds of the jungle, makes it a tranquil escape. Some visitors have even discovered a small cave to the right of the main Blue Hole, where voices create fascinating echoes. It's a truly unique and refreshing natural amenity within the park.
Biodiversity and Nature Trails
As you hike, keep an eye out for the industrious cutter ant trails, a fascinating sight of organized insect activity. The park's rich biodiversity extends to its flora and fauna, providing a true immersion into Belize's natural environment. The well-maintained trails make it accessible for most visitors to experience the park's natural beauty and tranquility.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit