Although Belize is very sparsely populated, and much of it is ideal for exploring on the back of a horse, horseback riding is still a relatively undeveloped sport. The best place to grab a mount and explore is the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve, and the best outfitter to tour with here is Mountain Equestrian Trails (tel. 669-1124; www.metbelize.com). A half-day trip including lunch costs BZ$122 (US$61/£32) per person; a full-day trip costs BZ$166 (US$83/£44). Even if you're not staying here, most of the lodges in this area also offer horseback riding.
A Montana Cowboy in Central Belize
Banana Bank Lodge, Western Highway, Mile Marker 47 1/2 (tel. 820-2020; www.bananabank.com), is a rustic riverside lodge owned by a former cowboy from Montana. Horseback riding is a major attraction here, so avid riders will feel right at home.
