Antelope Falls hike from Hopkins: 550-foot climb to emerald pool

The emerald pool at the top sits 550 feet above the trailhead, fed by the waterfall itself.

A guided hike to Antelope Falls in Mayflower Bocawina National Park near Hopkins takes you up a steep 1.1-mile jungle trail to a natural pool with panoramic views toward the Caribbean Sea. Your guide points out wildlife and plants along the way, and the descent is easier than the climb, letting you take in the rainforest on the way down. The whole outing runs about four hours from pickup in Hopkins Village.

Step-by-step itinerary

Guided hike to Antelope Falls

• Drive 30 minutes from Hopkins Village
• Hike 1.1 miles uphill through jungle
• Stop at viewpoint with Caribbean views
• Swim in natural pool at waterfall
• Hike back down the trail

The experience

The hike starts with a 30-minute drive from Hopkins Village to the park entrance. Once on the trail, you're climbing through dense rainforest on terrain that's steep enough to feel like work: the 550-foot elevation gain over 1.1 miles means you're ascending steadily. Your guide will stop to show you tropical birds, wildlife, and plants unique to Belize's rainforest as you move upward. The climb takes roughly an hour to reach the top.

Just before the summit, a short spur trail leads to a viewpoint where, on clear days, you can see all the way out to the Caribbean Sea across the Stann Creek District. The real reward waits at the top: a natural emerald pool fed by Antelope Falls itself, cold enough to be genuinely refreshing after the steep ascent. Most hikers spend time swimming and resting here before heading back down. The descent retraces your steps but feels easier, and you'll notice details of the jungle you might have missed on the way up.

What’s included

• Park admission.
• bottled water.
• an air-conditioned vehicle for the drive from Hopkins.
• a licensed English-speaking guide for the full hike.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDeparts at 08:00

Book up to1d before

AgesAdult (16 to 60 years) · Under 16: can't be booked

GroupUp to 11

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup included.You can choose from 27 pickup points.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated yesterday

Good to know

Physically demandingNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problems

Operated by Bucket List Tours & Transfers Belize

Is this one for you?Pickup from Hopkins Village means you don't need a car or a way to reach the park entrance on your own. The drive and guide are both included, so you can focus on the hike itself. The steep terrain and 550-foot climb require a solid level of fitness. This tour suits hikers comfortable with sustained uphill effort and a moderately challenging pace.

Top questions

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

How steep is the trail to Antelope Falls?

The hike gains 550 feet in elevation over 1.1 miles each way, making it moderately challenging with a steep climb. The ascent takes roughly an hour. The descent is easier and lets you move at a slower pace.

Can I swim at Antelope Falls?

Yes. A natural emerald pool fed by the waterfall sits at the top of the trail, and swimming is part of the experience. Bring a change of clothes or a quick-dry shirt if you plan to take a full dip.

What wildlife might I see on the hike?

Mayflower Bocawina's rainforest is home to tropical birds and other wildlife. Your guide will point out animals and plants as you hike, though sightings depend on the time of day and season.

Is the drive from Hopkins Village long?

The drive to Mayflower Bocawina National Park takes about 30 minutes from Hopkins Village, and an air-conditioned vehicle is included in the tour.

What are the views like from the top?

At the summit viewpoint, you can see across the Stann Creek District, and on clear days the Caribbean Sea is visible in the distance. The pool itself offers panoramic views while you're swimming.