Venture across the nearby Belize–Guatemala border to visit Tikal, an ancient Maya ceremonial center located in Petén, Guatemala. It can be tricky and involve some coordination to cross the border, so book a group tour to eliminate travel-related stress. Alternatively, check out nearby ruins like Cahal Pech and Xunantunich.

Make your way to the San Ignacio Market, the country’s most popular outdoor market. Saturdays are a must, with vendors descending on the town from around the district to sell goods like produce, clothing, and pupusas and tacos made and served on-site. Grab lunch from one of the stands for a riverside picnic.

Watch the sun set behind the mountains as you ride around the countryside on horseback. Tours depart in the late afternoon, and sometimes include a glass of wine. Alternatively, hit one of the local bars for a drink and a bite to eat.

Head out into the surrounding rain forest, hiking in the foothills of the Maya Mountains to waterfalls such as the Rio Frio. When you need a break, take a swim in the natural pools filled with crystal clear water. Or, spend an action-packed day at Actun Tunichil Muknal cave.

If you haven’t yet been there, walk or take a taxi to Cahal Pech, a Maya archeological site popular among bird-watchers—the ruins are about a mile (1.6 kilometers) from San Ignacio. Or, see the beautiful blue morpho at one of Cayo’s butterfly farms.

San Ignacio isn’t known for its nightlife, but there’s a handful of bars and restaurants that cater to the backpacking crowd. Night owls might opt for the Princess Casino, open until 5am.