San Ignacio in Belize is known as Cayo amongst the natives of Belize. A 90 minutes drive from Belize City along the Western Highway takes one to San Iganacio. The population of the city is an eclectic mix of archaeologists, adventurers, retired North American servicemen, tourists and peace corps workers. The constricted alleys with rows of wooden shops, the ambiance akin to America's Old West and the tropical backwaters all combine to create a distinctive identity of San Ignacio. San Ignacio is full of life and has a bustling city life. The Burns Avenue is the most important street in the town and is the hub of all kinds of activities. Its promenade is dotted with hotels and shops, restaurants and bars. The whole city center is thus teeming with life. The city has a number of sightseeing destinations surrounding it and is thus frequently thronged by tourists.
San Ignacio along with the neighboring city of Santa Elena comprise the second largest urban area in the whole of Belize.
Both of them are often referred to as sister towns. The towns are situated on either side of the Macal River. The Hawksworth Bridge, a suspended bridge, connects the two towns.
