Entire home

Luxury, affordable close to town and all of the attractions in the CAYO area.

Photo gallery for Luxury, affordable close to town and all of the attractions in the CAYO area.

1 bedroom, iron/ironing board, WiFi, bed sheets
Exterior
Property grounds
Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop
1 bedroom, iron/ironing board, WiFi, bed sheets

Reviews

10 out of 10

Exceptional

Entire home

1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 242 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
    Parking available
  • Barbecue grill
    Barbecue grill
  • Kitchen
    Kitchen
  • Air conditioning
    Air conditioning
  • Outdoor Space
    Outdoor Space
  • Mountain view
    Mountain view

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Luxury, affordable close to town and all of the attractions in the CAYO area.

Villa CAYO is to the jungle what Condos are to the beach. These air-conditioned, fully equipped, luxury boutique villas provide comfortable, affordable accommodations on a private 12 acre estate focused on ecotourism. Located just 1 ½ mile from the twin towns of San Ignacio and Santa Elena with auto rentals, taxis and bus service easily available making this a perfect vacation destination.
The villas are nestled on a terrace overlooking the Village of Cristo Rey Village and the Maya mountains. From the observation deck of the main villa you can see Spanish Lookout and the surrounding countryside. While on the roof veranda you could also be greeted by some of the 225 birds known to occupy the jungle canopy in the Cayo district. Particularly friendly you could be greeted by the Aricaris checking to see if you might have a papaya to share with them. At night the local kinkajou or coatamundi could be in the trees eating the seeds and nuts.
Waking up to the jungle mist and the sounds of the chacalaca and parrots can be one of the greatest jungle experiences.
The BBQ area is located on a hillside terrace under tall Salam trees that offer food to many of the birds and wildlife of our area. There is a conversation and observation deck available for all of our guests to use.
The villas kitchens are fully equipped to allow cooking for special diets or to avoid the high cost of resort dining or local restaurants. There are baking sheets for roasted vegetables, crock pots for slow cooking and a BBQ area for grilling.
This excellent location is close to most of the Maya sites, zip lines, caves and cave tubing. The friendly owners can help you arrange your adventure tours. They will strive to make your eco-adventures a safe and relaxed experience without any hidden charges.

Property manager

Ken and Virginia Krohn

Languages

English

Property amenities

Internet

  • WiFi available

Parking and transportation

  • Onsite parking
  • Car recommended

Kitchen

  • Refrigerator
  • Stovetop
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Toaster
  • Cookware/dishes/utensils
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Blender

Bedrooms

  • 1 bedroom
  • Bed sheets provided

Bathrooms

  • 1 bathroom
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Towels provided
  • Hair dryer
  • Toilet paper

Living spaces

  • Living room

Entertainment

  • TV with cable/satellite service
  • DVD player
  • Video library
  • Music library

Outdoor areas

  • Patio
  • Barbecue grill
  • Garden

Comfort

  • Air conditioning

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoke-free property

Services and conveniences

  • Limited housekeeping
  • Iron/ironing board
  • Phone

Location highlights

  • In a rural location
  • Near a health or beauty spa
  • Near a hospital
  • In a village

Things to do

  • Casino nearby
  • Horse riding nearby
  • Ecotours nearby
  • Wildlife and game walks nearby
  • Birdwatching nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
  • Smoke detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property)

General

  • Unit size: 450 sq ft (42 sq m)
  • Property does not allow children

Similar properties

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 2:00 PM

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Pets

Pets not allowed

Children and extra beds

This property does not allow children

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation

We should mention

A car is recommended for transportation to and from this property

Property is also known as

Luxury Affordable Town all Attractions Cayo Area Villa
Luxury Affordable Town all Attractions Cayo Area San Ignacio
Luxury Affordable Town all Attractions Cayo Area
Luxury Affordable Town all Attractions Cayo Area Villa
Luxury Affordable Town all Attractions Cayo Area San Ignacio
Luxury Affordable Town all Attractions Cayo Area Villa
Luxury Affordable Town all Attractions Cayo Area San Ignacio
Luxury Affordable Town all Attractions Cayo Area
Vrbo Property

About the neighborhood

Map
San Ignacio, BELIZE

What's nearby

  • San Ignacio Market - 5 min drive
  • San Ignacio & Santa Elena House of Culture - 5 min drive
  • Green Iguana Conservation Project - 6 min drive
  • Cahal Pech Mayan Ruins - 8 min drive
  • Belize Botanical Gardens - 26 min drive

Getting around

  • San Ignacio (CYD-Town Airstrip) - 21 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Ko-Ox Han-Nah - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪The Cozy Restaurant and Bar - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪The Guava Limb Café - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Tolacca Smokehouse - ‬2 min drive
  • ‪Hode's - ‬4 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Luxury, affordable close to town and all of the attractions in the CAYO area. pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Luxury, affordable close to town and all of the attractions in the CAYO area.?

Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Luxury, affordable close to town and all of the attractions in the CAYO area.?

Check-out is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Luxury, affordable close to town and all of the attractions in the CAYO area. located?

Situated in a rural location, this villa is 0.4 mi (0.6 km) from Macal River and within 3 mi (5 km) of San Ignacio & Santa Elena House of Culture and San Ignacio Market. Ajaw Chocolate & Crafts and Branch Mouth are also within 3 mi (5 km).

Luxury, affordable close to town and all of the attractions in the CAYO area. Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 22 out of 22 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 22 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 22 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 22 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 22 reviews" "

10/10

Cleanliness

9.0/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Larry M., Ann Arbor, Michigan

Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful!
We thoroughly enjoyed our 4-night stay at Villa Cayo in San Ignacio. It’s hard to beat the hill-top views and waking up to the sounds of the jungle! Virginia was a wonderful host and set up all of our tours. The staff was knowledgeable and friendly, and made our stay really enjoyable. We definitely recommend the ATM cave tour and the Tikal tour. If you are able, don’t miss these two gems! We stayed in Villa 4, a quiet setting with amazing views. We Villa Cayo a 5-star review.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jeni-Rae S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Honeymoon
We booked villa cayo for our honeymoon and it did not disappoint! This villa is stocked with everything you need. It is close to town, but you will need a car or a ride. We loved that it was out of the way into the jungle. It was a great central home base for our adventures. We saw iguanas, a toucan and many other creatures during our stay. We’d highly reccomend booking with Ken and Virginia.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Gregory, Kingman

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The property was very clean and perfect for a party of two. The surrounding area was beautiful and the views were amazing!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

James L.

Liked: Cleanliness
The Best
Our hosts, Ken and Virginia, are the best. They have a lovely, private Villa, a 5-minute drive from San Ignacio. The guest homes are beautiful with plenty of windows to watch the sunset, parrots and toucans on the property. We stayed in 4 locations while in Belize, and this was my favorite. When we visit Belize again, we plan to stay here. It is a great location for the nearby Mayan ruins, coffee chocolate tours and Pine Ridge activities such as the Butterfly farm, Big Rock Falls, and cave tubing, Most Pine Ridge activities are a 30–45-minute drive. It is an hour and 40-minute drive to the international airport.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2022

10/10 Excellent

Liesl

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
This property was gorgeous and SO quiet. My husband and I stayed here for our honeymoon and it really felt like a home away from home. We loved that there was a full kitchen and eating utensils, so we could cook some meals and save some money that way. It was also surprisingly fun to visit the San Ignacio supermarkets, since we had no idea what we were looking for and decided to try some things we had never seen before. The property owners messaged me on Viator before we arrived which was really nice. The only advice I would offer is to be prepared if you’re arriving in Belize on Christmas Day because everything is supposed to be closed. We lucked out and one or two restaurants were open, but that was something we hadn’t thought about. The owners of the property put some local fruit in our fridge, too, to make sure we were okay for food until things opened up again, which was really thoughtful! Anyway, the view was beautiful and we will definitely be recommending the place to my parents, who are thinking of visiting Belize later on.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2021

10/10 Excellent

Brian M.

perfect mountain retreat in Belize
We were undecided on staying on the coast or in the mountains for our trip to Belize. All of the glowing reviews for this rental persuaded us to give this one a try and stay in the mountains. This place was everything everyone said it would be. The unit itself was charming and the location was fantastic. We rented a car and the short drive into town for our meals was convenient. I would recommend Crave and Guava Limb for dinner and Ko-ox Han Nah and Pop's for breakfast. Virginia and Ken were both very sociable and helpful, giving us recommendations and nice conversation. There are many activities near here to keep you busy. I would recommend the Iguana Sanctuary in the San Ignacio Hotel, the night hike at the Chaa Creek resort, the botanical gardens at Duplooy's (the guide is worth it) the Belize zoo, massage at the magic touch in the Venus hotel. If you are really adventurous a drive to Guatemala for the Tikal Ruins (make sure you exchange enough money into Guatemalan currency and read info about crossing the border before you leave) and the ATM cave tour. The ATM was physically challenging but worth it.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2018

10/10 Excellent

Andrea G., Augusta,GA. USA

Outstanding in every way!
This place is truly the best vacation rental I have ever stayed in! Pictures don't even do this place justice. It is amazing! To summarize our experience: we stayed in villa#4 (there are a total of 2 right now), a brand-new beautifully appointed villa on a hill top just outside of town. The grounds are immaculate and decorated with the most amazing exotic plants and trees.The interior is superb with high end appliances and beautiful wood finishes along with an awesome stained concrete flooring. The kitchen is equipped with every possible detail and there is also a BBQ grill outside which is constantly kept ready to go complete with charcoal, lighter fluid and BBQ lighter. Nothing here is cheap or worn- no scratched up non-stick pans or the likes of it. The A.C. also works flawlessly and there is a purified water source in the apartment so no need to go out and purchase drinking water. As if all that wasn't enough,the owners Virginia and Kenneth go out of their way to help out and will arrange activities for you if needed. Add that to the stunning views through the thoughtfully one-way tinted panoramic windows and it truly felt like paradise. And one last thing: you will enjoy a housekeeper who will wash all your dishes, clean up with great attention to detail and even decorate with a fresh flower from the garden. I wished every vacation condo was maintained like this!
Stayed 4 nights in May 2018

10/10 Excellent

Wendell M., Austin, TX, USA

Don't stay anywhere else!
Villa Cayo is absolutely THE best place to stay in San Ignacio! Virginia greeted us as we drove in and we all proceeded to the villa. She told us where things were located in the villa, gave us recommendations for restaurants, and recommended Chen's Supermarket for groceries. The views from this villa are spectacular! We saw Toucans and a Hummingbird out of our large windows that showcase the view. Very close to Cehal Pech mayan ruins, downtown, and the Market. Virginia and Ken lives in the house located up the hill and is accessible by a phone in the villa if you need anything. We will definitely stay here again! We are already planning our Belize visit for next year in May!
Stayed 4 nights in May 2018

10/10 Excellent

Patrick S.

Absolutely fanastic!
Ken and Virginia have created a wonderful environment for a terrific vacation. My wife and I stayed in the bungalow pictured for 7 days. The unit is wonderfully appointed and perfectly perched high above San Ignacio with a million dollar view. With maid service daily, a great kitchen and a BBQ, you have everything you need when you come back from a day of incredible adventures! We picked this unit on the strength of perfect ratings. It is completely warranted. You will NOT be disappointed. Thank you for a wonderful way to spent out 35th wedding anniversary! We hope to come back some day. Many thanks! Patrick Schooley
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2017

10/10 Excellent

Christopher H.

Wonderful Hosts at Picturesque Location
First off, the hosts because they were beyond exceptional. Virginia and Ken were looking out for us from the time we booked, to a week before we arrived and through three days we stayed there. We were going to get guided trips and try and take a bus in, but thankfully, Virginia encouraged us both to rent a car and we are so glad we did (this was my wife's first time out of the US and my first time driving central). Virginia was kind enough to set us up with a great guide for the ATM tour the first day; when we got back, we had enough to visit Cahal Pech. The second and real reason we got the car, was to go to Tikhal - that was an excusion so plan for 4 hours of tour once you arrive. The morning we checked out, we rushed down to Rio on Pools for a quick dip and came home. While we were not travelling, we were encouraged to visit the downtown of San Ignacio - it wasn't on our radar but the people are extremely friendly and the town has a lot of character. We had no idea all San Ignacio had to offer. Ken and Virginia were able to provide us with a lot of good information, but we only really communicated through mediums (not in person), so rest assured to those honeymooners, you will fully have your privacy. Secondly, the accommodations were incredible. A luxurious private room/efficiency with a fully equipped kitchen, fridge, strong ac, no shortage of channels with a picturesque panoramic view. The room was cleaned everyday so we left the maid a few American dollars. It was just really nice to come home after our adventures to fully air tight, cool, comfortable room - great style too. You could honestly spend your entire vacation in the room and cook your own food if you wanted. We had a hard time balancing exploring the restaurants/town or whether we would just dine in; typically it depended on how tired we were at the end of the day. The view overlooks the luscious forests/jungle that grow near the river and the sunsets are incredible; admittedly, we had a hard time catching the sunset, there were just so many things to take in while we were in San Ignacio. I highly recommend Villa Cayo. If you have any questions, just send them a message; between providing us travel recommendations, directions, restaurant recommendations, and hosting at an incredible place, it's going to be hard to beat the added comfort. It's almost like you are getting a personal tour, that you end up taking on your own.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2017

10/10 Excellent

Jeff H., Billings, Montana

Best place we stayed in Belize
Beautiful, secluded yet close to town. Clean spacious Villa with tasteful modern design. I honestly wouldn't change anything. Ken and Virginia were extremely helpful. Virginia arranged trips to Tikal and ATM Caves for me through a local guide service and Ken gave me a ride to the store and to show me around a bit. My wife and I would recommend Villa Cayo to anyone staying in the district and we will stay here again when in Belize. Thanks for all your help and information Ken and Virginia!
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2017

10/10 Excellent

Chelsea F., Anchorage, Alaska

Luxurious and relaxing
Ken and Virginia's villas are luxurious, private, and very reasonably priced. Villa Cayo is situated just outside of Santa Elena, about a 5 minute drive from town. The hilltop view is incredible and provides excellent sunset and stargazing opportunities. Our villa featured an incredibly comfortable bed, air conditioning (!!!), and fully equipped kitchen. We cooked at least one meal for ourselves every day while we were here, including grilling. Your stay features daily maid service with fabulous attention to detail. Ken and Virginia are very gracious hosts; Virginia took us around town to show us the best restaurants and sights to check out. They were warm and accommodating but also made sure we had privacy. We were thrilled with our stay at Villa Cayo and will surely be back the next time we are in Cayo.
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2017

10/10 Excellent

Raquel A.

The property was stunning, very high end. Beautiful view! Five Star Rating!
The rooms were very nicely decorated and furnished. Everything you need in a kitchen, they had it! Very clean! Waking up to the birds every morning was a real treat. Excellent service, daily (clean sheets, fresh towels) and the rooms are beautifuly and tastefully decorated. Above and beyond what we had expected. Virginia and Ken are a pleasure to talk with. Virginia showed us around the town when we first arrived, If we ever stay in the San Ignacio area again, there is no where else we would stay but here!
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2017

10/10 Excellent

BEATA E.

Good location, very clean, wonderful owners, stunning views.
Everything went well as expected. Virginia and Ken e mailed me the directions with some extra tips for the road. The villa was immaculate, morning and evening views of the valley were beautiful. I was very happy that I have decided to stay in that cozy little villa
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2017

10/10 Excellent

Kim H.

Perfect!!
The Villa exceeded our expectations as did the owners! The unit is beautiful, view is unbeatable and the location was idea- photos do not do it justice. Virginia provided a quick tour of town to help us get orientated as well as made great recommendations for food, tour companies and taxi drivers. We highly recommend this property. Thank you for a wonderful 25th Anniversary trip, it could not have been better!! - Kim and Mike
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2016

10/10 Excellent

rene h., albuquerque nm

Incredible and Amazing
Virginia and Ken are incredible and turly the best hosts we have ever encountered. Virginia communicated with us several times before we ever touched down in Belize, helping with what's important to bring (BUG SPRAY and lots of it) very detailed directions to the property, suggestions on local tours and companies to go with. Once we made our way up their steep & rocky driveway we were greeted right away by Virginia. She quickly took us to our villa and upon arrival I must say I had never seen anything so beautiful, simply breath taking. Virginia again, is amazing. she took us on a tour of the tiny town just a few miles from the property showing us all the best places to shop and the layout of the town. We rented a suv (as suggested) and we found the mini tour very helpful since there are NO street signs and most roads are one way. We were so impressed with everything we decided to go to every place Virginia and Ken had listed in the information/ guide book. Our personal favorite that everyone should check out is Craves resturant. Chef Alejandro is the owner and good friends to Ken and Virinia. Make sure you make a reservation, and you can eat at the chef's table in the kitchen. It was one of the more expensive places we ate at, but the experiance and food was the best we've ever had. The unit is turn key and has daily turn down service, both are impeccable. The one thing we didn't acount for was laundry which isn't an opption here, but once again Virginia suggested a laundry service at Martha's which turned out to be great! We took 6 tours in 7 days Virginia gave us directions to get to each one which again is helpful because there are NO street signs. One tour you must take is the ATM cave tour, a bit physical but a chance of a life time. Ken and Virginia are amazing people and the best of the best at what the know and do. Super Hosts!!!! Thank You a million times.

10/10 Excellent

Robin P., Seattle

Luxury in the jungle!
My boyfriend and I were traveling through Central America and we didn't book our accommodations until a few days prior to our arrival, so I feel so incredibly lucky that we came across this place. Virginia and Ken were amazing hosts and made our stay memorable. On the first day we arrived Virginia drove us into town and took us to the market to get food. She made great restaurant recommendations (Crave - the menu changes daily and the food is delicious) and was kind to book a private tour to Tikal (at a much more favorable rate than paying for some other tours). Our room was cleaned everyday (including dishes) and their hospitality is unmatched. You don't find this level of hospitality anywhere. Seriously, they are an incredible couple. We only stayed their for three nights before we headed to San Pedro, but if we could do it all over again we would have skipped San Pedro and stayed in San Ignacio. If we're ever back in the area we will stay here without hesitation and will recommend Villa de Cayo to all our friends and family. Thank you Virginia and Ken! xoxo
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2016

10/10 Excellent

Gareth M., Asheville, North Carolina

Perfect jungle hideaway
We thoroughly enjoyed our stay in this delightful mini-villa a few minutes outside San Ignacio. The owners are friendly and helpful, even making dinner reservations for us. The kitchen is well-appointed with everything necessary provided. The king-size bed is quite comfortable, and the shower is excellent. The carefully-filtered water is a much-appreciated feature. Getting to the villa the first time requires a bit of faith (as does getting most anywhere in Belize), but once you arrive you'll appreciate the serenity as well as the stunning view from the mountainside. We found this to be an ideal location for exploring Mayan ruins and would definitely recommend it to anyone considering a visit to western Belize. When we return, we'll gladly stay here again.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2016

10/10 Excellent

Jason U.

Absolutely amazing
First of all, the pictures do not do it justice. The grounds are beautiful as well as the cabanas. Everything inside appeared to be new. Second, Ken and Virginia are two of the nicest people you'll ever meet. They go above and beyond to make sure your trip goes smooth. Virginia drove us around our first day there and showed us places we probably never would have found. My wife and I came down to get married in Belize and stayed here prior to heading out to Ambergris. Hurrican Earl decided to throw a wrench in our gears and Ken and Virginia did everything they could to help us out. Virginia drove us all over San Ignacio looking for alternate wedding venues just in case. I honestly cannot say enough good things about both the cabanas or the owners. It truly was a pleasure staying with them. Do yourself a favor and book here. You definitely need a vehicle, but the drive from Belize City and even the roads around San Ignacio aren't bad. Their directions are spot on. It's maybe a five minute drive into town from there so it's not bad. There is a great little farm maybe a mile away that has almost everything you'll need. Milk, eggs, butter, etc. If you want to do any tours, it's in a good location as well. I recommend Maya Walk Tours. We had a wonderful time and if we come back through San Ignacio, we wouldn't even think of staying anywhere else. Thank you Ken and Virginia!
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2016

10/10 Excellent

Bob R.

Outstanding property in a beautiful location
Like most people, we were somewhat hesitant to book a property without many reviews, but those hesitations immediately disappeared once we arrived. My skills as a writer will not do justice to Villa Cayo and our hosts Ken and Virginia. Set high up on a hill with views extending for miles, the cabana we stayed in was as nice as any five star hotel, with every imaginable amenity, gorgeous woodwork, one-way windows and maybe the most comfortable bed I have ever slept in. Outside you could see Toucans and dozens of other birds, willywashers as you come up the driveway, and sometimes hear howler monkeys in the distance. Villa Cayo is not what you would expect to find in the area, and is a great alternative to staying in one of the resorts or hotels. Getting into San Ignacio for dinner was easy. There are several great restaurants (and a French bakery), and to make it even better the prices are about a third of what we would pay at home. Area attractions are close and easy to get to, and Tikal, which is where we went, is really not that difficult to visit either by driving or taking a tour or taxi. Ken and Virginia were the most gracious of hosts, always making you feel welcome and special. If you are looking for somewhere to stay in the San Ignacio area, I strongly suggest Villa Cayo (no, I am not being paid to write this), you won't be disappointed. It is a wonderful place. When we were leaving Ken and Virginia were out to see us off and asked if there was anything we could think of to make it better. Almost simultaneously my wife and I both blurted out - No, it's perfect.