El Pilar (Pillar) El Pilar, an archaeological reserve for Maya
plants and animals, sits adjacent to the Belize-Guatemala
border. “El Pilar,” Spanish for “pillar,” is named after an army
camp in the area You can find more information from Belize’s
official archaeology website. Located just 6.2 miles (10
kilometers) north of San Ignacio, the El Pilar site is not fully
excavated, primarily for conservation reasons. The nature trails
near the dozen or so large pyramids and buildings are an
excellent location for bird watching in Belize. El Pilar in its
heyday was more than three times the size of the better-known
Xunantunich Maya site. When you go … There are caretakers who
live close to the site. They will provide you a trail map and
happily show you around. Also, the Cayo Tour Operators and Tour
Guides Association have been trained on all aspects of the
reserve so you gain maximum enjoyment from their time on the
grounds. Any licensed guide can arrange a visit and tour for
you. Visit the official Maya 2012 webs