Belikin La Ruta Maya Belize River Challenge

Join the chanting crowd along the river bank at the Hawkesworth Bridge in San Ignacio to start the La Ruta Maya Belize River Challenge! The race takes place from March 8-11 2024.

Founded in 1998, La Ruta Maya, which means The Maya Route in Spanish, was created to promote the historical and environmental importance of the Belize River. Paddlers from all corners of the country and abroad participate in the intense four-day race, paddling along the Macal and Belize Rivers. The 175-mile river challenge occurs on the weekend nearest to National Heroes and Benefactors Day on March 9. Stops in the race include Banana Bank, Double Head Cabbage, Henderson Bank in Burrel Boom, and the excitement culminates in Belize City at the Belcan Bridge.

The race ends with an award ceremony on the grounds of the Belize Civic Center, which also has music, food, and drinks to celebrate the victory of the paddlers.