Trip to Belize: Mayan Ruins, Wildlife & Caribbean Adventures (9 Days)

Day 1: Belize City

Start the Trip to Belize in the historical capital of the nation, known for its beautiful colonial houses, seaside parks, bustling shopping areas, and sailboats gently bobbing at the mouth of Haulover Creek. Arrive at the airport at your convenience and transfer independently to your accommodation. Once there, take the time to rest or explore the town at your leisure. In the evening, meet your Tour Leader for a welcome meeting, followed by an optional get-together with the rest of the group in one of the local restaurants.

• Accommodation: conveniently located, locally-owned hotel/B&B in Belize City
• Activities included: welcome meeting

Day 2: Belize City - Community Baboon Sanctuary - Altun Ha - Tower Hill

In the morning, begin the Belize Tour by exploring the main attractions of its unique capital. Afterward, hop on a black howler monkey tour in the Community Baboon Sanctuary, where you’ll live in harmony with nature and have a memorable encounter with these fascinating primates. Next, visit the ruins of Altun Ha, an important Mayan ceremonial center, and learn about its historical significance. Then, transfer to Tower Hill, a peaceful village nestled along the New River, known as the gateway to the Lamanai Ruins. Upon arrival, take some time to relax before meeting up with your Tour Leader and the rest of the group for an orientation walk of the area.

• Accommodation: conveniently located, locally-owned hotel/B&B/guest house in Tower Hill
• Activities included: Belize City tour; guided visits to Altun Ha Archeological Zone and Community Baboon Sanctuary; an orientation walk of Tower Hill

Day 3: Tower Hill - Lamanai Archaeological Site - Belmopán

In the morning, enjoy a guided visit to the Lamanai Archaeological Site, a magical place that was once a thriving city of the Maya civilization. After exploring the ruins, head to Guanacaste National Park, a haven for nature and wildlife lovers. Discover the park’s rich flora and fauna with your Tour Leader, and if you’re feeling adventurous, opt to swim in the refreshing waters of the Roaring River. Following your time in the park, transfer to Belmopan, the capital of Belize. Once there, join your Tour Leader and the group for an orientation walk of the city. In the evening, get together with your group for a Nocturnal Zoo Tour, offering a unique opportunity to witness the local wildlife after dark.

• Accommodations: conveniently located, locally-owned hotel/B&B/guest house in Belmopán
• Activities included: entrance to Lamanai Archeological Zone; entrance to Guanacaste National Park; Nocturnal Zoo Tour 

Day 4: Belmopán - Barton Creek Cave Reserve - San Ignacio

Continue your Belize Tour by heading to the Barton Creek Cave Reserve, renowned as both an archaeological site and a popular tourist destination. Once there, enjoy a tour with a local guide, and if you’re feeling adventurous, opt for activities like ziplining and rock climbing. Afterward, head to the stunning Big Rock Waterfalls, an ideal swimming spot for those seeking a little adventure. Later, make your way to the Rio On Pools, a breathtaking natural area with stunning scenery. Explore the area and enjoy a refreshing swim in one of the natural pools formed by the river, surrounded by the beauty of Belize’s lush environment.

• Accommodation: conveniently located, locally-owned hotel/B&B/guest house in San Ignacio
• Activities included: tour to Barton Creek Reserve; entrance to Big Rock Waterfalls; entrance to Rio On Pools

Day 5: San Ignacio - Xunantunich - Placencia

In the morning, join your Tour Leader for a guided market tour in San Ignacio, where you’ll get a glimpse of the local life and colorful products. Then, continue to Xunantunich, an ancient Mayan archaeological site known for its impressive structures, including the second-tallest pyramid in Belize. After exploring the ruins, head to the tropical paradise of Placencia in the afternoon. Once you arrive, enjoy some free time to relax and unwind in this beautiful coastal town. In the evening, opt to join the group for a get-together and dinner at one of the local restaurants, sharing experiences from the day.

• Accommodation: conveniently located, locally-owned hotel/B&B/guest house in Placencia
• Meals included: San Ignacio market tour
• Activities included: a visit to Xunantunich Ruins; market experience (San Ignacio)

Day 6: Placencia - Mayan King Waterfalls - Hopkins

In the morning, start your day by enjoying the beauty and tranquility of the local beach, soaking up the peaceful surroundings. Then, head to the Mayan King Waterfalls, an enchanting natural wonder that showcases the lush beauty of Belize. Afterward, continue your exploration of Belize’s vibrant nature as you journey to the coastal village of Hopkins. Upon arrival, enjoy an orientation walk with your Tour Leader, learning about the village’s unique culture and history. Later, join the Garifuna community for an exciting drumming lesson, immersing yourself in their rhythmic traditions. Afterward, enjoy some free time to explore more or relax. In the evening, opt for a get-together and dinner with your group at one of the local restaurants to reflect on the day’s adventures.

• Accommodation: conveniently located, locally-owned hotel/B&B/guest house in Hopkins
• Activities included: orientation walk, Garifuna Drumming Lesson, and Performance in Hopkins

Day 7: Hopkins - Dangriga - St. Herman's Blue Hole National Park - Caye Caulker

In the morning, start your day by visiting a legendary spicy sauce factory in Dangriga, where you’ll learn about the production process and the flavors that make Belizean sauces so unique. Next, head to St. Herman’s Blue Hole National Park, a serene and stunning natural reserve. Here, you’ll explore St. Herman’s Cave and then dive into the Blue Hole, a refreshing swimming spot formed by the collapse of an underground limestone cave, surrounded by lush greenery. Afterward, take a scenic water taxi to Caye Caulker, a small, laid-back island known for its car-free policy and vibrant atmosphere. With fewer than 2,000 residents, this charming caye offers an authentic local experience, sensational seafood, and opportunities for snorkeling and boating along the nearby Belize Barrier Reef. Enjoy some free time to explore the island before settling in for an optional dinner and group get-together in the evening.

• Accommodation: conveniently located, locally-owned hotel/B&B/guest house in Caye Caulker
• Activities included: guided visits to the spicy sauce factory in Dangriga and St. Herman’s Blue Hole National Park; an orientation walk in Caye Caulker

Day 8: Caye Caulker

In the morning, continue your adventure with a boat tour to the nearby UNESCO-protected Hol Chan Marine Reserve. This pristine marine area offers a chance to swim with a variety of underwater species, including nurse sharks, rays, groupers, porcupine fish, and even seahorses, all within arm’s reach. After the tour, enjoy some free time to relax and reflect on this incredible experience. In the evening, gather with your group for an optional farewell dinner at a popular local restaurant, where you can savor Belizean flavors and share memories of your unforgettable journey.

• Accommodation: conveniently located, locally-owned hotel/B&B/guest house in Caye Caulker
• Activities included: boat tour to Hol Chan Marine Reserve
• Meals included: lunch during the boat tour

Day 9: Caye Caulker

On the last day of the tour, depart from Caye Caulker and head back to Belize City International Airport. The journey takes about 1.5 hours, starting with a 45-minute water taxi ride from Caye Caulker to Belize City (water taxi departures are available between 7:30 am and 5:00 pm). From there, you’ll take a 30-minute taxi ride to the airport, where you’ll be all set for your onward journey.